City Approves Museum, Cultural, Business Funding; Utility Rate Increases and Dam Task Force

Introduction

On February 7, 2024, the Government Operations Committee convened to discuss community funding, utility rates, tax ordinances, and infrastructure projects. Key decisions included approving funding for the St. Charles History Museum, the Visitors Cultural Commission (VCC), and the St. Charles Business Alliance, implementing water and sewer rate increases, extending the video gaming push tax ordinance, and forming a Dam Task Force to study the impacts of potential dam removal.

St. Charles History Museum Receives $60,000 Funding

The committee approved $60,000 in funding for the St. Charles History Museum for FY 24-25.

• Museum attendance has grown 40% due to expanded operating days and events like “History Rocks” and the “Vintage Vibe” gala.

• Funds will support marketing efforts and additional storage due to capacity limits.

• Council members praised the museum’s community engagement and fiscal responsibility.

Visitors Cultural Commission Funding Increased by 15%

The VCC, which supports local arts and cultural non-profits, received a 15% funding increase.

• The increase reflects a rise from the previous $90,000 annual allocation.

• Funding ensures continued support for programs promoting arts, culture, and tourism in St. Charles.

St. Charles Business Alliance Secures Major Funding

The Business Alliance was approved for 100% of Special Service Area (SSA) funds (~$272,000) and $522,000 from the Hotel/Motel General Fund.

• Executive Director Jenessa Zwolinski highlighted accomplishments including:

  • Over 2 million social media impressions

  • Significant website traffic growth (55% increase)

  • Successful events: Fine Art Show, STC Live, Jazz Weekend, Scarecrow Weekend

• Council requested quarterly updates to maintain transparency and track progress.

Water and Sewer Rate Increases Approved

A moderate multi-year approach was approved to address operational costs and debt service:

• 5% increase in water rates and 5% increase in sewer rates, effective June 1, 2024, continuing annually through 2027.

• This translates to roughly $7 per month for a typical household.

• Staff will conduct a comprehensive utility rate study after the master plans for water, sewer, and electric utilities are finalized.

Video Gaming Push Tax Ordinance Extended

The committee approved extending the implementation of the video gaming push tax ordinance to January 1, 2025.

• The tax remains on hold due to ongoing litigation at the appellate court level.

• The extension ensures the city preserves the right to implement the tax when legal matters are resolved.

Creation of Dam Task Force

An 8-member Dam Task Force was established to study the potential removal of the city dam.

• Composition: 5 city members, 3 St. Charles Park District representatives, and 1 River Corridor Foundation member.

• The task force will evaluate environmental, economic, and recreational impacts, reporting findings by March 1, 2025.

• Concerns were raised about potential bias due to the River Corridor Foundation’s prior public stance.

Lease Agreement for Digital Forensic Services

The committee approved a lease/license agreement with Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office.

• The agreement allows a forensic specialist to operate from the St. Charles Police Department at no cost to the city.

• Enhances the department’s ability to perform digital extractions, especially for cases involving children.

• Includes a kick-out clause and indefinite lease duration.

Conclusion

The February 7 meeting demonstrated the city’s focus on supporting community institutions, ensuring fiscal stability, and planning for infrastructure decisions. Funding approvals for cultural institutions and the Business Alliance strengthen local engagement and economic development, while utility rate increases and the Dam Task Force aim to address long-term operational and environmental planning.