Diana Merdian

The Board of Fire & Police Commission held a meeting to discuss new business, including police and fire department hiring. They approved the hiring of a new police officer and, after an executive session, approved the hiring of a new firefighter.

The meeting addressed various topics, including a resident's concerns about parking a trailer on a lot, approval of consent agenda items such as meeting minutes and bills, proclamations for Fire Prevention Week and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and a petition for a road closure. The council discussed and approved amendments to create an extended hours permit for liquor license holders, pay requests to construction companies, waiving the bid process for paving at Fire Station Two, and an intergovernmental agreement with Whiteside County to address nuisance properties. Also discussed was designating an area as a River Edge Redevelopment Zone. Staff reports included updates on public works projects, wastewater management, building and zoning activities, fire department training and events, and police department administration. Council members reported on the IML conference, parking permits, pedestrian safety, and community events.

The meeting included a financial report, discussion in executive session, approval of Vanessa Leavitt as Band Manager, and renewal of Annette Hackbarth's contract as Band Director for the 2025-2026 year. Gratitude was expressed to Director Annette Hackbarth for music purchases and support, and to Paul Ausman for his years of service as Band Manager, with plans to plant a tree in his name. Mercantile agreed to host Tuba Christmas, and Director Hackbarth noted teaching conflicts with upcoming Commission meetings.

The meeting included reports from the Fire Department regarding staffing levels and firefighter training, and from the Police Department regarding a new sergeant and the new building process. The commission discussed police officer testing, rules and regulations updates, and fire promotion testing. New business included a discussion on Stanard & Associates vs. IO Solutions testing for police officers.

The public hearing discussed the establishment of a River Edge Redevelopment Zone. The zone's eligibility requirements, benefits such as interest income deduction, sales tax abatement, property tax abatements, and historic tax credits were presented. The discussion also covered the zone's compatibility with other development incentives, the qualifications for historic tax credits, and the timeline for application and approval. Clarifications were provided regarding the benefits for non-profits and the potential need for reapplication. The council addressed questions about the city's eligibility for benefits and incentives for new construction jobs.