City Approves Movie Shoot, Nar ID, and SmartGov Implementation

The St. Charles Government Operations Committee convened on July 10, 2024, to discuss a mix of community events, public safety upgrades, and technology implementation. Key approvals included a Main Street closure for the filming of "Mongero 2", the purchase of a Nar ID spectrometer for drug testing, and the implementation of Granicus SmartGov software for business licensing.

Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life Event Approval

The committee first addressed the Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life, an annual charity event.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024

• Location: City Parking Lot B

• Time: 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM

• Activities: Race announcements, post-race festivities, and vendor presence

Committee Decision

• Approval: Amplification and parking lot closure granted unanimously.

• Chief Kian noted successful previous outreach to local businesses, ensuring smooth operations.

This approval allows the event to proceed safely while engaging the local community in a charitable initiative.

Purchase of Nar ID Spectrometer for Police

Next, the committee approved the purchase of a Nar ID spectrometer to improve officer safety during drug identification.

Key Features

• Identifies dangerous substances such as fentanyl without direct handling

• Enhances officer safety by scanning through barriers

• Purchase Price: $27,374.40, funded through narcotics fines, not taxpayer money

Committee Decision

• Approval: Unanimous

• Chief Kian emphasized that this device is the lowest-cost option after competitive quotes and beta-testing, providing a safer, faster alternative to traditional lab testing.

This purchase ensures that first responders can safely and efficiently detect narcotics, reducing risk during enforcement operations.

Main Street Closure for "Mongero 2" Filming

A major agenda item was the Main Street closure for MR2 LLC’s movie production, "Mongero 2".

Closure Details

• Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 (contingency for Oct 17)

• Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 AM

• Location: Main Street bridge area (Route 31 to Route 25)

Committee Decision

• The proposal was scaled back to minimize disruption and the production company committed to full reimbursement of city personnel and equipment costs.

• Resolution approved unanimously and will now proceed to IDOT for permitting review.

This approval highlights the city’s support for film production while maintaining fiscal responsibility and minimizing community disruption.

Implementation of Granicus SmartGov Software

Finally, Director Gunderson presented a proposal to adopt Granicus SmartGov, a cloud-based software for business licensing.

Software Benefits

• Online application and renewal process

• Automated notifications for renewals

• Digital payment processing

• Scalable for future permitting needs

Committee Decision

• Approval: Unanimous

• Implementation Target: Q1 2025

• One-time cost: $63,000 (includes $29,000 implementation), with annual subscription $17,500

This move modernizes city operations, improving efficiency and accessibility for local businesses.

Conclusion

The July 10 Government Operations Committee Meeting emphasized community engagement, public safety, and technology adoption. By approving the Cystic Fibrosis event, Nar ID spectrometer, movie production closure, and SmartGov software, St. Charles demonstrates a commitment to safe, efficient, and forward-looking city governance.