Columbia public meetings in 2024

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss the city's draft comprehensive plan and consider a resolution for the Veterans Parkway Sidewalk Connector Project. The body will also review payments for city vouchers and enter a closed session regarding real estate.

• Payment of vouchers for Nov 26 to Dec 11 totaling $802,266.58
• Resolution No. 2024-27 for the Veterans Parkway Sidewalk Connector Project TAP Grant
• Discussion of the Draft Comprehensive Plan
• Closed session regarding the purchase or lease of real property
• Closed session regarding the sale or lease of city-owned property

The City Council approved Resolution No. 2024-27 supporting the city's application for an Illinois Department of Transportation TAP grant for the Veterans Parkway Sidewalk Connector Project. The council also approved the consent agenda as amended, removing the closed session minutes from December 2, 2024. A discussion on the draft Comprehensive Plan was held, with the Plan Commission recommending approval, but no formal action was taken. The council entered closed session to discuss real property purchase or lease and returned to regular session before adjourning.

• Approved Resolution No. 2024-27 supporting TAP grant application for Veterans Parkway sidewalk (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda as amended, excluding closed session minutes (7-0)
• Entered closed session to discuss real property purchase/lease (7-0)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing to consider recommending adoption of the Comprehensive Plan 2024 – Looking to the Future, which updates the city’s 2005 plan and provides a long-term framework for land use, transportation, housing, and infrastructure. The hearing is a key step before the plan goes to the City Council. Commissioners will also vote on minutes from the October 15 meeting.

• Public hearing on draft Comprehensive Plan 2024 – Looking to the Future, replacing the 2005 plan
• Discussion of supporting policy initiatives: zoning code overhaul, strategic plan, and financial plan
• Approval of October 15, 2024 Plan Commission minutes

The Plan Commission held a public hearing on the draft Comprehensive Plan, heard testimony from two residents, and voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Council, subject to formatting and grammatical edits. The plan will go to the City Council for first reading on December 16 and adoption in January. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of October 15, 2024 meeting with amendment (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Comprehensive Plan to City Council (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss tax levies for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2025, and the abating of certain taxes for GO Bonds. The body is also considering a preliminary engineering agreement for the Gall Road Reconstruction – Phase 1 Project.

• Payment of vouchers totaling $144,258.44, including $64,157.63 to Karl Chevrolet Inc for police vehicles
• Ordinance No. 3688 levying taxes for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2025
• Preliminary Engineering Agreement with Gonzalez Companies, LLC for Gall Road Reconstruction – Phase 1
• Ordinance No. 3686 and 3687 regarding abating taxes for Series 2015 and 2020 GO Bonds
• Resolution No. 2024-26 for improvement under the Illinois Highway Code

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board meeting scheduled for November 26, 2024, has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting is January 28, 2025.

City Council

The Columbia City Council will discuss the property tax levy for tax year 2024 and vote on a motion to approve the 2025 employee benefits renewal. The consent agenda includes approval of vouchers totaling $607,948.82 and a Small Business Saturday proclamation. The council will also go into closed session to discuss real property purchase, lease, or sale.

• Discussion of property tax levy for tax year 2024 (payable in 2025)
• Motion to approve 2025 employee benefits renewal
• Consent agenda: payment of vouchers totaling $607,948.82
• Proclamation declaring November 30, 2024 as Small Business Saturday
• Closed session to discuss purchase or lease of real property and setting price for sale or lease

Plan Commission

The City of Columbia Plan Commission meeting scheduled for November 12, 2024, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled; no business conducted.

City Council

The Columbia City Council will meet to consider a special use permit for a short-term rental at 124 West Washington in the C-2 district, approve the FY2024 audit presentation, and authorize payment of vouchers totaling $665,300.54. The council will also discuss 2025 employee benefits renewal and approve the sale of surplus personal property. A closed session is scheduled to discuss the purchase or lease of real property.

• Special use permit for short-term rental at 124 West Washington in C-2 General Business District
• Presentation of FY2024 audit by Schmersahl Treloar & Co.
• Payment of vouchers totaling $665,300.54, including $423,512 for 2015 Go Alt Revenue Bond
• Ordinance No. 3684 authorizing sale of surplus personal property
• Discussion of 2025 employee benefits renewal

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

This meeting was cancelled. No business will be conducted. The next regular meeting is November 26, 2024.

City Council

The City Council will consider awarding grants for building façades at several Main Street and Locust Street addresses. The body will also discuss a special use permit for a short-term rental and the 2025 insurance renewal.

• Payment of vouchers totaling $436,420.99
• Resolution No. 2024-22 awarding Building Façade Program grants for 123, 124, 126, and 608 S. Main St. and 111-117 W. Locust St.
• Special Use Permit discussion for a short-term rental at 124 West Washington
• 2025 Illinois Municipal League Risk Management Association Insurance Renewal discussion
• Municipal Electric Aggregation Program discussion

Heritage and Preservation Commission

The Heritage and Preservation Commission will meet to discuss two preservation-related items: a request to allow architectural shingles on the Old Shoemaker School House/Pop-Up Shop and an update on the status of the Schneider Farmstead property. The meeting is open to public input and will be held at City Hall.

• Consideration of Architectural Shingles for Old Shoemaker School House/Pop-Up Shop
• Status of Schneider Farmstead Property

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a request for a special use permit to allow a short-term rental at 124 West Washington Street in the C-2 General Business District. The property is a two-bedroom, one-bath single-family dwelling with no off-street parking; staff recommends approval with an occupancy limit of three tenants. The commission will also consider approving minutes from the August 12, 2024 regular meeting.

• Public hearing on special use permit for short-term rental at 124 West Washington Street (Stacy Steele, Hometown Select Properties)
• Staff report recommends approval with findings of consistency with comprehensive plan and no negative impacts
• Property located on corner lot of West Washington Street and South Rapp Avenue, zoned C-2 General Business District
• Approval would require compliance with Chapter 5.08 of Columbia Municipal Code for short-term rentals
• Approval of minutes from August 12, 2024 regular meeting

Police Pension Board

The Columbia Police Pension Board meets to review and approve the annual statement, interrogatories, and audit for the Illinois Department of Insurance, due by October 30, 2024. Other agenda items include discussing an IRS notice, the status of a QILDRO (qualified Illinois domestic relations order), and setting 2025 meeting dates. The board will also consider approving annual cost-of-living adjustments for pensions effective January 1, 2025, and adopt several resolutions related to IPOPIF and bank accounts.

• Review and approve Annual Statement, Interrogatories, and Audit for Illinois Department of Insurance (due Oct 30, 2024)
• Discuss May 6, 2024 IRS Notice and status of Joseph Edwards QILDRO
• Approve annual COLA increases effective January 1, 2025
• Set 2025 board meeting dates (2nd Tuesday of quarterly months)
• Adopt IPOPIF and FCB Banks resolutions appointing authorized agents

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution to levy a tax up to 0.02% for the Columbia Public Library building and equipment. The consent agenda includes approval of vouchers totaling $606,311.80 and an ordinance to sell surplus personal property. New business includes discussions on compensation for municipal officers elected in April 2025 and facade grant applications. Two closed sessions are scheduled for property sale and lease.

• Resolution No. 2024-21 to levy a tax up to 0.02% for Columbia Public Library building and equipment for fiscal year 2024-2025
• Consent agenda: approval of vouchers totaling $606,311.80 for period Sept 12-Oct 2, 2024
• Ordinance No. 3683 authorizing sale of surplus personal property
• Discussion of compensation for municipal officers elected in April 2025
• Discussion of facade grant applications (owners of 124 S. Main, 123 S. Main, 111-117 W. Locust requesting $5,000 each)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The September 24, 2024, meeting of the Columbia Park & Recreation Advisory Board has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on October 22, 2024.

City Council

The City Council will discuss a resolution to levy a tax for the Columbia Public Library and an engineering agreement for the Gall Road Bridge over Carr Creek. The body will also review façade grant applications and approve various special event permits.

• Proposed tax levy up to .02% for Columbia Public Library building and equipment
• Engineering Services Agreement with Gonzalez Companies, LLC for Gall Road Bridge over Carr Creek
• Payment of vouchers totaling $464,445.94
• Special Event Permits for Columbia High School Homecoming Parade, Makers on Main Bewitched Bash, and Witches Night Out
• Discussion of Façade Grant Applications

The council approved an engineering services agreement with Gonzalez Companies, LLC for the Gall Road Bridge over Carr Creek, with one abstention. It also approved the consent agenda, including minutes, vouchers totaling $64,445.94, and three special event permits. A library tax levy resolution was discussed but not voted on, and facade grant applications were discussed for future action.

• Approved engineering services agreement with Gonzalez Companies, LLC for Gall Road Bridge (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, vouchers totaling $64,445.94, and statement of funds
• Approved special event permit for Columbia High School Homecoming Parade (Oct 9, 2024)
• Approved special event permit for Makers on Main Bewitched Bash (Oct 10, 2024)
• Approved special event permit for Historic Main Street Columbia Association Witches Night Out (Oct 10, 2024)
• Entered closed session to discuss setting a price for sale or lease of property (8-0)

Library Board

The Columbia Public Library Board of Trustees is conducting a regular monthly meeting with standard agenda items including approval of minutes, a treasurer's report, approval of current bills, and a library report. No specific new or old business items are listed, indicating a procedural session. Public comment is allowed for up to 15 minutes.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Treasurer's report and approval of current bills
• Library report from staff
• Public comment period (15 minutes total, 5 minutes per speaker)
• Next meeting scheduled for October 8, 2024

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission meeting scheduled for September 9, 2024, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 15, 2024.

City Council

The City Council will consider three ordinances: rezoning a 2.1-acre parcel on Quarry Road from A-1 Agricultural to R-3 One-Family Dwelling, amending subdivision plat requirements to clarify city liability, and regulating the sale and possession of tobacco and nicotine products by minors. They will also discuss findings from the Briegel Street drainage study and approve routine consent items, including $140,302.20 in vouchers.

• Ordinance 3681: Rezone parcel #04-09-400-003-000 on Quarry Road from A-1 Agricultural to R-3 One-Family Dwelling
• Ordinance 3680: Amend Chapter 16.03 of the municipal code to add disclaimers on final plats for stormwater liability
• Ordinance 3682: Amend Title 9 and Chapter 5.04 to regulate tobacco and alternative nicotine product sales to minors
• Discussion of Briegel Street drainage study findings
• Consent agenda approval of $140,302.20 in vouchers for August 14–27, 2024

The Columbia City Council unanimously approved three ordinances: amending subdivision final plat requirements, rezoning a Quarry Road parcel from agricultural to single-family residential, and regulating tobacco and alternative nicotine product sales to minors. The council also approved the consent agenda, which included minutes, vouchers, and a statement of funds. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda including $140,302.20 in vouchers (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 3680 amending final plat requirements (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 3681 rezoning Quarry Road parcel to R-3 (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 3682 regulating tobacco and nicotine sales to minors (8-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board meeting scheduled for August 27, 2024, has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting is September 24, 2024.

City Council

The City Council will vote on a consent agenda including $545,795.50 in vouchers and then discuss two new business items: an ordinance amending subdivision plat requirements and a rezoning application for a parcel on Quarry Road from A-1 Agricultural to R-3 One-Family Dwelling. A $19,900 contract for a hydraulic report on the Quarry Road roundabout is also up for approval. The meeting will close with a closed session for personnel matters.

• Consent agenda includes payment of $545,795.50 in vouchers (Aug 1-13, 2024)
• Motion to approve $19,900 proposal from Millennia Professional Services for Quarry Road roundabout hydraulic report
• Discussion of ordinance amending Chapter 16.03 of Municipal Code on final plat requirements for subdivisions
• Discussion of rezoning application for parcel on Quarry Road between Palmer Creek Drive and Laura Court from A-1 to R-3
• Closed session under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) for employee appointment, compensation, or discipline

Library Board

The board will meet to review the treasurer's report, approve current bills, and receive a librarian report. The agenda consists of standard procedural items.

• Approval of current bills
• Treasurer's report
• Librarian report

The Columbia Public Library Board approved the minutes and current bills, and discussed new business including a thank-you gift to the Maeystown Fire Department, a shirt purchase funded by patrons and donations, a stargazing event, and a tabled vote on the Patron Privacy Policy pending city attorney review. No public comments were made, and the treasurer's report was not given.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Approved current bills
• Tabled vote on Patron Privacy Policy until next meeting

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a request from Jena Eshelman to rezone a 2.10-acre vacant parcel on Quarry Road from A-1 Agricultural to R-3 One-Family Dwelling District. The rezoning would allow construction of a single-family home on a lot that currently does not meet the minimum 2.5-acre size requirement. The commission will also vote on approving minutes from its May 13, 2024, regular meeting.

• Public hearing on rezoning of property on Quarry Road, between Palmer Creek Drive and Laura Court, parcel #04-09-400-003-000, to allow a single-family residential home
• Approval of minutes from the May 13, 2024 regular meeting

The Plan Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend approval of a rezoning request for property on Quarry Road, between Palmer Creek Drive and Laura Court (parcel #04-09-400-003-000), to allow a single-family residential home. The recommendation will go to the City Council for final action. The commission also approved the minutes from the May 13, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended approval of rezoning on Quarry Road for single-family residential (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 13, 2024 Plan Commission meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will vote on a consent agenda including $342,679.32 in vouchers and a special event application, and consider an ordinance to license and regulate mobile vendors. A discussion on a proposed dog park at Admiral Trost Park is also scheduled. The council may enter closed session to discuss personnel, real estate purchases, and property sales or leases.

• Consent agenda: approve vouchers totaling $342,679.32, including $155,313.60 for three police vehicles and $77,498.73 for storm damage repairs at Bolm-Schuhkraft tennis courts and other sites
• Consent agenda: approve special event application for Columbia Days Festival & Parade (August 16-17, 2024)
• Unfinished business: Ordinance No. 3679 amending Title 5 to establish licensure/regulation of mobile vendors
• New business: discussion of proposed dog park at Admiral Trost Park
• Closed session: appointment/compensation of specific employees, purchase/lease of real property, and setting a price for sale/lease of property

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss a preliminary dog park proposal during the unfinished business portion of the meeting. The board will also approve minutes from the June 25, 2024 meeting and provide an opportunity for public input. No other new business or staff reports are listed for this meeting.

• Discussion of preliminary dog park proposal
• Approval of June 25, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public input period

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board approved the June 25, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0). They discussed a preliminary dog park proposal presented by Alderman Lauren Nobbe, with no formal action taken. Staff announced ladder jacks were ordered, and the board agreed they should be placed by the bag toss area.

• Approved June 25, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Agreed ladder jacks should be placed by the bag toss area

City Council

The City Council will consider consent agenda items including minutes and a voucher payment of $504,927.60. Unfinished business includes ordinances and resolutions to appoint city officers and designate an authorized agent for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund. New business features a resolution approving an agreement with Songs4Soldiers for use of city park facilities for a 2024 benefit concert. The council will also enter closed session to discuss personnel, real estate purchase or lease, and property sale pricing.

• Payment of vouchers totaling $504,927.60 for June 27–July 11, 2024
• Ordinance No. 3678 filling appointed city officer positions for fiscal year 2024–2025
• Resolution No. 2024-19 approving an authorized agent for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund
• Resolution No. 2024-20 approving an agreement with Songs4Soldiers, NFP to use city park facilities for the 2024 annual benefit concert
• Closed session for personnel matters, real estate purchase/lease, and property sale pricing

Library Board

The Columbia Public Library Board of Trustees will discuss HVAC replacement proposals and receive a librarian report. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving minutes and current bills.

• HVAC replacement proposals

Police Pension Board

The board will seat Patricia Rauch as a retired board member and hold elections for new officers. Members will also review a QILDRO calculation order for Joseph Edwards and discuss upcoming annual filings due to the Illinois Department of Insurance.

• Seating of new retired board member Patricia Rauch
• Election of Board President, Vice President, Secretary, Asst. Secretary, and FOIA/OMA Officers
• Review of Joseph Edwards Second Amended QILDRO Calculation Order with COLA attachment
• Discussion of annual filings due to the Illinois Department of Insurance by October 30, 2024
• Verification of Busey Wealth Management account closure and fund transfer

City Council

The City Council will consider a residential development overlay district on Columbia Quarry Road and the Timber Rock Estates subdivision. The agenda also includes purchasing playground equipment for Creekside Park and amending a fiber optic agreement.

• Residential development overlay district on Columbia Quarry Road (Ordinance 3676)
• Timber Rock Estates subdivision plat approval (Resolution 2024-16)
• Purchase of two pavilions for Creekside Park ($62,986)
• Purchase of playground and surface for Creekside Park ($170,852)
• Right-of-Way License Agreement amendment with Clearwave Fiber (Ordinance 3677)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The board will review color scheme options for the Creekside Park development. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a conceptual dog park and an update on striping the Bolm-Schuhkraft Tennis Courts.

• Color scheme selection for Creekside Park
• Conceptual dog park discussion
• Striping of Bolm-Schuhkraft Tennis Courts

City Council

The Columbia City Council will discuss several development proposals, including a preliminary subdivision plat for Timber Rock Estates and a residential overlay district on Columbia Quarry Road. The council will also consider ordinances regarding the Route 3/I-255 Business District and approve various special event applications.

• Discussion of Timber Rock Estates Preliminary Subdivision Plat
• Discussion of a residential development overlay district on Columbia Quarry Road
• Approval of $430,071.36 in vouchers for the period of May 30 through June 13, 2024
• Ordinance No. 3674 regarding the Route 3/I-255 Business District plan
• Approval of special event applications for a July 4th bike parade and Shakespeare in the Park

Library Board

The agenda consists of routine procedural items for the June 11 meeting. The board will review treasurer and librarian reports and approve current bills.

• Approval of current bills
• Treasurer's report
• Librarian report

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, June 10, 2024, is cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for July 8, 2024.

City Council

The Columbia City Council will consider routine consent items including minutes, vouchers totaling $151,795.20, and special event permits. Under unfinished business, they will vote on accepting proposals for the Motor Fuel Tax Program and an engineering agreement for a drainage study. New business includes construction engineering for Ghent Road, a concrete replacement bid, and nuisance abatement services. The meeting will also enter closed session for employee matters and property pricing.

• Approve vouchers totaling $151,795.20 for May 16-29, 2024
• Approve engineering agreement with Gonzalez Companies for drainage study at Briegel/Rauch Sts. area for $27,080
• Approve construction engineering services for Ghent Road Reconstruction Phase 2 to Gonzalez Companies, not to exceed $36,740
• Award bid for 2024 Concrete Replacement Program to Henke Excavating, Inc. for $75,702
• Approve special event applications for July 4th Celebration and Sons of the American Legion fundraiser

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss unfinished business including the Bolm-Schuhkraft Park ball diamond area, a conceptual dog park, and an update on Creekside Park, where color scheme options will be reviewed. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and public input.

• Discussion of Bolm-Schuhkraft Park ball diamond area
• Discussion of conceptual dog park
• Update on Creekside Park with color scheme options
• Approval of April 23, 2024 meeting minutes

City Council

The Columbia City Council will confirm mayoral appointments for the vacant Ward I alderman seat and city clerk, then vote on a consent agenda including $960,965.61 in vouchers. They will also consider a master services agreement for a municipal code recodification, award a $59,140 bid for sewer relocations at Creekside Park, and discuss a special use request for a mini storage business at 201 Southwoods Drive.

• Confirm Andrew Hitzemann as Ward I Alderman and Derek Reichert as City Clerk
• Approve $960,965.61 in vouchers, including $449,776.34 for Ghent Road construction
• Resolution 2024-15: Master services agreement with CivicPlus for code recodification
• Award $59,140 bid to Haier Plumbing for Creekside Park sanitary sewer relocations
• Discuss special use request for mini storage at 201 Southwoods Drive

Library Board

The Columbia Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting, including public comment, approval of minutes and bills, and reports. Under new business, the board will discuss the annual meeting memorial endowment, new policies for a laminator and combing machine, a new trustee treasurer, and the resignation of Rodney Schreckenberg.

• Annual Meeting Memorial Endowment discussion
• New laminator and combing machine policy additions
• New trustee treasurer appointment
• Rodney Schreckenberg resignation

Plan Commission

The Columbia Plan Commission will hold public hearings on a Community Unit Plan Type A overlay for an 80-lot single-family residential development (Timber Rock Estates) near Columbia Quarry Road and Bluffside Road, and a special use request for a mini storage business at 201 Southwoods Drive. The commission will also review the preliminary plat for Timber Rock Estates, elect officers for FY2024, and set the FY2025 meeting schedule. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and staff reports.

• Public hearing: Community Unit Plan Type A overlay for 80-lot single-family development on 138 acres near Columbia Quarry Road and Bluffside Road (parcels #04-14-100-002-000, 11-14.0-100-008-000, 11-14.0-200-008-000)
• Public hearing: Special use request from Grant Frierdich for Domex Properties to allow mini storage at 201 Southwoods Drive in C-3 Highway Business District
• New business: Preliminary plat for Timber Rock Estates, 80 single-family lots on ~138 acres in R-2 district
• New business: Election of officers for FY2024 (May 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025)
• New business: Consideration of Plan Commission meeting/submittal schedule for FY2025

Police Pension Board

The Columbia Police Pension Board is meeting to review and approve a surviving spouse benefit application for Laurie Conrad, widow of Michael Conrad, and to consider a membership application for Zach Corder. The board will also approve minutes from the January 9, 2024 meeting.

• Review and approve Application for Surviving Spouse benefit for Laurie Conrad, widow of Michael Conrad
• Application for Membership: Zach Corder, Tier II, Date of Hire
• Reading and approval of minutes of the Jan. 9, 2024 meeting

City Council

The Columbia City Council will vote on several items, including a cash farm lease for Illinois Route 3 property, a preliminary engineering agreement for the Centerville Road Reconstruction Project Phase 2, a resolution supporting a bike trail grant application for the Quarry Road Trail Connector, and a bid award for the 2024 Pavement Marking Program. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, vouchers totaling $286,653.54, and a special event application for the library's summer events. A closed session is scheduled for employee matters.

• Resolution No. 2024-12: Illinois Cash Farm Lease with Daniel Sondag for Illinois Route 3 property
• Preliminary Engineering Agreement with Gonzalez Companies, LLC for Centerville Road Reconstruction Project – Phase 2
• Resolution No. 2024-13: Support for IDNR Bike Trail Grant for Quarry Road Trail Connector Project
• Award bid for 2024 Pavement Marking Program to Right Way Traffic Control, Inc. for $8,041.00
• Payment of vouchers totaling $286,653.54 for April 10 – May 1, 2024

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will consider a request to reserve the Bolm-Schuhkraft Park basketball courts, discuss Chapter 12.32 of the municipal code governing park use, and review the ball diamond area at Bolm-Schuhkraft Park. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from October 2023 and public input.

• Request to reserve Bolm-Schuhkraft Park basketball courts
• Discussion of Chapter 12.32 (City Parks) of the Columbia Municipal Code
• Discussion of Bolm-Schuhkraft Park ball diamond area
• Approval of minutes from October 24, 2023 meeting

City Council

The Columbia City Council is holding a public hearing to review the FY2025 budget. The meeting includes a staff report on the budget and an opportunity for public input before the hearing is closed.

• Public hearing on FY2025 budget

City Council

The Columbia City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including the FY2025 budget, fee schedules, appointed officer salaries, a cable franchise agreement with Spectrum, and a bridge replacement project. The council will also approve routine consent agenda items, including payments totaling $326,596.93.

• Ordinance 3672: FY2025 budget (May 1, 2024–April 30, 2025)
• Ordinance 3669: Fees and charges for city services and business licenses
• Ordinance 3673: Non-exclusive cable franchise with Spectrum Mid-America LLC
• Resolution 2024-10: Carl Street Bridge Replacement Project under Illinois Highway Code
• Consent agenda: Vouchers totaling $326,596.93, including $142,550.96 to Cigna Healthcare

Police Pension Board

The Columbia Police Pension Board is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, reviewing cash balances and investment reports, and discussing old business items like a recent court ruling and mandatory filings. The board will also review a possible contract for legal services with Attorney Dennis J. Orsey and consider a membership application from Zachary Corder.

• Review and possible action on Attorney Dennis J. Orsey Contract for Legal Services
• Application for membership by Zachary Corder, Tier II
• Discuss Illinois Supreme Court opinion on consolidation lawsuit
• Confirm filing of Statement of Economic Interest due May 1, 2024
• Discuss status of board member terms expiring 5/14/24

Council Committees

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss the budget for Fiscal Year 2025. The agenda also includes a closed session regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees.

• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
• Closed session regarding specific employee personnel matters

Library Board

The Columbia Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting, covering routine items like minutes, bills, and reports. Key business includes the library director's retirement, board terms and treasurer replacement, and setting the FY 2025 budget and non-resident fee.

• Library Director Retirement
• Board terms update
• Board Treasurer replacement approval
• FY 2025 Budget
• Non-Resident Fee FY 2025

Plan Commission

The City of Columbia Plan Commission meeting scheduled for April 8, 2024, is canceled. The previously advertised public hearing will be re-advertised for a later date. The next Plan Commission meeting is set for May 13, 2024.

• April 8, 2024 Plan Commission meeting canceled
• Previously advertised public hearing canceled and will be re-advertised
• Next meeting scheduled for May 13, 2024

City Council

The Columbia City Council will hold its regular meeting on April 1, 2024. The agenda includes a discussion on updating the municipal code, approval of vouchers totaling $130,700.89, and a closed session for personnel and collective bargaining matters. The meeting also includes an oath of office for Officer Zachary Corder and a special event application for the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

• Discussion of Municipal Code Update
• Payment of vouchers totaling $130,700.89
• Oath of Office for Officer Zachary Corder
• Special event application for Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Nov 30, 2024)
• Closed session for employee appointments and collective bargaining

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will consider a request to reserve the Bolm-Schuhkraft Park basketball courts, discuss Chapter 12.32 of the Columbia Municipal Code (which covers park rules), and discuss the ball diamond area at Bolm-Schuhkraft Park. The agenda also includes approval of the October 24, 2023 meeting minutes and public input.

• Request to reserve Bolm-Schuhkraft Park basketball courts
• Discussion of Chapter 12.32 (City Parks) of the Columbia Municipal Code
• Discussion of Bolm-Schuhkraft Park ball diamond area
• Approval of minutes from October 24, 2023 regular meeting

City Council

The City Council will consider establishing the Route 3/I-255 Business District and approving its plan, which would impose a 1% retailers' occupation tax, 1% service occupation tax, and 1% hotel operators' occupation tax effective July 1, 2024. The district covers about 409 acres and 63 parcels along Route 3 and I-255, with one parcel removed after public concerns. The council will also vote on a $648,597.77 bid for the Carl Street Bridge Replacement Project and an ordinance regulating short-term rentals.

• Ordinance No. 3667: Establish Route 3/I-255 Business District and approve district plan
• Ordinance No. 3668: Impose 1% business district taxes (retailers', service, hotel operators') effective July 1, 2024
• Motion to award $648,597.77 bid to Baxmeyer Construction, Inc. for Carl Street Bridge Replacement Project
• Ordinance No. 3665: Amend municipal code for licensing and regulation of short-term rentals
• Consent agenda: Approve vouchers totaling $381,983.32 and special event applications for Hot Rods for Heroes Car Show and Bright Night Christmas Parade

Library Board

The Columbia Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including approval of minutes, bills, and the treasurer's report. They will also discuss board terms expiring, hiring a new library director, the FY 2025 budget, and a donation policy. Public comment is limited to 15 minutes total, with 5 minutes per speaker.

• Discussion of Library Director new hire
• Discussion of FY 2025 Budget
• Discussion of Donation Policy
• Board terms to expire
• Approval of current bills

Plan Commission

The City of Columbia, Illinois Plan Commission has cancelled its meeting scheduled for Monday, March 11, 2024. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 8, 2024. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled for March 11, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for April 8, 2024

City Council

The Columbia City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Route 3/I-255 Business District Plan, then consider ordinances on short-term rentals, a solar energy system at 200 Quarry Road, and a labor agreement with the USW for Public Works employees. The consent agenda includes approving $106,154.76 in vouchers and several special event permits. The meeting also includes discussion of a franchise agreement with Charter Communications and a closed session for personnel, collective bargaining, and litigation.

• Public hearing on Route 3/I-255 Business District Plan
• Ordinance 3665: licensing and regulation of short-term rentals
• Ordinance 3666: special use permit for ground-mounted solar at 200 Quarry Road
• Resolution 2024-05: USW collective bargaining agreement for Public Works (May 1, 2024 - April 30, 2027)
• Approval of vouchers totaling $106,154.76

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The City of Columbia, Illinois Park & Recreation Advisory Board has cancelled its February 27, 2024 meeting. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for March 26, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled for February 27, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for March 26, 2024

City Council

The Columbia City Council will discuss ordinances on short-term rentals and solar energy systems, and consider approving $526,764.34 in vouchers. The agenda includes a public presentation on the storm water permit and several special event applications. The meeting also includes a closed session for collective bargaining.

• Discussion of ordinance to license and regulate short-term rentals
• Special use permit for ground-mounted solar at 200 Quarry Road
• Special use permit for ground-mounted solar at 361 Grant Drive
• Approval of vouchers totaling $526,764.34, including $130,258.39 to Cigna Healthcare
• Ordinance to set public hearing for a business district

Library Board

The Board of Trustees will review financial reports and current bills. New business includes discussing expiring board terms, a calendar platform replacement, and a donation policy.

• Discussion of expiring board terms
• Replacement of Crystal calendar platform
• Review of Donation Policy

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold public hearings regarding special use requests for ground-mounted solar energy systems. The meeting also includes discussions on municipal code amendments for short-term rentals and mobile vending business parks.

• Special Use Request: Ground-mounted solar system at 200 Quarry Road
• Special Use Request: Ground-mounted solar system at 361 Grant Drive
• Zoning Amendment: Short-term rentals (Chapter 17.62)
• Zoning Amendment: Mobile Vending Business Park standards
• Zoning Amendment: Entertainment venues and parking for Business Park – 2 districts

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Route 3/I-255 Business District plan, which aims to spur commercial development on about 482 acres along Route 3 near I-255. The council will also consider approving agreements, land transfers, and a discussion on a successor agreement for Main Street Columbia. The meeting includes consent agenda items for minutes and vouchers totaling $324,163.37, plus a closed session for employee matters.

• Public hearing on Route 3/I-255 Business District plan (approx. 482 acres, 59 parcels)
• Resolution No. 2024-04: Agreement with Blue Jay Football Association
• Land transfer between Monroe County parcels 04-22-120-012-000 and 04-22-120-013-000
• Land transfer between Monroe County parcels 04-21-400-001-000 and 04-21-300-003-000
• Discussion of Historic Main Street Columbia Association proposed successor agreement

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board meeting scheduled for January 23, 2024, is cancelled. The next regular meeting is set for February 27, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting: February 27, 2024

City Council

The Columbia City Council will consider resolutions authorizing a joint agreement with IDOT for the Carl Street Bridge Replacement Project, appropriating funding for it, and approving an easement agreement with the Herrmann Family and Timber Rock, LLC. They will also discuss a land transfer between two Monroe County parcels, a code update RFP, and an agreement with the Blue Jay Football Association. The consent agenda includes approval of $582,542.15 in vouchers and two special event applications.

• Resolution 2024-01: Joint agreement with IDOT for Carl Street Bridge Replacement
• Resolution 2024-02: Appropriating funding for Carl Street Bridge Replacement
• Resolution 2024-03: Easement agreement with Herrmann Family and Timber Rock, LLC
• Vouchers totaling $582,542.15, including $134,509.46 for two police vehicles
• Ordinance 3660: Amending public hearing date for Business District establishment

Police Pension Board

The Columbia Police Pension Board is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, reviewing treasurer and investment reports, and discussing old and new business. Key items include reviewing the actuarial valuation report, the status of a consolidation case appeal, and a retirement application from Steve Patton.

• Review Foster & Foster Actuarial Valuation Report compared to Municipal Tax Levy Ordinance
• Discuss status of consolidation case appeal; Illinois Supreme Court heard oral arguments Nov 21, 2023
• Review status of Joseph Edwards QILDRO and future payments to ex-wife (August 2024)
• Discuss upcoming board member elections/appointments for four members with terms expiring 5/14/24
• Application for benefits: Steve Patton, regular retirement, Tier 1

Plan Commission

The City of Columbia, Illinois Plan Commission meeting scheduled for January 8, 2024, is cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for February 12, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled for January 8, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for February 12, 2024

City Council

The regular City Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 2, 2024, has been canceled. The next regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 208 South Rapp Avenue.

• Regular City Council meeting canceled for January 2, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for January 16, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.