UPC hears update on Galesburg franchise and committee compensation; legal review requested

The Utility Policy Committee on Aug. 14 received staff updates about the Galesburg North 30th/5th Street franchise amendment and a prior UPC recommendation to compensate committee members who are not otherwise paid.

Franchise update
City staff reported the UPC’s prior motion to support the Galesburg North 30 Fifth Street franchise agreement and said staff will coordinate with Comstock Township and Galesburg on the drafting and boundary adjustments. Staff noted the existing water-services agreement includes an appendix map of service areas and suggested that map may need updating; staff recommended consultation with the city attorney to determine any needed amendments or steps.

Committee compensation follow-up
The committee discussed a prior vote to provide compensation for members not otherwise compensated. Staff said the recommendation has not been implemented and that the city attorney must review whether members could be paid as professionals (invoicing at a professional rate) or otherwise. The committee asked staff to return with legal guidance and next steps.

Ending
Staff committed to follow up with the city attorney on both the franchise boundary/map question and on the legal path to implement compensation for eligible UPC members.