Ottawa public meetings in 2025

Flood Commission

The Ottawa Flood Commission will review recent 2025 flooding events and provide an update to the Flood Threat Recognition Plan. Members will discuss natural hazards mitigation strategies and present the 2025 Annual Floodplain Progress Report. The meeting also includes commission appointments, CRS updates, and a public comment period.

• Flood Threat Recognition Plan Update/Review
• Natural Hazards Mitigation Strategies discussion
• 2025 Annual Floodplain Progress Report presentation
• Commission appointments
• CRS updates

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will hold its monthly meeting to receive roll call, approve minutes, and hear individual member reports. The board will review the financial report and payment of claims, discuss communications, and hear from citizens. Old business includes reviews of grant administration, recent riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion. No specific decisions or contracts are listed.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion

Fire Pension Board

The Ottawa Fire Pension Board will review and approve the minutes from the August quarterly meeting, hear the financial report, and discuss old business items such as trustee training, the annual audit update, the actuarial valuation and tax levy report, and the municipal compliance report. In new business, the board will vote on the 4th quarter invoice from Asher, Gittler & D’Alba, consider a recurring withdrawal, set meeting dates for 2026, and address term expirations for 2026 (Haywood). Public and legal comments will follow before adjournment.

• Approval of 4th Quarter Invoice from Asher, Gittler & D’Alba
• Recurring Withdrawal
• Meeting Dates for 2026
• Term expirations for 2026 (Haywood)
• Actuarial Valuation and Tax Levy Report

The Fire Pension Board approved the August 2025 minutes and accepted the financial report showing a net position of $24,942,701.08. It approved the actuarial valuation contribution of $2,538,192 and the municipal compliance report. The board also approved an $850 retainer invoice, a $235,000 monthly withdrawal for pension benefits beginning 1/1/2026, and the 2026 quarterly meeting dates.

• Approved August 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Accepted financial report with net position $24,942,701.08 (5-0)
• Approved actuarial valuation statutory contribution $2,538,192 (5-0)
• Approved Municipal Compliance Report (5-0)
• Approved $850 retainer invoice to Asher, Gittler & D’Alba (5-0)
• Approved monthly withdrawal $235,000 for pension benefits starting 1/1/2026 (5-0)
• Approved 2026 quarterly meeting dates (5-0)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will hold public hearings on the tax levy and on amended Woodridge annexation agreements. Commissioners will present regular financial reports and consider an ordinance for the tax levy and a resolution authorizing an agreement with the LaSalle County 708 Mental Health Board. Motions will be considered to approve quotes from Knox Company for the fire department and from Liebhart Construction for police department patrol and supervisor rooms. The mayor will present resolutions and ordinances to annex several parcels, designate a local landmark, and authorize contracts for real estate and industrial park projects.

• Public hearing – Tax Levy
• Public hearing – Amended Woodridge Annexation agreements
• Ordinance – Tax levy (Commissioner Eichelkraut)
• Motion to approve the Quote from Knox Company – Fire Department (Commissioner Ganiere)
• Motion to approve the Quote from Liebhart Construction – Police Department Patrol Room (Commissioner Pearson)

The council unanimously approved the meeting minutes, the biweekly payroll of $688,975.50, the bimonthly expense report of $1,489,544.50, and the tax levy ordinance for fiscal year 2025‑2026. It also approved multiple annexation ordinances, equipment and police upgrades, and authorized a contract to purchase real estate from Dayton Ridge Golf Club LLC for park use.

• Approved minutes of Dec 2, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved biweekly payroll $688,975.50 (unanimous)
• Approved bimonthly expense report $1,489,544.50 (unanimous)
• Approved tax levy ordinance for FY 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $122,785.00 Knox Company quote for fire‑prevention equipment (unanimous)
• Approved $19,500.00 police patrol room upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved multiple annexation ordinances for various properties (unanimous)
• Authorized contract to purchase real estate from Dayton Ridge Golf Club LLC for park and soccer facilities (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will consider a nomination to designate 543 Chapel Street as a local landmark. The commission will also discuss the Commercial Historic District, efforts to promote and educate about historic preservation resources, and signage honoring Charles Lindbergh at City Hall. Public comment and routine agenda items are also scheduled.

• Local Landmark Nomination – 543 Chapel Street
• Commercial Historic District (old business)
• Promoting and Educating Historic Preservation Resources (old business)
• Charles Lindbergh Signage at City Hall (old business)

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting. It also voted to continue the review of the local landmark nomination for 543 Chapel Street at the next meeting. No other actions were decided.

• Approved October 9 minutes (all ayes)
• Postponed review of 543 Chapel St landmark application to next meeting (all ayes)

Playground & Recreation Board

The Playground and Recreation Board will meet to review financial reports and committee updates. The board is scheduled to discuss a league contract and the removal of the Russ Mamyen Basketball Court.

• League Contract
• Russ Mamyen Basketball Court Removal
• November Recreation Financial Report

The Playground & Recreation Board approved the November meeting minutes and the November recreational financial report, each with all members in favor. The board also voted to approve the league contract, again with unanimous support. No other actions were decided; new business items were only discussed.

• Approved November minutes (all in favor)
• Approved November recreational financial report (all in favor)
• Approved league contract (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will address staffing for both departments. This includes the hiring of firefighters via a SAFER grant and options for filling police vacancies.

• Hiring of three new firefighters under SAFER grant for February 2026 start
• Opening of a 30-day window for Police lateral transfers
• Discussion of police hiring via current Eligibility List or academy
• Declination of position by Gregory “Tyler” Flowers

The board approved the minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting. It accepted Officer Gregory “Tyler” Flowers’ declination of the fire department job offer. The board approved hiring three firefighters under the September 2025 FEMA SAFER grant, with employment to begin in February and March 2026. It also approved reopening the police lateral‑transfer list for 45 days (Dec 5 2025‑Feb 5 2026) and will revisit alternative hiring plans after that period.

• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (all ayes)
• Accepted Gregory “Tyler” Flowers’ declination of fire department offer (all ayes)
• Approved hiring three firefighters under FEMA SAFER grant (all ayes)
• Approved reopening police lateral‑transfer list for 45 days (all ayes)
• Agreed to revisit alternative police hiring options after lateral‑transfer list closes (all ayes)

City Council

The City Council will discuss and vote on ordinances to abate the 2025 tax levy for various bond series, including over $15 million in GO Bonds. The meeting also includes public hearings on Fields Hill annexations and resolutions authorizing annexation agreements and ownership transfers.

• Public hearing – Fields Hill Annexation Agreements
• Ordinance – Abating tax levy for 2025 - $15.5M in GO Bonds
• Resolution – Authorizing 4 annexation agreements in Fields Hill Subdivision
• Resolution – Authorizing 13 amended annexation agreements for Woodridge Subdivision
• Ordinance – Annexing territory at 111 Beveridge Avenue

The council approved the minutes of the November 18 meeting, the biweekly salary payroll of $665,805.88 and the bimonthly expense report of $560,731.92. It adopted an ordinance to levy taxes for FY 2025‑2026 and set a public hearing for December 16. The body also approved a series of tax‑abatement ordinances for several bond series and authorized multiple annexations and land‑purchase resolutions.

• Approved minutes of the Nov 18, 2025 meeting (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll $665,805.88 (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Approved bimonthly expense report $560,731.92 (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Adopted ordinance to levy taxes for FY 2025‑2026 and set public hearing Dec 16, 2025 (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Approved tax‑abatement ordinances for several bond series (Series 2017, 2020, 2021A, 2021B, 2022A, 2022B, 2023) (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Authorized execution of four Fields Hill annexation agreements (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Approved annexation ordinances for 111 Beveridge Ave, 2124 Fields Place, and 2106 Fields Place (ayes: all, nays: none)
• Authorized purchase of 2.24 acres off Champlain Street (ayes: all, nays: none)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional request for a drive-through at the southwest corner of McKinley Road and State Street. The commission will open the hearing and continue the matter to December 22, 2025.

• Public hearing for James Boe and McDonald’s USA, LLC regarding a drive-through in the C3 zoning district at McKinley Road and State Street (IL 23)

The commission approved the minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting. It also moved to continue the public hearing on James Boe and McDonald’s USA, LLC’s drive‑through request in the C3 zoning district until the December 22, 2025 meeting. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved October 27, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Continued public hearing on drive‑through request until Dec 22, 2025 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Monday, November 24, 2025 at 5:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The hearing will consider a request for a rear‑yard setback variance to construct a single‑family home on a vacant lot between 2236 and 2210 Berry Avenue (PIN # 21‑02‑106‑004), owned by Kenneth and Fern Killen. Members of the public may appear and be heard.

• Rear‑yard setback variance request for a single‑family home on vacant lot between 2236 and 2210 Berry Avenue (PIN # 21‑02‑106‑004)

The board approved the minutes of the previous meeting unanimously. It then approved a variance allowing a single‑family home to be built 6 feet from the rear lot line at 2218 Berry Avenue, with the condition that the rear line be staked by a surveyor or engineer before a permit is issued. No opposition was presented. The meeting adjourned at 5:20 p.m.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved rear-yard setback variance for 2218 Berry Ave; condition: surveyor/engineer staking before permit (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will meet to discuss several old‑business topics, including a review of grant administration, recent riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion. The agenda also contains routine items such as roll call, approval of minutes, member reports, a financial report, communications, a citizen hearing, and any new business that may arise.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Hearing of citizens
• Financial report and payment of claims

Ottawa Visitors Center Board

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board will meet to review reports from the Chamber, City, and OVC. The agenda includes a board orientation and a review of finance files.

• Board Orientation
• Chamber Report
• City Report
• OVC Report
• Finance committee report

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the prior meeting and the current financial report. It decided not to pursue Spotify or Pandora advertising and confirmed an $85,000 annual allocation for WGN Radio advertising. One grant for Debate Days was postponed due to date alignment issues.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)
• Decided not to pursue Spotify or Pandora advertising
• Approved $85,000 annual allocation for WGN advertising
• Postponed Debate Days grant due to date alignment issues

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will consider resolutions for sewer separation, watermain replacement, and annexation agreements. The meeting also includes a closed session for personnel and real estate discussions.

• Resolution for sewer separation at Madison Street and other locations
• Resolution for Illinois Avenue watermain replacement
• Resolution for wastewater treatment plant lagoon improvements
• Resolution for 4 annexation agreements in Fields Hill Subdivision
• Closed session for personnel and real estate matters

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved the minutes of the November 4 meeting, the biweekly payroll of $674,269.06, and the bimonthly expense report of $2,403,650.98. It adopted several resolutions authorizing contracts for infrastructure, including an extension of the Cares Grant with IDOT, an HVAC maintenance contract for Police & Fire, and annexation agreements for the Fields Hill Subdivision with a public hearing set for Dec. 2, 2025. The Council also authorized the City Clerk to advertise for bids on Contract A for collection system improvements and Contract B for a new wastewater treatment plant, both due Jan. 13, 2026.

• Approved minutes of Nov 4, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $674,269.06 (unanimous)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $2,403,650.98 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution extending Cares Grant agreement with IDOT for NCAT (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for HVAC preventative maintenance contract with Alpha Controls & Services LLC (unanimous)
• Adopted annexation agreements for Fields Hill Subdivision and set public hearing Dec 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Authorized advertising for bids for Contract A – Collection System Improvements (deadline Jan 13, 2026 10:30 a.m.) (unanimous)
• Authorized advertising for bids for Contract B – New Wastewater Treatment Plant (deadline Jan 13, 2026 11:00 a.m.) (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will consider a local landmark nomination and a certificate of appropriateness for building renovations. The body will also discuss the Commercial Historic District and city signage.

• Local Landmark Nomination for 210 West Prospect Avenue
• Certificate of Appropriateness for facade renovations at 222 West Main Street
• Commercial Historic District discussion
• Charles Lindbergh Signage at City Hall

The commission approved the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting unanimously. It approved the local landmark designation for 210 West Prospect Avenue with four votes in favor and one abstention. It also approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for façade renovations at 222 West Main Street by unanimous vote.

• Approved October 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved local landmark designation for 210 West Prospect Ave (4 ayes, 1 abstain)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for façade renovation at 222 West Main St (unanimous)

Playground & Recreation Board

The Playground and Recreation Board will review financial reports, discuss the setup for a Christmas tree, and consider a mural for open spaces. The meeting will also include committee reports and the approval of minutes.

• Approval of October minutes and financial report
• Christmas Tree Set Up
• All bids for Electrical Panel at South Side Diamonds
• Open Spaces Mural
• PADS Dinner

The Playground & Recreation Board unanimously approved the September meeting minutes and the September recreational financial report. It also approved a $500 donation of cleaning supplies and a 50/50 split of the PADS dinner and food‑pantry boxes with the Special Events Board. No other actions were taken.

• Approved September minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September recreational financial report (unanimous)
• Approved $500 cleaning‑supplies donation and 50/50 split of PADS dinner/food‑pantry boxes with Special Events Board (unanimous)

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board will hold a public comment period and approve the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. Commissioners will discuss amending the language in Rules and Regulations Section 6.2 about when new fire applicants must have a CPAT and when new police applicants must have a Power Card. An update will be given on Officer Gregory “Tyler” Flowers' lateral transfer to the police department. The meeting will close with an executive session on personnel matters.

• Approve minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting
• Discuss amendment of language in Rules and Regulations Section 6.2 regarding CPAT (Fire) and Power Card (Police) requirements
• Update on Gregory “Tyler” Flowers' lateral transfer to OPD
• Executive session (personnel) scheduled

The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners approved the minutes of the October 15, 2025 meeting with all ayes. No changes were made to police and fire rules and regulations. The meeting was adjourned at 10:24 a.m. with all ayes.

• Approved October 15, 2025 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:24 a.m. (all ayes)

Special Events Committee

The Special Events Committee will hear public comments and consider two funding requests: the Lloyd Chapman Messiah Concert and a Grinch Movie fundraiser presented by Jennie Keith Harsted. The committee will also discuss new business regarding MIP Bands for 2026 and review updates on the Fall Festival Parade 2025 and the FOL Parade. A financial report and the minutes from the October 2 meeting will be presented.

• Funding request – Lloyd Chapman Messiah Concert
• Funding request – Grinch Movie “Share the warmth” Fund (Jennie Keith Harsted)
• New Business – MIP Bands for 2026
• Old Business – Fall Festival Parade 2025 follow‑up
• Old Business – FOL Parade

The Special Events Committee approved a $1,200 request for the Messiah Concert on Dec. 7 and a $1,000 request for Grinch Day at the Roxy Theater on Dec. 7. A correction to the minutes adding Candy Moore as present at the Oct. 2 meeting was also approved. The financial report motion regarding Wi‑Fi and electric service entries was approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved $1,200 funding for Messiah Concert (motion by Jim Reilly, seconded by Lucas Hennenfent)
• Approved $1,000 funding for Grinch Day (motion by Candy Moore, seconded by Robin Wilson)
• Approved correction to add Candy Moore as present at Oct. 2 meeting (motion by Michael Dougherty, seconded by Jim Reilly)
• Approved financial report entries for Jordan Blvd Wi‑Fi and Halm Electric service (motion by Lucas Hennenfent, seconded by Candy Moore)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (motion by Ron Lambert, seconded by Rich Crum)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will consider multiple resolutions, including authorizing a lease agreement with Bill Walsh Automotive Group for the Police Department, a jurisdictional transfer with LaSalle County for Champlain Street, and a maintenance agreement with Alpha Controls for the police and fire station. Additional resolutions cover a long‑term sewer separation plan, a watermain replacement on Illinois Avenue, and professional services for the industrial park. The meeting also includes financial reports, police and fire chief reports, and rezoning and conditional‑use requests.

• Resolution – lease agreement with Bill Walsh Automotive Group – Police Department
• Resolution – jurisdictional transfer agreement with LaSalle County – Champlain Street
• Resolution – maintenance agreement with Alpha Controls – Police & Fire Station
• Resolution – proposal with Renwick & Associates for sewer separation on Madison, Armstrong, Sanger, Jackson, and Jefferson Streets
• Resolution – engineering agreement with Etscheid Duttlinger & Associates for Illinois Avenue watermain replacement

The council unanimously approved routine financial items, including the minutes of the October 21 meeting, the October 23 biweekly payroll of $678,078.63, and the November 4 bimonthly expense report of $2,031,671.24. It also adopted several resolutions and an ordinance, such as a lease for police vehicles, the sale of police and fire personal property, and the 2026 Music Performance agreements. Most notably, the council approved the rezoning of 637 W. Main St from Class B to C‑3 Special Business District and granted a conditional use permit for a community living arrangement at 1409 Catherine St. All actions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved minutes of Oct 21, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approved biweekly payroll $678,078.63 (5-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report $2,031,671.24 (5-0)
• Adopted lease with Bill Walsh Automotive Group for police vehicles (5-0)
• Approved ordinance authorizing sale of police and fire personal property (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 637 W. Main St to C‑3 Special Business District (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Ottawa Friendship House at 1409 Catherine St (5-0)
• Adopted 2026 Music Performance agreements (5-0)

Arts Committee

The Arts Committee is meeting to discuss several local art initiatives and projects. The agenda includes reviews of the Paint the Town festival and various sculpture installations.

• Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• Marble Sculptures plaque
• Sculpture Project
• Poet Laureate
• 2026 Project Discussion

The committee reviewed updates on nutcrackers, marble sculptures, the Little Art Gallery, and the 2026 Paint The Town festival. They confirmed the selected Poet Laureate and discussed potential 2026 projects, including murals, sculptures, and film series. No actions were approved, denied, or voted on.

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold public hearings regarding two property requests. The body will consider a zoning change for a property on W. Main Street and a conditional use request for a group home on Catherine Street.

• Public hearing: Rezone 637 W. Main Street from B (Apartment) to C-3 (Special Business)
• Public hearing: Conditional use for a group home at 1409 Catherine Street

The commission approved the minutes from the August 25, 2025 meeting. It voted to rezone 637 West Main Street from B (Apartment) to C‑3 (Special Business). It also approved a conditional use request for a five‑person group home at 1409 Catherine Street in the A‑2 (Single and Two Family Residential) district.

• Approved August 25, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 637 West Main St from B to C-3 (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for group home at 1409 Catherine St in A-2 district (4-0)

Police Pension Board

The Ottawa Police Pension Board will meet to approve minutes, review monthly financial reports, and discuss investment statements. The board will also consider actions on cash management, cyber risk insurance, and unclaimed member contributions.

• Approval of July 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Monthly financial report and bill presentation
• Discussion/Possible Action – Cash Management Policy
• Review/Approve – Actuarial Valuation and Tax Ley Request
• Discussion/Possible Action – Terminated Member Unclaimed Contributions

The Ottawa Police Pension Fund Board approved several routine financial actions, including a $500,000 transfer between bank accounts and a matching $500,000 investment transfer. It also approved a contribution refund, reimbursements, and continued disability benefits for a member. The Board set the 2026 meeting dates.

• Approved July 22, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Accepted Monthly Financial Report and approved disbursements of $15,672.32 (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Approved IPPFA invoice #78-2869 for $825 (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Approved Trustee Hilton’s reimbursement of $154.03 (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Transferred $500,000 to the BMO Bank operating account and directed $500,000 transfer to IPOPIF for investment (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Approved contribution refund to Sofian Riahi of $4,152.23 (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Recognized unpaid break amounts of $322.12 (Chandler Kiesling) and $310.05 (Kari Luna) as paid in full (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)
• Continued disability benefits for David Hallowell based on medical finding (motion carried by roll call vote; Ayes: Hilton, Baxter, Weber, Ganiere, Bohler; Nays: None)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will consider resolutions to authorize agreements for a new wastewater treatment plant, a waterfront amphitheater, and related surveying and soil boring services. The meeting also includes a closed session for personnel and real estate discussions.

• Resolution to authorize amendment #3 to Fehr Graham for New Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Resolution to authorize proposal with Midwest Construction Professionals for Waterfront amphitheater
• Resolution to authorize a proposal with Testing Service Corporation for soil borings at Ottawa Industrial Park
• Resolution to authorize a proposal with WSP USA Inc. for waterfront compensatory storage
• Closed Session for personnel, collective bargaining, and real estate matters

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved the minutes from the October 7 meeting, adopted a proclamation for Rook Nelson Day, and authorized payroll and expense payments for October. The Council also approved a lease agreement with Bill Walsh Automotive Group for police vehicles and the purchase of a 2025 Ford Police Utility Interceptor Squad. Additional approvals included a construction manager contract for the waterfront amphitheater and a Rural Shelter Grant agreement with the Illinois Department of Commerce.

• Approved minutes of Oct 7, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation naming Nov 8, 2025 Rook Nelson Day (5-0)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll $648,740.39 (5-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report $2,363,373.31 (5-0)
• Approved lease with Bill Walsh Automotive Group for police vehicles (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 2025 Ford Police Utility Interceptor Squad $45,924.00 (5-0)
• Approved construction manager proposal with Midwest Construction Professionals for waterfront amphitheater (3-0)
• Approved Rural Shelter Grant agreement with Illinois Dept. of Commerce (5-0)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will meet to certify a candidate from the final eligibility list for Public Utilities. The body will also discuss authorizing testing to create a new eligibility list for Public Utilities hires.

• Certification of candidate on Final Eligibility List for Public Utilities hire
• Authorization of testing for a new Public Utilities eligibility list
• Approval of February 19, 2025 meeting minutes

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will hold its regular monthly meeting. Board members will receive roll call, approve prior minutes, and present individual reports. The agenda includes a financial report, a review of grant administration, recent riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion, followed by a public hearing. No formal decisions are listed beyond routine approvals.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Hearing of citizens

Ottawa Visitors Center Board

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board will meet on October 15, 2025. The agenda includes approving the previous meeting minutes, receiving reports from the Chamber, City, and OVC, and addressing new business such as board member orientation, bylaws updates, and grant packets. The finance committee will place finance information on file.

• Motion to approve minutes from the prior meeting
• Chamber Report presented by Jay
• City Report presented by Alaina
• OVC Report presented by Donna Reynolds
• New Business: board members orientation, bylaws updates, grant packets

The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting and the current financial report, both by unanimous vote. It scheduled the next board meeting for November 19, 2025 and confirmed there will be no December meeting. Members agreed to review and update the OVC bylaws and to submit any suggested edits.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report as presented (unanimous)
• Scheduled next board meeting for Nov 19, 2025; no December meeting
• Agreed to review and update bylaws; members to submit edits

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will meet to discuss police personnel matters. The primary focus is the eligibility and conditional offer for a lateral transfer applicant.

• Approval of Final Eligibility register for Police Lateral Transfer: Tyler Flowers
• Approval and dispersal of Conditional Offer to Lateral Transfer List Applicant: Tyler Flowers
• Approval of September 10, 2025 meeting minutes

The commissioners approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. They then approved a conditional offer of employment for Tyler Flowers after his interview, scheduling his psychological evaluation on October 16 and a physical exam on October 21. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved conditional offer of employment for Tyler Flowers (all ayes)
• Scheduled Flowers' psychological evaluation with Stanard & Associates on Oct 16 (unanimous)
• Scheduled Flowers' physical exam with OSF Occupational Health on Oct 21 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:25 a.m. (all ayes)

Playground & Recreation Board

The Playground and Recreation Board will meet to review financial reports and committee updates. The board will discuss old business regarding soccer nets and windscreens, and consider Yoga in the Park as new business.

• Discussion of soccer nets and windscreens
• Proposal for Yoga in the Park
• Review of September Recreation Financial Report

The Playground & Recreation Board unanimously approved the September meeting minutes. The board also approved the September recreational financial report. In new business, the board approved the use of equipment for the Yoga in the Park event at River Front Park.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September recreational financial report (unanimous)
• Approved equipment use for Yoga in the Park at River Front Park (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will meet to review old business regarding the Commercial Historic District and historic preservation resources. The body will also discuss signage for Charles Lindbergh at City Hall.

• Commercial Historic District
• Promoting and Educating Historic Preservation Resources
• Charles Lindbergh Signage at City Hall

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the September 11, 2025 meeting. The commission also approved moving forward with the Charles Lindbergh signage to be placed in front of City Hall after minor wording revisions. No other actions were decided.

• Approved September 11, 2025 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved Charles Lindbergh signage at City Hall (all ayes)

City Council

The City Council will consider a motion to approve a quote from Air One Equipment Inc. for an all‑purpose drying cabinet for the fire department. Additional agenda items include a quote for bulk deicing salt from Morton Salt Inc., a bid award for drainage and roadway improvements on East Stevenson Road, Baler Road, and MBL Drive, and several mayoral resolutions covering property purchase options, waterfront amphitheater design, and a new wastewater treatment plant agreement.

• Motion to approve Air One Equipment Inc. quote for fire department all‑purpose drying cabinet
• Motion to approve Morton Salt Inc. quote for bulk deicing salt
• Award of bid for drainage and roadway improvements on East Stevenson Road, Baler Road, and MBL Drive
• Resolution amending owner‑engineer agreement with Fehr Graham for a new wastewater treatment plant
• Resolutions authorizing purchase options and design proposals for the waterfront amphitheater (BCA Architects Ltd. and Midwest Construction Professionals)

The council unanimously approved the biweekly payroll of $633,286.99 and the bimonthly expense report of $1,658,788.22. It also approved a $55,782 quote for a fire‑department drying cabinet and a $95,640 purchase of deicing salt. The most significant action was accepting a low‑bid contract worth $3,774,499.96 for drainage and roadway improvements on East Stevenson Road, Baker Road, and MBL Drive. Several resolutions were adopted for industrial‑park purchases, waterfront amphitheater design services, and collective‑bargaining representation.

• Approved biweekly payroll of $633,286.99 (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $1,658,788.22 (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)
• Approved $55,782 quote for fire‑department drying cabinet (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)
• Approved $95,640 quote for 1,200 tons of deicing salt (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)
• Accepted low‑bid contract of $3,774,499.96 for drainage and roadway improvements (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty; second by Eichelkaut)
• Adopted resolution for option to purchase Unit 4 in Ottawa Industrial Park (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)
• Adopted resolution for option to purchase Unit 3 in Ottawa Industrial Park (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)
• Adopted resolution authorizing schematic design services for downtown waterfront amphitheater (ayes: Eichelkraut, Barron, Hasty)

Arts Committee

The Ottawa Arts Committee will consider several items related to public art, including a marble sculpture plaque, an outdoor art festival, a poet laureate appointment, a sculpture project, and a grant opportunity. The committee will also review the 2025 projects budget and discuss ideas for 2026‑2027. Public comment will be taken before the meeting adjourns.

• Marble Sculptures – plaque
• Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• Poet Laureate
• Sculpture Project
• Grant opportunity

The committee voted to approve funding for painted nutcrackers, with all members in favor. Several projects were tabled, including marble sculptures, the Little Art Gallery, crocheted sunblock, the Lincoln relief sculpture, and Lincoln hats for debate days. No public comments were received. The meeting adjourned at 11:39 am.

• Approved funding for painted nutcrackers (all in favor)
• Tabled marble sculptures discussion
• Tabled Little Art Gallery discussion
• Tabled crocheted sunblock discussion
• Tabled Lincoln relief sculpture discussion
• Tabled Lincoln hats for debate days discussion

Special Events Committee

The Ottawa Special Events Committee will review funding requests and updates for several community events. Items include the Fall Festival Parade, Holiday Preview on November 7, and the Wildflowers Market. The committee will also follow up on the Jordan Block Jams and discuss the Celebrate America $250 request.

• Fall Festival Parade 2025
• Holiday Preview Nov 7th
• Wildflowers Market
• Celebrate America 250
• Follow up on Jordan Block Jams

The committee approved a $1,000 sponsorship for the Holliday Preview event on November 7 and a $1,500 sponsorship for the Shop, Sip & Sparkle Weekend scheduled for November 8‑11. Motions to accept the meeting minutes and the financial report were each approved. A motion was made to provide $1,000 to the Wild Flower Market with a condition that the sponsor follow submission rules; the outcome was not recorded.

• Approved $1,000 Holliday Preview sponsorship (motion by Lucas Hennefent, seconded by Jim Reilly)
• Approved $1,500 Shop, Sip & Sparkle Weekend sponsorship (motion by Jim Reilly, seconded by Lucas Hennefent)
• Approved motion to accept meeting minutes (motion by Michael Dougherty, seconded by Ron Lambert)
• Approved motion to accept financial report (motion by Michael Dougherty, seconded by Dan Eilts)
• Motion made for $1,000 Wild Flower Market with stipulation sponsor follow rules (outcome not recorded)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to vote on several resolutions. These include employment and lease agreements and professional service proposals for city projects.

• Proposal for design architectural services for the Waterfront amphitheater from BCA Architects Ltd.
• Proposal for asbestos project management and air quality testing for the PADS shelter at 1120 Canal Street
• Lease agreement #5423 with IDNR for the I & M Canal skating area
• Employment agreement for Sydney O’Dell as Office Assistant to Finance
• Side letter agreement with AFSCME regarding transfers

The Ottawa City Council adopted six resolutions during the special meeting. They approved an employment agreement for Sydney O’Dell as Office Assistant to Finance. They authorized a lease for the I & M Canal ice‑skating area, received design services for the downtown waterfront amphitheater, received asbestos project management services for the PADS shelter at 1120 Canal Street, and approved a side‑letter agreement with AFSCME on vacancies and transfers. All resolutions passed unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved employment agreement for Sydney O’Dell, Office Assistant to Finance (4-0)
• Authorized lease agreement #5423 for I & M Canal ice‑skating area (4-0)
• Received proposal for schematic design services for downtown waterfront amphitheater (4-0)
• Received proposal for asbestos project management and air quality testing for PADS shelter at 1120 Canal Street (4-0)
• Approved side‑letter agreement with AFSCME regarding vacancies and transfers (4-0)
• Adopted motion to adjourn the special meeting (4-0)

City Council

At its special meeting, the Ottawa City Council adopted several resolutions. It approved an employment agreement for Sydney O’Dell as Office Assistant to Finance. The council authorized a lease with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the Canal skating area, a design services contract for the Waterfront amphitheater, an asbestos management and air‑quality testing contract for the PADS shelter, and a side‑letter agreement with AFSCME regarding transfers.

• Resolution authorizing employment agreement for Sydney O’Dell – Office Assistant to Finance
• Resolution authorizing lease agreement #5423 with IDNR for the Canal skating area
• Resolution authorizing design architectural services contract with BCA Architects Ltd. for the Waterfront amphitheater
• Resolution authorizing asbestos project management and air‑quality testing contract for the PADS shelter at 1120 Canal Street
• Resolution authorizing side‑letter agreement with AFSCME covering transfers

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will meet to handle monthly financial reports and claims. The body will discuss grant administration, riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Payment of claims

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will consider multiple resolutions, including authorizing a contract to sell city real estate to CL Real Estate LLC. Other items include a lease agreement with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for a canal between Chestnut and Sycamore Streets, and options to purchase property from Marcia Nelson and Providence Bank & Trust. The council will also vote on procurement items such as a quote from Bonnell Industries Inc. for a new truck box and a water‑main replacement change order.

• Resolution – Authorizing a contract for the sale of real estate with CL Real Estate LLC
• Resolution – Authorizing lease agreement #5423 with IDNR for canal between Chestnut & Sycamore Streets
• Motion to approve the Quote from Bonnell Industries Inc. – Truck #20 new box & dumping mechanism
• Resolution – Authorizing all City Departments to utilize govdeals.com for the sale of surplus inventory
• Change Order #1 – 2025 Water main replacements

The council unanimously approved the biweekly payroll of $637,888.15 and the bimonthly expense report of $2,206,377.51. It adopted an Equal Employment Opportunity Plan for NCAT and approved several contracts, including a water‑main change order and a truck equipment purchase. The Historic Preservation Commission recommendations were acted on, denying a generator request and approving a façade renovation.

• Approved Biweekly Salary Payroll of $637,888.15 (unanimous)
• Approved Bimonthly Expense Report of $2,206,377.51 (unanimous)
• Adopted Equal Employment Opportunity Plan for NCAT (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for water main replacements, $21,999.10 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of box and dumping mechanism for Truck #20, $36,670.06 (unanimous)
• Approved Section 5311 Grant agreement with Illinois Department of Transportation for NCAT (unanimous)
• Denied generator structure request from LaSalle County (unanimous)
• Approved façade renovation request from Ottawa Investment Group LLC (unanimous)

Playground & Recreation Board

The board will review committee reports and consider new business items including a Civic Plus quote and the purchase of an iPad with a data package. The meeting includes a discussion on concrete work at Olam and a 'Coffee Day' event at the Pavilion.

• Reese Concrete work between Concession and Shed at Olam
• Civic Plus quote
• iPad with data package purchase
• Coffee Day at the Pavilion with Special Events

The board approved the September meeting minutes unanimously. The September recreational financial report was approved unanimously. The board approved a Ruiz Construction invoice unanimously. The board also approved the Civic Plus software quote and a Rec iPad purchase, both unanimously, with the software cost to be split with Special Events.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September recreational financial report (unanimous)
• Approved Ruiz Construction invoice (unanimous)
• Approved Civic Plus software quote, cost split with Special Events (unanimous)
• Approved Rec iPad purchase (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will consider two project proposals: a generator structure at the LaSalle County Courthouse (119 West Madison Street) and façade renovations at 603 LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Main Street. The commission will also discuss the Commercial Historic District map and plans to promote historic preservation resources. New business includes a proposal for Charles Lindbergh signage at City Hall.

• Proposal for a generator structure at LaSalle County Courthouse, 119 West Madison Street
• Proposal for façade renovation at 603 LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Main Street
• Commercial Historic District map (old business)
• Promoting and educating historic preservation resources (old business)
• Charles Lindbergh signage at City Hall (new business)

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the August 14 meeting. It denied the request for a certificate of appropriateness for a generator structure at the LaSalle County Courthouse. It approved certificates of appropriateness for a façade renovation at 603 LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Main Street, and it approved the Commercial Historic District map proposal.

• Approved August 14 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Denied certificate of appropriateness for generator structure at 119 West Madison Street (all ayes)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for façade renovation at 603 LaSalle Street and 200 block West Main Street (all ayes)
• Approved Commercial Historic District map proposal (all ayes)

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners will confirm Officer Carter Piercy's receipt of a probation letter and review an update on the Open Lateral Transfer List. The meeting will also include a closed executive session for personnel matters.

• Confirm Officer Carter Piercy's receipt of probation letter
• Receive OPD update on Open Lateral Transfer List
• Executive Session for personnel matters

The commissioners approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. No new hiring decisions were made; the lateral transfer window received one applicant and the ad will be re‑circulated. Potential interview dates of October 2 or 3 were identified, pending board availability.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Identified October 2 or October 3, 2025 for lateral transfer oral interviews (contingent)
• Advised re‑circulation of lateral transfer hiring ad due to limited applications
• Adjourned meeting at 10:18 a.m. (all ayes)

Arts Committee

The Ottawa, IL Arts Committee will hold a rescheduled meeting to review and discuss various arts-related projects, including a sculpture plaque, an outdoor art festival, a poet laureate selection, and a crocheted sunblock initiative. The group will also consider the 2025 projects budget and gather ideas for 2026–2027.

• Marble Sculptures – plaque
• Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• Poet Laureate selection
• Crocheted Sunblock initiative
• 2025 Projects Budget review

The committee reviewed logistics for the Paint the Town En Plein Air Festival, including artist coverage, catering, and event materials. Updates were given on the Poet Laureate program, the Lincoln Relief Sculpture project, and a FY26 Creative Projects grant opportunity. No items were approved, denied, or formally voted on.

Special Events Committee

The committee will consider a funding request for the Scott Schillings Annual Car Show. Members will also discuss volunteer lists for the Fall Festival Parade and scheduling for 2026 MIP bands.

• Funding request: Scott Schillings Annual Car Show (Starved Rock Street Cars Group)
• Fall Festival Parade volunteer list
• 2026 MIP Bands scheduling
• Jordan Block Jams follow-up

The Special Events Committee approved a $995 request for the Scott Schillings Annual Car Show. The committee also approved the minutes from the August 7 meeting and the financial report. No other actions were decided; new business items were discussed.

• Approved $995 funding for Scott Schillings Annual Car Show (approved by Robin Wilson, Randy Paquette)
• Approved minutes from August 7 meeting (approved by Michael Dougherty, Candy Moore)
• Approved financial report (approved by Michael Dougherty, Dan Eilts)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will discuss the establishment of Business Development District No. 1 and a rezoning request on Boyce Memorial Drive. The body is also deciding on the demolition and asbestos abatement of the PADS shelter. Other items include agreements for NCAT and the Festival of Lights.

• Demolition and asbestos abatement of PADS shelter at 1120 Canal Street
• Rezoning request from Class A-2 & C-2 to Class D on Boyce Memorial Drive
• Professional services agreement for Ottawa Business Development District No. 1 with Jacob & Klein Ltd. & The Economic Development Group Ltd.
• Fireworks display agreement with J & M Displays Inc. for Festival of Lights
• Agreement and 5311 grant agreement for NCAT

The council unanimously approved a rezoning of the property on Boyce Memorial Drive to a D‑Light Industrial District and approved the Final Plat for Etna Storage at 550 E. Etna Road. It also adopted the professional services agreement for Ottawa Business Development District #1, reappointed members to the Visitor Center Board and Flood Plain Management Commission, and approved contracts for demolition and asbestos abatement of the PADS shelter. Additionally, a pest‑elimination service agreement for 1603 Peoria Street in Peru was authorized.

• Approved rezoning of Boyce Memorial Drive to D‑Light Industrial District (5-0)
• Approved Final Plat for Etna Storage at 550 E. Etna Road (5-0)
• Approved professional services agreement for Ottawa Business Development District #1 (5-0)
• Adopted Visitor Center Board reappointments (5-0)
• Adopted Flood Plain Management Commission appointments (5-0)
• Approved $58,960 demolition contract for PADS shelter at 1120 Canal St (5-0)
• Approved $59,300 asbestos abatement contract for PADS shelter at 1120 Canal St (5-0)
• Authorized pest‑elimination services at 1603 Peoria St, Peru (5-0)

Plan Commission

The Ottawa Plan Commission will meet to approve minutes from its June 23 meeting and conduct a public hearing on a rezoning request from Marvid Corp. The commission will also consider a final plat from Columbus Development Company for property on East Etna Road.

• Public hearing on Marvid Corp rezoning request (A-2/C-2 to D) for Boyce Memorial Drive property
• Consideration of final plat from Columbus Development Company for East Etna Road property

The commission approved the June 23, 2025 meeting minutes. It recommended rezoning a Boyce Memorial Drive property from A‑2 to D. It also recommended the City Council approve a final plat for 550 E Etna Road, with one commissioner dissenting. Finally, Kane Farabaugh was appointed vice chair unanimously.

• Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Recommended rezoning Boyce Memorial Drive property to D (6-0)
• Recommended City Council approval of final plat for 550 E Etna Road (5-1)
• Appointed Kane Farabaugh as vice chair (6-0)

Fire Pension Board

The Ottawa Firefighters Pension Board will meet to review financial reports and audit updates. The board is scheduled to decide on disability approvals for Jordan McDonald and D. Jennings, as well as the acceptance of two new hires into the fund.

• Disability approval for Jordan McDonald
• Disability approval for D. Jennings
• Acceptance of new hires Matt Murphy and Ben Lundy into the fund
• Payment of 3rd Quarter Retainer to Asher, Gittler & D’Alba
• Financial report from Lauterbach and Amen

The Fire Pension Board approved the May 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the financial report showing a net position of $21,966,973.90. It formally approved disability benefits for Jordan McDonald and D. Jennings, approved invoices totaling $4,936.35, and accepted Matt Murphy and Ben Lundy as Tier II employees. All actions passed unanimously.

• Approved May 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Accepted financial report with $21,966,973.90 net position (5-0)
• Approved disability for Jordan McDonald (5-0)
• Approved invoices: $1,856.35 retainer and $3,080.00 IME (5-0)
• Accepted Matt Murphy (DOH‑5/22/25) and Ben Lundy (DOH‑8/18/25) as Tier II employees (5-0)
• Approved disability for D. Jennings (5-0)
• Motion to keep closed‑session minutes closed (5-0)
• Motion to keep Newbury as President and Clift as Secretary (5-0)

Ottawa Visitors Center Board

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board will meet to review reports from the Chamber, City, and OVC. The agenda consists of procedural items and committee reports.

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board approved the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes and the finance report for the period ending June 18, 2025. The board set the next meeting for November 19, 2025 at 5 p.m. The meeting was adjourned at 6:18 p.m. Board members discussed new appointments that will be submitted to the city council for approval.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved finance report for period ending June 18, 2025 (motion carried)
• Scheduled next board meeting for November 19, 2025 at 5 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 6:18 p.m. (motion carried)

Flood Commission

The commission will discuss 2025 flooding events and the 2024 Annual Floodplain Progress Report. Members will review flood response plans, insurance studies, and potential modifications to the flood ordinance.

• 2024 Annual Floodplain Progress Report
• Discussion on Flood Ordinance Modifications
• 2024 Community Visit Audit results for CRS
• Review of Program For Public Information (PPI)
• Flood Threat Recognition Plan and Flood Response Preparation updates

City Council

The City Council will review several intergovernmental agreements and resolutions regarding transit and public safety. The body is deciding on a professional services agreement for the Ottawa Business Development District No. 1 and updates to the municipal code regarding bicycles and scooters.

• Professional services agreement for Ottawa Business Development District No. 1 with Jacob & Klein Ltd. & The Economic Development Group Ltd.
• Municipal Code amendments for low speed bicycles and scooters
• Certificate of appropriateness for 230 W. Main Street
• Change Order #1 for John Pohar & Sons regarding 2025 Caton Road Water Main Extension
• Option to purchase and right of first refusal agreement with Providence Bank & Trust for Ottawa Industrial Park Unit 3

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved routine financial items, including the minutes of the August 5 meeting, the biweekly payroll of $681,877.80 and the bimonthly expense report of $2,717,795.92. It also approved a $71,201 change order for the Caton Road water main extension and adopted several resolutions for public‑service agreements, a homeless‑shelter grant, and a purchase option for Unit 3 in the Ottawa Industrial Park. Finally, the council passed ordinances for a certificate of appropriateness at 230 W. Main Street and for amending the municipal code on low‑speed bicycles and scooters.

• Approved minutes of the August 5, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $681,877.80 (unanimous)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $2,717,795.92 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Caton Road water main extension, $71,201 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for a Community Development Block Grant for a new Pads homeless shelter (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance amending municipal code sections 86‑18 and 86‑19 for low‑speed bicycles and scooters (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance authorizing a certificate of appropriateness for 230 W. Main Street (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for option to purchase and right of first refusal for Unit 3 in Ottawa Industrial Park (unanimous)

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will meet to discuss grant administration, riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion. The meeting also includes a financial report and the payment of claims.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Financial report and payment of claims

Playground & Recreation Board

The board will discuss long-range planning and review reports from various committees. Members are scheduled to address pending league invoices and the procurement of wind screens for pickleball.

• Review of Halm Electric, AP Carpentry, and Joe Rod Roofing invoices
• Discussion of batting cages (dated 3/18/25)
• Proposal for pickleball wind screens
• Discussion of a career fair
• Review of an Excel sheet for tracking spending and invoices

The Playground & Recreation Board unanimously approved the July meeting minutes. It also approved the July recreational financial report. In addition, the board approved invoices from Halm, AP, Joes Roofing, and Whitney Sign. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July recreational financial report (unanimous)
• Approved Halm, AP, Joes Roofing, and Whitney Sign invoices (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will consider certificates of appropriateness for renovations at 603 LaSalle Street, the 200 block of West Main Street, and 230 West Main Street. The body will also discuss the South Bluff Historic Survey and historical signage.

• Façade renovation proposal at 603 LaSalle Street and 200 block of West Main Street
• Rooftop deck, new windows, and door proposal at 230 West Main Street
• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant)
• Historical signage for Fort Johnson and Wallace Home
• Relocation of Round Horse Fountain

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from its July 10, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. It also approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a rooftop deck and new façade windows and door at 230 West Main Street, again with all ayes. The commission discussed a façade renovation for 603 LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Main Street but did not approve it, noting that more detailed drawings are needed. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for rooftop deck at 230 West Main St (all ayes)
• No approval for façade renovation at 603 LaSalle St and 200 block West Main St; further detail required

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will discuss the approval of a new firefighter hire and the replacement of a police officer. The meeting includes reviews of officer training completions and a resignation letter.

• Approval and update on new firefighter hire Ben Lundy
• Request to open a 30-day lateral transfer list to replace Officer Sofian Riahi
• Review of Officer Rodriguez's completion of FTO
• Notification of Alex Mata's academy graduation on August 22nd

The board approved the minutes of the June 18 and June 25, 2025 meetings. It approved the hiring of firefighter Ben Lundy, with his start date set for Monday, August 18, 2025. The board accepted Sofian Riahi’s resignation and unanimously approved a 45‑day lateral transfer list window opening Aug. 15 and closing Sept. 29, 2025.

• Approved June 18 and June 25 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved hiring of firefighter Ben Lundy, start Aug 18 (board approval)
• Accepted Sofian Riahi’s resignation (all ayes)
• Unanimously approved 45‑day lateral transfer list (open Aug 15, close Sept 29)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:23 a.m. (all ayes)

Special Events Committee

The Special Events Committee will meet to consider funding requests for Barktoberfest and Gospel Concerts. The body will also discuss planning for the 2025 Fall Festival and Festival of Lights parades.

• Funding requests for Barktoberfest
• Funding requests for Gospel Concerts
• Fall Festival Parade 2025 planning
• Festival Of lights Parade 2025 planning
• MIP Schedule for September

The committee approved a $450,000 sound request for Bill's Borktobertest scheduled for September 27. It also approved $1,000 for the Gospel Concert on August 3, noting a maximum limit. The July 10 meeting minutes were approved, and the financial report was accepted.

• Approved $450,000 sound request for Bill's Borktobertest (Sept 27)
• Approved $1,000 funding for Gospel Concert (Aug 3) with max limit
• Approved July 10 meeting minutes
• Approved financial report

City Council

The City Council will consider several transit service and employment agreements for NCAT. The body will also review intergovernmental agreements for communication services with the City of Marseilles and the Marseilles Fire Protection District.

• Employment agreement for Austin White (NCAT)
• Transit service agreements with Goldwater Care Marseilles and the Center for Youth & Family Solutions
• Intergovernmental agreements for communication services with City of Marseilles and Marseilles Fire Protection District
• Purchase option and right of first refusal agreement with Providence Bank & Trust for Ottawa Industrial Park Unit 3
• CDBG Grant administration services with NCICG for PADS

The council unanimously approved several financial and administrative items, including payrolls, expense reports, and multiple resolutions authorizing agreements for transit services, police equipment, and a purchase option for Unit 3 in the Ottawa Industrial Park. A proclamation naming August 12, 2025 Gerald Hulsander Day was also adopted. All votes were 5‑0 in favor.

• Approved minutes of July 15, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approved July 18, 2025 payroll $696,861.37 and August 1, 2025 payroll $714,599.55 (5-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report $1,365,618.60 (5-0)
• Approved employment agreement for Austin White as full‑time NCAT Bus Operator (5-0)
• Approved execution of transit service agreements for NCAT with multiple entities (5-0)
• Accepted Cole Communications quotes $12,045.96 and $13,886.88 for police equipment (5-0)
• Approved option to purchase and right of first refusal for Unit 3 in Ottawa Industrial Park (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation naming August 12, 2025 Gerald Hulsander Day (5-0)

Arts Committee

The Arts Committee is meeting to discuss various public art installations and community events. The body will review the 2025 projects budget and brainstorm ideas for 2026-2027.

• 2025 Projects Budget
• Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• Marble Sculptures plaque
• Poet Laureate
• Painting Picnic Tables

The committee approved the meeting minutes after a motion by Ryan and a second by Annette, which passed. Ryan and Susan were designated to manage the Poet Laureate program moving forward. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Assigned Ryan and Susan to manage Poet Laureate program

Police Pension Board

The Ottawa Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports and membership applications. The board will consider retirement benefits for Brenden Donahue and conduct board officer elections.

• Approval of regular retirement benefits for Brenden Donahue
• Application for membership for Alex Mata
• Discussion and possible action on Cash Management Policy
• Discussion and possible action on Cyber Security Insurance
• Board officer elections for President, Vice President, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary

The trustees unanimously approved the April 29 minutes, the May financial report and $20,962.22 disbursement, and accepted Alex Mata as a Tier II member. They also approved Brenden Donahue’s regular retirement benefit, elected the officer slate, kept Trustee Hilton as FOIA Officer, and authorized the attorney to arrange David Hallowell’s annual medical exam. The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 a.m.

• Approved April 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous roll call)
• Approved May 31, 2025 financial report and $20,962.22 disbursement (unanimous roll call)
• Accepted Alex Mata as Tier II member effective May 5 2025 (unanimous roll call)
• Approved Brenden Donahue’s regular retirement benefit (unanimous roll call)
• Elected officers: Hilton President, Baxter Vice President, Ganiere Secretary, Weber Assistant Secretary (unanimous roll call)
• Maintained Trustee Hilton as FOIA Officer and OMA Designee (unanimous roll call)
• Authorized attorney to send David Hallowell for annual IME and L&A to pay invoices (unanimous roll call)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:40 a.m. (unanimous voice vote)

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will meet to discuss financial reports and payment of claims. The body will review grant administration, riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Payment of claims

City Council

The City Council will review financial reports and consider several service and employment agreements. The body is also set to award the bid for 2025 street maintenance.

• Award bid for 2025 Street Maintenance
• Resolution for service agreements with NCAT providers
• Resolution for preventative maintenance proposal with Marseilles Sheet Metal for IVCC, City Hall, and Riordan Pool
• Employment agreements for Recreation Director Piper Nanouski and Benefits Coordinator Haley Roalson

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved the bid from Advanced Asphalt Company for the 2025 Street Maintenance program. It also adopted resolutions for transit service agreements, preventative maintenance with Marseilles Sheet Metal Inc., and employment agreements for two city officials. Additional financial reports and payroll items were approved and placed on file.

• Approved minutes of July 1 and July 7 meetings (3-0)
• Approved Biweekly Salary Payroll of $711,933.81 (3-0)
• Approved Bimonthly Expense Report of $2,038,177.11 (3-0)
• Received June 2025 Monthly Financial Report and placed on file (3-0)
• Received transit service agreements resolution and placed on file (3-0)
• Adopted sheet metal maintenance resolution for IVCC satellite building, Riordan Pool, and City Hall (3-0)
• Accepted and paid $804,841.75 Advanced Asphalt Company bid for street maintenance (3-0)
• Adopted employment agreements for Piper Nanouski and Haley Roalson (3-0)

Playground & Recreation Board

The board will review financial reports and committee updates. Discussions include specific invoices for league maintenance and quotes for new equipment.

• Halm Electric invoice
• AP Carpentry invoice
• Joe Rod Roofing invoice
• Wind screen for pickleball
• New computer quote

The Playground & Recreation Board approved the June meeting minutes and the June financial report, each with six votes in favor. It also approved buying 350 ice‑cream scoops for Ice Cream Day and asked for a quote for a windscreen on two sides of the pickleball courts. Additionally, the board decided on a laptop quote.

• Approved June meeting minutes (6 Ayes)
• Approved June financial report (6 Ayes)
• Approved purchase of 350 ice‑cream scoops at $3.25 each for Ice Cream Day
• Requested quote for windscreen on two sides of pickleball courts
• Decided on laptop quote (motioned by Phil McNally, seconded by Milissa Hulse)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission will meet to review the South Bluff Historic Survey and discuss signage for Fort Johnson. The body will also hold an informal discussion regarding solar panels on the First National Bank roof.

• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant)
• Fort Johnson Signage
• Round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue
• Solar panels on the roof of First National Bank

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 15, 2025 meeting. It decided to hold off on the Fort Johnson signage until additional state grant funds become available. The commission will investigate other funding sources for signage at the Wallace Home. No concerns were raised about proposed solar panels on the First National Bank roof.

• Approved May 15 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Hold off on Fort Johnson signage pending additional grant funding
• Commission will explore alternative funding for Wallace Home signage
• No concerns expressed about solar panels on First National Bank roof
• South Bluff survey area to be re‑evaluated, focusing on Prospect Avenue

Special Events Committee

The committee is meeting to consider funding requests for local events and coordinate logistics for the August 3rd Pool Party and the MIP event. Members will also discuss the use of 50/50 ticket sales for the Ottawa Food Basket and OSEC.

• Funding request: Ottawa Explorium Touch A Truck $1,000
• Funding request: WHL Wallace Event $500
• Planning for Pool Party on August 3rd
• Discussion of 50/50 ticket sales at MIP for Ottawa Food Basket and OSEC
• Coordination of JBJ Concierges for bands and water

The Special Events Committee approved the June 5, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a $1,000 funding request for the Touch A Truck/School Supplies event at the Ottawa Exploreum on July 27, with Jim Reilly approving and Candy Moore seconding. It also approved a $500 funding request for the 2025 Annual WHL Wallace Event at Wallace‑Dickey Cemetery Preservation Association on September 25, with Jim Reilly approving and Randi Paquette seconding. The committee decided the Music In The Park event will include a Facebook site.

• Approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved $1,000 Touch A Truck/School Supplies funding (approved by Jim Reilly, seconded by Candy Moore)
• Approved $500 2025 Annual WHL Wallace Event funding (approved by Jim Reilly, seconded by Randi Paquette)
• Decided Music In The Park will include a Facebook site

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to review and potentially authorize employment agreements for two staff roles. No other items are listed for the commissioners.

• Employment agreement for Piper Nanouski – Recreation Director
• Employment agreement for Haley Roalson – Benefits Coordinator

The council adopted a resolution to execute an employment agreement for Piper Nanouski as Recreation Director. It also adopted a resolution to execute an employment agreement for Haley Roalson as Benefits Coordinator. Both resolutions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved employment agreement for Piper Nanouski as Recreation Director (3-0)
• Approved employment agreement for Haley Roalson as Benefits Coordinator (3-0)
• Adjourned special meeting (3-0)

Arts Committee

The Arts Committee will review completed 2025 projects and discuss the Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival and the Poet Laureate. The body will also discuss grant opportunities and the budget for 2025 projects and ideas for 2026-2027.

• Review of completed 2025 projects
• Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• Poet Laureate
• Grant opportunity discussion
• 2025 Projects Budget and 2026-2027 Ideas

The committee approved the July 7 meeting minutes. It approved extending the deadline for Poet Laureate applications. The group discussed a Creative Projects Grant and decided to explore pricing for a large‑scale mural as a first step. Members were assigned outreach tasks for restaurants, coupons, and event announcements.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved extension of Poet Laureate application deadline
• Decided to explore pricing for a large‑scale mural project
• Assigned outreach to restaurants for art‑inspired specials
• Assigned outreach to businesses for participant coupons
• Assigned press release and announcement duties for Poet Laureate

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on six annexation agreements and ordinances in the Fields Hill area. The body will also consider property rezonings and various infrastructure and vehicle purchases.

• Public hearing and ordinances for 6 annexations in Fields Hill
• Purchase of 2 new vehicles for the Ottawa Police Department
• Sale of a 2016 Ford Explorer
• Rezoning request for property South of Fosse Rd/West of IL 23
• Engineering and land surveying agreement for parking lot improvements at 1120 Canal Street

The Ottawa City Council approved the June 17 meeting minutes, the biweekly payroll of $664,076.81, and the bimonthly expense report of $609,846.79. It also adopted a transit service contract renewal, authorized purchase of two police trucks, and approved several annexation agreements and ordinances. All actions passed with a 4‑0 vote and no opposition.

• Approved June 17, 2025 Council minutes (4-0)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $664,076.81 (4-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $609,846.79 (4-0)
• Adopted resolution renewing transit service agreement with Illinois Dept. of Veterans Affairs (4-0)
• Approved purchase of 2025 Ford F‑150 ($47,448) and 2025 Ford Explorer ($45,424) for Police Dept. (4-0)
• Approved ordinance authorizing sale of a 2016 Ford Explorer from Police Dept. (4-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing execution of six annexation agreements in Fields Hill (4-0)
• Passed ordinance annexing property at 2114 Fields Place to the City (4-0)

Playground & Recreation Board

The board is holding a special meeting to discuss personnel and contract matters in closed session. The body intends to vote on hiring a candidate for the Director position.

• Hiring of a candidate for the Position of Director

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners will meet to address fire department personnel matters. The board is scheduled to review a final eligibility list revision and a probation status letter.

• Final eligibility list revision for Fire
• Off-probation letter for Firefighter Alexander Dunn

The commissioners approved a corrected Final Eligibility Register for fire personnel, which will take effect on July 7, 2025. They also approved an off‑probation letter for Fire Fighter Alexander Dunn. The minutes from the June 18 meeting and this session will be reviewed and approved at the next scheduled meeting on August 13, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 10:17 a.m.

• Approved amended Final Eligibility Register (effective July 7, 2025)
• Approved off‑probation letter for Fire Fighter Alexander Dunn
• Deferred approval of June 18 and current meeting minutes to August 13, 2025
• Adjourned meeting at 10:17 a.m.

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold public hearings regarding two land-use requests. The body is reviewing a conditional use request for a storage facility and a request to rezone residential property to rural.

• Conditional Use request from Columbus Development for a self storage facility at 550 E Etna Road
• Rezoning request from Lucas Enterprises, LLC to change property south of Fosse Road and west of IL Route 23 from A-1 (Single Family Residential) to R (Rural)

The Plan Commission first approved the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting. It then voted to approve a conditional use permit for a self‑storage facility at 550 E Etna Rd in the D (Office, Research, Light Industrial) zoning district. Finally, the commission approved rezoning of the property south of Fosse Road and west of IL Route 23 from A‑1 (Single Family Residential) to R (Rural).

• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (7‑0)
• Approved conditional use permit for self‑storage at 550 E Etna Rd (5‑2)
• Approved rezoning of property south of Fosse Rd & west of IL Route 23 from A‑1 to R (7‑0)

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will meet to discuss grant administration, riverfront activity, and train and traffic congestion. The body will also consider a resolution to renew its SAM registration.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Resolution Renewing SAM Registration
• Public Art Presentation by Patricia Walters

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to review a request for zoning variances. The board will decide whether to grant side and rear yard setback variances for a specific property.

• Request for side and rear yard setback variances at 2204 Berry Avenue to construct a garden greenhouse

Ottawa Visitors Center Board

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board will meet to receive reports from the Chamber, the City, and the OVC. The agenda includes a scheduled executive session regarding personnel.

• Executive session regarding personnel

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board approved the meeting minutes from June 18, 2025. The board also approved the financial report for the period ending June 18, 2025. An executive session motion to adjourn was carried. No other actions were decided.

• Approved OVC Board meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved finance report for period ending June 18, 2025 (motion carried)
• Adjourned to executive session (motion carried)

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will meet to discuss fire candidate preference points and the firefighter eligibility register. The meeting includes a scheduled executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Fire candidate preference points
• Approval of Firefighter Final Eligibility Register
• Executive session regarding personnel

The commissioners approved the minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting. They also approved the updated fire candidate preference points and the final eligibility register, which will take effect on July 7, 2025. No police hiring actions were taken. The meeting was adjourned at 10:16 a.m.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (all ayes)
• Approved new fire eligibility register effective July 7, 2025 (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:16 a.m. (all ayes)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on annexing parcels in Fields Hill and the Southside. The body is deciding on several TIF district redevelopment plan extensions and various infrastructure and employment agreements.

• Appropriating $549,000.00 of Motor Fuel Tax Funds
• Annexation agreements for 7 parcels in Fields Hill and 7 surrounded Southside parcels
• Vacating an alley between 600 Columbus Street and 110 E. Main Street
• Redevelopment plan extensions for I-80 North, U.S. Route 6 East, Canal, and Dayton Industrial TIF Districts
• Awarding bid for IVCC Ottawa Center South Deck Replacement Project

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved payroll and expense reports, several procurement contracts, and a series of annexation and redevelopment actions. Ordinances were adopted to vacate an alley, annex Southside parcels, and extend TIF financing for multiple districts. The meeting also set a public hearing for additional annexation agreements.

• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $641,929.81 (4-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $1,620,830.43 (4-0)
• Approved police purchase of a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee for $25,218.70 (4-0)
• Approved fire department purchase of 2 Stair Pro’s for $10,512.16 (4-0)
• Accepted low bid of $48,511.00 for IVCC Ottawa Center South deck replacement (4-0)
• Adopted ordinance vacating alley between 600 Columbus St and 110 E. Main St to OBC1 LLC (4-0)
• Adopted ordinance annexing the 7 Southside parcels to the City (4-0)
• Adopted extensions to redevelopment plans and TIF financing for five districts (4-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss various historic sites and resources. The agenda includes reviews of signage and a survey funded by a CLG grant.

• Methodist Church and Jordan Block Sign Event
• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant)
• Fort Johnson Signage
• Round horse fountain located on the Ottawa Avenue
• Commercial Historic District

No substantive actions were taken because a quorum was not present. The commission adjourned the meeting.

Playground & Recreation Board

The Ottawa Playground and Recreation Board will meet to approve minutes from May and the May recreation financial report. The board will also hear reports from commissioners, the president, and the director, along with updates on long-range planning and committee activities.

• Approve May Minutes
• Approve May Recreation Financial Report
• Labor Cost for Mayou’s Roofing (under Leagues committee)
• Ollom Net Project (under Leagues committee)

The Recreation Board approved the easement-based design for the dog park, chose to fund three new nets, and designated July 20 as a free pool day with ice cream. It also approved the May meeting minutes, the May financial report, and the Ally Special Event. All motions were adopted by the board.

• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May financial report (unanimous)
• Approved payment for three nets from Beacon Athletics (unanimous)
• Approved Dog Park Option 2 (easement) – motion passed with two members opposed
• Approved July 20 free pool day and ice‑cream distribution (unanimous)
• Approved Ally Special Event (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Special Events Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss funding requests for several community events and review financial reports. Members will also provide updates on upcoming activities including Fall Fest and kids' events.

• Funding request: Morel Fest, $1000
• Funding request: Kites in Flight, $1000
• Funding request: Ride Illinois, $500
• Funding request: Party in the Park, $1000
• Funding request: Kids Fishing Rodeo, $1000

The Special Events Committee approved requested funds for seven events, ranging from $500 to $1,600. Each motion was passed with the vote tallies recorded in the minutes. The committee also agreed to allow a local face painter to provide free services at the next MIP event.

• Approved $1,000 for Tom Nauman Memorial Morel Fest (motion by Jim Reilly, vote 2")
• Approved $1,000 for Kites in Flight (motion by Abby Kennedy, vote 2™)
• Approved $500 for Ride Illinois (motion by Candy Moore, vote 24)
• Approved $1,000 for Ottawa Family Pride Fest (motion by Robin Wilson, vote 2")
• Approved $1,500 for National Night Out (motion by Jim Reilly, vote 2")
• Approved $1,600 for Party in the Park – 100 Year (motion by Candy Moore, vote 2")
• Approved $500 for Kids Fishing Rodeo (motion by Lucas Hennenfent, vote 2")
• Agreed to let Laura Bianco provide free face painting at MIP events (unanimous agreement)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on an alley vacation for Kiest/OBC 1 LLC. Members will vote on several grant agreements, employment contracts, and conditional use permits for drive-thrus and solar projects.

• Conditional use permits for drive-thrus at 106 West Etna Road and 2749 Columbus Street
• Conditional use permit for Canal Road/Sunvest Solar LLC
• Amended development agreement with Heritage Harbor Ottawa Resort Development
• Grant agreements with DCEO for Site Readiness and IEMA for Green Street
• Request for bids for the IVCC Ottawa Center South Deck Replacement Project

The council unanimously approved the minutes, payroll and expense reports, and several employment and service agreements. It granted conditional use permits for a Roosty’s Chicken drive‑thru, a CDO 3005 LLC pick‑up window (with one dissent), and a large‑scale solar farm by Sunvest Solar LLC. Additional actions included a FEMA flood buyout for the former YMCA, a rural shelter grant, and the adoption of seven annexation agreements with a public hearing scheduled for June 17.

• Approved minutes of May 20, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $445,894.18 (5-0)
• Adopted employment agreements for Facilities Assistant and Operations Manager (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Roosty’s Chicken drive‑thru facility (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for CDO 3005 LLC pick‑up window facility (4-1, Barron nay)
• Granted conditional use permit for Sunvest Solar LLC large‑scale solar farm (unanimous)
• Adopted FEMA flood buyout agreement for the old YMCA (5-0)
• Adopted seven annexation agreements; public hearing set for June 17 (5-0)

Arts Committee

The Arts Committee will review a presentation on artist Ray Paseka for potential future art projects. The body will also discuss various ongoing art initiatives and budget planning for 2025 and 2026-2027.

• Presentation of artist Ray Paseka for murals or art installations
• Discussion of Marble Sculptures
• Discussion of Morel Hunt Murals
• Review of Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• 2025 Projects Budget and 2026-2027 Ideas

The committee approved the June 2 meeting minutes. It agreed to increase public promotion for the Morel Hunt Murals and for the Little Art Gallery on social media. The group also decided to shift some 2025 project items to the 2026 budget because of time constraints.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Annette Barr, seconded by Heather Pursley)
• Agreed to increase promotion for Morel Hunt Murals
• Agreed to increase social‑media promotion for Little Art Gallery
• Decided to move certain 2025 budget items to 2026 due to time constraints

Plan Commission

The Ottawa, IL Plan Commission will hold public hearings on three conditional use requests: a large-scale solar project on Canal Road near the ADM entrance, a drive-through at 2749 Columbus St, and another drive-through at 106 W. Etna Rd. The meeting will also continue a prior public hearing on a self-storage facility at 550 E Etna Rd, carried over from April 28.

• Conditional Use request for large-scale solar project at Canal Road and ADM entrance
• Conditional Use request for drive-through at 2749 Columbus St
• Conditional Use request for drive-through at 106 W. Etna Rd
• Continuation of public hearing for self-storage facility at 550 E Etna Rd (D zoning district)
• Public comment deadline: 4:30 PM May 27, 2025

The commission approved a conditional use permit for Sunvest Solar's large‑scale solar project on Canal Road. It also approved drive‑through permits for Roosty’s Chicken at 2749 Columbus St and a Chipotle pick‑up window at 106 W. Etna Rd, and named Kane Farabaugh as vice chair. The hearing on Columbus Development's self‑storage request was continued to June 23, 2025.

• Approved minutes from April 28, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for Columbus Development storage request to June 23, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Sunvest Solar large solar project at Canal Road (4-1)
• Approved conditional use permit for drive‑through restaurant at 2749 Columbus St (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for drive‑through pick‑up window at 106 W. Etna Rd (5-0)
• Named Kane Farabaugh as Vice Chair of the Plan Commission (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will review several municipal code amendments, including a new vacant property registration system. The body is also considering agreements for fire station architecture and a FEMA flood buyout for the old YMCA.

• Ordinance adding Chapter 22, Article XIV to the Municipal Code for vacant property registration
• Resolution for FEMA Flood buyout of the old YMCA via IDNR
• Two amendments to professional services agreements with FGM Architects for new fire stations
• Agreement with IDOT for maintenance of municipal streets
• Bid re-award for Canal Street storm sewer (Long Term Control Plan Element 8.2)

The council unanimously approved the meeting minutes, the biweekly payroll of $467,817.66, and the bimonthly expense report of $1,378,876.78. It also adopted numerous resolutions authorizing agreements for NCAT personnel, transit services, intergovernmental communications, EMS equipment, fire‑station designs, and other contracts. The most significant action was the approval of a $2,253,587 low‑bid contract for the Canal Street Storm Sewer Long‑Term Control Plan Element 8.2, funded from the CSO Fund. Additional items approved included a police vehicle purchase, wastewater equipment refurbishment, and several ordinances and proclamations.

• Approved minutes of May 6, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approved biweekly payroll of $467,817.66 (5-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $1,378,876.78 (5-0)
• Approved $2,253,587 low‑bid contract for Canal Street Storm Sewer (5-0)
• Approved $24,560.70 purchase of 2023 GMC Acadia for Police Department (5-0)
• Approved $197,200 quote for Wastewater Treatment Plant press refurbishment (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance establishing one‑time bonus for Alaina Iverson (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance adding Chapter 22, Article 14 on vacant property registration (5-0)

Port District

This is a routine monthly meeting of the Ottawa Port District. The board will discuss and review grant administration, recent riverfront activity, and train/traffic congestion, along with a FOIA response. No votes on specific contracts or financial commitments are listed.

• Review of grant administration
• Review of recent riverfront activity
• Review of train and traffic congestion
• Review of FOIA Response

Fire Pension Board

The Fire Pension Board will meet to review financial reports and audit updates. The body will consider the acceptance of a new member into the pension fund and a contribution reimbursement. The board will also discuss the renewal of fiduciary liability insurance.

• Acceptance of Derek Hobbs into the pension fund
• Contribution reimbursement for Tyler Walsh
• Fiduciary liability insurance renewal
• Approval of 2nd Quarter retainer for Asher, Gittler & D’Alba
• FPIF and Annual City Audit updates

The board approved the minutes from the February 2025 meeting and accepted the financial report showing a net position of $21,557,357.55. It approved the $1,110 invoice for Asher, Gittler & D’Alba, renewed fiduciary liability insurance for $4,312.00, accepted Derek Hobbs as a Tier II member, and approved a $13,187.74 reimbursement to Tyler Walsh. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved February 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Accepted financial report with net position $21,557,357.55 (4-0)
• Approved $1,110 invoice for Asher, Gittler & D’Alba (4-0)
• Renewed fiduciary liability insurance for $4,312.00 (4-0)
• Accepted Derek Hobbs into pension fund as Tier II employee (4-0)
• Approved $13,187.74 reimbursement to Tyler Walsh (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission is meeting in a rescheduled session to discuss several ongoing projects. Topics include the South Bluff Historic Survey funded by a CLG Grant, signage for Fort Johnson and the Methodist Church/Jordan Block, and a round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue. The commission will also take public comment and approve previous meeting minutes.

• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant) update
• Methodist Church and Jordan Block sign event discussion
• Fort Johnson signage proposal
• Round horse fountain located on Ottawa Avenue
• Commercial Historic District update

The commission approved the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting unanimously. It also approved moving the Round Horse fountain from Ottawa Avenue to a sidewalk on Court Street, with the exact location to be finalized. Both motions passed with all votes in favor.

• Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (all ayes)
• Approved relocation of Round Horse fountain to Court Street sidewalk (all ayes)

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board will consider approving minutes from April 9, 2025, and discuss several fire and police personnel matters. For the Fire Department, they will discuss background acceptance for Matthew Murphy, probation completion letters for two firefighters, and items related to new hire testing. For Police, they will discuss police hiring. Additionally, the Board will note that Brendan Duffy withdrew from the Police Eligibility List on April 23, 2025, and may enter executive session for personnel matters.

• Background acceptance for firefighter candidate Matthew Murphy
• Probation completion letters for Firefighters Brandon Bice and Kevin Stewart
• Discussion of new hire testing and orientation for Fire Department
• Police hiring discussion
• Brendan Duffy withdrew from Police Eligibility List

The commissioners approved the April 9 meeting minutes. They accepted Matthew Murphy’s background with no issues and voted to move forward with the next eligible fire‑department hire. The regular meeting was rescheduled to June 18 at 10 a.m. The board then adjourned.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (all ayes)
• Accepted background for Matthew Murphy (no issues)
• Moved forward with new fire hire (all ayes)
• Rescheduled June meeting to June 18 at 10 a.m. (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:38 a.m. (all ayes)

Playground & Recreation Board

The board will meet to review financial reports and committee updates. The agenda includes a discussion on long-range planning and board goals.

• Review of April Recreation Financial Report
• Flag purchase invoice
• Long Range Planning and Board Goals
• By-laws committee report
• Closed session regarding personnel

The Playground & Recreation Board approved the March meeting minutes and the November financial report, each with six votes in favor. The board also approved a $5,000 salary increase for employee Amanda, retroactive to May 1, with all present members voting yes. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved March minutes (6-0)
• Approved November financial report (6-0)
• Approved $5,000 raise for Amanda, retroactive to May 1 (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will hold a regular meeting with proclamations, service awards, and multiple resolutions and ordinances. Key actions include authorizing agreements for new fire stations, awarding the 2025 curb replacement project, appropriating $350,000 in motor fuel tax funds, and amending golf cart operations. The council will also consider conditional use permits for a homeless shelter and a solar project.

• Resolution authorizing two amendments to professional services agreements with FGM Architects for new fire stations
• Award of bid for 2025 Curb Replacement Project
• Resolution appropriating $350,000 of Motor Fuel Tax Funds
• Ordinance amending Section 102-40 to regulate golf cart operations
• Conditional use permit request for PADS shelter at 201 E. Jackson St.

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved meeting minutes, a proclamation for National Police Week, payroll and expense reports, and several infrastructure contracts. It also passed an ordinance regulating golf cart operations in Heritage Harbor. Finally, the council granted a conditional use permit to PADS for a homeless shelter at 201 E. Jackson Street with five specific conditions.

• Approved minutes of April 15 and April 29 meetings (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation for National Police Week May 11‑17 2025 (5-0)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $642,282.79 (5-0)
• Accepted quote $28,445.00 from Technimount System USA for fire equipment (5-0)
• Accepted low bid $400,030.00 from Ruiz Construction for 2025 curb replacement (5-0)
• Accepted low bid $2,001,788.00 from John Pohar & Sons for Canal Street storm sewer element 8.2 (5-0)
• Approved ordinance amending golf cart operations in Heritage Harbor (5-0)
• Granted conditional use permit to PADS for homeless shelter at 201 E. Jackson St with five conditions (5-0)

Arts Committee

The Arts Committee will meet to discuss several public art initiatives and festivals. The body is reviewing the 2025 projects budget and brainstorming ideas for 2026.

• Marble Sculptures
• Morel Hunt Murals
• Little Art Gallery
• Paint the Town: En Plein Air Art Festival
• Poet Laureate

The Arts Committee approved the meeting minutes and later adjourned the session. It decided to mark canvases during check‑in for the Paint the Town festival and assigned tasks for the Poet Laureate application. Several 2025 projects were moved to 2026, and the Painting Picnic Tables project will be discussed further at the June meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Annette Barr, seconded by Heather Pursley)
• Decided to mark canvases during check‑in on Friday night and Saturday morning for Paint the Town festival
• Heather Pursley assigned to create social media graphics for Poet Laureate launch
• Amanda Weygand‑Zehr assigned to create a Google Form for Poet Laureate submissions
• Moved some 2025 projects to 2026 due to time constraints
• Planned to discuss Painting Picnic Tables project further at June meeting
• Approved meeting adjournment (motion by Ryan Searl, seconded by Annette Barr)

Special Events Committee

The Ottawa Special Events Committee will consider funding requests from Court Street Pub for a Labor Day block party and from Ottawa Third Friday for an Open Spaces Art Gallery. The agenda also includes planning for the Memorial Day Parade, concert sponsorships, and updates on past and upcoming events such as the Easter egg hunt, kids events, and Fall Fest.

• Funding request: Court Street Pub Labor Day block party
• Funding request: Ottawa Third Friday Open Spaces Art Gallery
• Discussion of Memorial Day Parade planning
• Sponsoring for Concerts/MIP, Jordan Block Jams
• Easter egg hunt follow-up and Kids Events update

The committee approved a $1,000 funding request for the Ottawa Third Fridays series, covering five events from May to September. The discussion on sponsorship for the Concert/MIP Jordan Block Jams was tabled. No other funding motions were recorded as approved.

• Approved $1,000 funding for Ottawa Third Fridays (5 events) (motion by Jim Reilly, seconded by Candy Moore)
• Tabled discussion on sponsorship for Concert/MIP Jordan Block Jams

Police Pension Board

The Ottawa Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to review monthly financial reports and investment statements. The board will consider actions regarding cash management, fiduciary liability insurance renewal, and account representative authorizations. The meeting includes the certification of board election results.

• Certification of Board Election Results for Active and Retired Member positions
• Discussion and possible action on Cash Management Policy
• Discussion and possible action on Fiduciary Liability Insurance Renewal
• Review of FOIA Request from Merritt Research Services, LLC
• Application for membership/withdrawal for deceased surviving spouse Marilynn Dammann

The Ottawa Police Pension Fund Board approved the fiduciary liability insurance renewal for 2025‑2026 at $7,290. It also certified the re‑election of active and retired trustees, reappointed two members, and approved $14,318.19 in disbursements. All motions passed unanimously by roll‑call vote.

• Approved teleconference participation for Trustee Bohler (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous roll‑call)
• Accepted Monthly Financial Report and approved $14,318.19 disbursements (unanimous roll‑call)
• Certified active and retired member election results (unanimous roll‑call)
• Acknowledged reappointment of Trustees Brad Bohler and Dena Weber (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved fiduciary liability insurance renewal $7,290 (unanimous roll‑call)

City Council

The City Council holds a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2026 operating budget and considers an ordinance to adopt it. Additionally, the Council will vote on several resolutions: authorizing a lease and maintenance agreements for police department equipment, a proposal for road testing on E. Stevenson Rd, Baker Rd, and MBL Drive, a consulting services agreement with Retail Strategies, an amendment to an employment agreement with Alaina Iverson, and an amendment to a grant of easement for 1753 Green Street. A proclamation declaring Tom Nauman Midwest Morel Fest Day is also scheduled.

• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 operating budget
• Ordinance to adopt the FY26 operating budget
• Resolution authorizing lease and maintenance agreements with Marco for Police Department
• Resolution authorizing proposal with Midwest Testing for E. Stevenson Rd, Baker Rd, MBL Drive
• Resolution authorizing amendment to employment agreement with Alaina Iverson

The Council approved the operating budget for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2025, noting a $1.2 million deficit to be covered by reserves. It also adopted a series of resolutions authorizing contracts for a police copy machine, a geotechnical report for East Stevenson Road, retail recruitment consulting, an employment‑agreement addendum, and an easement amendment. The fiscal‑year end expense report of $116,433.55 was approved, and a proclamation naming May 3, 2025 Tom Nauman Day was adopted.

• Adopted Operating Budget for FY starting May 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved FY end expense report of $116,433.55 (unanimous)
• Authorized lease and equipment maintenance agreement with Marco Technologies LLC for police copy machine (unanimous)
• Authorized Midwest Testing Services Inc. to perform geotechnical report for East Stevenson Road (unanimous)
• Authorized consulting services agreement with Retail Strategies LLC for retail recruitment (unanimous)
• Authorized addendum to employment agreement with Alaina Iverson (unanimous)
• Authorized amendment to grant of easement with Corey Rickey and Amy Rickey for 1753 Green Street (unanimous)
• Adopted proclamation declaring May 3, 2025 Tom Nauman Day (unanimous)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold public hearings regarding conditional use requests for a homeless shelter and a self-storage facility. The body will also continue hearings for a residential use request and a large scale solar project.

• Conditional Use request from PADS for a homeless shelter at 201 E Jackson St.
• Conditional Use request from Columbus Development for a self storage facility at 550 E Etna Road.
• Continued hearing for Heritage Christian Center residential use at 900 Hitt St.
• Continued hearing for Sunvest Solar, LLC large scale solar project at Canal Road and ADM entrance.

The commission approved the minutes from the March 24 meeting. It approved a conditional use permit for Sunvest Solar’s large‑scale solar project (5‑1) and for PADS’s homeless shelter with several stipulations (5‑0, 1 abstain). It denied the conditional use request for a self‑storage facility (3‑2) and ordered the hearing to continue on May 27. The next meeting date was changed to May 27.

• Approved March 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Reopened public hearing for Sunvest Solar (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for Sunvest Solar at Canal Road (5‑1)
• Approved conditional use for PADS homeless shelter at 201 E. Jackson St with stipulations (5‑0, 1 abstain)
• Denied conditional use for self‑storage at 550 E. Etna Rd (3‑2)
• Continued self‑storage public hearing to May 27 (unanimous)
• Changed next meeting date to May 27 (agreed)

Ottawa Visitors Center Board

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board will hold a regular meeting on April 16, 2025. The agenda consists of procedural items: call to order, public comment, approval of minutes, and reports from the Chamber, City, and OVC. No specific decisions or new business items are listed.

• Motion to approve minutes of previous meeting
• Chamber Report from Jay
• City Report from Alaina
• OVC Report from Donna Reynolds
• Finance committee report to be placed on file

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board approved the April 16 meeting minutes as presented. The board also approved the finance report for the period ending April 11, 2025. After these actions, the board adjourned the meeting. All motions were carried.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved finance report (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The City Council will consider setting a public hearing for the fiscal year 2026 operating budget, awarding a bid for watermain replacements, and authorizing multiple service agreements for police, fire, and public works. The agenda also includes code amendments for fee collection and electrical licensing fees, along with a floodplain survey for Heritage Harbor.

• Set public hearing for fiscal year 2026 operating budget
• Award bid for 2025 watermain replacements
• Authorize floodplain survey and volume analysis for Heritage Harbor (Meritcorp)
• Amend electrical licensing fees (Section 22-161)
• Authorize consulting services agreement with Retail Strategies

The Ottawa City Council approved the minutes from the April 1 meeting and adopted a proclamation for Telecommunicator Week. It approved the biweekly payroll of $637,256.35 and the bimonthly expense report of $1,024,278.02. The council adopted the operating budget for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2025, set a public hearing, approved several ordinances, and awarded the watermain replacement contract.

• Approved minutes of the April 1, 2025 meeting – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Adopted proclamation declaring April 13‑19 as Telecommunicator Week – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $637,256.35 – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $1,024,278.02 – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Adopted operating budget for fiscal year starting May 1, 2025 and set public hearing for April 29 – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Accepted low bid of $571,726.10 from John Pohar & Sons Inc. for 2025 watermain replacements – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Passed ordinances amending municipal code sections for IDROP collection, electrical licenses/fees, and service disconnect locations – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none
• Reappointed Brad Bohler and Dena Weber to the Police Pension Fund Board (terms to expire April 2027) – Ayes: Eichelkraut, Ganiere, Pearson, Barron, Hasty; Nays: none

Playground & Recreation Board

The Playground & Recreation Board approved the March meeting minutes and the March financial report. It authorized the purchase of safety nets for the Olumn field and approved several maintenance fund allocations, including $10,000 for Little League and $4,000 each for Wolfpack and OBB. The board also approved the Ruiz Construction invoice and elected new officers.

• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March financial report (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of three safety nets and clips for Olumn field (unanimous)
• Approved Ruiz Construction invoice (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 maintenance funding for Little League (unanimous)
• Approved $4,000 maintenance funding for Wolfpack (unanimous)
• Approved $4,000 maintenance funding for OBB (unanimous)
• Elected Brent Roalson President, Maribeth Manigold Vice President, Ryan Cantilin Financial Officer (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss and potentially act on several items, including updates on a Certified Local Government grant for the South Bluff Historic Survey, plans for a sign event at the Methodist Church and Jordan Block, and a proposal regarding the round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of prior minutes, and discussion of preservation resources.

• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant) discussion
• Methodist Church and Jordan Block Sign Event
• Round horse fountain located on Ottawa Avenue
• Fort Johnson Signage discussion
• Promoting/educating historic preservation resources

The commission approved the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting with all ayes. A payment of $1,900 from the current budget was made toward the Fort Johnson signage. The commission noted a public meeting scheduled for April 16 to discuss the South Bluff Historic Survey.

• Approved minutes for March 13, 2025 meeting (all ayes)
• Paid $1,900 from current budget toward Fort Johnson signage

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will review a completed background check for a police hiring candidate and consider authorizing a new fire hire. They will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and take public comment. No other significant actions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of completed background check for police hiring
• Authorization for new fire hire
• Approval of March 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comment period

The board approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting. It authorized the start of hiring one new firefighter, with Matt Murphy identified as a potential candidate. The commission reviewed police candidate Mata’s background and confirmed he is eligible to begin the academy. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 a.m.

• Approved March 12, 2025 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved start of hiring process for one firefighter, considering Matt Murphy (all ayes)
• Noted police candidate Mata ready to move forward in hiring process (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:30 a.m. (all ayes)

Arts Committee

The Ottawa Arts Committee will consider several cultural initiatives, including marble sculptures, Morel Hunt murals, the En Plein Air Festival, and the Poet Laureate program. The meeting includes call to order, approval of minutes, public comment, and new business.

• Discussion of marble sculptures
• Update on Morel Hunt murals
• Planning for En Plein Air Festival
• Review of Poet Laureate program
• New business items

The Arts Committee approved the meeting minutes. It selected locations for three marble sculptures and set a May 1 unveiling date for each. The committee scheduled the Morel Murals unveiling at the May 3 Morel Fest and arranged a no‑commitment room block at the Fairfield Inn for the En Plein Air Festival. It also established a mid‑May call for Poet Laureate applications with the appointment expected in mid‑July.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Heather Pursley, seconded by Jocelyn Campbell)
• Decided marble sculpture locations: Natalie’s at Reddick Public Library, Ruth George’s at Scouting and Heritage Museum, Clara Brubaker’s at Canal Street Sculpture Walk; set May 1 unveiling dates
• Scheduled Morel Murals unveiling at Morel Fest on May 3
• Approved a no‑commitment room block at the Fairfield Inn for the En Plein Air Festival
• Agreed to a mid‑May call for Poet Laureate applications and a mid‑July announcement
• Assigned Ryan Searl to create a press release about the project
• Assigned Heather Pursley to create a Facebook event announcing the sculpture unveilings
• Assigned Amanda Zehr and Heather Pursley to complete the Morel Murals brochure and map for the May 3 event

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will meet for a budget workshop session. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is solely for discussion of the city budget.

• Budget workshop discussion only — no formal action taken

Special Events Committee

The Ottawa Special Events Committee will meet to discuss funding requests for two upcoming events, review past meeting minutes, and hear updates on ongoing and new initiatives. The agenda includes public comment and a financial report.

• Funding requests for Onyx Mixd and Mingle and Starved Rock Pop Singers Concert
• Review of minutes from February 6th meeting
• Updates on Kids Events, Fall Fest, MIP Brochure, Jordan Block Jams, and Easter Egg Hunt

The committee approved a $1,000 band grant for the ONYX Mix’d & Mingle event and a $700 budget for the Starved Rock Pop Singer Concert, with one member abstaining. It also approved a $200 correction for the Easter Egg Hunt photographer cost and accepted the end‑of‑year financial report. The meeting was formally adjourned.

• Approved $1,000 band funding for ONYX Mix’d & Mingle (motion approved)
• Approved $700 budget for Starved Rock Pop Singer Concert (motion approved, one abstention)
• Approved $200 correction for Easter Egg Hunt photographer cost (motion approved)
• Approved end‑of‑year financial report (motion approved)
• Approved meeting adjournment (motion approved)

City Council

The City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including a redevelopment agreement for 209 W. Main Street, adding video gaming regulations, and amending the alcoholic beverage code. Other items include agreements for LaSalle Street bridge engineering, an electrification plan, a floodplain survey, and debt recovery. Reports from police, fire, and building officials will also be presented.

• Ordinance authorizing a redevelopment agreement with Gioia Group LLC for 209 W. Main Street
• Ordinance adding Article IX to Chapter 14 of the Municipal Code for video gaming
• Ordinance amending Chapter 10 of the Municipal Code regarding alcoholic beverages
• Resolution authorizing an agreement with Teska & Associates for the LaSalle Street bridge
• Resolution authorizing a second amendment to the sewer service agreement with the Village of Naplate

The Ottawa City Council approved the minutes from the March 18 meeting and authorized several financial and operational items. Key actions included adopting a redevelopment agreement for 209 W. Main Street, adding video gaming licensing provisions to the municipal code, and approving multiple infrastructure resolutions. All motions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Approved minutes of March 18, 2025 meeting (4-0)
• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $645,832.93 (4-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $521,453.92 (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance for redevelopment agreement with Gioia Group LLC at 209 W. Main St (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance adding Article IX to Chapter 14 on video gaming licensing and fees (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Resolution for second amendment to sewer service agreement with Village of Naplate (4-0)
• Approved Resolution for LaSalle Street underpass bridge aesthetics with Teska Associates Inc. (4-0)
• Approved Resolution for transportation electrification plan with REACH Strategies (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will meet for a budget workshop session. The agenda states that no formal action will be taken by the Council during this meeting.

• Budget Workshop Session

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a solar project proposal. One other conditional use request has been continued to a later date.

• Public hearing for Sunvest Solar, LLC large scale solar project at Canal Road and ADM entrance
• Conditional Use request from Heritage Christian Center for residential use at 900 Hitt St. (continued to April 28, 2025)

The commission approved the February 24 minutes. It then voted to continue the Heritage Christian Center residential use hearing and the Sunvest Solar industrial use hearing until the April 28 meeting.

• Approved February 24 minutes (5-0)
• Continued Heritage Christian Center conditional-use hearing to Apr 28 (5-0)
• Continued Sunvest Solar conditional-use hearing to Apr 28 (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals public hearing scheduled for March 20, 2025, has been cancelled. No items will be considered.

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will hold a public hearing on 12 annexation agreements for the Fields Hill area, then consider a range of ordinances and resolutions. Key items include a 1% non-home rule sales tax, a redevelopment agreement with Gioia Group LLC at 209 W. Main Street, and multiple annexations of specific properties. The council will also act on grants for transportation (NCAT), fire equipment, sewer projects, and park land acquisition.

• Public hearing on 12 annexation agreements for parcels in Fields Hill
• Ordinance implementing a 1% non-home rule municipal retailers' occupation tax and service occupation tax
• Resolution authorizing a redevelopment agreement with Gioia Group LLC at 209 W. Main Street
• Resolution authorizing an OSLAD grant agreement for Community Park Land Acquisition
• Ordinance authorizing borrowing from the IL EPA water pollution control loan program

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved 12 annexation agreements for properties in Field Hill, along with a 1% non-home-rule municipal retailers' occupation tax and service occupation tax. The council also approved several resolutions and ordinances, including a $10,344.06 digester fan replacement, a sewer separation bid advertisement, and a loan for the new Fox River Wastewater Treatment Plant. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved 12 Field Hill annexation agreements (5-0)
• Approved 1% non-home-rule municipal retailers' and service occupation tax (5-0)
• Approved $10,344.06 digester fan replacement for Water Treatment Plant (5-0)
• Authorized advertising for bids for Canal Street Storm Sewer project (5-0)
• Approved borrowing from Illinois EPA for new Fox River Wastewater Treatment Plant (5-0)
• Approved employment agreement for Accounts Payable Clerk Cortney DeArcos (5-0)
• Approved NCAT-related resolutions and ordinance (5-0)
• Approved OSLAD Community Park Acquisition Grant agreement (5-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss several preservation matters, including a sign for the Church and Jordan Block, a historic survey of the South Bluff area funded by a CLG grant, and the Commercial Historic District. The commission will also consider promoting historic preservation resources and a round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue.

• Church and Jordan Block Sign
• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant)
• Commercial Historic District
• Round horse fountain located on Ottawa Avenue
• Promoting/Educating Historic Preservation Resources

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission approved the January 9, 2025 minutes as amended. They reviewed window cling designs and the MapMe interactive map, with further review planned next month. Both Church and Jordan Block signs were installed, and an unveiling event is being considered. A public meeting for the South Bluff Historic Survey is scheduled for April 16, 2025.

• Approved January 9, 2025 minutes as amended (all ayes)
• Reviewed window cling designs and MapMe map; further review next month
• Noted installation of Church and Jordan Block signs; discussed unveiling event
• Scheduled public meeting for South Bluff Historic Survey on April 16, 2025
• Discussed Fort Johnson Historic Marker sign with budget allocation of $1,800 this year and $1,200 next year

Playground & Recreation Board

The Playground and Recreation Board will approve February minutes and financial report, hear committee updates, and discuss new business including the 2025 Riordan Pool. Committee reports cover leagues, parks, programs, and social media.

• Bid for B & G Electrical under Leagues committee
• OGFA $8,000 maintenance money
• Weather Radios discussion
• Batting Cages at June Gross Fields
• 2025 Riordan Pool Information

The Playground and Recreation Board approved multiple expenditures, including a $43,520 fence for the dog park and under $20,000 for drinking fountains there, funded partly by a $50,000 pledge from Bill Walsh Jr. and family. They also approved a $6,620 three-way split for LED lights at North Diamond, $8,000 for field maintenance, $1,500 for batting cage repairs, and $1,300 for a new net. A proposal for a mental health hub at Allen Park was discussed but not voted on.

• Approved $43,520 dog park fence (all in favor)
• Approved Grand Rapids drinking fountains at dog park under $20,000 (all in favor)
• Approved $6,620 each split for B&G Electric LED lights (all in favor)
• Approved $8,000 OGFA maintenance for 4 fields at $2,000 each (all in favor)
• Approved up to $1,500 for batting cage repairs at June Gross Field (all in favor)
• Approved purchase of 4 weather radios (all in favor)
• Approved memorial bench in dog park (all in favor)
• Approved February minutes and financial report (all in favor)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will convene a workshop session focused on the city budget. No formal votes or binding decisions are scheduled; the session is for discussion and review only.

• Budget workshop session – no details provided in the agenda

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will hold a routine meeting to approve minutes from the previous session and discuss police personnel matters, specifically promotion or retirement letters for an individual named Ganiere. No other substantive items are listed; the remainder of the agenda is procedural.

• Police promotion/retirement letters for Ganiere
• Approval of minutes from Feb 19, 2025 meeting

The Board approved the promotion of Corporal Matt Najdonovich to Sergeant and Jonathon Berninger to Corporal, creating a vacancy that led to a conditional offer to the next eligible police candidate, Alex Mata. The Board also noted a firefighter resignation and discussed ongoing fire hiring.

• Approved minutes of February 19, 2025 meeting (all ayes)
• Promoted Corporal Matt Najdonovich to Sergeant (motion by Malinsky, second by Brown)
• Promoted Jonathon Berninger to Corporal (motion by Brown, second by Malinsky)
• Authorized conditional offer to Alex Mata for police patrolman vacancy (motion by Malinsky, second by McTaggart)

Special Events Committee

The committee is meeting to review staffing and schedules for Music In the Park 2025 and the Summer Event Schedule. Members will also discuss the status of event brochures and the Jordan Block Jams update.

• Music In the park 2025 staffing and events schedule
• Easter egg Hunt scheduling and volunteer needs
• Jordan Block Jams update
• Summer Event Schedule
• Brochure status

The committee approved the February minutes and discussed the financial report, noting the need for income figures and clarifying Garden Gates/Floret costs as reimbursements. They set the Easter Egg Hunt for April 19 at Allen Park, scheduled a City Pool Party for August 3, and decided to replace the movie with a skate party at Paramount Rink. No funding requests or public comments were made.

• Approved February 6, 2025 minutes
• Scheduled Easter Egg Hunt for April 19 at Allen Park (9-11 am)
• Set City Pool Party for August 3, 2025 (12-4 pm)
• Replaced movie with Skate Party at Paramount Rink (date TBD)
• Set Fall Festival for October 5
• Noted prom dates to avoid conflicts

City Council

The City Council will consider multiple items including employment agreements, infrastructure contracts, TIF redevelopment agreements for two properties, annexation agreements, and a settlement with AFSCME. They will also hold a closed session for collective bargaining on a police grievance.

• TIF redevelopment agreements with Ottawa Investment Group LLC for 603 LaSalle Street and 616-618 Court Street
• Annexation agreements with Fields Hill properties
• Settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819 and Terrell Shepherd
• OSLAD grant agreement for Community Park Land Acquisition
• Closed session for collective bargaining on Step III Police Grievance

The Ottawa City Council approved two TIF redevelopment agreements with Ottawa Investment Group LLC for properties at 603 LaSalle Street and 616-618 Court Street, and awarded a $55,808 watermain extension bid to John Pohar & Sons Inc. for the Caton Road project. A resolution to authorize a settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819 and Terrell Shepherd regarding a personal day failed on a 2-3 vote. The council also approved numerous resolutions for engineering services, parade closures, and a fireworks display agreement, and set a public hearing for March 18 on 12 annexation agreements in Fields Hill.

• Approved TIF redevelopment agreement for 603 LaSalle Street (5-0)
• Approved TIF redevelopment agreement for 616-618 Court Street (5-0)
• Awarded $55,808 Caton Road watermain extension bid to John Pohar & Sons Inc. (5-0)
• Denied settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819 and Terrell Shepherd (2-3)
• Approved $622,577.80 biweekly salary payroll (5-0)
• Approved $1,172,106.14 bimonthly expense report (5-0)
• Adopted resolutions for South water tower generator and installation (5-0)
• Set public hearing for March 18 on 12 Fields Hill annexation agreements (5-0)

Arts Committee

The Ottawa Arts Committee will vote on submissions for the Morel Hunt Murals and discuss follow-up on Marble Sculptures. The En Plein Air Festival logistics are also addressed, including shuttle service, room block pricing, and catering options. Further discussion on the Poet Laureate and new business are on the agenda.

• Voting on Morel Hunt Murals submissions
• Follow-up on Marble Sculptures
• En Plein Air Festival shuttle service follow-up (Annette Barr)
• En Plein Air Festival room block pricing (Heather Pursley)
• Further discussion on Poet Laureate

The Ottawa Arts Committee approved all submitted morel hunt mural designs and selected locations for marble sculptures, including the Reddick Public Library green space, Scouting Museum, and Sculpture Walk. The committee also unanimously approved the Poet Laureate program and decided to open a call for submissions. No public comments were made, and the meeting was procedural in nature.

• Approved 6 morel mural submissions unanimously
• Approved 5 additional morel mural submissions via email unanimously
• Agreed on marble sculpture locations: Reddick Public Library green space, Scouting Museum, Sculpture Walk
• Approved Poet Laureate program unanimously
• Decided to put out a call for Poet Laureate submissions
• Scheduled marble sculpture unveiling for May 1
• Scheduled morel sculpture unveiling during Morel Fest

City Council

The City Council is holding a workshop session focused on the budget. No formal votes or decisions will occur. The agenda includes only roll call, the budget workshop, and new business, followed by adjournment.

• Budget workshop discussion

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will vote on a final plat for Ottawa Industrial Park Unit 2, Resubdivision #1 and a preliminary and final plat for Better Farming Association #1. No old business is on the agenda. The meeting includes approval of minutes from January 26, 2025, and a reminder of the March 24, 2025 meeting.

• Consideration of final plat for Ottawa Industrial Park Unit 2, Resubdivision #1
• Consideration of preliminary and final plat for Better Farming Association #1
• Approval of minutes from January 26, 2025 Plan Commission meeting

The Ottawa Plan Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a final plat consolidating five lots into one for Amazon.com Services, LLC at Ottawa Industrial Park Unit 2, and a preliminary and final plat for Better Farming Association #1 to split off a building for sale. Both recommendations will go to the City Council for final action.

• Approved final plat for Ottawa Industrial Park Unit 2, Resubdivision #1 (4-0)
• Approved preliminary and final plat for Better Farming Association #1 (4-0)

Port District

The Ottawa Port District will hold its monthly meeting to discuss routine financial matters, member reports, and citizen communications. Old business includes reviews of grant administration, riverfront activity, and train/traffic congestion.

Fire Pension Board

The Ottawa Firefighters Pension Board will hold its quarterly meeting to review financial reports, approve invoices, and discuss old and new business. Key items include approval of retirement benefits for Jason Ward, annual raises, and the municipal compliance report.

• Approval of retirement benefits for Jason Ward
• Approval of annual raises for board members
• Approval of invoices including Asher, Gittler & D’Alba and McDonald IME
• Discussion of service break discrepancies and letters
• Reappointments to the board starting 2025

The Ottawa Fire Pension Board approved retirement benefits for Jason Ward with an initial monthly benefit of $4,539.32, effective 2/13/2025. The board also accepted the financial report showing a net position of $22,078,425.25, approved compliance reports, COLA raises, invoices, and changed the November meeting date to 12/17/25.

• Approved retirement benefits for Jason Ward, $4,539.32/month (5-0)
• Accepted financial report with net position $22,078,425.25 (5-0)
• Approved Municipal Compliance Report, Actuarial Valuation, and Tax Levy (5-0)
• Approved yearly COLA raises per state statute (5-0)
• Approved invoices totaling $7,333.87 (5-0)
• Changed November meeting date to 12/17/25 at 1530

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a workshop session focused on the budget. No formal votes or decisions will be taken at this meeting; it is solely for discussion.

• Budget workshop discussion only

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for February 20, 2025, has been cancelled.

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will hold a brief meeting to approve previous meeting minutes and certify a candidate for a Public Works position. The agenda also includes public comment, new business, and old business.

• Certify a candidate for Public Works position

The Civil Service Commission approved conditional employment for the next eligible candidate on the General Labor/Building Maintenance eligibility register to fill a Public Works vacancy caused by a retirement. The commission also discussed creating a new eligibility list if the current one is exhausted and noted that IVCC will update the General Office exam this spring. No public comment was received, and the meeting was adjourned after routine approvals.

• Approved minutes of November 11, 2024, as written (all ayes)
• Approved conditional employment offer to next eligible candidate on General Labor/Building Maintenance register (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35 a.m. (all ayes)

Ottawa Visitors Center Board

This is a regular meeting of the Ottawa Visitors Center Board with standard agenda items including public comment, approval of minutes, and reports from the Chamber, City, and OVC. The board will receive a finance report to be placed on file and set the next meeting for April 16, 2025. No major decisions or substantive proposals are listed.

• Next board meeting scheduled for April 16, 2025 at 5 PM
• Finance committee report to be placed on file
• Reports from Chamber (Jay), City (Dave), and OVC (Donna)

The Ottawa Visitors Center Board met on February 19, 2025, and approved the minutes from the January 15 meeting and the finance report for the period ending February 19, 2025. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural, with reports on marketing, the travel guide, and the chamber. The board also discussed requesting a copy of city expenses from the Hotel/Motel tax fund.

• Approved January 15 board meeting minutes as presented (motion carried)
• Approved finance report for period ending February 19, 2025 (motion carried)
• Adjourned at 5:57 p.m. (motion carried)

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will determine preference points and the final eligibility list for entry-level police candidates. The board will also discuss police promotions, retirements, and firefighter testing schedules.

• Award preference points to police entry-level candidates
• Approve final eligibility list for police entry-level candidates
• Discussion on police promotion and retirement
• Update on new fire department hire Derrick Hobbs
• Discussion of firefighter testing dates and times with IOS

The Board approved preference points for police entry-level candidates, awarding 5 points to veterans and bachelor's degree holders, and 0 points to three candidates who did not meet criteria. It also approved the final eligibility list for police entry-level candidates. The Board reviewed a retirement letter and discussed a future promotion, and approved moving forward with a new firefighter hire.

• Approved minutes of January 8, 2025 meeting (all ayes)
• Awarded 5 preference points to 6 veteran candidates (all ayes)
• Awarded 5 preference points to 3 bachelor's degree candidates (all ayes)
• Awarded 0 preference points to 3 candidates not meeting criteria (all ayes)
• Approved final eligibility list for police entry-level candidates (all ayes)
• Reviewed Donahue's retirement letter; promotion to be discussed next meeting
• Noted background check for firefighter hire Derrick Hobbs was positive; academy in September

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will hold a regular meeting on February 18, 2025, to vote on a series of resolutions, ordinances, and motions. Key items include TIF redevelopment agreements for two properties, surplus revenue declarations for four TIF districts, and multiple contracts for fire department training, firefighter exams, generator installation, bridge inspections, curb replacement, street maintenance, water plant studies, and watermain projects. The council will also consider fundraisers and approve payroll and financial reports.

• Ordinance approving TIF redevelopment agreement with Ottawa Investment Group LLC for 603 LaSalle Street
• Ordinance approving TIF redevelopment agreement with Ottawa Investment Group LLC for 616-618 Court Street
• Ordinance declaring surplus revenue in the North, East, Downtown, and Route 71 TIF Districts
• Resolution authorizing a proposal with Fire Engineering Training
• Resolution authorizing a design & inspection services agreement for the 2025 Curb Replacement Project

The Ottawa City Council unanimously approved the biweekly salary payroll of $612,108.37 and bimonthly expenses of $4,032,984.41, along with several contracts and agreements. These included employment agreements for NCAT staff, fire department training software, a firefighter exam, a generator for the South water tower, masonry and door replacements, and engineering services for bridges, watermains, and street projects. The council also passed ordinances declaring surplus revenue in four TIF districts for distribution to taxing districts, and approved two fundraiser requests.

• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $612,108.37 (unanimous)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $4,032,984.41 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for NCAT employment agreements for John Araujo and Frank Youngblood (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for Fire Engineering Training online software (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for I/O Solutions firefighter exam (unanimous)
• Approved $17,575 quote from Ottawa Masonry Inc. for IVCC masonry work (unanimous)
• Approved $10,300 quote from Raynor Door Authority for police overhead door (unanimous)
• Passed ordinances declaring surplus revenue in four TIF districts for distribution (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss updates on the Church and Jordan Block sign installation, the South Bluff Historic Survey under a CLG Grant, and the Commercial Historic District. They will also address promoting historic preservation resources and the round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue, along with routine old and new business.

• Church and Jordan Block sign installation scheduled week of February 17th
• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant) discussion
• Commercial Historic District update
• Round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue discussion

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission meeting on February 13, 2025, was adjourned because a quorum was not present. No substantive decisions were made or discussed.

Playground & Recreation Board

This is a procedural meeting with no major decisions or public hearings. The board will approve January minutes and the recreation financial report, and receive updates from committees and the director.

• Approve January meeting minutes
• Approve January Recreation Financial Report
• Commissioner’s, President’s, and Director’s reports
• Committee reports on by-laws, budget, parks, programs, leagues, and social media

The Playground and Recreation Board approved the February minutes and the January recreational financial report. They discussed the dog park project, which has $34,000 in donations but estimated costs exceeding $100,000, and the Peck Park walking path, estimated at $191,000, with a proposal to split costs with the commissioner. No formal votes were taken on these projects.

• Approved February minutes (motion by Phil, second by Randy)
• Approved January recreational financial report (motion by Melissa, second by Steve)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Melissa, second by Steve)

Special Events Committee

The Ottawa Special Events Committee will review two funding requests totaling $2,800: $300 for the Coldest Night of the Year run by Illinois Valley Pads and $2,500 for the Starved Rock Country Marathon. The committee will also discuss new events planned for 2025, staffing for Music in the Park, and follow-up on survey forms for that event. Approval of minutes from the December 5 meeting and a financial report are also on the agenda.

• Funding request: Coldest Night of the Year – Illinois Valley Pads $300
• Funding request: Starved Rock Country Marathon $2,500
• Discussion of new events for 2025
• Music in the Park 2025 staffing plan
• Follow-up on Music in the Park survey forms

The Ottawa Special Events Committee approved two funding requests: $300 for three porta potties for the Coldest Night of the Year event on February 22, and $2,000 for porta potties for the Starved Rock Country Marathon on May 10 (amended down from the requested $2,500). The committee also approved the December 3, 2024 meeting minutes and the financial report, with a suggestion that future reports show income and expenses for each event. Committee representatives were assigned to each 2025 Music in the Park concert date.

• Approved $300 for three porta potties for Coldest Night of the Year (motion by Hennenfent, 2nd by Moore)
• Approved $2,000 for porta potties for Starved Rock Country Marathon, amended from $2,500 (motion by Hennenfent, 2nd by Wilson)
• Approved minutes from December 3, 2024 (motion by Reilly, 2nd by Moore)
• Approved financial report with suggestion to show income and expenses per event (motion by Chapman, 2nd by Dougherty)
• Assigned committee representatives to 12 Music in the Park 2025 concert dates

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will vote on resolutions including a waterfront project study with SB Friedman Development Advisors, several agreements for firefighter training and testing, a side letter with the Police Benevolent Committee, and settlements with AFSCME. They will also consider an ordinance for Trinity Lutheran Church at 717 Chambers Street and multiple employment agreements.

• Resolution authorizing proposal with SB Friedman Development Advisors for waterfront project
• Resolution authorizing engineering agreement with Etscheid Duttlinger & Associates for 2025 watermains
• Resolution authorizing settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819 regarding Jay Abram
• Resolution authorizing side letter agreement with Police Benevolent Labor Committee on work shifts
• Ordinance for Trinity Lutheran Church at 717 Chambers Street

The Ottawa City Council approved the biweekly salary payroll of $634,540.86 and the bimonthly expense report of $1,517,486.36. It adopted resolutions for a firefighter training agreement with the University of Illinois, a warning siren maintenance agreement with Braniff Communications, a settlement with AFSCME Local 2819 regarding Jay Abram, and an advisory services engagement with SB Friedman for the downtown waterfront. The council also approved quotes for Parks Department office improvements ($13,840) and a new motor for Well #10 ($14,419), and granted a conditional use permit to Trinity Lutheran Church for a school at 717 Chambers Street.

• Approved biweekly salary payroll of $634,540.86
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $1,517,486.36
• Adopted firefighter training agreement with University of Illinois
• Adopted warning siren maintenance agreement with Braniff Communications
• Adopted settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819 regarding Jay Abram (mayor abstained)
• Approved $13,840 quote for Parks Department office and break room
• Approved $14,419 quote for new motor for Well #10
• Granted conditional use permit to Trinity Lutheran Church for school at 717 Chambers Street

Arts Committee

The Arts Committee will meet to discuss several public art projects and community programs. The agenda includes updates on sculptures, murals, and the city's poet laureate.

• Marble Sculptures
• Morel Hunt Murals
• En Plein Air Festival
• Poet Laureate
• Mosaic Flower Rehab Update

The Ottawa Arts Committee approved three of four marble sculpture submissions, selected Clara Brubaker, Ruth George, and Natalie Zelman. They also rescheduled the En Plein Air Festival to Sept. 12-14, 2025, and set a Feb. 26 deadline for morel hunt mural artist applications.

• Approved marble sculpture submissions by Clara Brubaker, Ruth George, and Natalie Zelman
• Changed En Plein Air Festival dates to Sept. 12-14, 2025
• Set Feb. 26 deadline for morel hunt mural artist applications
• Approved minutes from previous meeting

Police Pension Board

The Ottawa Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will discuss and potentially approve the actuarial valuation and tax levy request, annual cost of living adjustments for pensioners, and a cash management policy. They will also review monthly financials, approve bills, and address membership applications including a contribution refund and new members. Trustee training expenses and the municipal compliance report are also on the agenda.

• Review/Approve – Actuarial Valuation and Tax Levy Request
• Approve Annual Cost of Living Adjustments for Pensioners
• Discussion/Possible Action – Cash Management Policy
• Contribution Refund – Juan Tornero Jr.
• Applications for Membership – Sofian Riahi and Daniel Rodriguez

The board approved the actuarial valuation recommending a $1,679,831 municipal contribution, adopted the Municipal Compliance Report, and approved 2025 Cost of Living Adjustments for pensioners. It also accepted two new members, approved a contribution refund, and reviewed financial reports showing a net position of $33.9 million.

• Approved October 29, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Accepted monthly financial report and approved $14,293.79 in disbursements (5-0)
• Approved $10,956.30 contribution refund to Juan Tornero Jr. (5-0)
• Accepted Sofia Riahi as Tier II member effective Jan 6, 2025 (5-0)
• Accepted Daniel Rodriguez as Tier II member effective Jan 6, 2025 (5-0)
• Acknowledged receipt of actuarial valuation with $1,679,831 recommended contribution (5-0)
• Adopted Municipal Compliance Report (5-0)
• Approved 2025 Cost of Living Adjustments (5-0)

Electrical Commission

The Ottawa Electrical Commission will vote on a proposed rewrite of Section 22-168-270(A)(1) clarifying service disconnect locations for dwellings and other occupancies. The meeting also includes reports on license renewals and inspections, discussion of hiring a third Electrical Inspector, a policy that no refunds will be issued for paid permit fees, and initial discussions on site requirements for electric vehicle chargers.

• Approval of new language for Section 22-168-270(A)(1) requiring outside service disconnects for one- and two-family dwellings and within 10 feet of entrance for other occupancies
• Hiring of Brian Benavides as a third Electrical Inspector, approved by City Council
• Determination that no refunds will be given for paid Electrical Permit fees, but cancelled project fees can be applied to another job
• Discussion on site requirements for electric vehicle (E.V.) chargers
• Electrical Inspector report: 7 new licenses issued, 14 exams administered (12 pass, 6 fail), 133 total inspections in Oct–Dec 2024

The Ottawa Electrical Commission approved new language for Section 22-168-270(A) of the Municipal Electrical code, which will be sent to the City Council for approval. The changes require electrical service disconnects to be installed in readily accessible locations, either outside or within 10 feet of the service entrance. The commission also introduced a new Electrical Inspector, discussed EV charger site requirements, and noted that no refunds will be given for electrical permit fees, though fees can be applied to another job if a project is cancelled.

• Approved language for Section 22-168-270(A) of the Municipal Electrical code (motion carried)
• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of October 15, 2024 (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission holds a public hearing to consider a conditional use request from Trinity Lutheran Church to operate a school in the A-2 (Single and Two Family Residential) District at 717 Chambers Street. No other business is on the agenda.

• Public hearing: conditional use request from Trinity Lutheran Church for a school at 717 Chambers Street (A-2 Residential District)

The Ottawa Plan Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend approval of a conditional use permit for Trinity Lutheran Church to operate a Montessori school in an existing building at 717 Chambers Street. The school would start with 15-17 students and cap at 50 within five years. The recommendation will go to the City Council for final decision. The commission also discussed the proposed amphitheater and expressed interest in being involved in its design.

• Approved minutes from August 26, 2024 meeting (4-0)
• Recommended conditional use for Trinity Lutheran Church school at 717 Chambers St. (4-0)

City Council

The Ottawa City Council will hold a public hearing on the closeout of a CDBG Housing Grant and vote on multiple resolutions. Items include a settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819, design contracts for a new amphitheater and Waterfront Park, and employment agreements for part-time inspectors. An ordinance amending the ejector pump program reimbursement is also on the agenda.

• Public hearing: Closeout for CDBG Housing Grant
• Resolution – Settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819 (Jay Abram)
• Resolution – Preliminary design services agreement with Lamar Johnson Collaborative for amphitheater
• Resolution – Design development plan agreement with Ginkgo for Waterfront Park
• Ordinance – Amending Section 106-311 of Municipal Code (ejector pump program reimbursement)

The Ottawa City Council approved the closeout of the 2021 CDBG housing grant, which funded rehabilitation of 11 houses totaling $570,000, and approved the purchase of 1,200 tons of deicing salt for $89,532. The council also adopted resolutions for a CDBG storm sewer separation grant, a water/wastewater management agreement, a change order for water main replacements, an ejector pump reimbursement increase, and several professional service agreements for waterfront projects. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on a settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 2819.

• Approved closeout of 2021 CDBG housing grant (11 houses, $570,000 total)
• Approved $89,532 purchase of 1,200 tons deicing salt from Morton Salt Inc.
• Adopted resolution for CDBG Storm Sewer Separation grant agreement with Illinois DCEO
• Adopted management and supervision agreement with Total Environmental Service Technologies Inc. for Water & Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Approved Change Order #1 from John Pohar & Sons Inc. for $64,063.05 for 2024 water main replacements
• Passed ordinance increasing ejector pump program reimbursement to $2,500.00
• Adopted resolution for master professional services agreement with Deckard Technologies Inc. for short-term rental software
• Adopted resolutions for waterfront amphitheater design, waterfront master plan Phase 1, and employment agreements for part-time Electrical Inspector and Code Enforcement Officer

Electrical Commission

The Ottawa Electrical Commission will review the October 2024 minutes, hear the electrical inspector's report on licenses and tests, and discuss two municipal code language updates: one concerning disconnect requirements for 1- and 2-family residential structures and another on permit reimbursement.

• Code language update on disconnect requirements at service of 1- and 2-family residential structures
• Code language update on permit reimbursement
• Electrical inspector report: current active licenses (439 for 2024), new licenses (210 in December 2024), test results (4 pass, 1 fail in December 2024)
• Next licensing exam scheduled for February 7, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for January 16, 2025, has been cancelled.

Playground & Recreation Board

The Ottawa Playground and Recreation Board will hold a routine meeting to approve the December meeting minutes and the December recreation financial report. The agenda includes commissioner, president, and director reports, along with updates from various committees (bylaws, budget, parks, programs, leagues, social media). No public hearings or major action items are listed.

• Approve December meeting minutes
• Approve December recreation financial report
• Committee reports: bylaws, budget, parks, programs, leagues, social media

The Playground and Recreation Board approved sending an Active quote to lawyers to advance the process, and discussed changing the code to charge fees for pavilion and pool passes. The board also approved the December minutes and financial report. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved December minutes (all in favor)
• Approved December recreational financial report (all in favor)
• Approved sending Active quote to lawyers (all in favor)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review the South Bluff Historic Survey and determine which properties to include in the Commercial Historic District map. The body will also discuss resources for promoting historic preservation and the round horse fountain on Ottawa Avenue.

• South Bluff Historic Survey (CLG Grant)
• Commercial Historic District property map inclusions
• Round horse fountain located on Ottawa Avenue

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission approved the November 14, 2024 minutes as amended. They reviewed the list of contributing buildings in the Ottawa Commercial Historic District and selected 28 addresses to feature in a flyer and map. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November 14, 2024 minutes as amended (all ayes)
• Selected 28 addresses for Commercial Historic District flyer and map

Board of Fire & Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will hear an update on entry-level police hiring and discuss fire hiring. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of previous minutes, and routine business items.

• Police Hiring – Entry Level Update
• Fire Hiring discussion
• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Public Comment period

The Board approved a conditional offer of employment to the next eligible firefighter candidate following a resignation, and noted that two new police hires started at the academy on January 7 after a weather delay. The board also received 20+ applications for the entry-level police exam. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved conditional offer to next eligible firefighter candidate (all ayes)
• Approved minutes of December 13, 2024 meeting (all ayes)

City Council

The council will vote on seven resolutions, including agreements for short-term rental software, park design projects, and a storm sewer grant. Commissioner reports for Public Health & Safety and Public Property are empty. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and a public comment period.

• Resolution authorizing intergovernmental agreement with LaSalle County for seal coating
• Resolution authorizing master services agreement with Deckard Technologies for short-term rental software
• Resolution authorizing preliminary design services agreement with Lamar Johnson Collaborative for amphitheater grant
• Resolution authorizing design development plan with Ginkgo for Waterfront Park
• Resolution authorizing grant agreement with IL Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity for storm sewer separation

The Ottawa City Council approved the minutes, payrolls, and expense report, and adopted a resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with LaSalle County for seal coating of city streets. Several other resolutions were received and placed on file for public inspection, including agreements for short-term rental software, waterfront amphitheater design, waterfront master plan infrastructure, a CDBG grant, a part-time electrical inspector employment agreement, and water/wastewater plant management. All votes were unanimous (3-0) with two commissioners absent.

• Approved minutes of Dec 17, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Approved biweekly salary payrolls totaling $1,343,103.83 (3-0)
• Approved bimonthly expense report of $603,087.68 (3-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing intergovernmental agreement with LaSalle County for seal coating (3-0)
• Placed on file resolution for Deckard Technologies short-term rental software agreement
• Placed on file resolution for Lamar Johnson Collaborative amphitheater design agreement
• Placed on file resolution for Gingko Planning & Design waterfront infrastructure agreement
• Placed on file resolution for CDBG Storm Sewer Separation grant agreement