City Council

MINUTES WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL BUDGET WORKSHOP City Council Chambers April 4 –5, 2022 A Special Budget Workshop meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 4:00 PM by Mayor Michael Turner on Monday, April 4, 2022, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. He stated the purpose for this meeting is a presentation by Smart Growth America and to review the City’s FY22/23 CIP and Budget. A roll call was taken. COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Tom Nierman, Wendy Piersall, Bob Seegers, Gordon Tebo, and Mayor Michael Turner. COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None. STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, Deputy City Manager/Executive Director of Strategy and Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, Chief John Lieb, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Human Resources Director Deb Schober, Library Director Nick Weber, Opera House Managing Director Daniel Campbell, Deputy Public Works Director Brent Aymond, Deputy Police Chief Ray Lanz, City Engineer Chris Tiedt, City Planner Darrell Moore, Economic Development Coordinator Krista Coltrin, Communications/Grants Manager Terry Willcockson, and City Clerk Cindy Smiley. OTHERS PRESENT: Transportation Commission Chairman Andrew Celentano, Plan Commission member Rick Bellairs, and Arts Commission member Susan Stelford. OTHERS ATTENDING REMOTELY: Chris Zimmerman, John Robert Smith, and Jordan Howard of Smart Growth America. Mayor Turner noted the presence of a quorum. City Clerk Smiley confirmed the agenda before the Council was a true and correct copy of the published agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no comments forthcoming from the Public. COUNCIL COMMENTS There were no comments forthcoming from the Council. PRESENTATION: Smart Growth America (SGA) Mayor Turner stated Smart Growth America has been working with the City as part of the T- Mobile award and is present remotely to make a presentation of its findings and recommendations.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 2 He stated a presentation of SGA’s findings and recommendations occurred about one month ago and was well received by members of the Public and Council members who saw the presentation. He noted as a result, he felt it important for them to make a condensed version of the presentation today. John Robert Smith, Senior Policy Director of SGA, introduced Vice-President of Economic Development Chris Zimmerman, stating between them they have 38 years of service and experience in local government at the city and county level. Mr. Smith thanked T-Mobile for endowing this work and City Staff for working with them over the past several months as they traveled and researched compiling information to prepare this workshop. He stated the question is what is driving economic development? Particularly, where does the City make money and where should the City put its money? What portion of the community provides the greatest return? He stated the answer to the third question will come from the answers to the other two. Mr. Smith then talked about the progression in town planning noting the traditional grid system upon which Woodstock was built with mixed uses and several story buildings gave way in the late 20th century to the Euclidean zoning system, where uses were segregated, meaning the separate uses were no longer walkable. He stated now with the retirement of the baby boomers and the rise of millennials, things are changing. He stated the preferences of these two generations are shifting the country and talent is now the most important incentive in economic growth. Stating baby boomers are downsizing with many moving into the downtown and 40% of millennials wish to move to small towns provided they have broadband access and an active downtown. He stated the travel preferences are now walking, bike paths, and rideshare, with automobiles used less. Mr. Smith stated development is occurring around walkable places and urban spaces, noting traditional main streets are back. He stated the market wants a place that has a sense of self and is vibrant. Mr. Smith stated the question for a community is are you investing so that those who want to live, work, and establish new businesses will want to do so in Woodstock, in a place that has a vision for the future? Mr. Zimmerman then talked about their analysis, noting this is an abbreviated version with the City having received the full report. He stated Woodstock’s community assets were analyzed noting the trends they found in their analysis, including the potential for strong demand for multifamily housing in the downtown, which he discussed further. He then talked about hot spots, which are areas in the community where the values of properties are increasing faster than the rest of the City are clustered together and disproportionately generate income for the community, versus cold spots, which are areas where properties are increasing at a  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 3 slower pace are clustered together and which use more resources than the income generated. Mr. Zimmerman provided a map showing Woodstock’s hot spots and cold spots, noting most hot spots are mixed use and walkable. Talking about land value, he stated hot spots account for only 13% of the land in Woodstock but generate 31% of the City’s land value. Mr. Zimmerman then talked about the relative costs generated by different parts of the city. He noted costs increase on a per capita basis the farther away from the downtown core one gets, stating the areas that cost the least are the areas that produce the most revenue. Mr. Zimmerman then talked about development, noting this is where the City should invest its capital and resources, talking about the factors used to decide this, one of which is determining the return. He stated their analysis identified the following potential development sites: 1. Die Cast and train station area 2. Town center 3. Vacant ShopFresh site 4. Old Aldi and vacant lot Mr. Zimmerman then talked about their efforts, focusing on discussions with Woodstock’s stakeholders and looking at the opportunities they can see. He stated the analysis of the market and of Woodstock along with input from the stakeholders and Staff led to the recommendations they are making. Mr. Smith stated they have tried to provide the City with next steps that are actionable based on the research they did on Woodstock and the time they spent here. He listed three main steps: 1. Update the Comprehensive Plan 2. Use any one-time funds to concentrate on selected catalytic projects to maximize return on investment, noting this could include the T-Mobile funds. He also talked about why it is important to not spread this around on small projects, as these funds should be used to promote change. 3. Identify a big catalytic project on a site or sites in proximity to the downtown and put all the City’s efforts behind it. Mr. Smith stated if the City tries to do everything at one time it will not have the impact that focusing on a catalytic project and site would have. He stated a catalytic project will: 1. Be connected. 2. Adhere to principles of good urban design, which should work well for people ages 8 to 80 years. 3. Contain some public component with some opportunity for art. He stated after considering sites, walking them, spending time with Staff, Council, and residents, and doing their analysis, they recommend the Die Cast – train station site for the location for a  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 4 catalytic project, noting there will be double the number of people coming into that site in the future. He stated they feel this location has the potential for the earliest success of the sites they considered. Noting a similar site in Meridian, Mississippi, he stated every dollar invested leveraged $168 of private investment in the three blocks around the development. The floor was open to Council questions or comments. In response to Councilman Tebo’s question concerning what attracts people and economic development to a downtown, Mr. Zimmerman noted “retail follows rooftops,” stating a city must have a certain number of people, so part of it is more residences are needed, tending to be more multi-family. He opined this makes it possible to attract the kind of retailers Woodstock is looking for. He stated most places that have success in building on their downtown brought in more residential opportunities to that area and then more things followed. Mr. Smith noted this site has room for a hotel, apartments, and condominiums and has the ease of the train station connecting to other communities. He opined the identified site has the capability of containing a number of Woodstock’s aspirational goals. Mayor Turner asked what an investment in this area would mean to the blue areas, or cold spots. In response, Mr. Zimmerman noted it is important to understand all the city has needs and those are cared about also. He stated if investment is made wisely, it will generate more resources for the entire city, noting the point is not to solely benefit the place that is being invested in, but to benefit the entire city. Mr. Smith stated the more revenue that can be generated with the least expense for services allows investment in other areas that are not returning an investment enough to sustain services. He stated investment in a catalytic area will generate value to allow more resources to be spread over the city, noting the entire city will benefit. Assuming the cold spots are blighted areas, Councilman Seegers stated some of the blue areas on the map are not in blighted areas and asked for clarity. Mr. Zimmerman stated the cold spots, or blue areas, do not indicate blighted areas. He explained in hot spots, everything is contributing to increasing values, which is not the case in a blue area, noting the density in an area contributes to this. Mr. Smith confirmed hot-spot investment improves the value of nearby neighborhoods with success enabling neighboring property to have greater success and cost less to serve. He confirmed the data points that determine hot spots or cold spots has to do with the revenue per acre that is generated, citing the example that people who live farther away from the water treatment plant are not charged more, but it costs more to get the water to them so the return on investment diminishes. Mr. Smith also confirmed the City should also focus on infill, noting the City has already paid for sewer/water and streets for these locations. He stated the City cannot just break even as it is the delta between the two that builds parks and other things residents want. Mr. Zimmerman stated in the 21st century walkability is a major factor in demand. He noted creating walkability is expensive and more expensive if it is done for just a few homes. He opined walkability would bring more people to live and work in Woodstock with more opportunity to benefit the entire city, noting bedroom communities are more expensive to run.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 5 In response to a question from Councilman Nierman concerning areas which are maintained by the state but where property taxes go to the City, citing Rt. 47, Mr. Zimmerman stated a few are hot spots, but some are not because they consume a lot of land and parking. He stated there is not synergy along Rt. 47 because most people have to drive from stop to stop while in a walkable downtown a thriving business helps the businesses next door. He noted walkable areas can be run more efficiently, which is evident in land values, stating walkable urban land is much more valuable than any other on a per acre basis. Mr. Zimmerman then highlighted a few of their other recommendations: 1. Conduct a parking-demand study 2. Invest in a bike and pedestrian structure and connectivity 3. Work to create a sense of arrival 4. Cultivate local business 5. Engage the community Mr. Smith stated people should not get to the Square before they realize they have arrived at something special, noting a way should be found to capture the story in an iconic way that is purely Woodstock. Mayor Turner thanked them for their work, noting it is something Council will consider during this budget cycle and in the future. He opened the floor to Council and Staff comments. Councilman Flynn stated his takeaway is to invest in something that becomes self-sufficient, something that is a catalyst for growth. Noting many people come to the Square, he appreciated the statement that this investment could help the rest of the community. Councilman Tebo noted the City wants to look at the good places in town and build on them. Councilwoman Lohmeyer stated this presentation was a great precursor to the Budget meeting to follow. Noting this was great information as Council looks at how to spend the City’s funds, she opined it was good to have an unbiased opinion on the top sites. Councilman Seegers stated, for him, this confirmed Woodstock needs more rooftops and that taking the ARP money and trying to please many people is a bad idea. He stated Council has to make decisions based on the good for all, opining this is how government operates. Councilwoman Piersall opined this is exciting because it confirmed that Woodstock already has all the ingredients and also confirmed the work that was done on the Age-friendly Project, making sure it is good for ages 8 to 80. She stated when people comment about the cost of the Old Courthouse Project, it should be noted there is a break-even point and the amount of activity it will generate will be beyond the money that is being put into the building. She also noted the significant contribution public art could have on a sense of arrival.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 6 Councilman Nierman expressed agreement with the previous comments. He opined blight can also grow, stating the City also needs to get these areas under control. Councilman Tebo opined as hot spots develop and improve other areas, blight will take care of itself. Councilman Seegers stated he recently met with Superintendent Moan about what the City could do to help the School District achieve higher test scores, stating his #1 recommendation was to increase per capita income and the need for Woodstock to attract high-value jobs and a higher median income. He also stated people want to be safe and for the community to have a good vibe. Mr. Stelford stated the report noted this is the information age. He stated people do not necessarily need to live near their employer and can make a life in Woodstock where there is a tremendous quality of life. He opined Council has set the city up for success with the new marketing efforts and noted the City has broadband via a partnership with the County. He stated the City is in a very good position and needs to continue to build on its assets. Mr. Christensen opined while the report stated Woodstock should focus on one project, it should not necessarily “put all its eggs in one basket.” Ms. Gulli stated it is exciting to think of people coming into town to see the assets Woodstock has especially when one sees other communities spending millions of dollars trying to create that. She stated the preservation of the Old Courthouse and Opera House speaks to the character of the community and makes Woodstock unique. She stated SGA also noted change is coming to Woodstock with the Rt. 47 improvements, T-Mobile investment, broadband, and the railroad yard, stating the City can plan for this or can avoid it. She also noted interesting things are ahead with the development of the Comprehensive Plan and the Arts Plan. Agreeing with all comments, Mayor Turner opined the Council and City Staff understand the potential and sees a path that validates and guides at the same time. Noting how Woodstock developed, grew, and is changing based on the community, he opined it is great that it is sitting on the cusp to take advantage of this trend. He stated no other community on the Metra line has the potential developable properties along the line that Woodstock has, opining the times and the economics are turning to what Woodstock is set for. He stated he is thankful for the opportunity to consider what these experts and their knowledge advise Woodstock to do. Councilman Flynn opined the benefit the Old Courthouse will bring to the area will pay for the Old Courthouse. He noted what the Die Cast parcel could mean for the area should help inform decisions regarding it. Mayor Turner stated this is not about ignoring other parts of the city, noting investment is being made in the community with the Enhanced Streets Program and the TIF. He stated today’s presentation brought to light the City should make sure investment is made in the hot spots to raise the other areas of the city, opining this speaks to how the Council operates. He further noted every dollar invested in the Old Courthouse has great potential to generate more dollars.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 7 Mayor Turner noted the Die Cast property is a catalytic property, stating the City is working with developers to set a direction for it. The floor was open to Public Comments. Mr. Sam Patel spoke about extending water and sewer service on Rose Farm Road to serve 24 acres he owns at that location, opining the property could be a convention center or water park. Mayor Turner stated the City is always interested in a developer with an idea. He asked Staff to investigate this further. Rob Mutert, Warp Corps, thanked Council for bringing this productive information to the community. He opined Woodstock is a great place with a great future. Asking Council to keep his project in mind, he opined it will check a lot of the boxes with education and workforce development. Rick Bellairs stated everyone knows the Square is the heart of the community, expressing his support of the comments to let people know about the Square before they get to the downtown, opining something is needed to draw people in. Review and Discussion of Proposed FY22/23 Capital Improvement Program Noting Staff has made major recommendations for the FY22/23 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) expenditures, Mayor Turner asked Mr. Stelford to provide additional information. He stated there are certain items that must be done to make sure the City’s infrastructure is running well and also investment in other things the Council has been talking about. He stated Staff has developed the CIP and also put together a list of other items Council has discussed for possible ARP funding. Mr. Stelford thanked the Executive Directors, Department Directors, and City Staff for their work on the CIP. Noting there are a number of projects the City is looking to fund, he stated this CIP is a significantly larger program with increases in funding, including for debt service and the Enhanced Streets Program, which touches not only Streets, but Sewer & Water and debt service as well. He stated funding has been enhanced by the Home Rule Sales Tax. He noted the projects incorporated and recommended for funding are intended to address Council’s priorities. He also noted a $3.4 million place holder has been included for the ARP funds. Mr. Stelford stated two new funds were established – the Rotating Motor Pool, which will drive down costs, and TIF #2 from which a payment for the Old Courthouse debt will be required next year to complete the extensive building renovations and receive the Historic Tax Credits. He stated the Water & Sewer Funds have set aside funds for future improvements as part of the Rt. 47 improvements. He noted this does not incorporate the grant that is being applied for through DCEO, stating if this is received it will free up funds to use elsewhere.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 8 Mr. Stelford noted Council has been provided with a list of projects suggested for ARP funding, noting the list also shows some of the projects that are anticipated to be funded through the CIP, some this year and some in future years, rather than with ARP funds. He stated Staff is asking Council to identify any of these projects it feels should be funded with ARP funds instead. He noted the City has met all regulations for the use of ARP funds, which means the $3.4 million is unencumbered and available to spend. Mr. Stelford stated the IT Department is looking at various automation projects which are not included for ARP funding, but could be. Mayor Turner opined the City should catch up to the 21st century as soon as possible and be more efficient and productive. He challenged Mr. Christensen to come up with something more concrete regarding this issue. Mr. Stelford then turned to a brief review on certain funds. Public Facilities Mr. Stelford stated the big-ticket item is funding for windows for the Opera House, which is being used as a match for a DCEO grant, noting the project will be phased in over two years. He stated funds have been included for the Metra warming station, which is offset by a grant and means it would be a net zero cost to the City. However, he noted Metra must obtain the property from UP to complete this project. Mr. Stelford stated $200,000 has been included for Opera House backstage renovations. He stated Mr. Campbell will work with an architect and designer, and then evaluate with Ms. Gulli and bring the plan back to the City Council. Discussion ensued of the project, including coordination with the LED project. Public Safety Mr. Stelford highlighted some of the projects, including license plate readers and cameras. Chief Lieb stated the department has moved toward technical equipment, which has been amazing in assisting the officers in getting their jobs done. He affirmed his comfort level with the Public Safety portion of the CIP. Parks Mr. Stelford noted the CIP was prepared in the December/January timeframe, so does not include funding for the intergenerational playground, but does include playground equipment, which may be put toward the intergenerational playground instead. Mayor Turner stated he would be supportive of taking the $100,000 designated for playground equipment and put it toward the intergenerational playground. Mr. Stelford noted a portion of these funds is needed to demo the existing playground. In response to a question from Mayor Turner, Mr. Stelford stated a site near the football field has been chosen for the playground. Discussion ensued of the intergenerational playground, including use of the funds designated for playground replacement. Mayor Turner stated Council has made a commitment to the intergenerational playground. In response to a question from Councilman Flynn, Ms. Willcockson  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 9 stated it is possible the intergenerational playground could break ground in the coming fiscal year. Mr. Stelford noted Council would have to allocate funds for this next January or February. Noting the timeline, Mayor Turner again advocated for allocating the $100,000 at this time. Mr. Stelford stated discussions have also taken place concerning using some of the funds designated for replacement of the parks building for the intergenerational playground. Councilman Seegers opined rather than moving funds around, they should not be spent if they are not needed for a project. In response, Mr. Christensen noted there are many more needs than are seen in the CIP or the Budget. In response to a question from Council, Mr. Aymond stated the modifications to the existing playground can be delayed a year, but not indefinitely. Following additional discussion, it was the consensus of the City Council to allocate $25,000 to the existing playground in Emricson Park and $75,000 to the intergenerational playground. Mr. Stelford noted the lightning detection system and the Square electrical upgrade included in the CIP will be paid for with a DCEO grant, if it is received. Motor Pool Mr. Stelford explained the changes to the Budget as a result of the creation of the Rotating Motor Pool. Streets Mr. Stelford stated this is a sizeable area of spending due to the Enhanced Streets Program, noting the engineering has already been approved. He noted the roundabout is included in Streets and is offset by a grant. He updated the funds allocated for the Rt. 47 improvements. Concerning the Enhanced Streets Program, Councilman Flynn expressed concern about allocating sufficient funds for maintenance in year five. Mayor Turner stated a strategy and plan must be developed to answer what will happen following year five, discussion of which ensued. Stormwater Mr. Stelford stated this line item will address Kimball Avenue this year. Unfunded Projects Mr. Stelford stated these are projects that could not be included for funding in this year’s CIP, noting these include the new DPW facility and the intergenerational playground, which is left to Council’s discretion. Library Mr. Stelford noted this Fund includes replacement of one HVAC unit, computer replacement, and the rotunda room. Mr. Weber stated there are internal plans for office space that may require an architect and contractor. TIF #2 Mr. Stelford noted the main expense in this area is Debt Service, explaining this further.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 10 Mr. Stelford stated $150,000 has also been allocated for Benton Street, noting another plan has been submitted by the businesses with revisions that will be brought back to Council. He noted funds have also been included for pedestrian amenities, including a kiosk for the Square. Water & Sewer Mr. Stelford stated in this item Council will see the impact from the Enhanced Streets Program, providing additional information. He noted also included is funding for relocating water and sewer lines for the Rt. 47 improvements. In response to a question from Councilman Seegers, Mr. Stelford stated the State mandates the lines be relocated at the municipality’s expense. In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall, Mr. Aymond stated it is the City’s intent to insist electric service is available at the roundabouts on Rt. 47. Water & Sewer Capacity Mr. Stelford stated most of the money dedicated in this area is for planning in addition to funds for the replacement of the well in Bates Park, which is failing. Mr. Aymond noted a new site will have to be found for this well. The meeting was recessed at 6:44 PM. The meeting was reconvened at 6:55 PM. COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Tom Nierman, Wendy Piersall, Bob Seegers, Gordon Tebo, and Mayor Michael Turner. COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None. STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, Deputy City Manager/Executive Director of Strategy and Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Human Resources Director Deb Schober, IT Director Dan McElmeel, Library Director Nick Weber, Opera House Managing Director Daniel Campbell, Deputy Public Works Director Brent Aymond, City Engineer Chris Tiedt, Communications/Grants Manager Terry Willcockson, and City Clerk Cindy Smiley. Discussion turned to ARP projects with Mayor Turner stating he wished to get an indication of those projects the majority of the Council is willing to allocate funds for right now as part of the CIP and those in which they are interested, but do not wish to commit funds yet, but perhaps down the road. Mayor Turner discussed projects for the Die Cast property, noting it would be possible to fund these in a variety of ways, reviewing some of them. He opined this could be the catalytic project to the downtown previously discussed and expressed his support. Discussion ensued including how this could be funded with Council agreeing it would enhance the development of this property. Discussion ensued of other potential projects for funding with ARP funds.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 11 Councilwoman Piersall expressed support for Square restrooms, and walking and bike paths citing the importance of both. Ms. Gulli noted public restrooms will be available in the Old Courthouse once it opens. Expressing concern about the hours the building will be open, Councilwoman Piersall stated she is not sure this is a solution. Mayor Turner agreed there is a need for public restrooms on the Square, but stated he would prefer to see if the Old Courthouse fills this need and continue to discuss if that is not the case. Discussion ensued of various other possibilities, including relying on the Old Courthouse on a daily basis, bringing in restroom trailers for special events and renting/purchasing a building to develop into restrooms. Mayor Turner suggested keeping this as a priority and investigating the various ideas further. Discussion turned to public art with Councilwoman Piersall opining the amount for a mural would be less than indicated, but an art installation in a roundabout could be more. Mr. Tiedt stated IDOT is probably planning art in the Rt. 47 roundabout. Discussed ensued of possible funding sources for art and the arts master plan, including grants and Economic Development funds. Councilman Tebo expressed support for a sound upgrade on the Square, opining this is critical. It was the consensus of the Council to dedicate ARP funds for this and to do this project as soon as possible. Councilman Tebo expressed support for restrooms in Emricson Park and on the Square. Mayor Turner agreed Emricson Park has a need for restrooms for both the intergenerational playground and the various sports programs. Following further discussion, it was the consensus to take funds indicated for Merryman restrooms and put them to Emricson Park. In response to a statement from Councilman Nierman, Mr. Christensen stated $25,000 has already been dedicated to maintenance including painting and bumpouts. Following further discussion, it was the consensus of Council that Staff will investigate this and come back to Council with possibilities for increasing this to $50,000. Councilwoman Lohmeyer expressed support for bike paths and walkability projects, noting the importance of this as indicated in the earlier presentation. In a related matter, Councilman Nierman noted the trip hazards on many of the City’s sidewalks opining mud jacking should be investigated. In response to Mayor Turner’s suggestion of a sidewalk program, Mr. Christensen stated the FY22/23 budget includes funds for a sidewalk inventory with Mr. Aymond indicating $25,000 has been budgeted for this year and $40,000 for the next. In was the consensus of the City Council to add another $50,000 to this project. Discussion ensued of the choice of sidewalk locations with Mr. Aymond stating the priority will be hazards. Mayor Turner opined they should be strategically placed and asked Staff to also look at gaps, knowing there will be a total of $75,000 in ARP funds to improve sidewalks or the placement of new sidewalks. In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall, Mr. Napolitano provided information on the Neighborhood Revitalization Program. He stated the project is still awaiting funding from the County, noting the State also must review the County projects. He stated as soon as it is approved by the State, the Neighborhood Revitalization Program is ready to start. Mayor Turner asked Staff  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 12 to look at the effectiveness of this program once it is underway and perhaps fund it in the budget in the future. Councilman Seegers expressed concern about spending funds on a well. He also expressed concern about spending funds on restrooms, citing the cost of maintenance, asking about the restroom trailers. Mayor Turner asked Staff to investigate this further. Councilman Flynn expressed support of spending money on a Parks Master Plan and the remainder to complete a Master Arts Plan, noting they fall in with the CIP. He also expressed support for setting funds aside to make sure there is a set budget for art. Mayor Turner turned the discussion to the Dream Field, including the funding to be provided by T-Mobile and for what it is to be used. Mayor Turner suggested adding $25,000 to T-Mobile’s $250,000 to turf the infield, noting it will benefit the City and the High School. It was the consensus of the City Council to designate $25,000 of the ARP funds to the Dream Field project. Discussion followed of lights for the Dream Field, with Mayor Turner stating this would double available usage of the field. Mr. Christensen stated Staff will investigate this further including how it can be phased in over the next couple of years. In response to a question from Mayor Turner, it was the consensus of the City Council to continue discussion of the Operating Budget following the Council meeting tomorrow evening. Motion by W. Piersall, second by D. Flynn, to adjourn this portion of this Special City Council Workshop to Tuesday, April 5, 2022, in the Council Chambers immediately following the City Council meeting. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, T. Nierman, W. Piersall, B. Seegers, G. Tebo, and Mayor M. Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 13 SPECIAL BUDGET WORKSHOP PART 2 APRIL 5, 2022 The continuation of the Special Budget Workshop meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 8:23 PM by Mayor Michael Turner on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. He stated the purpose this meeting is to resume the Budget Workshop begun on April 4, 2022 with discussion centering on review of the City’s FY22/23 Budget. City Attorney Schlossberg confirmed continuation is allowed as it was announced at yesterday’s meeting that the workshop would be continued to this time and place. COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Tom Nierman, Wendy Piersall, Bob Seegers, Gordon Tebo, and Mayor Michael Turner. COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None. STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Deputy City Manager/Executive Director of Strategy & Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, Chief John Lieb, Public Works Director Christina Betz, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Library Director Nick Weber, IT Director Dan McElmeel, Opera House Director Daniel Campbell, Deputy Director of Public Works Brent Aymond, City Engineer Chris Tiedt, City Planner Darrell Moore, Communications/Grants Manager Terry Willcockson, and City Clerk Cindy Smiley. Review and Discussion of Proposed FY22/23 Budget Mayor Turner noted yesterday during Part 1 of the Special Workshop, Council and Staff reviewed the City’s CIP, but did not have time to review the FY22/23 Operating Budget so that discussion is being continued this evening. He asked Mr. Stelford to go through key budget items, noting Council is free to ask questions and discuss on any items. Mayor Turner stated it is anticipated Council will consider passage of the FY22/23 Budget at its second meeting in April. Mr. Stelford thanked the Executive Directors, Department Directors and Staff for their work on developing the proposed Budget, noting they found many ways to improve and enhance the City. He stated this review will focus on areas that are expected to experience significant changes. Mr. Stelford called Council’s attention to the list of strategic priorities for the City. Mayor Turner expressed appreciation to Mr. Stelford and Staff for developing this list, noting it is up to Staff to translate it into a working Budget. In response to Mayor Turner’s statement the Budget is a living document that can be changed, Mr. Stelford agreed it will evolve as the fiscal year progresses. General Fund - Revenue Mr. Stelford stated the focus in this area is the growth of revenue items, including a growth of $1 million in sales tax and $600,000 in income tax revenue. He stated it does not include a proposed increase in LGDF, which could be an additional $1.1 million. Mayor Turner noted a discussion of LGDF is going on in Springfield at present, providing some history and background on this as  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 14 did Mr. Stelford. Mayor Turner said there are substantial discussions taking place, opining there will be some level of increase. Continuing the discussion of revenue, Mr. Stelford noted video gaming license fees are being restored to prior levels following COVID-19. He stated the T-Mobile funds have been placed in Miscellaneous Income resulting in that increase. Transfers Mr. Stelford provided information on various transfers, including an increase for health insurance. Department Budgets City Manager’s Office – Mr. Stelford noted this Budget was reduced as a result of reallocations. He stated the remaining Executive Director position is now fully funded. Building and Zoning – Mr. Stelford noted this Budget was reduced because of a reduction in funds from the County. Marketing and Communications – Mr. Stelford provided information on the new positions that are requested within this new Budget area. Police Protection Mr. Stelford stated the Police Pension levels and transfers are being maintained. He provided information on changes in personnel, including moving some patrol officers to detective positions. In response to a question from Mayor Turner, Chief Lieb stated he has had many discussions with Mr. Stelford regarding staffing levels. He stated current levels are sufficient, but noted the Department is certainly busy. He opined if the City sees the growth the Council is working toward, staffing levels will need to be addressed. Discussion ensued of the cost of adding officers and the number suggested to be added. Mayor Turner asked Chief Lieb to keep this in mind for next year’s budget, if the City adds growth and to keep Council abreast of the number of calls for service. Aquatic Center/Recreation Center Mr. Stelford stated budgets for these facilities have been impacted by the increase in the minimum wage. He stated on the positive side, the Aquatic Center revenue has returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. He opined the facility will have to draw a larger customer base regionally, providing information on discussions that have taken place thus far regarding this. Mayor Turner urged Ms. Gulli to find ways to attract more people to this venue. Mr. Christensen stated Staff is working to try to mitigate this issue. Mr. Stelford stated the Recreation Center was also impacted by the increase to the minimum wage, but revenue for this facility has not recovered from the pandemic. He stated this will be the last year for Debt Service for the facility, which will infuse additional funds into it.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 15 Parks Mr. Stelford noted the completion of the reorganization of the Public Works Department, providing additional information. Performing Arts Fund Mr. Stelford noted the many changes in the Department, most focusing on staffing levels, explaining the new positions and reorganization. He noted an increase in the General Fund subsidy is not anticipated as revenue is expected to offset salaries. Mr. Campbell stated he feels good about this with the resources he has been given. He noted the Budget hinges upon a return to normalcy with no recession. Mayor Turner stated he feels good about the investment Council is making in the Opera House. Ms. Gulli stated she is excited about the opportunity to get additional staffing and see what can be accomplished. Library Fund Regarding staffing, Mr. Stelford noted a library assistant position is being reclassified and three additional part-time positions have been added. Ms. Schober noted two part-time positions have been reclassified into a full-time position with Mr. Weber explaining this further. In response to a question from Mayor Turner, Mr. Weber stated he is comfortable with staffing levels as long as there is not another pandemic. He stated the library will also be returning to normal hours. TIF #2 Mr. Stelford provided information on the revenues and expenditures, noting funds will be forwarded to the private-sector corporation to renovate the Old Courthouse and secure the historic tax credits, as planned. He stated with the Old Courthouse debt coming into play, this creates a deficit early in the TIF, which is common, noting Staff feels comfortable with recommending this as there is a 10-year plan. Mr. Stelford noted anticipated spending next year will be for Benton Street improvements and site remediation for the Die Cast site and the beverage mart. Mr. Stelford then provided information on the bonds for the Old Courthouse. A discussion of property taxes ensued with Mr. Stelford stating Staff is concentrating on hard numbers each year rather than percentages for future increases. Mayor Turner stated this is why it is important to drive an increase in the EAV as well as secure new growth which would mean greater property tax contributions. Opining it is important to have good growth at the beginning of a TIF, he stated Council should continue to drive this period of growth. Water & Sewer Funds – Revenue Mr. Stelford stated Staff is recommending a 5% rate increase, noting Woodstock’s rates are low compared to other communities. He stated there are many projects in this fund, noting costs related to street resurfacing and debt service. He also provided information on the restructuring of staff in this department. Mr. Christensen stated the City has a healthy fund balance that has been built up over the past seven years.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 16 General CIP Fund Mr. Stelford noted the strong growth in Home Rule Sales Tax. He stated there has also been a lot of grant funding coming in, detailing the various grants. He stated two years of bond funding have been placed in this fund to shield the City against the anticipated future interest rate increases, noting Staff will continue to monitor the debt market to determine the best timing for any future issuances. He stated transfers to the General Fund have increased, which includes moving the ARP funds as well as a portion of the anticipated surplus in the General Fund. Mr. Stelford highlighted creation of a rotating motor pool, funding for the Comprehensive Plan and Branding Initiative studies, new website design, and the Opera House Phase II project. Parks Mr. Stelford stated this Budget includes the Downtown Square Electrical Project and a placeholder for ARP funded projects. Streets Mr. Stelford stated the most significant increase in the FY22/23 Budget is for the Enhanced Streets Program, along with several other important construction projects. Sewer and Water Management Mr. Stelford highlighted the improvements scheduled for the Kimball Avenue area funded within this Budget. He noted property acquisition is in process, providing more information on this project. In conclusion, Mr. Stelford stated Staff is working hard at improving the City within the confines of the Budget, commending them for their efforts. Stating the past 10 to 12 months have been challenging, Mayor Turner expressed his appreciation for Mr. Stelford and Staff, opining the City’s Staff is fantastic and Woodstock’s potential is unlimited. He stated the Executive Directors and Departments Directors are driving this with guidance from the City Council and strategic direction from Mr. Stelford. He also expressed appreciation for the work Staff does under the direction of the Department Directors. Mayor Turner stated this Council is willing to make investments to make the City better, opining it is in a good place economically. He asked that the dialog continue between the Department Directors, Executive Directors, and Mr. Stelford to make the City better. Noting the importance of the Budget, Councilman Seegers stated he knows the hours Mr. Stelford and Staff has put into it and thanked everyone for a job well done. Addressing Mr. Stelford and Staff, Mayor Turner opined the City is in good shape because of the work they have done and opined it is because of that strength the City sits at a good position and has great potential. He urged everyone to continue to make things grow.  Woodstock City Council Budget Meeting 4/04/22 and 04/05/22 Page 17 ADJOURN Motion by D. Flynn, second by L. Lohmeyer, to adjourn this special City Council Budget Workshop to the next regular City Council meeting scheduled for 7:00 PM, on Tuesday, April 19, 2022. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, T. Nierman, W. Piersall, B. Seegers, G. Tebo, and Mayor M. Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 9:16 PM. Respectfully submitted, Cindy Smiley City Clerk