Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Effingham City Council members gathered Tuesday to advance several key city projects.
The Council discussed an agreement with IDOT for an 1,100-foot extension of McGrath Avenue within the City Business Park, a move set to improve truck and employee access to Stevens Industries while leveraging a grant of nearly $979k. The Council approved a new three-year contract for Local #209 of the Fraternal Order of Police, which includes 5%, 4%, and 4% annual wage increases for police recruits, patrolmen, and sergeants.
Effingham City Council also discussed significant changes affecting local finances. With the State’s grocery sales tax set to end January 1st, municipalities are weighing the option of introducing their own local grocery tax. Officials noted that the city stands to lose about $700,000 in annual revenue, previously provided by the State. A possible reduction in property tax could offset a new sales tax, but no decisions were made. The topic will see further discussion before any action is taken.
Council members also heard proposals for expanding the county transportation network and celebrated Tom Webb’s appointment as Deputy Police Chief.
The Council also signed off on a $68,290 engineering contract to design Cherry Street’s reconstruction and agreed to assist with downtown business redevelopment at 209 North 4th Street by covering 25% of the rehab costs.
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