On June 24, the Peoria City Council met virtually and did some internal housekeeping: Kiran K. Velpula, Ph.D., was sworn in as at-large councilor to fill Mayor Rita Ali’s unexpired term. Ali’s reappointments for 28 city commissions were approved.

Community Development Director Ross Black discussed amending city codes for fulfillment centers, after several requests for such centers at the local and national level. Black said this could help reuse vacant space.

Councilor Denis Cyr recognized Peoria’s identification as sixth of 600 affordable cities and requested staff promote the positive news. Councilor Denise Jackson commented on trash, despite neighborhood clean-ups, and requested feedback on possible deterrents. Councilor Tim Riggenbach noted Peoria’s acceptance as one of 12 cities invited into the Vacant Property Leadership Institute. City staff will receive training in land bank strategies and other areas.

The Council met July 13, with all councilors present except John Kelly.

City Manager Patrick Urich said a public engagement survey would be posted on the city’s website to gather input on how to spend the remaining Coronavirus relief funds. The city was awarded $47,089,976, with $10,301,585 spent in June to eliminate need to issue cash bond and curtail furloughs for city employees.

Funds must be committed to specific projects by the end of 2024 and spent by the end of 2026.

Councilor Charles Grayeb thanked the legal department for research on panhandling and solicitation. He said the city and police should enforce current laws. Discussion included motivations for the increase in panhandling and First Amendment rights. The council voted to receive and file this report.

Peoria County Board met face-to-face on July 8 with all members present except Kate Pastucha and Brandy Bryant.

Appropriation of $19,430 in unused grant funds from the Center for Tech and Civic Life into the Election Commission budget was approved 12-4. Discussion included one citizen’s comment and one member expressing opposition. League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria President Terry Kohlbuss was present in support and had written a letter asking the Board to revise the budget. Election Commission Executive Director Tom Bride and Election Commission Chairman Matt Bartolo were present to answer questions, but none were asked.

A permanent easement for an overflow spillway at Peoria County Landfill #3 was approved unanimously. The Peoria City Council had already voted to approve.

Peoria County Election Commission met July 13 to discuss the budget before submission to the Peoria County Board. Executive Director Tom Bride expects increases — more money for election judges, including overtime, and more drop boxes — and 35-40% voter turnout in November 2022.

Bride questioned a 100% increase in insurance.

The Peoria Housing Authority Board of Commissioners met virtually July 6 to authorize and approve Taft Home Redevelopment closing documents.

Chairman Carl Cannon asked for an update on the CEO search. Commissioner Kadar Heffner said the committee will review proposals and select firms for presentation.

A special meeting of the not-for-profit PHA Development Corporation was held after the regular meeting. It will partner in the Taft redevelopment project and the purchase of vacant property for future use and/or redevelopment.

League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria observers attend and report on local government meetings. Check https://www.lwvgp.org/news/category/observer-reports-logo.