City Council

400 S. Eagle Street City of Naperville Naperville, IL 60540 Meeting Minutes - Final City Council Tuesday, April 16, 2024 7:00 PM Council Chambers Agenda Introductory Language TO WATCH OR LISTEN TO THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING LIVE: • Watch on WCNC GOVERNMENT ACCESS TELEVISION (Ch. 6-Astound, Ch. 10 - Comcast, Ch. 99 – AT&T U-verse) • Watch online at https://naperville.legistar.com TO PROVIDE PUBLIC COMMENT: The public may choose to provide public comment in any of the following ways: 1. Address the City Council live during the City Council meeting in-person in City Council Chambers. Individuals wishing to address the City Council during the meeting must sign up online at www.naperville.il.us/speakersignup by 6:30 p.m. on April 16. 2. Individuals can also have their name added to the speaker list by calling the Community Services Department at (630) 305-5300 by 6:30 p.m. on April 16. 3. Submit a written comment to the City in advance of the City Council meeting by 4 p.m. on April 16. Written comments will be compiled and posted with the electronic meeting agenda on the City’s website prior to the start of the meeting. The cumulative number of comments will be announced during the City Council meeting. 4. Submit a one-word statement of “SUPPORT” or “OPPOSITION” regarding a specific agenda item by 4 p.m. on April 16. The names of participants who submitted position statements will be compiled and posted with the electronic meeting agenda on the City’s website prior to the start of the meeting. The cumulative number of position statements will be announced during the City Council meeting. There will be no on-site speaker sign up permitted. City of Naperville Page 1 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION: • Any individual who may require an accommodation to listen to or participate in the meeting should contact the Community Services Department at (630) 305-5300 by 4 p.m. on April 16. • Questions regarding online sign-up may be directed to the Community Services Department by calling (630) 305-5300. PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES: The citizen participation guidelines are outlined in 1-5-6-6: - CITIZEN PARTICIPATION of the Naperville Municipal Code. • ALL VIEWPOINTS AND OPINIONS WELCOME: All viewpoints are welcome, positive comments and constructive criticism are encouraged. Speakers must refrain from harassing or directing threats or personal attacks at Council members, staff, other speakers or members of the public. Comments made to intentionally disrupt the meeting may be managed as necessary to maintain appropriate decorum and allow for city business to be accomplished. • SPEAKER TIME LIMITS: Speakers must limit their remarks to no more than three minutes. Petitioners may speak on an agenda item first and have up to 10 minutes and are also granted a five-minute rebuttal once all other speakers have commented. • IF YOU SIGNED UP TO SPEAK, staff will call your name at the appropriate time during the City Council meeting. Once your name is called you may identify yourself for the public record and then address remarks to the City Council as a whole. Speak clearly and try to limit remarks directly to the matter under discussion. Speakers are called in the order they sign up. A. CALL TO ORDER: B. ROLL CALL: Present: 8- Mayor Scott Wehrli Councilwoman Jennifer Bruzan Taylor Councilman Patrick Kelly Councilman Paul Leong Councilwoman Allison Longenbaugh Councilman Josh McBroom Councilman Benjamin White Councilman Nathan Wilson Absent: 1- Councilman Ian Holzhauer C. CLOSED SESSION - 6:30 p.m. A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to recess to Closed Session to discuss [5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21)] Approval of Minutes and [5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11)] Pending Litigation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 8- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson Absent: 1- Holzhauer City of Naperville Page 2 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 OPEN SESSION - 7:00 p.m. D. ROLL CALL: Present: 9- Mayor Scott Wehrli Councilwoman Jennifer Bruzan Taylor Councilman Ian Holzhauer Councilman Patrick Kelly Councilman Paul Leong Councilwoman Allison Longenbaugh Councilman Josh McBroom Councilman Benjamin White Councilman Nathan Wilson Also Present City Manager, Doug Krieger; Deputy City Manager, Pam Gallahue; City Attorney, Mike DiSanto; City Clerk, Dawn Portner; Assistant to the City Manager, Marcie Schatz; Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis; Police Chief, Jason Arres; Deputy Director of Finance, Ray Munch; Director of IT, Jacqueline Nguyen; Director of TED, Allison Laff, Engineering Manager TED, Andy Hynes; Director of Public Utilities - Electric, Brian Groth; Deputy Director of Public Utilities - Water, Joe Slevnik; Director of Human Resources, Blaine Wing; Director of Communications, Linda LaCloche Daily Herald, Naperville Sun, NCTV-17 E. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG: The pledge was given. A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to allow Councilman Holzhauer to participate via teleconference due to an illness. The motion carried by a voice vote. F. AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS: 1. Proclaim April 26, 2024 as Arbor Day in the City of Naperville Councilman Leong presented the proclamation. 2. Proclaim April 22, 2024 as Earth Day in the City of Naperville Councilman Leong presented the proclamation. G. PUBLIC FORUM: A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to postpone Public Forum after 60 minutes and resume the remainder of Public City of Naperville Page 3 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 Forum after Item O1. The motion carried by a voice vote. SPEAKERS HS BLAST program Alicia Mathew (Naperville) discussed the Building Leadership Around Sustainable Transformation (BLAST) ceremony held at the DuPage Children's Museum on April 11, 2024, where 60 high school students participated in a program focused on making Naperville a more environmentally conscience community. Cease fire Zaineb Mohammed (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Support for cease fire resolution Dr John Kahler (Med Global) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Support for cease fire resolution Dr Chandra Hassan (Med Global) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Support for ceasefire resolution Dr Tammy Abughnaim (Med Global) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Renewing coal contract in Naperville Bethany Thompson (Naperville) discussed the renewal of the IMEA contract. Cease fire Keith Larson (Aurora) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Maryam Sultan (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire in Gaza Qasim Rashid (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Gaza Gregory Harms (Plainfield) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Immediate cease fire in Gaza Fer García (Hanover Park) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. City of Naperville Page 4 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 Cease fire Resolution Farah Chalisa (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Satnaam Singh Mago (Wayne) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. The need for a cease fire in Gaza. Nancy Roberts (Wheaton) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Palestine Farhan Khalid (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Genocide in Palestine with our taxes Dan Bailey (Wheaton) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Beenish Tanvir (Hoffman Estates) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Gaza Cease fire Resolution Maryam Othman urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Public Forum ended at 8:08 p.m. H. CONSIDERATION OF MOTION TO USE OMNIBUS METHOD FOR THE CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to use the Omnibus method to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by a voice vote. I. CONSENT AGENDA: Approval of the Consent Agenda A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to approve the Consent Agenda and removing items I13 and I22. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 9- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson 1. Approve the Cash Disbursements for the period of 03/01/2024 through 03/31/2024 for a total of $28,556,966.65 City of Naperville Page 5 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 Council approved. 2. Approve the regular City Council meeting minutes of April 2, 2024 Council approved. 3. Approve the City Council meeting schedule for May, June, and July 2024 Council approved. 4. Approve appointments to the Sister Cities Commission Council approved. 5. Approve the award of RFQ 23-094, Road Improvement Plan, to Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc., for an amount not to exceed $155,220 and for a two-year term Council approved. 6. Approve the award of Bid 24-013, 2024 Pavement Crackfill, to Denler Inc., for an amount not to exceed $404,717, plus a 5% contingency Council approved. 7. Approve the award of Bid 24-015, 2024 Pavement Patching, to Schroeder Asphalt Services, Inc., for an amount not to exceed $531,785 plus a 3% contingency Council approved. 8. Approve the award of Bid 24-061, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Maintenance Services, to Advanced Automation and Controls, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $158,280, for a 20-month term Council approved. 9. Approve the award of Bid 24-060, Building Maintenance, Cleaning, and Artifact Care Support Services, to JP Superior Cleaning and Janitorial Services Inc. for an amount not to exceed $474,295.53 and for an 18-month term Council approved. 10. Approve the award of Bid 24-029, Excavation and Underground Utility Repairs to Miller Pipeline LLC, Baish Excavating, Inc., and IHC Construction Companies LLC, for an amount not to exceed $462,806 and for an eight-month term Council approved. 11. Approve the award of Bid 24-016, 2024 Microsurfacing Pavement Maintenance, to AC Pavement Striping Co., for an amount not to exceed $753,484.29, plus a 3% contingency Council approved. City of Naperville Page 6 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 12. Approve the award of Change Order #1 to Work Order 22-067.0.C.01-WU, Design Engineering Services for the Ogden Avenue and Washington Street Water Main Improvements, to Ciorba Group for an additional 429 calendar days Council approved. 13. Approve the award of Change Order #1 to Contract 23-026-0.01, Biosolids Removal Services, to Stewart Spreading, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $110,416.08 and a total award of $698,796.08 Council discussed a recent Chicago Tribune article concerning PFAS, or forever chemicals, in biosolids disposed on farmlands and inquired about removal alternatives available to the City. Slevnik stated that there are currently no alternate methods to remove PFAS, that the method for PFAS testing for was recently approved by the EPA, and that it should be approved in the near future. A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly to approve the award of Change Order #1 to Contract 23-026-0.01, Biosolids Removal Services, to Stewart Spreading, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $110,416.08 and a total award of $698,796.08. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 8- Wehrli, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson Nay: 1- Bruzan Taylor 14. Approve the award of Change Order #1 to Contract 23-205-0.01, 2023 New Sidewalk Program, to Triggi Construction, Inc., for an amount not to exceed $35,056.67 and a total award of $287,656.75 Council approved. 15. Approve the award of Change Order #1 to Contract 22-197-0.01, Ford Automotive Parts & Supplies, to Ford Motor Company for an amount not to exceed $170,000 and a total award of $405,000 Council approved. 16. Approve the award of Change Order #1 to Option Year #2 of Contract 21-382.2-01, Parkway Tree Trimming Services, to NJ Ryan Tree & Landscape and Steve Piper and Sons, Inc., for an amount not to exceed $220,000 and a total award of $420,000 Council approved. 17. Approve the award of Change Order #1 to Contract 23-021.0-01, Northeast Water Works Improvements Phase II, to Dahme Mechanical Industries, for an additional 229 days Council approved. City of Naperville Page 7 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 18. Approve the award of Change Order #2 to Contract 20-068-0.02, Building Automation Maintenance Services, to Automatic Building Controls, LLC, for an amount not to exceed $23,770 and a total award of $145,170 Council approved. 19. Table the award of RFP 23-156, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant Service to Envisioning Equity Work, LLC, for an amount not to exceed $115,470 and for a two-year term to the May 21, 2024 City Council meeting Council tabled. 20. Pass the ordinance approving the transfer of the 2024 Volume Cap in the amount of $18,742,000, to the Town of Normal ORD 24-026 Council passed. 21. Pass the ordinance to establish temporary traffic controls and issue a Special Event permit for the Characters on Water Street event scheduled on Saturday, May 4, 2024 ORD 24-027 Council passed. 22. Pass the ordinance approving a major change to the Iroquois Center PUD, a final PUD plat, and a bypass lane deviation for 1163 E Ogden (to be known as 1159 E Ogden Avenue) (Chick-fil-a) - PZC 23-1-110 SPEAKERS Marilyn Schweitzer (Naperville) discussed how the design and orientation of the proposed development diminishes the appeal of the area and has no unifying features with the rest of Iroquois Center, that the City should develop plans for the entire community and not just for businesses, and that the land use plan and the Municipal Code need to be followed. Council discussed the accuracy of the plan and if they should move forward with a vote. Laff stated the overall site plan is accurate and any issues will be corrected before the plans are recorded. DiSanto concurred and advised that the Council can vote on the plan as presented. ORD 24-028 A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to pass the ordinance approving a major change to the Iroquois Center PUD, a final PUD plat, and a bypass lane deviation for 1163 E Ogden (to be known as 1159 E Ogden Avenue) (Chick-fil-a) - PZC 23-1-110. The motion carried by the City of Naperville Page 8 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 following: Aye: 9- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson 23. Pass the ordinance approving a major change to the Iron Gate Motor Condos PUD and final PUD plat for Phase 2A and Phase 2B for the property located at 2212 Ferry Road and the vacant land located immediately west (Iron Gate Phase 2B) - PZC 23-1-116 ORD 24-029 Council passed. 24. Pass the ordinance approving a major change to the Freedom Commons Planned Unit Development (PUD), a final PUD plat, and a loading deviation to allow a medical office at 1836 Freedom Drive (Freedom Commons Medical Office Building) - PZC 24-1-002 ORD 24-030 Council passed. 25. Pass the ordinance approving a setback variance for a one-story garage addition at 1415 Heatherton Drive - PZC 24-1-021 ORD 24-031 Council passed. 26. Waive the first reading and pass the ordinance amending Section 3-3-11:2 of the Naperville Municipal Code by decreasing the annual liquor license fee for the Class S1- Specialty Food and Liquor Shop from $3,600 to $1,650 (requires six positive votes) ORD 24-032 Council passed. J. PUBLIC HEARINGS: K. OLD BUSINESS: L. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: M. AWARD OF BIDS AND OTHER ITEMS OF EXPENDITURE: 1. Approve the award of Cooperative Procurement 24-121, Digger Derrick Line Truck Vehicle Replacements, to Altec Industries, Inc., for an amount not to exceed $1,373,024 and for a one-time purchase A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to approve the award of Cooperative Procurement 24-121, Digger Derrick Line Truck City of Naperville Page 9 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 Vehicle Replacements, to Altec Industries, Inc., for an amount not to exceed $1,373,024 and for a one-time purchase. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 9- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson 2. Approve the award of Cooperative Procurement 24-131, Fire Suppression Vehicle Replacements, to MacQueen Emergency for an amount not to exceed $4,257,150 and for a one-time purchase A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to approve the award of Cooperative Procurement 24-131, Fire Suppression Vehicle Replacements, to MacQueen Emergency for an amount not to exceed $4,257,150 and for a one-time purchase. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 9- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson 3. Approve the award of RFP 23-221, Springbrook Water Reclamation Center Nutrient Removal Upgrades & North Plant Aeration Improvements - Engineering Services, to CDM Smith Inc., for an amount not to exceed $1,975,117 A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, approve the award of RFP 23-221, Springbrook Water Reclamation Center Nutrient Removal Upgrades & North Plant Aeration Improvements - Engineering Services, to CDM Smith Inc., for an amount not to exceed $1,975,117. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 9- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson 4. Approve the award of Bid 24-012, 2024 Sidewalk and Curb Maintenance Program, to IAP Construction Inc., for an amount not to exceed $1,052,280.00, plus a 3% contingency (Item 1 of 2) A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to approve the award of Bid 24-012, 2024 Sidewalk and Curb Maintenance Program, to IAP Construction Inc., for an amount not to exceed $1,052,280.00, plus a 3% contingency (Item 1 of 2). The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 9- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Holzhauer, Kelly, Leong, Longenbaugh, McBroom, White, and Wilson 5. Pass the ordinance approving the 2024 Sidewalk Removal and Replacement Program Property Owner’s Cost Sharing Program (Item 2 of 2) Council discussed the appropriateness of removing the cost sharing component so the City would be responsible for funding the entire program and the potential need to reduce expenses if revenue from the state grocery tax is eliminated. ORD 24-033 A motion was made by Councilman White and seconded by Councilman Kelly, to pass the ordinance approving the 2024 Sidewalk Removal and Replacement City of Naperville Page 10 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 Program Property Owner’s Cost Sharing Program (Item 2 of 2). The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 7- Wehrli, Bruzan Taylor, Kelly, Leong, McBroom, White, and Wilson Nay: 2- Holzhauer, and Longenbaugh N. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: O. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. Receive the report on the Naperville Electric Utility’s background and operations SPEAKERS Ted Bourland (Naperville) discussed the renewal of the IMEA contract and the risks associated with accepting the proposed contract extension early. Marilyn Schweitzer (Naperville) discussed the need for reliable electricity and reduced carbon monoxide emissions, giving the rate payers input on the energy supplier, striking a balance between long term planning and decision making that includes accessing the risk and redundancy. Groth gave the second in a series of presentations on the Electric Utility which focused on daily operations, administration, long-term planning, and addressing the division of labor between in-house staff and contractors including functions handled by IMEA. Council discussed the timeline of bidding out the next contract and how the City would transition to a new provider, the need to consider all available options available, and the timeline for when a recommendation will be presented to Council. Groth stated that the City bid RFP's for consultants to provide options, that findings will be presented to Council by the end of the summer, and that nothing related to IMEA contract renewal will come before the Council until Q4. He also explained that IMEA is requesting a commitment from all member municipalities to determine what resources will be necessary to support supply industry regulations as well as the recently approved sustainability plan. Council inquired about the resident participation level in the City's renewable energy program. Groth explained that residents have the ability to opt in by voluntarily paying additional funds on each month's electric bill, that funds raised are used for energy efficiency grant opportunities, and that 5% or approximately 3,700 of the City's 65,000 customers are participating. Report received. The meeting recessed from 8:57 p.m. to 9:07 p.m. City of Naperville Page 11 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 G. PUBLIC FORUM: Public Forum resumes: Gaza Ceasefire Resolution Enida Abdeen (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Naperville United for Cease fire - Gaza Resolution Hanna Hernandez (Bolingbrook) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Call to Action for Ceasefire in Gaza Rayan Misbah (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution for Gaza Eakta Gill (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Naperville United for a Cease Fire - Cease fire resolution for Palestine Deanna Tedder (Bolingbrook) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire Resolution Kashf Fatima (Villa Park) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire Resolution Peter Kozak Rivera (Bolingbrook) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Support cease fire resolution David Cannon (Aurora) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Gaza cease fire resolution Carol Tritschler (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Discuss ceasefire resolution please OM Mohammad, MD urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Naperville United for Ceasefire Lauren Reyes Yu (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Patty Droogan (Bolingbrook) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. City of Naperville Page 12 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 Cease fire in Gaza resolution Salik Khalid (Aurora) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Mehran Arbab urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Ben Goldberg (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Basim Esmail (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. Cease fire resolution Nicole Pronger (Naperville) urged Council to pass a resolution for a cease fire in Gaza. WRITTEN COMMENTS Frank DiBenditti (Naperville) I support the proposal for a vote on a cease fire resolution. Unfortunately this is an unpopular position in our community. Many fear speaking in support of the resolution as fear being deemed antisemitic, supporters of terrorists, baby killers and or rapists. I am none of those, I am an American we can criticize foreign nations governments and should be able to do so without fear of doxing, harassed, personal insults or being accused of hate speech. At a peaceful protest in Naperville, cease-fire supporters were harassed, called terrible things by local pro-Israel activists who Naperville police had to escort away. There is video of this on social media. I support Israel protecting itself, but to what end? Israel now attacked Iran and the US should not be involved in that spread of violence. Naperville is a peaceful town and we should support a peace agreement and cease-fire resolution. Thank you Rima Imburgia (Naperville) Women's Leadership Collaborative - I support the humanitarian ceasefire resolution already submitted. Resolution included return of hostages from October 7 attack and those taken prior to that date. Bring this to a vote and pass it. This is a humanitarian request to end suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis and their families located here in Naperville. I am against ANY funding in the form of my Naperville, Illinois & federal tax dollars to support Israel militarily. An active genocide is being committed NOW. I will not be a bystander, and neither should you. Please choose humanity over politics. Kasey Huff (Oswego) I support the ceasefire resolution and wish for Naperville City Council to bring it to a vote and pass it.” I am against ANY funding in the form of my local/federal tax dollars to support Israel militarily. A genocide is being committed NOW. I will not be a bystander, and neither should you... Awad Sifri (Naperville) I support the ceasefire resolution and wish for Naperville City Council to bring it to a vote and pass it. I am against ANY funding in the form of my local/federal tax dollars to support Israel militarily. A genocide is being committed NOW. I will not be a bystander, and neither should you. Thank you for your service for our community. Abby Bingham (Naperville) I am writing to you to express my relentless support City of Naperville Page 13 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 for my Palestinian neighbors and friends and to again encourage the council to add a Gaza ceasefire resolution to the new business agenda tonight. After more than 6 months of near constant onslaught with bombs, missiles, snipers, white phosphorous, forced starvation and displacement of millions of indigenous Palestinians, we must finally, and minimally, in our capacity as fellow human beings, send a clear message to higher levels of government that we do not accept the genocide occurring in Gaza. Naperville residents have appeared before this council for weeks, pleading for this statement, a small gesture to show solidarity with an oppressed community. This council has also had to unfortunately endure the outright lies of an opposition that is a self-centered, discriminatory, propaganda-driven machine. Please, do not give time or credence to this fear mongering. Let our words provide you with the courage and support you need to be the loud voice to show the desperately needed support for Palestinian lives in Gaza. Tatiana Sifri (Naperville) I support the ceasefire resolution and wish for Naperville City Council to bring it to a vote and pass it. Nancy Meyer (CA) Women's Leadership Collaborative - Please bring the ceasefire resolution to a vote as a show of support for the ending of retaliatory action against innocent civilians in Gaza by the state of Israel. all we want is citizen voices heard from all avenues open to us which includes local governments across the country. we stand for peace, for the end of the war, return of hostages, resumption of aid through UNWRA and a negotiated settlement. Samroz Jakvani (Naperville) - I Support a resolution for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and call on you as our elected officials to represent this sentiment and call to action to the highest level possible, and at the very least through the actions of this body. Rhoda Sifri (Naperville) - Last night, we heard 2 American doctors who were recently in Gaza and were again reminded of the suffering - even genocide taking place. Unfortunately, we hear more details from European news than we hear in U.S. news - print & media. PLEASE bring it to a vote and support a CEASEFIRE. Thanks for your time, patience & consideration. Reem Townsend Naperville United for Ceasefire - I’m writing to encourage the board to pass a ceasefire resolution in Gaza. Those who are opposed to a resolution that calls for an ending to killing civilians, calling for the release of hostages, and wanting humanitarian aid and food to Palestinians are not good representatives of any community, let alone Naperville. If Naperville wants to be a nice place to live, it needs to stand against genocide. Don’t listen to hateful people that want more innocent children to die. Listen to your Conscience. Any decent person should say “this needs to stop” and work towards doing anything and everything to stop it. Being silent only helps the murder and destruction continue. Palestinians deserve better. We are people too. Mir Rizwan Ali (Glen Ellyn) - There are many community members who have been negatively impacted by the ongoing genocide taking place in Gaza. The city should pass a ceasefire resolution to show that they are against the City of Naperville Page 14 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 indiscriminate killing of women, children, and civilians. Jessica Dyer (Westmont) - Israel, with the help of the United States, has killed over 34,000 Palestinians, decimated entire families, caused unspeakable trauma to those surviving, and destroyed cultural heritage sites important to the collective identity of the Palestinian people. We need an immediate ceasefire which includes the release of all hostages and prisoners and allows for the delivery of desperately needed aid to all areas in Gaza. Our federal government is failing us and continuing to send money and weapons to Israel for further death and destruction. Local government has the power to pressure our federal representatives to DO something. Please do the right thing for our community and for humanity and pass a ceasefire resolution! Asma Nizamuddin (Bloomingdale) - I grew up in Naperville in the 80’s and have always considered my upbringing to be very unique and always cherished. My parents still own the house that I grew up in. I wore hijab to Naperville North high school, and I was always treated very kindly. Naperville has a legacy of appreciating diversity. It is vital that Naperville shows its commitment to its community and stands up for the rights of humanity. Your voice in this work that we live in will show that the community cares for the humanity of not only an its people but for the humanity of the world . This issue will not divide your community but will bring it together. As people of all faiths stand for equality and justice to all. Hanna Grace Hernandez (Bolingbrook) - I unequivocally support a resolution from Naperville calling for an immediate, permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Recent events, particularly the tragic murder of American aid workers by the Israeli Military, underscore the urgent need for de-escalation in the Middle East. The current trajectory risks entangling America in an unnecessary, costly, and senseless war. Naperville must heed the voices of its residents, particularly those from the Palestinian community who express profound concerns about their safety and security within our community. By passing this resolution, Naperville sends a clear message: we stand with our residents, we hear their fears, and we prioritize their safety and sense of belonging above all else. Let us unite in advocating for peace, justice, and the protection of innocent lives in Gaza and beyond. Lauren Reyes-Yu (Naperville) Naperville United for Ceasefire - As a resident of Naperville, I’d like to implore the city council to pass a Permanent Ceasefire Resolution. I believe that passing one would move both our state and national governments to action as well as send a message that Naperville is indeed a place where people of all ethnicities, cultures, religions, and backgrounds can call home. As a Latina who grew up here as a child, I can say with my own experience that I did not always feel welcome here. Passing a Permanent Ceasefire Resolution would have a positive impact on our community and would allow Naperville to be seen as leaders in standing up to global injustice. Faiza Khan (Bolingbrook) - As a concerned citizen of Bolingbrook that lives close to the edge of Naperville, this is a place where I often spend my time. Passing a ceasefire resolution for Gaza should not be this hard, this is a symbolic but important resolution that I urge the council members to pass. How City of Naperville Page 15 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 many more lives need to be lost in order to recognize that a genocide is being committed in our name? With our tax dollars - money that can be used to fund schools and healthcare. I urge the members to pass a resolution swiftly and stand on the right side of Justice. Eakta Gill (Naperville) - I would like to encourage the city council to bring a resolution for ceasefire in Gaza to the table and to vote on this matter. It is a matter of principle and public safety both at home and abroad. Annan Shehadi - Local issues are connected to international issues, especially with regards to our tax dollars being used to fund Israel’s genocide of the Palestinians. Naperville should stand on the right side of history by supporting a ceasefire in Gaza. This not only stop tens more thousands of innocent people being slaughtered, but it also brings the Israeli hostages home to their families. There is no good reason not to support a ceasefire! Follow in the footsteps of other nearby cities passing ceasefire resolutions and show that Naperville stands on the side of humanity - ALL of humanity. Osama Elkhatib (Naperville) - I have been a part of the Naperville community for over 20 years. The fact that so many constituents are invested in this issue makes it a Naperville issue. The mayor and city council are our representatives and should be given an opportunity to vote on a topic important to so many Naperville residents. I believe a ceasefire resolution (calling to stop the killing of civilians and release of all hostages) by Naperville can influence the federal government to do the same. This is an urgent matter as people are actively starving and dying. We have to do anything we can to stop the violence. Joan Murray (Naperville) - I have observed the bullying going on in social media of those locally who support a cease fire. It needs to stop. I didn’t want to come and speak in person because of the bullying of speakers by local PACs and activists. I support a cease fire resolution and would like to see the city council vote on it. It is obvious the public agrees as there have been so many naperville residents speaking publicly in support of it. Please vote for Peace Jean Kokes, PHD (Washington Island, Wisconsin) - As a former business owner in Naperville and a present land owner, I strongly support our community to take a stand and vote for a permanent cease fire in the Gaza-Israel war. Dr Renee Garrick (Matteson) - Good Day Council Members of Naperville~ I am writing to earnestly request the City of Naperville bring to the table for a vote and then pass the Resolution to Cease Fire in Gaza. I wholeheartedly support this action. I am firmly against Naperville supporting military action against citizens, workers, and visitors Gaza. It is free of doubt and now my firm belief that the militaristic action perpetrated by Israel is genocide. Innocent children, women, seniors, humanitarian workers, schools homes, hospitals, places of worship are being destroyed free of consciousness. This is a horror movie. While I am not a resident of Naperville, my practice is in this great city that surely can be better and remain one of the noted best places to live in our country. I currently have many clients and colleagues who live here. It is not solely important the City of Naperville Page 16 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 address as we all are citizens of this world. We visit, import-export, connect in sundry ways. This is far from a political stance, it is Humanitarian. I urge you to be representative of the best Naperville and by extension, this world has to offer and set a clear, demonstrative example. Bring the Resolution to the table and vote for a Cease Fire. Thank you... Katalina Rodriguez (Bolingbrook) Naperville United for Ceasefire - After almost 7 months and over 30,000 Palestinian civilians being murdered (of which over 14,000 are children) we need to stop and use our voices in any way we can to demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire, release of all hostages and detainees (thousands who are children being held without due process) and immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza. We are watching a man-made famine take the lives of dozens of children and all has escalated to a full on genocide of Palestinian people. Please stand up and pass a resolution that can be sent to our state and federal representatives. It has been the personal request and directive of senator Foster to get loc support for ceasefire to make him move to do the same. Please do your part! Daniel Corral (Naperville United for Ceasefire) - I am writing to express my support for a resolution that calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the release of all Israeli and Palestinian hostages, and for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza and the West Bank immediately. I am involved because my taxes help pay for this genocidal war, and because my government is involved in a multitude of ways. Please use the power that we entrust you with and pass a Resolution for a Ceasefire. Thank you. Kate Kownacki (Chicago) - I urge City Council to take into consideration the many voices of Palestinian and other Naperville residents, many of which have family suffering in Gaza, and are calling for a Ceasefire. Furthermore, a Ceasefire resolution acts as a public denouncement of rampant Islamophobia facing residents, and it should be the duty of City Council to ensure that all Naperville residents feel safe, welcome, and supported. Salek Khalid (Aurora) - I urge the council to pass a resolution that calls for (1) an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, (2) release of all hostages and prisoners unjustly held, and (3) uninhibited flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. P. NEW BUSINESS: No New Business Q. ADJOURNMENT: A motion was made by Councilman White, seconded by Councilman Kelly, to adjourn the Regular City Council Meeting of April 2, 2024 at 10:08 p.m. The motion carried by a voice vote. /S/ Dawn C. Portner Dawn C. Portner City of Naperville Page 17 Printed on 5/8/2024 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final April 16, 2024 City Clerk City of Naperville Page 18 Printed on 5/8/2024