St. Charles Extends Residential Sprinkler Moratorium and Joins Opioid Settlement

Sep 8
2 min read

Introduction

On December 9, 2021, the St. Charles Government Operations Committee met to address key city initiatives, including IT upgrades, residential fire safety regulations, opioid epidemic response, and local infrastructure improvements. Several important measures were unanimously approved, setting the stage for action in early 2022.

Key Decisions Made

Gartner Consulting Agreement Approved

At 0:59, the committee approved a $43,300 agreement with Gartner Consulting for information technology research and consulting services. Officials emphasized Gartner’s value in delivering cost savings and strategic IT insights over the past three years.

Residential Sprinkler Moratorium Extended

At 2:00, the committee approved an ordinance extending the residential sprinkler moratorium for one- and two-family dwellings until the adoption of the 2021 building code.

Builders and realtors have consistently opposed the mandate due to cost concerns.
The Fire Chief confirmed the city will revisit sprinkler requirements after the 2021 code review in mid-2022.

Participation in National Opioid Settlement

At 5:28, the committee voted to opt into the National Multi-State Coalition Opioid Settlement, a statewide lawsuit to recover funds for opioid abatement programs.

The city has operated a Narcan response program for seven years and is piloting a “leave-behind” Narcan kit initiative.
Officials stressed the urgency of opting in before the January 2, 2022, deadline to secure funds for local programs.

Foundry Business Park Road Project Approved

At 9:30, the city approved a road resurfacing project for the Foundry Business Park using funds from a TIF district set to expire December 31, 2021. Geneva Construction will complete the work in Spring 2022, honoring 2021 pricing despite late bidding.

Parking Deck Presentation Delayed Pending Grant

At 11:20, city staff confirmed that a comprehensive parking deck presentation will be delayed until early 2022, pending the outcome of a grant application for additional security cameras.

Action Items

City staff to finalize the Gartner Consulting contract.
Fire Department to maintain the sprinkler moratorium and prepare for code updates.
Officials to opt into the opioid settlement before the January deadline.
Public Works to coordinate Foundry Business Park resurfacing in Spring 2022.
City staff to monitor camera grant status before scheduling the parking deck presentation.

Important Notes

The sprinkler moratorium has been repeatedly extended, reflecting ongoing cost debates.
The opioid settlement allows municipalities to access statewide funds without direct litigation costs.
Resurfacing work was prioritized to use expiring TIF district funds efficiently.

Meeting Timeline

0:00 – 0:25: Meeting called to order, roll call.
0:25 – 0:59: Agenda approval.
0:59 – 1:57: Gartner Consulting agreement approved.
1:57 – 5:28: Residential sprinkler moratorium discussion and vote.
5:28 – 9:29: Opioid settlement discussion and vote.
9:29 – 11:17: Foundry Business Park resurfacing project approval.
11:17 – 12:50: Parking deck presentation discussion.
12:50 – 13:44: Meeting adjourned.

Conclusion

The December 9, 2021, Government Operations Committee Meeting reflected the city’s focus on strategic infrastructure investments, public safety, and community health initiatives. With IT improvements, opioid program funding, and road upgrades on the horizon, St. Charles leaders continue to prioritize efficiency and preparedness for 2022.