NW Illinois News

City of Galena City Council met May 27.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

25C-0204 – CALL TO ORDER

Mayor Renner called the regular meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Chambers at 101 Green Street on 27 May 2025.

25C-0205 – ROLL CALL

Upon roll call, the following members were present: Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Renner

25C-0206 – ESTABLISHMENT OF QUORUM

Mayor Renner announced a quorum of board members present to conduct City business.

25C-0207 – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The Pledge was recited.

25C-0208 - REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

None.

25C-0209 – CITIZENS COMMENTS

Peggy Stortz, 112 Olde Maple Court - Stortz spoke to the city council in defense of Mike Blaum, emphasizing his positive contributions to the community and denouncing false accusations against him. She cited his work with the library, fire safety efforts, and civic involvement. Stortz criticized the rumors that led to his resignation from the library board and thanked the council for supporting his right to run his business.

LIQUOR COMMISSION

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Kieffer, to adjourn as the city council and reconvene as the liquor commission.

Discussion: None.

Roll Call: AYES: Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0210 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON AN APPLICATION FOR A CLASS D AND CLASS I CORPORATION LIQUOR LICENSE BY STEPHEN GOERDT FOR GOERDT’S BREWHAUS, LLC, DBA GOERDT’S BREWHAUS, 227 N. MAIN STREET

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Gates, to approve the application for a Class D and Class I Corporation Liquor License by Stephen Goerdt for Goerdt’s Brewhaus, LLC, DBA Goerdt’s Brewhaus, 227 N. Main Street, 25C-0210.

Discussion: Tegtmeyer expressed concerns with clarity in the liquor license application. The application states the applicant must be a resident of the City of Galena. It was noted that this application was for a corporate liquor license, and the residency requirement differs compared to other license types. Tegtmeyer expressed the need for consistency and transparency in the application language, suggesting the form should better clarify boundaries and requirements related to residency requirements.

Roll Call: AYES: Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Johnson, to adjourn as the liquor commission and reconvene as the city council.

Discussion: None.

Roll Call: AYES: Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

CONSENT AGENDA CA25-10

25C-0211 – APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 12, 2025

25C-0212 – APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER #1 FOR THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL RADAR DETECTOR PROJECT TO REPLACE DAMAGED HAND HOLES

25C-0213 – APPROVAL OF TASK ORDER WITH ORIGIN TO PREPARE UTILITY EASEMENT EXHIBITS FOR THE 2025 HILL STREET UTILITY AND STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

25C-0214 – APPROVAL OF BUDGET AMENDMENT BA24-16 FOR FISCAL YEAR-END FUND ADJUSTMENTS

25C-0215 – APPROVAL OF A RESOLUTION FOR MAINTENANCE UNDER THE ILLINOIS HIGHWAY CODE (SUPPLEMENT MOTOR FUEL TAX RESOLUTION FOR 2024)

25C-0216 – ACCEPTANCE OF THE APRIL 2025 FINANCIAL REPORT

Motion: Kieffer moved, seconded by Wienen to approve Consent Agenda CA25-10.

Discussion: Tegtmeyer asked if the $17,127 cost already included the 50% reimbursement from IDOT. It was clarified that the damage caused by IDOT snow plowing on Highway 20 falls within city limits, making the city responsible for repairs under the maintenance agreement. However, a 50/50 cost-sharing agreement exists: the city pays the full amount upfront, tracks expenses, and submits an annual invoice to IDOT, which reimburses 50% of eligible costs.

Roll Call: AYES: Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

NEW BUSINESS

25C-0217 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON A REQUEST FOR A CURB CUT AT 608 SOUTH BENCH STREET

Regular Board Meeting 27 May 2025

Motion: Westemeier moved, seconded by Wienen, to approve the request for a curb cut at 608 S. Bench Street, 25C-0217.

Discussion: Westemeier noted the applicant has the space to do it, and it gets cars off the street.

Roll Call: AYES: Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0218 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ZONING CAL. NO. 25A-03, A REQUEST FOR A TEXT AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING CODE OF ORDINANCES TO AMEND TABLE 154.403.1 (B) & (G), PERMITTED LAND USES

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Westemeier, to approve Zoning Cal. No. 25A-036, a request for a text amendment to the Zoning Code of Ordinances to amend table 154.403.1 (B) & (G), permitted land uses, 25-0218.

Discussion: Tegtmeyer requested clarification on a confusing clerical error in a land use document. Oldenburg explained the error resulted from a copy-paste mistake during a 2019 update for the cannabis ordinance, which unintentionally marked some unrelated uses—mainly in agricultural zones—as permitted when they should not have been. The current correction restores the original permitted uses without affecting cannabis-related updates, zoning maps, or any existing land use approvals or applications.

Roll Call: AYES: Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0219 – FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TABLE 154.403.1 (B) & (G), PERMITTED LAND USES

Motion: Westemeier moved, seconded by Kieffer, to approve the first reading and waive the second reading of an ordinance amending table 154.403.1 (B) & (G), permitted land uses, 25- 0219.

Discussion: None.

Roll Call: AYES: Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0220 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON A REQUEST BY THE GALENA FIRE DEPARTMENT TO REMOVE A PARKING STALL IN FRONT OF A FIRE HYDRANT NEAR 527 S. MAIN STREET

Motion: Kieffer moved, seconded by Johnson, to approve the request by the Galena Fire Department to remove a parking stall in front of a fire hydrant near 527 S. Main Street, 25C-0220.

Discussion: Tegtmeyer noted that two agenda items resulted in the loss of two parking spaces. She would like to revisit the issue of parking specifically with discussions on solutions to offset the loss as well as consideration of overnight parking permits or passes for Bench Street residents.

Regular Board Meeting 27 May 2025

Roll Call: AYES: Kieffer, Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Renner

NAYS: Tegtmeyer

The motion carried.

25C-0221 – PRESENTATION BY CITY ADMINISTRATOR OF A POSSIBLE CITY AND COUNTY PARTNERSHIP TO REALIGN PART OF BLACKJACK ROAD TO A NEW INTERSECTION WITH HIGHWAY 20

Matt Oldenburg gave a detailed background on the conceptual project, which proposes connecting Blackjack Road to US Highway 20 through private and conservation lands.

The plan originated from Brad Petersburg, a local advocate for trail connectivity and conservation. The road could improve safety, support future development (e.g., workforce housing, emergency access, parking, small commercial uses), and reduce traffic strain at the Fourth & Decatur intersection. Mr. Petersburg purchased the Kelly Apple Orchard property to preserve potential road alignment options.

Initial discussions have taken place between city staff, county staff, and IDOT. A federal grant opportunity (Local Transportation Initiative) offering up to $10 million is being pursued via a joint application by the city and county. A transportation and intersection design study would be required, including traffic counts, engineering needs, and safety analysis.

No firm decisions or obligations have been made yet; a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is being proposed to formalize early cooperation.

25C-0222 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO DRAFT A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN CITY AND COUNTY TO INITIATE FURTHER STUDY OF BLACKJACK ROAD REALIGNMENT

Motion: Kieffer moved, seconded by Gates, to approve drafting a memorandum of understanding between the city and county to initiate further study of Blackjack Road realignment, 25C-0222.

Discussion: Johnson requested at least one or two town hall meetings where the public can ask questions directly (not just submit them in writing). She stressed open communication and transparency.

Kieffer supports moving forward with the MOU and praised the project.

Tegtmeyer questioned why the city was leading the project rather than the county, when the area is outside city limits? Oldenburg advised the county will lead the application and discussions with IDOT, but the city’s cooperation is needed to proceed; the MOU will clarify roles.

Tegtmeyer questioned what the cost is at this stage? Oldenburg advised no costs are committed yet; the MOU will authorize continued exploration. If costs arise, an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) will be brought to the council.

Tegtmeyer questioned if the developer will bear costs of studies/design? Oldenburg stated this could be addressed later in the IGA, not in the initial MOU, but it is a valid consideration.

Tegtmeyer questioned if there would be public input before major steps? Oldenburg advised there would be. Staff committed to holding meetings over the summer; Mr. Petersburg is open to engaging with the public.

Tegtmeyer questioned if buildings (like the health department) are contingent on moving? Oldenburg stated it is too early to know—depends on engineering outcomes of the study.

An MOU will be prepared by staff along with Angela Kaiser from the county to be reviewed by the city attorney and county state's attorney and presented to the council on June 9 and the county board on June 10. No development will proceed without public processes (e.g., public hearings, annexation, zoning).

Roll Call: AYES: Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0223 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON A REQUEST BY AT&T TO MODIFY THE TERMS OF A WATER TOWER LEASE AGREEMENT

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Westemeier, to deny the request by AT&T to modify the terms of a water tower lease agreement, 25C-0223.

Discussion: Wienen noted the current rates are in line with other companies.

Roll Call: AYES: Westemeier, Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Renner NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0224 – U.S. WATER MONTHLY WATER AND SEWER OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE REPORT

Wastewater treated was 17.3 million gallons during the reporting period. Water produced was 13.8 million gallons produced with 67% billed. They are currently under budget by $6,872.84.

Ongoing and Upcoming Activities:

∙ Annual leak detection survey began today; expected to be completed tomorrow. ∙ Hydrant flushing is planned for late June to early July.

∙ Nearly complete with the required eleven property samples for annual compliance testing.

∙ Working with Core & Main and the City of Galena to begin planning for smart meter antennas.

∙ Continuing general maintenance at both the water and wastewater treatment plants.

The reporting period dates were adjusted to better align with billing cycles (March 19 – April 22), improving accuracy. Previous reports may have contained minor discrepancies; the new method ensures better data alignment with utility billing records.

25C-0225 – WARRANTS

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Tegtmeyer, to approve the Warrants as presented, 25C 0225.

Discussion: None.

Roll Call: AYES: Wienen, Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

25C-0226 – ALDERPERSONS’ COMMENTS

Memorial Day Parade - Westemeier stated it was a very nice Memorial Day parade and speaker at the Galena monument.

Sidewalk Repairs – Westemeier noted sidewalk repairs are ongoing—began last year and will continue this year.

Street Work – Westemeier advised street work will resume this year.

Congratulations – Westemeier congratulated the Galena girls’ softball team on winning regionals for the first time; they are now competing in sectionals in Dakota.

Tourism – Wienen highlighted the beautiful weather and the unofficial kickoff to tourism season. She encouraged citizens to be patient and supportive of local tourism, which is the town's economic engine.

Agendas – Johnson voiced concern for older residents who lack internet or smartphones and cannot access city info online. She suggested printing more physical agendas or finding ways to engage senior citizens more effectively.

Pool – Johnson noted the city pool is open, and the weather had been beautiful until today.

Downtown Parking Issues – Tegtmeyer requested a future agenda item to address downtown parking issues, including Bench Street parking passes, Main Street employee parking and adding meters.

Reminders – Tegtmeyer reminded residents the pool is open and stair challenge registration for September 9 is now available.

City Licensing – Tegtmeyer expressed a desire to clarify language in city licensing, including grandfather clauses, especially in reference to gun licensing.

Alerts – Tegtmeyer urged residents to sign up for city text/email alerts via the website homepage to stay informed.

Garbage Pickup – Tegtmeyer clarified that garbage pickup is delayed by one day due to the holiday.

Congratulations – Tegtmeyer congratulated Galena school teachers, staff, and students on finishing the school year.

25C-0227 – CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Lead Service Line Project - Final restoration work is ongoing. A punch list review will be conducted soon to ensure all disturbed areas are addressed. Project closeout is approaching; the city will then request additional funding for the next round of replacements (aiming for 2026).

Hill Street Project - Plans are complete; preparing to go out for bid soon. Includes sewer replacement, stormwater improvements, road reconstruction, and individual property connections between Prospect and High Street. Still finalizing a couple of easements; EPA permit submission is underway.

Elm Street Water Project - Connecting Fulton Street to Council Fire Circle for improved water redundancy to Indian Ridge. Plans are ready; we will go out for bid soon.

Pool - The pool opened May 24. We had a decent turnout despite the cooler weather. Oldenburg thanked staff for their help in getting it up running.

Traffic Signal Radar Detectors - Handhole replacements will occur alongside radar detector installation at three intersections.

City Audit - Wipfli, the city’s consultant, is conducting the annual audit. Jen Schmidt is providing requested information.

City Engineer Vacancy – The city is still seeking candidates. Referrals are welcome.

Smart Water Meter System - A propagation study was completed by the vendor for high mounted readers. City staff will meet with them in the next couple of weeks to discuss costs and implementation for improved automated meter reading.

Field Street Handrail - A temporary design is being prepared to make it safer and more visually acceptable.

Pickleball/Volleyball Court Project - Asphalt installation was delayed. Work on volleyball courts should begin this week.

Garbage Collection – Garbage collection has been delayed by one day due to the holiday. Electronics Recycling - Scheduled for Friday of this week.

25C-0228 – MAYOR’S REPORT

Memorial Day Parade – Mayor Renner praised the Memorial Day service, noting it was well attended by EMS, Fire Department, Police, American Legion, and VFW. They had a great speaker, and it was a strong tribute to fallen veterans.

Pool – Mayor Renner commended staff and Hillary for their work preparing the pool for opening. The pool is in great shape and ready to go, though the weather is not ideal yet.

Girls’ Softball Team – Mayor Renner expressed support for the girls’ softball team who is currenting playing in sectionals in Dakota.

24C-0229 - MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION

Mayor Renner advised there was no longer a need to enter into executive session.

25C-0230 – ADJOURNMENT

Motion: Wienen moved, seconded by Westemeier, to adjourn.

Discussion: None.

Roll Call: AYES: Gates, Johnson, Kieffer, Tegtmeyer, Westemeier, Wienen, Renner

NAYS: None

The motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

https://www.cityofgalena.org/media/cms/cc052725_CECB751957544.pdf