Published on May 5, 2026 7:01 pm
Last Updated on May 5, 2026 7:02 pm
(ALTHOFF)
The Effingham City Council Tuesday named Sasha Althoff as the city’s new economic development director.
Althoff was named to the position to succeed Todd Hull, who recently retired.
Althoff has worked on the economic development office for several years. City Commissioner Jake Niebrugge said he spoke with Althoff about her ideas for the job and said he looks forward to working with her. The vote to hire Althoff was unanimous.
Last night’s meeting also saw recognition of Drew Hanfland as this year’s recipient of the Leonardo Nierman Award. Hanfland was recognized for his three-part sculpture “You Hold Peace” in the 2025-26 Sculptures on the Avenues Exhibition.
(HANFLAND)
The Council voted to prohibit parking, standing, or stopping along the south side of Lawrence Avenue, which is the south boundary of Bliss Park. The action is to keep traffic flowing along the street in the wake of new playground equipment recently placed in the park. Also approved was new special use regulations regulating vacation and short-term rental properties. Mayor Mike Schutzbach voted against the move, saying he is against any short-term rentals in town
Council members finalized C&M Subdivision, which involves lots along Glenwood Street, north of Temple Avenue, and a sidewalk through the properties. Also approved was the next phase of Niemerg OBW Commercial Subdivision that will involve an Outer Belt West water main project, and a text amendment that combines three sections of the Zoning Ordinance regarding site plans.
The Council allotted $30,000 to Effingham Noon Rotary for the 4th of July fireworks to reflect America’s 250th birthday, and approved the annual $25,000 allocation to Effingham City/County Committee on Aging. Also approved was water storage tank cleaning, and a contract for engineering services with Farnsworth Group for the Rickelman Avenue at 4th Street roundabout project. The Council also approved paying 25% of the cost of facade rehabilitation work for Wiedman Cleaners at 108 East Washington Avenue, and approved the cost of street resurfacing throughout the city, as well as parking lot resurfacing. Also approved was participation by Culver’s in the Pick It Up, Effingham! Litter Abatement Program along the frontage road running in front of the restaurant.
Council members discussed an ordinance prohibiting the sale and delivery of Kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine. City Police Chief Kurt Davis said state law limits the sale of the substances to minors, but the measure being considered by the City would prohibit it to the general public. Davis said they have indication of a break-in to a business to steal the items and thefts from other businesses. Now begins the effort to stay ahead of criminal activity related to the drugs, with other steps expected to be needed to stay ahead of the criminal activity.
