Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Effingham City Council addressed multiple key issues in Tuesday’s session, including newly approved regulations on recovery homes and residences.
The move follows resident concerns upon learning of an Oxford House opening along Glenwood Street earlier this year. City Attorney Tracy Willenborg explained these facilities will now require a special use permit, with each application assessed individually to ensure both city requirements and federal laws are met.
Council members also moved forward on the Village Square Mall’s future, authorizing agreements for potential city purchase once foreclosure proceedings are resolved. Residential expansion was approved along Heritage Avenue, including 15 to 17 new homes, with further development in the Golden Fields and Dalton subdivisions. The city will work with the Illinois Housing Development Authority on a community revitalization plan.
Additional business included preparations for an Outdoor Movie Night street closure, bids for a new fire training center, and purchase of Christmas lights for Community Park. The Council heard that the Hampton Inn and Suites and Home2 Suites liquor licenses have ended due to new ownership, with future permits pending new requests. A public hearing on short-term rental properties is slated to resume March 10.
Police Chief Kurt Davis highlighted the recent Southern Illinois Criminal Justice Summit, which brought over 420 professionals to town, and announced another Citizens Police Academy later this year. The meeting closed with recognition for Economic Development Director Todd Hull, retiring after 38 years of service.
Mayor Mike Schutzbach was absent, and Commissioner Micenheimer led the meeting.
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