Peoria City Council Observer Report

​   Monica Hendricks, Public Health Administrator for Peoria County/City and Katy Endres, Director of Epidemiology and Clinical Services gave overview of gun violence as public health issue and introduced Brent Decker, who gave presentation on Cure Violence program and assessment process to address this serious issue in community.  Program is evidenced based and engages community in reducing the problem.  The Chief of Police requested funding of $25,000 for assessment of local violence and community partners at May council meeting.  Council voted to receive and file report.  This subject was introduced later during regular business; after much discussion, motion made to defer vote to fund assessment to June 28th meeting.  Additional information on alternate programs was requested by members.
   Aggregation Customers informing them of increase in rates with Ameren for electric service.  This affects 38,500 citizens who have been receiving electric service from Homefield Energy.  The city was not able to secure electric rate less than Ameren currently providing.  Some of issues affecting outcome are timing of current contract expiration, war in Ukraine, and lack of renewable energy sources.  Citizens can go to www.pluginillinoi.org to explore other options.
  Community Development Director Dulen presented report to council on Peoria Land Bank history and responsibilities, as well as the benefits of having local land bank  vs. regional.  This allows the city to vet future purchase of properties that are for sale due to failure to pay property taxes to avoid future city issues and liabilities when purchaser does not repair or maintain property.
   To view video or minutes of this meeting, go to www.peoriaorg.gov.  Next Council meeting is June 28, 2022 at 6:00 P.M.
Connie Romanus, Observer