St. Charles Council Approves Filming, COVID-19 Measures, and DEI Actions

On January 20, 2022, the St. Charles City Council met for a 28-minute session covering a wide range of topics, including historic preservation, film production licenses, COVID-19 emergency measures, and community equity concerns.

Key Approvals and Decisions

• Omnibus Vote: Approved routine agenda items.

• Vouchers Issued: Expenditures from December 13–26, 2021, approved.

• H1 Liquor License: Granted to The Graceful Ordinary for catering events.

• Airboat Productions LLC Licensing Agreements: Approved for filming at the former police facility and the West Side parking deck.

• COVID-19 State of Emergency Ordinance: Confirmed, with two dissenting votes.

• Debt Abatement Ordinances: Approved for 2021A and 2021B bonds, resulting in city savings.

Action Item:

• Preservation Partners Presentation Follow-up: Al Watts to return for a deeper discussion on historic preservation’s economic impact, tax incentives, and creative adaptive reuse.

Historic Preservation Highlight

Al Watts, Community Engagement Director for Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley, presented the organization’s mission to protect historic and architectural resources in the region. Watts emphasized that preservation drives economic growth, increases property values, and enhances community appeal. He highlighted the organization’s support for property owners navigating ordinances, tax benefits, and adaptive reuse opportunities. Watts will return in the coming months to discuss further economic incentives and creative preservation strategies.

Filming and Liquor License Approvals

The council approved an H1 liquor license for The Graceful Ordinary to host off-site catering events, including one benefiting the Fox Valley Rugby Association.

Two licensing agreements with Airboat Productions LLC were also approved:

1. Former Police Facility (211 North Riverside Avenue): To serve as the main hub for a film titled "Killer".

2. West Side Parking Deck: Cast and crew parking during filming.

   
   

Filming will involve a 150-person crew over 10 days, primarily at night, with locations including Hotel Baker, Riverside Avenue, and the Illinois Bridge. Security, snow removal, and minimal disruption were ensured.

COVID-19 State of Emergency and Debt Abatement

The council approved an ordinance confirming the ongoing COVID-19 state of emergency, with Aldermen Lightner and Petrola dissenting.

Two debt abatement ordinances for 2021 General Obligation Bonds (Series 2021A and 2021B, including TIF debt refunding) were also approved, generating significant interest savings for the city.

Community Equity and Inclusion Discussion

During public comments, Michael Linder, a longtime resident, addressed issues surrounding human rights, diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and affordable housing:

• Cited perceived humiliation of a citizen in a prior council meeting.

• Highlighted the underrepresentation of Hispanic/Latino residents in local government and employment.

• Raised concerns about affordable housing policies and oversight.

• Suggested an audit of DEI policies and diversity training for senior staff and elected officials.

In response, Alderman Sulkitis issued a public apology for misgendering a resident in a prior meeting, taking full responsibility.

Conclusion

The January 20 Council Meeting balanced administrative approvals, economic initiatives, and community equity discussions. From historic preservation presentations to film production licensing, COVID-19 measures, and DEI concerns, the council underscored the importance of economic growth, creative use of city resources, and inclusion in governance.

FAQs

Which film production approvals were granted during the meeting?

Licensing agreements were approved for Airboat Productions LLC to film at the former police facility and West Side parking deck, with a 150-person crew over 10 days.

What liquor license was approved by the Council?

An H1 liquor license was granted to The Graceful Ordinary for catering events, including one supporting the Fox Valley Rugby Association.

What COVID-19 measures were addressed?

The Council confirmed the ongoing COVID-19 State of Emergency ordinance, with two dissenting votes from Aldermen Lightner and Petrola.

What historic preservation initiatives were highlighted?

Al Watts from Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley discussed economic benefits of historic preservation, including property value increases, tax incentives, and adaptive reuse strategies.

How did the Council address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concerns?

During public comment, issues of DEI, human rights, and affordable housing were raised. Alderman Sulkitis publicly apologized for a prior misgendering incident, and the Council discussed audits and training for DEI improvements.