Published on August 6, 2026 9:57 am
Last Updated on August 6, 2026 9:57 am
Effingham city council members this week acquired an audio system for the downtown area.
The system was acquired from Vox Audio Visual for $90,867.75. The sound system will enhance the downtown experience to complement events such as Cruise Night and the Christmas shopping season. The system was an idea that came up during the development of Effingham’s new comprehensive plan.
Also, Village Wine was given permission to hold Cruise Night on September 12.
The Council discussed a liquor license for the former DAV Club building at 405 Vulcan Drive, and a land option purchase agreement and the sale of adjoining property along South Route 45. The land purchase and sale would be a part of the planned westerly extension of Airport Road west of South Route 45. The Airport Road project would help open up land from Route 45 to the CN Railroad to economic development.
Council members also discussed the sale of 511 West Edgar Avenue to Salt Creek Custom Homes and Timber Framing for $5,000 with a commitment that a four-bedroom home will be built on the lot. The project is to be completed within two years. There was also discussion of changing the city’s liquor code to allows mayors or commissioners to be involved in the manufacture, sale or distribution of liquor. That would comply with State law.
The Council heard from City Police Chief Kurt Davis on entering into a Major Case Squad intergovernmental agreement. Davis said the major case squad is modeled after one in DuPage County and one in the Metro East. Chief Deputy Sheriff Travis Buhnerkempe of the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office said the sheriff’s office is already a part of the downstate major case squad and said that several other police departments and sheriff’s offices are already members. Davis said membership in the major case squad would especially be beneficial on the investigative side.
Council members also indicated that they’re in favor of purchasing more decorative street signs for just over $138,000. The new signs have received favorable comments from many city residents.
The Council also discussed a timetable for the start of work on the city budget, and Fire Chief Brant Yochum said they’re taking applications for firefighters.
