11th-hour agenda items could soon be thing of the past

After one Elgin councilman repeatedly sparked last-minute discussions on various topics that didn't get traction among fellow council members, the rules likely will change so that can't happen again.

Councilman Terry Gavin brought up the issue at a special meeting Saturday, pointing to recent discussions about backyard chickens, animal control fines and recreational vehicles - all topics raised by Councilman John Prigge, who was absent.

"The simple act of adding an item to the agenda by the request of only one council person I believe has the potential, and has already caused, a sort of sideshow effect during formal council meetings," Gavin said, without naming Prigge. "Common sense needs to be introduced."

Gavin specifically took issue with placing items on the council's agenda at the last minute, which doesn't allow staff members enough time to put together information or specific language about new initiatives.

Under the proposed new rule, two council members would have to agree to do that. The change - which fellow council members supported - would not apply to the mayor or the city manager.

"There are times when a last-minute item is necessary, when it's a crisis," Gavin said. "None of this stuff we've been going over is a crisis."

Prigge said Monday he brings up topics that are timely or of immediate concern to residents.

"If passed, that would be a very sad commentary about what this council is and is not," Prigge said. "This indicated to me that those who will support this not only can't think on their feet - they can't think on their rumps."

He also objected to making an exception for the city manager and the mayor. "You go down a very greasy political street when one elected official has the power to add things to the agenda and the city council's employee - the city manager - has the same power."

Elgin Mayor David Kaptain said he's "fully supportive" of Gavin's idea, and brought up the same thing to City Manager Sean Stegall six to eight months ago.

"In my experience it is not commonplace for individual council members - even if they have the authority - to place items regularly on the agenda," Stegall said.

Councilwoman Tish Powell pointed out Elgin Area School District U-46 requires a majority consensus by board members for items to be placed on the agenda. Elgin could consider requiring a quorum of three council members to place items on the agenda, she said.

The issue is expected to be up for discussion at the May 27 committee of the whole meeting.