St. Charles Council Extends Emergency, Approves Consulting Agreement
- Sep 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 17
Introduction
The St. Charles City Council meeting on June 9, 2021, was marked by decisions impacting community planning, pandemic response, and legislative consulting. Key topics included the appointment of a Youth Commission member, a resolution requiring Alderman Ryan Bongard’s recusal from TIF #7 matters, and a new agreement with a state-level governmental consultant.
Approval of Meeting Minutes
The meeting opened with standard procedures, including roll call, invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The minutes from the June 7th, 2021 meeting were reviewed and unanimously approved at 2:20.
Appointment to St. Charles Youth Commission
Anthony Farinella was officially appointed to the St. Charles Youth Commission following a recommendation by the Mayor and vetting by the commission chair. This decision reflects the city’s commitment to engaging young voices in civic development.
Extension of COVID-19 State of Emergency
The council approved an ordinance to extend the declared COVID-19 state of emergency. This extension remains in effect until the next council meeting or until the Governor lifts the statewide declaration.
Resolution Requiring TIF #7 Recusal
A resolution acknowledging Alderman Ryan Bongard’s leasehold interest in a property within Central TIF #7 was approved. In accordance with state statute, Bongard must recuse himself from any discussions or votes involving TIF #7. The legal team emphasized that this restriction applies broadly to all matters concerning the district.
Approval of Consulting Agreement
The council voted to approve an 11-month governmental consulting agreement with John J. Milner and Associates for $26,400. The agreement provides the city with legislative monitoring and consulting services. Officials praised Mr. Milner’s political expertise and suggested adding the Chicago Northwestern bike trail extension to his agenda.
Citizen Comments and Community Engagement
A resident named Anthony addressed the council, reflecting on his past civic engagement and Memorial Day address. He expressed appreciation for the city and requested a private meeting with leadership to present a community-improvement idea.
Timeline of Key Events
00:57 – Roll call, invocation by Alderman K. Lightner.
01:44 – Pledge of Allegiance.
02:05 – Approval of June 7 meeting minutes.
02:36 – Appointment of Anthony Farinella to Youth Commission.
03:25 – Extension of COVID-19 emergency.
04:57 – Resolution on Alderman Bongard’s TIF #7 recusal.
07:23 – Consulting agreement with John J. Milner approved.
12:35 – Citizen comments from Anthony.
16:34 – Motion to adjourn.
Conclusion
The June 9, 2021, City Council meeting demonstrated a balance of transparency, forward planning, and civic engagement. By extending the COVID-19 state of emergency, reinforcing ethical standards with a TIF #7 recusal resolution, and bringing in experienced state-level consulting, St. Charles continues to prioritize community well-being and responsible governance.
FAQs
What COVID-19 decision did the St. Charles City Council make on June 9, 2021?
The Council extended the city’s COVID-19 state of emergency until the next council meeting or until the Governor lifts the statewide declaration.
Who was appointed to the St. Charles Youth Commission during the June 9, 2021 meeting?
Anthony Farinella was officially appointed to the Youth Commission to help engage young voices in civic development.
What consulting agreement did the council approve on June 9, 2021?
The Council approved an 11-month agreement with John J. Milner and Associates for $26,400 to provide legislative monitoring and consulting services.
How did the June 9, 2021 council meeting address community engagement?
Residents, including Anthony, were allowed to comment and present ideas for community improvement, reflecting the city’s commitment to civic participation.
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