Peoria City Council Observer Report

   A short public meeting regarding redistricting of council districts was held prior to council meeting.  Comments were made in person and written communication by seven citizens, most representing home-owners associations from the West Bluff and Moss-Bradley areas.  All were against the proposed changes in V2.3 map based on lack of transparency, as well as community input, and not keeping existing neighborhoods intact. The Council plans final vote on redistricting at February 22 meeting.  Proposed council district maps are available www.peoriagov.org/redistricting. 
   Annual Township meeting of City of Peoria will be held April 12, 2022 at council chambers at 6:00 P.M.  Citizens wishing to speak must submit specific items to be considered for meeting agenda by Tuesday, March 1, 2022 to Township Clerk ; communication must be signed by fifteen citizens.
   Council approved issuance of general obligation bonds not to exceed $17,000,000 for financing certain capital improvements and refunding certain outstanding bonds to provide for levy and collection of direct Annual Tax for payment of principal and interest and authorizing sale of the bonds.  Vote preceded by robust discussion by members; final vote eight to three, with nays by Councilors Cyr, Kelly and Ruckriegel.
   City Manager Urich provided overview of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) process and benefits for the University/War redevelopment project.  Benefits include additional improvements, as well as tax revenue from new businesses.  When asked about public input on this project, Urich cited a public hearing held January 25, 2022, as well as presentation to local taxing bodies given at Open Meeting where comment available.  The TIF would expire in twenty-three years.
   Peoria City Council meets second and fourth Tuesdays at 6:00 P.M. and can be viewed online or cable public access channel 22.  Agenda and minutes available at www.peoriagov.org/city-council/council-meetings.
 C, Observer