Council Repeals Ordinance, Approves Tax Levy

Introduction

On November 11, 2022, the St. Charles Government Operations Committee met to address key municipal matters, including the repeal of the city’s begging ordinance, approval of the preliminary 2022 property tax levy, and public feedback on riverfront development proposals. The meeting emphasized legal compliance, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.

Repeal of Begging Ordinance

The committee began with a review and recommendation to repeal City Ordinance Title Nine, Chapter 9.28, which regulated begging and panhandling.

• Legal Basis: City Attorney Peppers cited Illinois Supreme Court rulings (2019 & 2021) that found similar ordinances unconstitutional, removing tort immunity for police enforcing them.

• Scope of Enforcement: Police retain authority over trespassing, blocking rights-of-way, or public endangerment, while door-to-door soliciting ordinances remain enforceable.

• Outcome: The committee unanimously recommended the repeal, ensuring the city’s ordinances align with current constitutional requirements.

Preliminary 2022 Property Tax Levy

The next agenda item focused on the preliminary estimate for the 2022 property tax levy.

• Purpose of Levy: Supports general city services, including police, fire, and public works, while funding pension obligations.

• Key Drivers:

  • Significant increases in police and fire pension funding, totaling over $439,000.

  • Minor increase for the Mental Health Board.

• Impact: Despite the funding increases, the estimated tax rate is projected to slightly decrease due to rising property values and new construction.

• Committee Concerns: Members highlighted the long-term sustainability of pensions and the need for future financial strategies.

The motion to recommend approval of the preliminary levy estimate passed.

Public Comments: Riverfront Development

The meeting concluded with residents providing feedback on riverfront development proposals, particularly the Frontier and Murphy proposals for the old police station site.

• Resident Concerns:

  • Conflicting information about Planning and Development meetings.

  • Opposition to current proposals due to lack of transparency and perceived community disconnect.

  • Suggestions for new requests for concepts incorporating citizen input.

• City Response: It was confirmed that riverfront development will not be discussed at the November 14th Planning and Development Committee meeting.

Conclusion

The November 11 meeting highlighted St. Charles’ commitment to legal compliance, fiscal oversight, and community engagement. By repealing an unconstitutional ordinance, addressing pension-driven tax adjustments, and carefully managing citizen input on riverfront development, the city continues to balance governance responsibilities with public interest.