City of Country Club Hills City Council met May 22
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
1. CALL TO ORDER – JAMES W. FORD, MAYOR
A Regular Meeting of the City Council, City of Country Club Hills, Cook County, State of Illinois, was held in the City Hall 4200 W. 183rd Street at 7:05pm. The meeting was called to order by the Honorable James W. Ford, Mayor
1a. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was presented by all in attendance and lead by Mayor James W. Ford.
2. ROLL CALL - PATRICIA D. HUTSON, CITY CLERK
Those on Roll Call answering present were:
Alderman Lockett, Alderman Davis, Alderman Spivey, Alderman Edwards and Mayor Ford.
Also in attendance were City Administrator Carl Estelle, Attorney Felicia Frazier and the Administrative Team.
Unexcused and absent - Alderwoman Lisa Evans
3. INVOCATION - CLERGY OR DESIGNEE
Invocation was presented by Pastor James King of United Christian Church of Country Club Hills.
4. SWEARING IN OF NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor James W. Ford asked City Clerk Patricia D. Hutson to announce the Election Results from the April 4, 2023 Consolidated Elections.
City Clerk Hutson read the following.
Mayor - City of Country Club Hills - James W. Ford - 45.29%
Clerk - City of Country Club Hills - Patricia D. Hutson - 100%
Treasurer - City of Country Club Hills - Steven R. Burris – 52.62%
Mayor Ford called for the Swearing In of the City Treasurer Elect
City of Country Club Hills - Treasurer Elect
Steven R. Burris
Treasurer Steven R. Burris was sworn in by Retired Cook County Circuit Judge Raymond Funderburk surrounded by his son and family members. Treasurer Burris was presented with the a Certificate from the City of Country Club Hills and the Certificate of Election from Cook County Clerk Karen A. Yarbrough.
Mayor Ford called for the Swearing In of the City Country Club Hills Park District Commissioners.
City of Country Club Hills Park District Commissioners
J. Apreal Williams
Delores A. Hollins
Lilly Gibson
City of Country Club Hills Park District Commissioners were sworn in by City Clerk Patricia D. Hutson. The Park District Commissioners were presented with the a Certificate from the City of Country Club Hills and an Certificate of Election from Cook County Clerk Karen A. Yarbrough.
Mayor Ford called for the Swearing In of the City Clerk
City of Country Club Hills - City Clerk
Patricia D. Hutson
City Clerk Patricia D. Hutson was sworn in by Retired Cook County Judge Michael Stuttley surrounded by her husband -Tyrone Hutson, son - Winston Hutson along with family members. Clerk Hutson was presented with the a Certificate from the City of Country Club Hills and the Certificate of Election from Cook County Clerk Karen A. Yarbrough.
Mayor Ford called for the Swearing In of City of Country Club Hills Mayor
City of Country Club Hills - Mayor
James W. Ford
Mayor James W. Ford was sworn in by Retired Cook County Judge Michael Stuttley surrounded by his wife Jacqueline. Mayor Ford was presented with the a Certificate from the City of Country Club Hills and the Certificate of Election from Cook County Clerk Karen A. Yarbrough.
Mayor Ford shared his appreciation to the Judges, Elected Officials and colleagues for their support and thanked those who voted for him. Mayor Ford then assured everyone that he will serve all residents of the city. Mayor Ford then asked the City Council to work with him and shared that during the last four years the city has endured a pandemic and the city stayed the course. Mayor shared he looks forward to working with the new Treasurer. Mayor Ford recognized Retired Senator Rolland Burris and shared his appreciation for his work.
Treasurer Burris thanked his family and friends for their support. He thanked his oldest son for his dedication and support. He then thanked the 1,194 voters who voted for him. He then quoted Michael Jordan by saying “I'm Back". Lastly, Treasurer Burris shared there will be a reception following 3370 W. 183rd Street.
Clerk Hutson thanked God, her husband, son, family, community family, southland family for their support. Clerk Hutson concurred with Mayor on the last four years and how the pandemic impacted the city, yet we learned how to pivot and stay connected with residents. She shared her appreciation for the support from the Mayor and City Council in acquiring her Regional Municipal Clerk and Certified Municipal Clerk Certifications.
Mayor Ford then thanked his supporters and campaign team.
Mayor Ford announced a break and attendees were directed to the lower level for refreshments and the meeting will resume in 15 minutes.
5. MOTION TO REMOVE THE ANNUAL FY 2023.2024 BUDGET FROM THE TABLE
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval to Remove the Annual FY 2023.2024 Budget From the Table. Second, Alderman Davis. Discussion- Alderman John Edwards asked if the vote would be at a later date. Attorney Frazier shared the Budget must be removed from the table and then the budget will go for a vote.
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
3 Alderman Lockett, Davis and Spivey
Nays:
1 Alderman Edwards
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
6. PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE ANNUAL FY 2023.2024 BUDGET
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval to open the floor to the public hearing for Annual FY 2023.2024 Budget From the Table. Second, Alderman Davis.
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
Alderman Lockett announced the opening of the Public Hearing for the Annual FY 2023.2024 Budget. Mayor Ford asked if anyone had statements or concerns to come forward.
Alderman Edwards shared he has concerns due to the $10,000.00 for the Liquor Commission which was previously $0.00. He shared he contacted several Mayors in surrounding municipalities and was told this was unheard of because these items can be shared under the city attorney. Alderman Edwards also shared he has concerns regarding the public works position previously shown as $55,000 part-time and now $79,000 full-time. He shared this budget needs to be trimmed down. Alderman Davis asked if the vote was for the Budget in the packet or the Budget that was previously laid on the table due to some of the updates. Mayor shared the $10,000.00 is now reflected as an expense line and $25,000.00 was added to Economic Development Commission(EDC) and the legislative attorney. Alderman Spivey shared the Park District STEM Program was removed and redistributed to EDC and the legislative attorney. Alderman Davis asked why the commission need $5,000.00 and they did not spend the $2,500.00 from last year. Alderman Davis asked for the justification. Alderman Edward asked for a copy of all pay raises in the current budget. He shared he did receive the request last year but not this year. Mayor Ford shared the Liquor Commissioner is $1.00 and there is now revenue and expenses for the Liquor Commission. Mayor Ford shared the Liquor Commission and per State Statue he is responsible person and he is also for the entire $36 million dollar budget. Alderman Spivey shared this is a measure to correct what was not done in the past. There was an ongoing exchange of dialogue on this subject matter between Mayor Ford and Alderman Edwards. James Muhammad, resident asked if the revenue and expenses lines where the revenue is shared with the expense line. Attorney Frazier shared that is a finance question. Mayor Ford shared we have revenue due to a recent infraction by a licensee and to balance it we must have the expense line due to the attorney's fees. Alderman Lockett shared this is for checks and balances. Alderman Lockett shared there are many responsibilities that accompany the Liquor Commissioner including whether the businesses are open, etc. Alderman Davis shared this appears to be a transparency issue and asked for a monthly budget report with expenditures for tracking expenses. Alderman Edwards shared he makes $1.00 but last year Mayor asked for $20,000.00 and that was rejected. Mr. Curtis asked if the Budget was available to the public. Clerk Hutson shared it is online and at the front desk for viewing.
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval to close the floor to the public hearing for Annual FY 2023.2024 Budget From the Table. Second, Alderman Davis.
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
7. JOURNAL PROCEEDINGS
Approval of Meeting Minutes:
Approval - Regular Meeting Minutes of the City Council 05.08.2023
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval of Regular Meeting Minutes for 05.08.2023. Second, Alderman Spivey. Discussion-None
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey, and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
8. COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS BY MAYOR FORD:
9. CITY CLERK'S REPORT - PATRICIA D. HUTSON, CITY CLERK
Clerk Hutson shared information on the Fire Department's Training Program is ongoing and there were two recent Walk-A-Thons. The Mary E. Smith Brain Tumor Awareness and the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk-A-Thons were held last Saturday at Community Park. Clerk Hutson then shared this coming Saturday the Mental Health Awareness Walk-A-Thon will be held at Community Park. Clerk Hutson announced City Hall will be closed Monday May 29th in honor of the Memorial Day Holiday.
10. COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Law, Ordinance, Government Operations & Contract - Alderwoman Evans, Chairman (Committee Meeting – TBA)
No Report per Alderman Spivey.
Finance, Insurance, & Risk Management - Alderman Lockett, Chairman (Committee Meeting - TBA)
Approval - Accounts Payables as of 05.22.2023
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval of AP Vouchers for 05.22.2023 in the amount of $ 492,783.61. Second, Alderman Davis. Discussion-None.
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey, and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
Approval - An Ordinance Adopting the FY 2023.2024 Annual Budget
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval of an Ordinance Adopting the FY 2023.2024 Annual Budget O-010. Second, Alderman Davis. Discussion- Alderman Davis shared he is voting on the Amended Budget minus the added edits. Attorney Frazier asked if everyone was clear on the vote and the Budget that is being voted on. Alderman Spivey shared he wants to vote on the original Budget that was laid on the table. There a lengthy discussion between the Mayor, council member and the Attorney Frazier. Attorney Frazier shared the Laying of the Budget on the Table has nothing to do with the revisions. Alderman Davis asked how the resident will see the revisions. Attorney shared you can revised and or amend the budget. Mayor shared these changes were made after the budget was laid on the table. Attorney Frazier reintegrated changes can be made with notations of the changes. Alderman Edwards shared he was not aware of any changes. Alderman Davis shared he was not advised of any changes in the Finance Committee Meeting. Alderman Spivey shared these changes were discussed at the last Administrative Meeting that Alderman Davis was not a part of and a follow-up was shared via email. Again, there was ongoing discussion on this subject matter. Attorney Frazier shared the motion on the floor is for the Budget that was Laid on the Table.
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
3 Alderman Lockett, Davis and Spivey
Nays: 1 Alderman Edwards
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
Public Works and Utilities - Alderman Davis, Chairman (Committee Meeting - TBA)
Alderman Davis shared the DCEO documents should be out this week and up for bid in two weeks and should be available to vote on June 12th. Alderman Edwards asked what is the status. Alderman Davis and Mayor Ford shared this is a grant and it's a process.
Economic Development & Planning, Zoning & Development - Alderman Spivey, Chairman (Committee Meeting – TBA)
No Report
Education, Parks and Recs-Alderman Edwards, Chairman (Committee Meeting - TBA)
Alderman Edwards shared he has two plaques per receipt $1,200.00 in donations from local businesses for the graduating High School Seniors. He will share this with the donors.
11. MOTION TO OPEN THE FLOOR TO THE PUBLIC
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval to open the floor to the public. Second by Alderman Davis, Discussions - None
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey, and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
12. PUBLIC PORTION OF MEETING
Harriet Davis shared she is here representing her daughter who recently purchased on W. 189th Place. She shared there is a drainage problem that needs to be addressed. This system is unhealthy, may need testing and needs assistance. She shared some of city staff was less than accommodating. Alderman Davis shared he is her alderman and he will follow up.
Leroy Barnes, resident, shared he would like to see residents come out to more meetings. Mr. Barnes then asked if there is something for the new residents. Mr. Barnes then shared his parliamentary expernces are that when the motion is on the floor at the point of the questions that is when it is amended for the vote.
Mayor Ford thanked Ms. Davis for the photo's shared with everyone in the audience.
Carl Washington, resident, shared in ward 1 often time there are code enforcement officers addressing tall grass. He then asked if there was a system to address those who are in need. He shared he offers and assists fellow residents when he can. Mayor Ford shared he and Alderman Edwards will address his concerns later in this meeting.
13. MOTION TO CLOSE FLOOR TO THE PUBLIC
Alderman Lockett moved for City Council approval to close the floor to the public. Second by Alderman Edwards, Discussions - None
ROLL CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey, and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
14. ALDERMANIC REPORTS
Alderman Davis shared information on the upcoming Food Sharing Program by Cornerstone Church May 30th.
Alderman Lockett asked for a moment of silence for Stephanie Hannah, who owned Hannah's Bar and Grill.
Alderman Lockett also asked for a moment of for Dr. Vera Wiley retired teacher for SD#160.
Alderman Lockett asked everyone to know where their children are. He shared there was a recent incident in Tinley Park where teenagers disrupted a fair and he observed teenagers bust a vehicle window only to say oops that the wrong one.
Alderman Spivey congratulated those who were sworn in and thanked everyone for attending. He then shared he has a stipend and uses it to plow snow in the winter and for grass cutting in the spring and summer. He shared is looking forward to the concert season.
Alderman Edwards shared he rides around with public works and he assists those in need. He then shared he shares flyers and ordinance information to communicate with residents. He shared his next meeting will be June 8th at 5:30pm. He shared he will work with CRC Director Johnson. Lastly, he shared he is looking forward to working with Mayor Ford.
Mayor Ford shared the city does have a new residents packet and public works and the building department are trying to stay on top of the tall grass concerns. He then shared is looking for staff to fill several positions. Mayor shared the Memorial Day program will be held Monday at 10:00am
Alderman Edwards thanked Treasurer Burris for his donation for
Alderman Lockett thanked everyone who came out for the Hats and Heels Mother's Day Luncheon and thanked the Silver Stallions especially Tyrone. Alderman then invited everyone to the June 3rd free concert.
Alderman Edwards thanked everyone who put the Hats and Heels together.
15. ADJOURNMENT
Alderman Lockett moved for adjournment. Second by Alderman Edwards, Discussions - None.
ROLL
CALL VOTE: Ayes:
4 Alderman Lockett, Davis, Spivey, and Edwards
Nays: 0
Abstains: 0
Absent: 1 Alderwoman Evans
Motion Declared Carried and Hereby Made a Part of the Original Journal of Proceedings this date.
The meeting adjourned at 9:08pm
https://countryclubhills.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/City_Council_Minutes_2023_05_22.pdf
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