The Effingham City Council learned about the City’s ADA Transition Plan at their meeting Tuesday. The ADA Transition Plan is something that every city is required to have by law. The plan involves inspecting and rating Effingham’s sidewalks and other public walkways to make sure they are assessable for people with disabilities. Under the plan, the City determines which areas are priorities for correction, and any possible liabilities that exist. City Engineer Jeremy Heuerman said that the plan has been on file for public comment and inspection since January 1st. The plan comes with unanimous recommendation from the Plan Commission, and will be voted on by the Council at their next meeting.
The Council also learned of a new business coming to Effingham. Truck Centers Inc. will be opening a truck repair and sales facility on Fayette Avenue near the Lexington Inn & Suites. Truck Centers VP of Sales Justin Hopkins spoke before the Council about the business. Hopkins said that the facility is 13 acres, and there are plans for 25 to 30 employees to be hired immediately. Hopkins said that Truck Centers hopes to quickly expand at their upcoming Effingham location to 50 employees.
In other action, the City Council discussed a change to the liquor control ordinance. The change would allow for a microbrewery to open in Effingham, and for in state wineries that are out of Effingham County to be vendors at events if they obtain a permit. This will be voted on at the Council’s March 15 meeting.
The Council also presented the business appreciation award to Andes Health Mart Pharmacy. Chip and Beth Andes accepted the award from Mayor Jeff Bloemker (seen above).