Peoria City Council Observer Report

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Public hearing was held regarding disconnection of property Parcel ID 13-23-326-005.  Michael Fleming, attorney for property owners, spoke to council requesting property be disconnected from city of Peoria.   Property annexed to city in 1993 with Charter Oak development.  Adjacent parcels known as Ravina.  Property owners asking for parcels that remain undeveloped and without access to roads be disconnected from city of Peoria and allow land to fall under county authorization.   City staff have recommended to deny this request.  After discussion, Council members voted to defer to January 11, 2022 meeting.
Communication from City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a first reading of request new ordinance amending City code regarding automated traffic violations.  This is prompted by request from Peoria Public Schools who have seen an increase in motorists driving around school buses when stopped with their stop arm out.  Buses can be equipped with a camera on their stop arm; photos can be shared with Peoria Police Department and violation ticket issued. 
Councilors voted 9 to 2 to remove four am liquor license zone in Warehouse District, with exception of existing license for Status night club.  Councilor Jackson expressed concern regarding the checkered past of this business with fights and shooting; she requested background information from Legal Counsel on this issue.
It was noted that: $4,038,664.00 for Pension Obligation funding; and  assignment of $500,000.00 from the General Fund for 2022 and 2023 was identified for potential due diligence on the purchase of the local water system.
Under new business, Councilor Riggenbach commended Mayor Ali for her leadership in reaching out to Representatives Gordon-Booth and Ryan Spain to engage in discussion on Public Safety Pension System in Illinois.  This would include reaching out to cities, such as Rockford, Springfield and Bloomington to unite to encourage state to modify the current structure.
December 28 meeting was canceled; next Council meeting January 11,2022. Minutes and video of meeting available at www.peoriagov.org
Connie Romanus, Observer