City of Braidwood

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call confirming a quorum, noting absences due to family matters. Key discussions included the approval of Ordinance 25-52 regarding the city's social media use policy. The council addressed an agreement from 2006 concerning a trailer park owner deeding a street in exchange for water meters, and tabled discussion pending a report on water line capacity. Various holiday-related activities were announced, including a Christmas parade, tree lighting ceremony featuring the JB squad, a house decoration contest, and a mailbox for letters to Santa. The council approved Ordinance 25-53 establishing a hiring and recruitment policy and procedures. Discussions on city management included the low bid from LRS for the garbage contract, which included an increase of 96 cents per month and enhanced bulk item pickup services, scheduled for presentation at the Committee of the Whole. The Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) meeting date was set for December 18th to review PUB and zone district classifications. Progress on a proposed self-storage development at 225 North Hickory was reported as proceeding well. Marketing efforts are being streamlined with the help of an expert. The Engineer requested and received approval to reduce the letter of credit for the Dazzio and Bower subdivision by approximately $800,000, reflecting completed public improvements. Finally, the City Attorney secured approval for Ordinance 25-54, amending the code of ordinances regarding letters of credit and project guarantees to apply to all development projects requiring public infrastructure, not just subdivisions. The session concluded with the approval of finance payments totaling over $440,000.

The committee discussed a PUD ordinance, explaining what a PUD is to the community. They also talked about updating the city's social media policy to regulate speech and ensure content is appropriate. An update on the police and public works snow policy was provided, including details on parking and street maintenance during snowfall. The creation of an economic development committee was discussed to strategically develop vacant land and attract suitable businesses. The formalization of a letter of credit was addressed to ensure developers complete public improvements according to specifications. Finally, the committee discussed the hiring process and the importance of following a standard operating procedure for application, interview, and onboarding.

The meeting included discussions on public comments regarding community issues, reports from city officials about junior Comet football team, cheerleaders competition, and updates on apartment complex development. The council discussed establishing official status and credibility for government organizations with respect to email, upgrading the city's website and media related services, and Route 129 project. Additionally, there were discussions on garbage bid opening, ordinances approval, generator project, and property tax levy.

The town hall meeting included discussions on the city's financials through January 2025, including a review of interfund transfers and the elimination of balances between various funds. There was also discussion of the general fund's revenue and expenses, with a positive operational balance. The meeting also touched on new car dealerships and a gas station coming to the city, and how the tax revenue from these businesses would be allocated, including to the Tiff fund.

The council discussed Jewel's opening and incentives for businesses, and the elimination of the 1% sales tax on groceries. They also talked about reappointing George KC to the City of Braidwood Plan Commission Board, and a scarecrow contest. Other topics included a report on FOIA requests, a drug take back event, a cleanup day, and yard waste disposal. An agreement with the Braidwood Reed Kuster Community School District regarding a police resource officer was discussed. The police department press release was shared, and Josh B. provided a report on the first year of use of the Everbridge system.