Josh Bush

The committee reviewed and made recommendations for repairs in Deerfield Estates concerning stormwater issues at Parkfield and Hanna Drive, suggesting an overflow structure addition at 1839 Meadow Lane. The estimated costs for this project were presented, with a preference for City performance. The committee also reviewed terms for a proposed agreement with Hornecker Construction for El Camino Drive Drainage improvements, involving the extension of a 15-inch pipe to the pond, contingent on the City purchasing the pipe material. Following these reviews, Council approved $38,000 for stormwater repairs, and a modification to Resolution 110 was proposed to include an additional $6,000. Additionally, locations affected by the December 1st storm, such as Sheridan & 8th, Hawthorne, and Brentwood Ditch at Lake Kennedy, were reviewed for initial assessment. Updates were provided on current projects, including completed riprap placement on Desoto Drive and Dogwood, awarded contracts for 18th Street West Shore Culvert and Thrush Creek erosion, and pending condemnation proceedings for 2101 Windsor easement procurement.

The committee reviewed grant applications, approving a $350.59 grant for Grace UMC's 'See you at the Pole' event. Updates were provided on the Downtown Coordinator position, noting four planned events for the year. The PACVB is preparing its 2018 Visitors Guide for a March release and is coordinating event submissions. The Pekin Chamber announced its Leadership Academy schedule. For advertising, the committee approved a €“ page ad for the Pekin Community High School 2018 Spring season. Infrastructure discussions included modifying signage for free parking downtown after 5:00 PM and proceeding with downtown wayfinding efforts. Promotional activities covered selecting 'Best of Pekin' winners for a presentation in February and updating the Enjoy Pekin website content.

The meeting addressed the approval of the agenda and the amendment of the previous Liquor Commission minutes regarding an average fee range. The public input segment heavily featured discussions regarding video gaming parlors, including concerns about limiting them and the proposed distance limit (400') between gaming establishments. Local business owners expressed concerns that proposed fee increases would negatively impact smaller establishments compared to gaming cafés. Discussions also covered the allocation of revenue from gaming machines. New business focused on a Liquor License Moratorium, for which Corporation Counsel was instructed to draft the necessary document.

The meeting included a discussion regarding the 5-year business plan for the airport, with the next step identified as bringing the plan to the state for approval during the October TIPs meeting. Additionally, one member announced the commencement of their new business, Woldow Services LLC, operating at the airport.

Key discussion topics included the status of the Solar project, which is on hold pending funding following the denial of the Edwards Grant. For Hangar Development, the commission is currently determining the best funding methods. Regarding the State Capitol Plan, the goal is to address capitol projects, which typically require 100% City funding, using a structure that would allow for 90% funding with only a 10% share required from the City. Planning is underway to hold the "Wings and Wheels" event on June 20th of this year. Additionally, a public comment noted that Keith Aero plans to commence upholstery work.