Ward 3 Councilwoman Laurie Feldman Voted New Council President

Ward 3 Councilwoman Laurie Feldman will lead the St. Charles City Council as president for the next year.

The City Council on May 1 elected Feldman council president on an 8-2 vote. She will take over for Councilman Mike Klinghammer. Council members Ron Stivison and Dave Beckering voted for Beckering as president.

Councilwoman Bridget Ohmes was unanimously voted as the new vice president for the council, replacing Beckering.

"This is a big day and I think this is an important issue," said Mayor Sally Faith. "Really, you have to have faith that we can take care of the city."

Council Pushes Off Decision on Bonds for Community Center

The council tabled a decision on releasing $30 million in bonds that were approved by voters to . 

Beckering said he was prepared to vote on the issue Tuesday but would wait 30 days for a council committee to continue discussions with ShowMe Aquatics and Fitness. The nonprofit organization is seeking to restart talks with the city about jointly building and running a facility.

"I don't think in the end it's going to make any difference, but I'm prepared to wait," he said.

Council Approves Salary Increase for Department Directors

The Council also voted to approve the following bills and resolutions among others:

• An ordinance that amends the Foundry Art Centre Parking Lot Lease
• An ordinance extending the completion date for the Pearl Ridge Storm Sewer Extension Project to May 18.
• An ordinance that approves a 2.5 percent salary increase for department directors in 2012. 
• A resolution that extends the deadline for the city and the developer, DESCO to negotiate a redevelopment agreement for the Lindenwood Town Center project. The former deadline was March 31, and this bill extends the deadline to Dec. 31, 2012.

Also at the meeting, Faith proclaimed: 

• May 6-12 as "National Music Week"
• May 11 as "Public Works Day"
• May 5-13 as "National Tourism Week"
• May 7-11 as "Municipal Clerks Week"

St. Charles will host a public works day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 11 at . They will have snow cones and hot dogs, along with public works equipment on display.