Chambana Sun

Woodstock City Council met April 18.

Here is the minutes provided by the Council:

The regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 7:00 pm by Mayor Brian Sager on Tuesday, April 18, 2017 in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Mayor Sager welcomed those present and explained the consent calendar process and invited public participation.

City Clerk Smiley confirmed that the agenda before the Council was a true and correct copy of the published agenda.

A roll call was taken.

Council Members Present: Daniel Hart, Maureen Larson, Mark Saladin, Joseph Starzynski, RB Thompson, Michael Turner, and Mayor Brian Sager.

Council Members Absent: None

Staff Present: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Paul Christensen, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Public Works Director Jeff Van Landuyt, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Human Resources Director Debbie Schober, Police Chief John Lieb, Opera House Managing Director John Scharres, IT Manager Dan McElmeel, Grant Writer Terry Willcockson, and Fleet Superintendent Rob Lamz.

Others Present: Council member-elect Gordon Tebo and City Clerk Cindy Smiley

A. Floor Discussion

Check Presentation – Friends of the Opera House

Mayor Sager noted he is pleased there are a number of “Friends” organizations who uphold the various organizations of the City including the Friends of the Library and the Friends of the Old Courthouse. He stated the Friends of the Opera House is a long-standing group which has been very active for a number of years in supporting the Opera House through fundraising efforts which have resulted in a number of improvements, as well as by sponsoring the Stage Left opening and many other activities. He noted the Opera House was the first municipal building in Woodstock, serving as the Library, Police Department, Fire Department, Council Chambers, and a center for community activities and events. He invited representatives from the Friends of the Opera House forward.

Representatives from the Friends of the Opera House stated they are proud to present a check for $5,200, which will be used for carpeting in the front lobby of the building.

On behalf of the City, Mayor Sager thanked the Friends for their donation and all of their work on behalf of the Opera House throughout the years. He urged those present to attend the group’s fundraisers as they give back to the Opera House.

Recognition – Woodstock Telecommunicators

Mayor Sager stated this evening the City will be providing well-deserved recognition to individuals who have served the community 24/7, 365 days per year.the Telecommunicators who provide protection and ensure the welfare of the City’s residents and businesses. He stated they are the first line of communication in response to emergencies and other calls for assistance, noting this is an exceptional group of talented and dedicated individuals.

Mayor Sager stated the State of Illinois has mandated that the number of dispatch centers in McHenry County be consolidated, reducing the number from six to three. As a result of this State mandate, the City of Woodstock was forced to make a very difficult decision to combine with the City of McHenry. He noted this decision was made all the more difficult because of the exemplary service of this group of very dedicated employees, stating some of these employees have decided to retire, others will assume other responsibilities within the Woodstock Police Department, and still others will participate in the partnership with McHenry, moving to the consolidated Dispatch Center there.

Mayor Sager expressed the City’s appreciation for all these individuals have done all these years and commended them for their service. He invited the following Telecommunicators to come forward individually to be recognized:

• Nancy J. Shepherd

• Tami J. Soto

• Grant B. Havens

• Natalie J. Walker

• M. Ysenia Carreno

• Amy M. McKendry

• Patricia E. Eichinger

• Kathleen M. Gallagher

• Chad R. Peterson (absent)

• Robin L. Karolewicz

Chief Lieb stated he has worked with all of these individuals for a long time. He stated the Telecommunicators have provided a vital service protecting the safety and security of Woodstock citizens. He noted they have always been there when individuals called 911 or walked into the Police Station to report an emergency. He noted he and the Police Department would like to take this moment to honor and recognize those who have served honorably and stayed until the Woodstock Dispatch Center closed, and also the brave and dedicated service of these and past Telecommunicators. He stated their physical presence within the City may be absent, but their voices of safety and security will always be heard.

The Telecommunicators were honored with a lengthy standing ovation.

Public Comment:

Kathy Gilmer, 135 Lawrence Ave., discussed an on-going problem she has been having with a broken stormsewer in the backyard of her home. She described the problems this has caused and the efforts she has taken thus far to resolve the situation to no avail. She requested help from the City Council in resolving this problem.

Mayor Sager thanked the resident for coming forward and apologized for the problems she has been having. He assured her that he will have conversations with City Staff to ascertain what has happened and what can be done to resolve her issue. He stated the City will address this in a timely manner and respond to her as soon as possible.

Mr. John Meehan, 200 Greenwood Ave., described the traffic situation at his residence, which is located at the corner of Greenwood Ave. and Tappan St., stating that cars speed down these streets and that many accidents have occurred. He urged Council to make this a four-way stop intersection.

A brief discussion ensued during which Mayor Sager explained the warrant procedure used to evaluate an intersection. He thanked Mr. Meehan for coming forward with his concerns and assured him that this will be reviewed and addressed in a timely manner.

Council Comments:

There were no Council comments forthcoming.

Consent Agenda:

Motion by M. Larson, second by M. Turner, to approve the Consent Agenda.

The following items were removed from the Consent Agenda at the request of Council members or the Public:

• Item E-1 – Ordinance – Modifying the Class B-9 Liquor License and Video Gaming Fees for Non-Profit Organizations by Councilman D. Hart

• Item E-2 – Ordinance – Removing Parcels from the City’s Tax Increment Fund by Councilman M. Turner at the request of a member of the Public

• Item E-3 – Resolution – Revolving Loan – Crystal Lake Marine by Councilman M. Saladin

• Item E-7 – Ordinance – FY17/18 Budget Appropriations by Councilman RB Thompson

• Item E-12 – Agreement – Architectural Services – Old Courthouse Phase II Windows by Councilman RB Thompson

• Item E-13 – Agreement – Masonry – Old Courthouse by Councilman RB Thompson

There were no questions or comments on the items remaining on the Consent Agenda forthcoming from the City Council or the Public.

Mayor Sager affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items B, C., D, E4-E6, E8-E11, and E14- E15 as follows:

B. Minutes of Previous Meetings:

April 4, 2017 Regular Meeting

C. Warrants: 3756 3757

D. Minutes and Reports:

Historic Preservation Commission Minutes March 2017

Human Resources Report March 2017

E. Manager's Report No. 88

4. Resolution – Revolving Loan – D&A Apothecary

Approval of Resolution 17-R-08, identified as Document 5, A Resolution Authorizing a Loan Agreement between the City of Woodstock and D&A Salon/Apothecary, authorizing a revolving loan for a total of $60,000 to facilitate an expansion to their store into the former Diva’s Attic location.

5. Approval of FY17/18 Positions & Salary Ranges

Approval of the City of Woodstock’s General Salary Range Table and the Schedule of Authorized Positions for FY17/18.

6. Ordinance – FY17/18 Water/Sewer Rates

Adoption of Ordinance 17-O-30, identified as Document 7, An Ordinance Amending Portions of Title 6, Chapter 4 of the City Code of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois Pertaining to Water and Sewer Rates.

8. Waiver of Competitive Bids and Award of Bid – Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Upgrades

a) Approval of waiver of the requirement for competitive bids for SCADA Upgrades; and

b) Authorization for the purchase from Baxter & Woodman of all necessary equipment to upgrade the City’s SCADA and related equipment for a cost not to exceed $160,000.

9. Ordinance – Renewal Old Courthouse Donation Agreements

a) Approval of Ordinance 17-O-31, identified as Document 9, An Ordinance Authorizing a Space Usage and Donation Agreement Between the City of Woodstock and Northwest Area Arts Council for the Old Courthouse Art Center at the Old Courthouse Building.

b) Approval of Ordinance 17-O-32, identified as Document 10, An Ordinance Authorizing a Space Usage and Donation Agreement Between the City of Woodstock and Talia Pavia String Academy for Space at the Old Courthouse Building.

c) Approval of Ordinance 17-O-33, identified as Document 11, An Ordinance Authorizing a Space Usage and Donation Agreement Between the City of Woodstock and Donna Jill Witty for Space at the Old Courthouse Building.

10. Waiver of Competitive Bids and Award of Bid – Mosquito Control Service

a) Approval for waiver of the requirement for competitive bids to provide mosquito control services and

b) Award of bid for 2017 mosquito control services to Clarke for the quoted price of $4,913 per each application of larvae control products and $9,200 per each application for adult mosquito spraying.

11. Purchase – Replacement Dump Truck Purchase

Approval of the purchase of a replacement dump truck and equipment utilizing the National Joint Powers Alliance purchasing program, Bid Number 081716-PMC from JX Enterprises Peterbilt, Rockford, IL, upfit by Bonnell Industries, Dixon, IL for a delivered unit price of $180,040.

12. Agreement – Consultant Services – Architectural – Sheriff’s House Roof and Cornice Replacement

Approval of an Agreement with Gary W. Anderson Architects for the provision of architectural services for analysis and preparation of construction documents for the repair and rehabilitation of the Sheriff’s House and Jail roof and cornices for $8,000.

13. Ordinance – Sign Variation – 231 Main Street Mural

Approval of Ordinance 17-O-34, identified as Document 15, An Ordinance Granting Variations from Section 13.4, 13.7, and 13.8 of the Unified Development Ordinance, Sign Regulations to Allow a Mural at 231 Main Street.

A roll call vote was taken to approve Consent Agenda Items B, C., D, E4-E6, E8-E11, and E14- E15. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, RB Thompson, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: None. Motion carried unanimously.

Item E-1 – Ordinances – Modifying the Class B-9 Liquor License and Video Gaming Fees

Councilman D. Hart recused himself and exited the Council Chambers at 7:41 pm.

Motion by M. Turner, second by RB Thompson, to approve the following:

a) Ordinance 17-O-35, identified as Document 1, An Ordinance Amending Section 3.3.6, Classification of License: Number and Fees, of Chapter 3, Title 3, Liquor Control, of the Woodstock City Code, modifying the parameters of the B-9 Liquor License Classification as identified in the Staff Report;

b) Ordinance 17-O-36, identified as Document 2, An Ordinance Amending Section 3.3.5, Video Gaming Terminals of the Woodstock City Code, modifying the application video gaming fees for Liquor License C Classifications as identified.

Molly Oakford, Woodstock, stated she understands the intent is to revise the fees for clubs recognizing the benefits these clubs bring to Woodstock. She noted the original ordinance cited the effects gaming has on the community as reason for increasing the fees for video gaming and opined the clubs should be subject to the same fees as she feels the proposed ordinance is not consistent with the stated reason the original ordinance was established.

Mayor Sager stated the challenges to the community and to the Police Department associated with video gaming do not come from the clubs, noting they present a different atmosphere than the other entities with video gaming and alcohol. He stated the need for Police calls to clubs is different in comparison to other entities.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, RB Thompson, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: D. Hart. Motion carried.

Councilman D. Hart returned to the Council Chambers and rejoined the proceedings at 7:49 pm.

Item E-2 – Ordinance – Removing Parcels from the City’s Tax Increment Fund

Molly Oakford, Woodstock, stated she appreciates Mr. Prindiville’s intent in removing his parcel from the TIF in preparation of his sitting on the City Council to remove a potential conflict of interest. She is concerned in terms of this being a request specific to his property. She stated she believes the City Council should establish an ordinance specific to all who sit on the City Council so it is not an ordinance reviewed on an individual basis. She also opined that removing Mr. Prindiville’s property from the TIF does not remove the conflict of interest because his property still will be within the TIF district and receive the benefits of the TIF. Ms. Oakford opined this should be an opportunity to look at a policy to see what should be the ordinance in place for Council members concerning the TIF.

Mayor Sager thanked Ms. Oakford for her comments. He stated this is not a matter of City ordinances but rather of state statute. He read from the state statute, which applies to and requires the ordinance being considered this evening. He stated the fact is the body is required to abide by state statute and is required to take this action. He also noted the City cannot take action that supersedes state statute in this case.

Ms. Oakford opined the City could still establish an ordinance that is not just specific to Mr. Prindiville, but to all Council members and requested that Council review this and establish a policy.

Mayor Sager stated even if such ordinance or policy were in place, the City would still have to take action specific to each Council member identifying the applicable parcel at the time.

City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg agreed, stating while Ms. Oakford’s suggestion is well taken, the City still would be required to take action at the time an individual owning such a parcel is seated on the City Council and would not be able to adopt an across-the-board policy.

Further discussion ensued concerning the effect such a policy may have with Ms. Oakford opining it would create transparency. In response to a question from Mayor Sager, City Attorney Schlossberg confirmed that the TIF provisions in the state statute take precedent over the City’s Home Rule powers. Councilman Saladin opined the overarching authority is the state statute and that what Ms. Oakford is asking for is already required.

Motion by M. Saladin, second by RB Thompson, to approve Ordinance 17-O-37, identified as Document 3, An Ordinance of the City of Woodstock Deleting Certain Property from the Tax Increment Finance Redevelopment Project Area No. 1 and Amending the City’s TIF Ordinances Regarding Such Property.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, RB Thompson, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried unanimously.

Item E-3 – Resolution – Revolving Loan – Crystal Lake Marine

Councilman M. Saladin recused himself and exited the Council Chambers at 8:02 pm.

Motion by J. Starzynski, second by M. Larson, to approve Resolution 17-R-09, A Resolution Authorizing a Loan Agreement between the City of Woodstock and Crystal Lake Marine Inc., for a total of $85,000 to facilitate transferring this business to a Route 47 location and providing for the expansion of business operations.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, J. Starzynski, RB Thompson, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Motion carried.

Councilman Saladin entered the Council Chambers and rejoined the proceedings at 8:05 pm..

Item E-7 – Ordinance – FY17/18 Budget Appropriations

Councilman Thompson noted this is one of the most important decisions made by the City Council in the course of the year.

Mr. Thompson opined over the past few years the City Council has not made an effort to use the TIF to increase the value of the Downtown for the businesses or to eliminate blight. He stated if this was done, property taxes would go up and the City would have a tax increment.

Noting the amount of TIF funds the City spends on the Old Courthouse project, he advocated for spending the funds instead on the Judd and Benton Streets area. He discussed the various businesses and features of this area, noting how it can be improved, including burying the power lines and improving the alley. He stated this would bring investors to this area. He also discussed the former Russell Supply building and Aurora University properties. Mr. Thompson stated his feeling that the Council should focus on making the downtown more attractive to business.

Councilman Thompson stated the City puts this off each year. but continues to put money into the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House, which does not derive any benefit from the tax increment on this property as it is owned by the City. He advocated for taking a year off from funding the Old Courthouse projects and instead replacing the lamps within the park so that all of the lighting on the Square is consistent.

Mayor Sager stated he appreciates Councilman Thompson’s comments, but noted his disappointment that the Councilman did not raise his concerns during the various budgeting workshops.

Mayor Sager stated he agrees there are areas that could be seen as blighted such as the Russell Supply property. He noted the City Council has identified certain areas for Economic Development, including the Russell property. He stated improvements for the Benton Street area have been discussed by the City Council, but noted much of what was mentioned by Mr. Thompson is private property and the City must respect the owners’ rights to make decisions about their properties.

Mayor Sager stated the City has developed incentive programs, which have been built into the budget to help these property owners improve their properties. He noted individuals are present this evening to discuss the mural. Mayor Sager stated all of these efforts will improve the downtown area and spur economic development.

Councilman Thompson stated he was addressing what he perceives as the Council’s lack of vision, stating his hope that with two new members joining the Council and under Mayor Sager’s leadership, the issues he brought up will be addressed.

Mayor Sager stated he appreciates Councilman Thompson’s comments, but wishes everyone to know significant efforts are being made to develop a Downtown Area Plan, which will completely and thoroughly address many of the locations addressed by Councilman Thompson. He noted this will be coming before the City Council stating he has great hopes for this planning document, as many Council members are passionate about this subject.

Talia Pavia, 276 Hutchins, stated she is a professional musician who has had a music school in the Old Courthouse since 2008. Noting that she lost her space to Woodstock Celebrates, she wished to thank the City Council for passing the resolution this evening, which returns her business to the Old Courthouse.

Ms. Pavia noted her business brings her students, their families, and others to the Square where they also visit other businesses to shop, eat, and spend money. She stated the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House can do a lot for the community, noting she has heard from many people that it is a benefit to the other businesses on the Square. She stated it is more than just her small business that benefits. Ms. Pavia also opined the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House brings a sense of imagination to the Square and urged the Council to think about what culture can do for the community.

Ms. Pavia stated she is confused by the previous comments as she sees great value in the building. She agreed that $900,000 is a lot of money, but the City must have imagination and see what that money can do in the long term.

Councilman Turner urged Ms. Pavia to obtain a copy of the ArtSpace Study and after reading it, provide comments back to the City Council.

Arlene Lynes, owner of Read Between the Lynes, urged Council to look at the families Ms. Pavia’s business brings to Woodstock, noting they value arts and culture. She stated they will take part in activities at the Opera House and visit Woodstock’s restaurants and businesses. She stated the City should take note that they make the effort to drive the distances for Ms. Pavia’s services.

Jen Feeley, 116 1⁄2 N. Benton Street, stated she lives in the area identified by Councilman Thompson. She opined the City cannot just have industry, noting the Old Courthouse provides a perfect opportunity for some very exciting possibilities. She expressed her support for money from the TIF going to the Old Courthouse project, noting the City should preserve and invest in this building. Stating the Benton Street area also brings much to the community, she would support some funds going to this area also and noted the business owners themselves have been making improvements.

John Puzzo, member of the Friends of the Opera House, talked about the value of the Opera House and what it provides to the City. He also discussed the value of the Old Courthouse, stating the City cannot just stop efforts to preserve it. He stated during City Band Concerts in the summer, the front of the Old Courthouse is packed. He opined the Old Courthouse is too important to the City to abandon.

Mayor Sager extended his appreciation to Staff for being able to evaluate the finances of the City and provide the surety of a secure financial outlook. He noted they provided the City Council with a clear and definitive outline of priorities and a very thorough acknowledgement of accomplishments that have been made and opportunities for the future. He expressed his gratitude to staff, including all employees, who make sure the City always is keeping within bounds and protecting the City’s financial security.

Mayor Sager encouraged everyone to visit the City’s website and review the FY17/18 Budget.

Councilman Thompson stated it was his intent to challenge the Council in the future to look at this in a different way. He noted his love for Woodstock and his love for culture.

Motion by M. Turner, second by J. Starzynski, to approve Ordinance 17-O-38, identified as Document 8, An Ordinance Approving the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2017-2018.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: RB Thompson. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried 6-1.

Item E-12-Agreement – Architectural Services – Old Courthouse Phase II Windows

Councilman Thompson noted this is his last chance to vote no on an agreement with Gary Anderson. He noted the Historic Preservation Commission has suggested seeking other bidders and stated his feeling that Mr. Anderson does not come in on time on the projects he is awarded.

Motion by M. Larson, second by M. Saladin to approve an agreement with Gary W. Anderson Architects for the provision of architectural services for initial investigative work for $4,000 for all remaining windows, and additional funding for the preparation of construction documents based on whether window restoration ($8,940) or window replacement ($5,000) is determined to be the most appropriate solution for Phase 2 construction.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: RB Thompson. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried 6-1.

Item E-13-Agreement – Masonry – Old Courthouse

Councilman Thompson stated he requested removal of this item in error and had no comments.

Motion by RB Thompson, second by M. Turner, to approve an agreement with US Heritage Group to provide consulting services for a masonry assessment of the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House including material sampling, mortar matching, and recommended prioritized list of repairs including recommended phasing, and construction cost estimates for an anticipated cost of $15,133.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, RB Thompson, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried unanimously.

Discussion Items:

Item E-16 – Woodstock Mural Committee – Pedway Mural Discussion

Noting a committee has been working on this project, Mayor Sager stated there are three phases in the conceptual framework including: 1) the mural and kiosk; 2) potential addition of an arch similar to those found around the Square; and 3) a statuary garden. He stated the purpose this evening is to discuss those conceptual elements and provide basic approval of the three phases if that is the Council’s wish. He stated the purpose is not to discuss the artistic presentation or specific elements of the mural or kiosk or any elements of the statuary, nor will there be specific approval of the arch as additional permission is needed for this at which time Council will be brought in. Mayor Sager stated there will be no discussion of funding as this is outside the purview of the Council with another organization working on this aspect of the project, noting the committee will continue to work on the artistic elements and funding.

Mayor Sager invited members of the Committee to address the Council.

Terry Willcockson, Committee member, presented a depiction of the visual elements of what will be included in the kiosk, noting the significant amount of work done by Michael Stanard. She also discussed the mural itself, stating this has been a fascinating process with many challenges, not the least of which is the wall on which the mural will be painted.

Ms. Willcockson stated they are at the point where they are ready to start, with masons scheduled to arrive in May to begin work on the wall. She stated the muralists will be starting sometime in late May with completion anticipated by the end of summer.

Ms. Willcockson noted the Committee is indebted to Classic Cinemas and the McHenry County Community Foundation for significant funding. She identified and thanked the other members of the Committee.

Tina Hill, Committee member, stated there is absolutely no way this project could have happened without Ms. Willcockson and her grant-writing abilities. She noted in addition to those mentioned, the Committee has also received a large anonymous donation.

Mayor Sager thanked all Committee members, noting the talents of each made this possible. He noted a lot of interested and excitement has been generated by this project.

He requested comments and questions from the Council concerning the mural itself.

In response to a question from M. Turner, Ms. Willcockson stated the mural will be painted directly on the masonry wall with stucco reapplied before painting. John Puzzo, Committee member, discussed how this will be done and what the mural will look like when painted on the stucco.

Ms. Willcockson stated the artist has been chosen by Mr. Stanard and is from Rockford.

Mayor Sager then requested the discussion turn to the arch.

Mayor Sager stated one concept is to have the arch going across the pedway and be supported by columns while another is to attach the arch to the two buildings. He noted the idea is to try to tie the mural into the Square area and to keep the look consistent.

Councilman Starzynski noted the point is to draw people’s attention to the pedway and invite them to look at the mural, with Councilman Thompson expressing agreement.

Councilman Turner expressed his wish that the placement of the arch look natural.

Noting funding, Ms. Willcockson stated the Committee is very invested in getting the sculpture garden done. Councilman Turner noted the arch can always be added at a later date.

Mayor Sager stated his feeling that the arch could be a very inviting element and a good tie-in with the Square, but noted he would like to see it as the final element.

Ms. Hill noted from a financial standpoint, she wishes to make sure there is money for everything and opined the arch should be the final step.

Councilwoman Larson agreed, stating she would put the arch as the third priority.

In response to Mayor Sager’s question, it was the consensus of the City Council to accept the arch as the final phase.

In response to Committee member Susan Stelford’s comment that Mr. Stanard sees the arch as an opportunity for naming rights, Councilman Turner stated he is not sure about this commercialization of the arch. Councilwoman. Larson agreed stating the arch seems to be a part of the City and opined the City Council should have a say in this. Mayor Sager noted the only oversight the Council really has on this project is for the arch. He noted he is not hearing opposition to the arch.

Ms. Hill stated the Committee has to make sure there are funds for this part of the project, before proceeding.

Councilman Saladin stated he is in favor of all phases and commended the Committee for the work they have done on this project.

Mayor Sager noted the other part of this project is the statuary garden. Ms. Willcockson briefly explained the proposed statue of Orson Welles noting this has been completed by Woodstock sculptor Bobby Joe Scribner. She stated Mr. Scribner will donate the sculpture, but not the casting, which is estimated to cost $15,000.

Councilman Starzynski expressed concern that this project is being placed in a hidden area. Mr. Puzzo pointed out there are three City parking lots and much foot traffic in this area. He discussed other locations that were considered and why this location was chosen. Mayor Sager noted there is a moratorium on additional monuments within the Park in the Square as there is a premium on space, noting the proposed location is a hidden gem, as is Sesquicentennial Park. Mrs. Stelford noted the mural and statue garden will be marketed as a destination and will bring people to the Square.

Arlene Lynes, owner of Read Between the Lynes, opined this will benefit the retail shops and restaurants on the Square, particularly those on Main Street

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, the Council expressed consensus for approval of the mural project.

Future Agenda Items:

Mayor Sager reminded those present that the Council Workshop on the Pavement Management Report is scheduled for this Friday at 2:00 PM at the Stage Left Café.

Adjourn:

Motion by M. Larson, second by RB Thompson, to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the April 21, 2017 City Council Pavement Management Workshop at 2:00 PM at Stage Left Cafe. Ayes: D. Hart, M. Larson, M. Saladin, J. Starzynski, RB Thompson, M. Turner, and Mayor Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Meeting adjourned at 9:16 pm.

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