Zoning Variance Approved by Morrison City Council

By LYNNETTE FORTH | For The Prairie Advocate News

MORRISON, IL – The regular meeting of the Morrison City Council was held on November 18th, in the Whiteside County Board Room. Board and commission reports were heard which included a report of the planning and zoning commission meeting held on October 30th, 2012.

At the meeting, Robin Green and Brad Quinn were present on behalf of Advantage One Credit Union submitting a request for a sign variance at 204 N. Jackson Street. The petitioner is seeking a variance to allow for the repositioning of a re-designed additional monument-type sign to the southeast side of the property in the C-2 general business District.

Ms. Green explained that the current sign would be removed from the roof. The hope is to relocate the sign in the back of the building so it is more visible to traffic. It would be a red, free standing, scrolling sign that would be 6’ tall. Commission member Jindrich made a motion to approve the request, and it was seconded by Commission member Bender. The motion was approved.

In new business, Kenny Kophamer questioned the possibility of subdividing his property located within the mile and ½ radius of the City limits. He has requested that Whiteside County grant him a rezoning from A-1 to R-1 for a 4-lot subdivision, referred to as Norrish Heights. The request was granted by the committee.

The consent agenda approved included September 24th 2012 regular session minutes, October 22nd, 2012 regular session minutes, Bills Payable-$302,092.97, December 26th 2012 meeting canceled, and Ordinance #12-33-Designate 6 properties as local Historic Landmarks: 117 W. Wall Street, 708 W. Lincolnway, 13909 Lincoln Road, 402 W. Lincolnway, Grove Hill Cemetary, and Veterans Park and Memorial.

Safety = Savings

City Administrator Jim Wise informed the council that a preliminary projection of municipal insurance for 2013 was going to cost the city less than the 2012 premium for coverage. This was due to the City workforce having a strong safety record while on the job. The premium is expected to be 6% less than last year’s premium.

Wise also proudly reported that the City was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,100.00 by the Illinois Public Risk Fund to be used for the purchase of safety equipment for employees. The grant was received because of the City’s strong work safety record.

Items for consideration and possible action included:

- A request for Relief of Utility Bill: A citizen requested that the City lower his/her utility bill due to an unknown reason for having a bill thirty times larger than normal. No action was taken. Council members requested more information.

- Review Revised Personnel Policy;

- December 10th, 2012-Tax Levy;

- December 10th, 2012-Fiscal 2013 Budget Amendments.

The next meeting of the Morrison City Council is scheduled for December 10th, 2012. The public is strongly encouraged to attend.