City Council

MINUTES WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL November 4, 2025 Council Chambers A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order by Deputy Mayor Darrin Flynn at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. He explained the Consent Calendar process and invited public participation. This meeting was livestreamed. A roll call was taken. COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Gregg Hanson, Melissa McMahon, Tom Nierman, Bob Seegers, Jr., Natalie Ziemba, and Deputy Mayor Darrin Flynn. COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Mayor Michael Turner. STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, City Attorney TJ Clifton, Executive Director – Strategy & Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director – Business Development Danielle Gulli, Police Chief John Lieb, Deputy Chief Ray Lanz, Deputy Chief George Kopulos, Economic Development Director Jessica Erickson, Public Works Director Brent Aymond, Building and Planning Director Joe Napolitano, Marketing & Communications Manager Colleen Rogalski, Marketing Assistant Jonathon Napiorkowski, City Planner Kimberly Phillips, Grant Writer Barb Szul, and City Clerk Jane Howie. OTHERS PRESENT: Police Commissioner Ron Giordano and a cadre of officers from the Woodstock Police Department. City Clerk Howie confirmed the agenda is a true and correct copy of the published agenda. III. FLOOR DISCUSSION A. Proclamations 1. U.S. Marine Corps 250th Anniversary Deputy Mayor Flynn invited Ricky Prescott and members of the Marines in attendance to join him at the podium for the reading of this Proclamation. The reading was met with hearty applause. Mr. Prescott shared information about the Marine Corps League, McHenry County Detachment. He said their detachment was founded in Woodstock 31 years ago, with a focus on service, honor, and commitment. The Marines collaborate with the VFW and American Legion to work to make sure that no veterans are left behind. 2. Veterans Day, Nov. 11th & Operation Green Light, Nov. 4th – 11th Deputy Mayor Flynn invited the Veterans to join him at the podium for the reading of this Proclamation. The reading was met with hearty applause by all those in attendance. Mr. Ed Chambers, Commander of VFW 5040 in Woodstock, thanked the Council and community for their recognition and support.  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 2 of 8 B. Swearing-in Ceremony – Woodstock Police Officer 1. Officer Matthew Bundy Chief Lief shared some information about Mr. Matthew Bundy’s application for the role of Police Officer. He said he is proud to have Officer Bundy join the Woodstock Police Department. He shared the meaning of family, both as part of the police department and an Officer’s personal family. Police Commissioner Giordano swore in Officer Bundy, which was met with hearty applause. Deputy Mayor Flynn thanked all those who serve the community. C. Public Hearing 1. Enlargement of Riverwoods Special Service Area (SSA) #17 Deputy Mayor Flynn opened the Public Hearing at 7:13 p.m. and shared the purpose of this Public Hearing. He called Director Napolitano to the podium. Director Napolitano said that SSA #17 was established in July 2025. It is a funding mechanism for maintenance, repair, and improvements for the subdivision in the event the Homeowners’ Association (HOA) fails. The area includes a lift station, detention basin, and utilities, which encompass the entire subdivision. Deputy Mayor Flynn asked for any comments. Hearing none, he closed the Public Hearing at 7:15 p.m. D. Public Comments Deputy Mayor Flynn called Katie Heraty, Northern IL Food Bank, to the podium. Ms. Heraty thanked the Council for the opportunity to speak. She stated that there are issues across northern Illinois and the country due to the federal government shutdown. She added that as of November 1st, millions of residents didn’t receive their food stamps or SNAP benefits. Ms. Heraty shared additional information. She asked for help from the community to donate and/or volunteer locally at www.solvehungertoday.org Deputy Mayor Flynn thanked Ms. Heraty for her work. Ms. Heraty answered Council members’ questions by outlining the local schools and establishments they support. She added that they are working to supply more food to frontline agencies and are part of Feeding America. A resident, Hannah, asked when the public can ask questions about items on the agenda; Deputy Mayor Flynn explained the meeting’s protocol. E. Council Comments Deputy Mayor Flynn said that City staff members are discussing ways in which to assist community members who are being affected by the federal government’s shutdown as it pertains to water/sewer & refuse accounts.  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 3 of 8 IV. CONSENT AGENDA Motion by Seegers, second by Hanson, to approve the Consent Agenda. In response to a question from Deputy Mayor Flynn, the following item was removed from the Consent Agenda by the Council or the Public. • Item D-2, Ordinance – Lease Agreement – Security Cameras for Woodstock Square was removed by Councilwoman McMahon. In response to a question from Deputy Mayor Flynn, no questions were forthcoming from the Council or the Public regarding items remaining on the Consent Agenda. Deputy Mayor Flynn affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items A through D–7 with the exclusion of Item D-2. A. ACCEPTANCE OF CITY COUNCIL MINUTES: 1. October 21, 2025, City Council Minutes B. WARRANTS: 1. #4170 2. #4171 C. MINUTES AND REPORTS: 1. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes October 14, 2025 2. Woodstock Public Library Board of Trustees Minutes September 11, 2025 D. MANAGER’S REPORT NO. 281: 1. Ordinance – Redevelopment Agreement – 315 E. South Street, LLC (281a) Approval of Ordinance #25-O-49, known as DOC. 1, authorizing a redevelopment agreement by and between the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, and 315 E. South Street, LLC, Woodstock, Illinois, and authorizing the Mayor, City Manager, and City Clerk to execute, deliver, and undertake all actions required to implement its terms. 3. Resolution – Tolling Agreement – Fifth Addendum – VG Push Tax (281c) Approval of Resolution #25-R-55, known as DOC. 3, authorizing the City Manager to execute the Fifth Addendum to the Tolling Agreement with the municipalities Algonquin, Carpentersville, Lake in the Hills, and McHenry, and the video gaming terminal operators J&J Ventures Gaming, LLC, Gold Rush Amusements, Inc., Accel Entertainment Gaming, LLC, Lattner Entertainment Group Illinois, LLC, Eureka Entertainment, LLC, Velasquez Gaming, LLC, Ashiq Gaming, LLC, and Pocket Aces Gaming, Inc. for the purpose of tolling the City’s Video Gaming (VG) Push Tax. 4. Resolution – Contract Award – Public Works New Fuel Island (281d) Approval of Resolution #25-R-56, known as DOC. 4, authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute a contract, subject to final review by the City Attorney, with Al Warren Oil Company (AWOC), Hammond, Indiana for two (2) 2,500-gallon tanks and related dispensing equipment for both on-road diesel fuel and 87 octane  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 4 of 8 gasoline at no cost, based on an agreement with AWOC to serve as the sole supplier of fuel for these tanks for a minimum period of five (5) years and includes a one-time delivery and setup fee of $800 for the installation of both tanks, as well as a one-time fee of $2,900 to cut, clean, remove and scrap the old fuel tanks. In addition, the Resolution authorizes an agreement to purchase a new fuel management software from Stenstrom Petroleum Services Group, Rockford, IL, for $25,135, resulting in a total project cost not to exceed $28,835. 5. Police Pension FY24/25 Annual Statement/Actuarial Report (281e) Acceptance of the Police Pension Fund’s FY24/25 Annual Statement and the Actuarial Report prepared by Foster & Foster, which recommends an employer contribution of $2,077,578 for the 2025 Police Pension property tax levy. 6. Resolution – Property Tax Levy Estimate (281f) Approval of Resolution #25-R-57, known as DOC. 5, estimating the calendar year 2025 Property Tax Levy in accordance with the Truth in Taxation Act (35 ILCS 200/18-60). 7. Allocation Approval – Facade Improvement Program–136 Cass St. (281g) Approval to allocate $5,000 in Facade Improvement Program funds for eligible exterior improvement costs from TIF #2 for 136 Cass Street Viking Dog, LLC, Owner (Winestock). Item D-2, Ordinance – Lease Agreement – Security Cameras for Woodstock Square Councilwoman McMahon had questions pertaining to where the camera footage would be stored, who has access to the footage, who could obtain the footage, and more. She asked for full transparency because information is out there that Flock has breached security guidelines. She added that when the other security cameras were approved eight years ago, people weren’t as familiar with some of the issues that could have, and have occurred over the years. She opined that the addition of these cameras would make people feel watched and could serve as an invasion of people’s privacy. Councilwoman McMahon stated that she’s not comfortable with this company. She opined there’s very little trust remaining in communities; it feels too much like “big brother” for her. She stated that she does not support this item. Councilman Seegers added that the biggest issues he sees are with the state of IL; there’s a lack of investment in data centers, but he believes this has tightened down. He said there used to be a constant string of complaints and wrongdoing in the Square; however, it seems that things have gotten better over the past few years. Councilman Seegers opined that this is the society we’re in. He believes it would be better if the security cameras included facial recognition to help the police solve crimes. He supports this item. Chief Lieb shared that only specific staff members at the Woodstock Police Department would have access to the footage, which would only be reviewed when an incident occurred within the viewing area. He explained why he can’t say the Department would “never share this data,” because if another neighboring community were to experience an incident, and this could be useful within their investigation, the Woodstock Police Department would want to assist with finding the perpetrator. The information in the proposed security cameras would belong to  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 5 of 8 Woodstock alone. Nobody can get the information unless the Woodstock Police Department agrees to it. In response to questions from Councilwoman McMahon, Chief Lieb opined that there is misinformation out in the public. The item being discussed this evening is only for the installation of security cameras, not for Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs). He stated that the two systems don’t work in the same way and that Flock is continually working to keep all their systems secure. City Manager Stelford added that any system, where there are thousands and thousands of users, could experience security issues and suffer from user accounts being compromised. Regarding the security cameras, an outside agency would have to request access to specific footage, which is reviewed by a supervisor at the Police Department. In response to a question from Councilwoman McMahon, City Manager Stelford said the City can bring forth a policy, which can be shared with the Council for review. Chief said the Woodstock Police Department has a policy on the books for the safekeeping of law enforcement data. In response to a question from Deputy Mayor Flynn, Chief Lieb said the footage is only available for 30 days. Footage is only saved if it’s needed to assist in solving a crime. Councilwoman Ziemba shared information about the various multifactor authentication methods that Flock offers to law enforcement agencies. Chief Lieb confirmed this information. It was noted that the City Council gave guidance to staff to obtain security cameras in the Square. Chief Lieb shared some brief information about a homicide that occurred in Woodstock in 2017, along with some tragic events that have occurred in other cities during community events. Security cameras in the Square may help in deterring some folks from committing a crime, and should incidents occur, the police would have the footage to assist in locating a perpetrator. Councilwoman Ziemba added that the cameras could also be of assistance should someone go missing, such as an Amber alert or Silver Alert. City Manager Stelford said these cameras would not be at the technology level to support facial recognition. He added that the security cameras on Benton & Main Street do support facial recognition. In response to a question from Deputy Mayor Flynn, City Manager Stelford shared information on the quality of the security cameras that are on Benton Street and Main Street. He stated that these cameras have facial recognition and are like those you find in casinos and video gaming establishments. However, the footage cannot be stored as long as the Flock security cameras. He added that Flock does not own the footage. Further information was shared; discussion ensued. The discussion included information that someone made a choice to be indiscriminate, as it pertained to security camera footage. That’s how the information got leaked to the public. She said she puts a great amount of trust in Chief Lieb and the Woodstock Police Department to be protective of the rights of our citizens and use discretion. Councilwoman Ziemba said that she generally supports this, and she got her questions answered by Chief Lieb. Councilwoman McMahon asked why the City of Evanston and Elgin Community College are cancelling their connections with Flock. She’s concerned about the privacy of Woodstock’s citizens. As it pertains to the ALPRs, Chief Lieb said they have assisted the Woodstock Police Department in solving crimes.  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 6 of 8 Resident Hannah said she heard that ICE (United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement) used information from Flock to detain a student at Elgin Community College. She shared that her concerns go beyond safety; the cameras make them feel watched. She said the addition of Flock cameras increases surveillance, which means more tracking of people. She stated she doesn’t understand the need for more cameras to watch day-to-day activities. She said Woodstock prides itself on inclusivity, known for being welcoming and respecting the rights of people. She wants to be able to enjoy day-to-day activities without being monitored. She shared additional information. She opined that the Flock camera system goes a bit too far. She asked why the City would consider a six-year contract. In response, Chief Lieb said the item being considered this evening is for a three-year contract. He added that the staff has researched security cameras for years. He added that this is the right technology at the right time. Should a situation arise, the LPRs and the security cameras will talk to each other. Chief Lieb shared the difference between the cameras on Benton Street and Main Street vs. the security cameras being proposed for the Square. He reiterated that only the Woodstock Police Department has access to the data; the City of Woodstock owns the data. Rick, an Attorney in Crystal Lake, opined that these Flock security cameras would make the community feel like they are constantly being watched. In response to a question from Deputy Mayor Flynn, it was noted that the LPRs are searchable nationwide, but the security camera footage is not. The discussion this evening pertains to the proposed three-year contract for security cameras in the Square, not LPRs. Gigi Carlson shared that she hopes that if cameras get installed, there’s signage notifying the public that the area is under surveillance for transparency. She opined that even a three-year commitment can be a long time; things change so fast. She added that this is a costly endeavor. She suggested tabling the idea of having this vote tonight. City Manager Stelford said there are no requirements for signage. There is a 30-day out with no penalties if Council elects not to appropriate funding for this contract. Ann, a Woodstock resident, said she has concerns about the company that has been chosen. There was a brief discussion pertaining to crime in Woodstock. Chief Lieb opined that someday we will have an incident. So many tragedies have occurred across the country. Woodstock has been so fortunate that something tragic hasn’t happened here. Kelly, 801 Laurel Avenue, said the Square is a place for people to shop, listen to music, and visit. She said this is like “big brother,” a feeling of being watched. She added that there could be a decrease in people wanting to come to the Square. She opined that this would change the feeling of Woodstock. Deputy Mayor Flynn said having the security cameras in the Square wouldn’t prevent an issue, but would help to catch the perpetrator. Resident Kelly agreed with this. She said she doesn’t have an issue with making it easier to solve a crime. Her concern is with Flock, and with who has access. She’s concerned about Flock’s security breaches.  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 7 of 8 Councilman Nierman said that this (security breach) can happen with your bank or any other cloud-based system. In response to a question from Kelly, Chief Lieb said security camera data will go into their vault, and WPD is the only one who can touch it. He added that Flock has no reason to touch it. The data will disappear in 30 days. Madeline said she’s seen what Flock has done and what happened in Elgin. She said she doesn’t feel safe as a Mexican American U.S. citizen. She hopes her fears and anxieties show that crime happens anywhere. Crime is a choice; you describe that the cameras won’t help to find people who are missing. She opined that ICE has been involved with Flock. She can’t go out without feeling watched. She stated there should be more police on the road. She agrees with using the cameras to assist with incidents of crime, as safety should be number one. Deputy Mayor Flynn told Madeline that she’s been heard, and there’s a hope that we use these tools for good. James, Tappan Street, said he wanted to make it clear that they are concerned with Flock, not so much about surveillance. He asked staff to find a secondary means for the use and storage of data, which has been used against citizens. Sarah Parisi, Jackson Street, doesn’t have an objection to security cameras; her issue is with Flock based on information she’s heard. She said the LPRs' data has been misused. She’s concerned that data will be turned over to the federal government. “Flock is not selling cameras; they’re gathering data.” She asked that City staff do further research on this company before making a decision. Don, a 20-year resident, said he’s been a software engineer for 25 years. He’s been reading and hearing things about Flock, a company that keeps data in the cloud. He said these companies can access information. He’s concerned with allowing Flock to have this information, which is not necessarily under Woodstock’s control. Deputy Mayor Flynn thanked everyone for coming this evening. Councilwoman McMahon thanked everyone for coming. She opined that the question isn’t about security cameras, it’s who the company is. Her vote continues to be no, mainly for this company. There was mention regarding large events in the Square. Councilwoman McMahon said she plans most of them, such as Groundhog Days, Pride, and the Car Show on the Square. She talked about the requirement of paying for police officers hired for safety and security for these large events. Councilwoman Ziemba mentioned the grant funding associated with these security cameras. A brief discussion ensued. Councilman Nierman said these cameras would be taking pictures/video of vehicles on the Square; they do not include facial recognition. Councilman Seegers said that as a Council member, they must make decisions for the entire community. It is their job to listen to both the negative and positive comments; the budget must also be considered, and they must weigh the costs and consider the current climate. Councilman Seegers thanked everyone for coming. Hannah clarified that they’re not saying no to a security system; they want Council to reconsider this company, Flock. Councilman Seegers said there are alternatives, but at a higher cost. Hannah opined that this is a rushed decision. She opined that ICE has hacked into Flock systems. Councilwoman Ziemba said there is $9,000 in grant money on the table right now. She said this could be a mere fraction of the cost. Given a choice to spend $300,000-$400,000, this room  Woodstock City Council 11/04/2025 Page 8 of 8 would be filled with many, many very angry people. The decision will be forthcoming from the Council. It would come back at a much higher cost. The expiration of this grant is June 2026. Motion by McMahon to postpone Item D-2, An Ordinance for a Lease Agreement to provide Security Cameras for the Woodstock Square, to time indefinite, seconded by Ziemba. Ayes: McMahon, Ziemba, and Deputy Mayor Flynn. Nays: Hanson, Nierman, and Seegers. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Mayor Michael Turner. Motion tied 3-3, motion fails. Motion by Seegers to approve Item D-2, An Ordinance for a Lease Agreement to provide Security Cameras for the Woodstock Square, seconded by Nierman. Ayes: Hanson, Nierman, and Seegers. Nays: McMahon, Ziemba, and Deputy Mayor Flynn Abstentions: none. Absentees: Mayor Michael Turner. Motion tied 3-3, motion fails. City Manager Stelford opined that Mayor Turner, due to his absence, and those who voted “no” can make a motion to reconsider. This will be investigated further and discussed with Mayor Turner. V. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Councilwoman McMahon reminded Council members and staff that she will be absent from the November 18th City Council meeting. In response to a question about the Ordinance for Park Signage, City Manager Stelford said this is a stopgap approach, and more comprehensive information will be provided. Staff plans to propose a temporary modification to the City Code, providing discretion to the City Administration during the interim. ADJOURN Motion by Ziemba, second by Nierman, to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the next regular Council meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. Ayes: Hanson, McMahon, Nierman, Seegers, Ziemba, and Deputy Mayor Flynn. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: Mayor Turner. Motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jane Howie City Clerk