Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Effingham City Council’s meeting Tuesday night focused on continued controversy around allocating hotel/motel tax funds.
Wheat Penny Co-Owner Michael Brummer asked the Council not to vote on a proposed $5,000 allocation for his business’s holiday event, citing the stress and complications the controversy had caused. Although $25,000 in private funds had already been invested in the event, Brummer said the burden outweighed the potential city funding. The proposal received no motion, ending consideration for now.
The conversation broadened to consider the future use of hotel/motel tax revenue—money largely raised from visitors staying in Effingham. Commissioner Hank Stephens emphasized this, saying the community needs to maximize the benefit from these funds, which in the past have supported parking and sound improvements at the convention center. Mayor Mike Schutzbach noted previous Council actions reserving $1.5 million for a potential interstate showcase center, though other projects remain possible.
Tourism Board member Jake Niebrugge advocated for more flexible guidelines, moving beyond the current “heads in beds” focus. Resident Mark Mayhood called for input from local business owners.
Other updates included progress on the Effingham 2050 Comprehensive Plan, set for further review in January, and the announcement of a $1.5 million grant for Wabash Avenue storm sewer improvements, requiring a $300,000 city match.
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