Published on August 24, 2026 11:20 am
Last Updated on August 24, 2026 11:21 am
Effingham City Council members have finalized land transactions that will facilitate the westerly extension of Airport Road from US Route 45 to the CN Railroad. The project should also open up the land to future economic development efforts.
The City is selling land to Stacey Durbin for $750,000. The sale is in exchange for other property that will help with the Airport Road extension.
Council members also discussed a proposal from Merz Heating and Air Conditioning for HVAC improvements in the hallways in Village Square Mall. The work could help with existing tenants in the mall and make the facility more attractive to prospective tenants.
In connection with the mall, the Council is working on a Downtown/Southtown TIF redevelopment project. The project will involve painting the exterior of the RMC Cinemas. The City would pay 25% of the project cost, up to $25,000.
The Council is considering a grant application for work along Jaycee Avenue and Veterans Drive to develop a multi-use path. The Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program would fund 80% of engineering, design and construction costs.
Also discussed was the acquisition of right-of-way and easements for the Cherry Street reconstruction project from Fayette to Jefferson Avenues for just over $25,000.
Council members concurred with allocating $1,000 to the Kelheim, Germany Student Cultural Exchange for this year’s event, which is scheduled in September. Effingham and Kelheim have engaged in a student exchange for 30 years.
The Council approved an agreement authorizing the Effingham Police Department to enter into a Downstate Major Case Squad Intergovernmental Criminal Justice Service Assistance Agreement, and approved the purchase of another $138,000 for decorative street signs.
Council members also approved a plat of property along Fayette Avenue that will serve as a location for a Scooter’s Coffee, and hired four part-time custodians and one full-time custodian.
The Council also hired Kristin Harvey as Mayor’s Assistant. Today was Harvey’s first day on the job. She succeeds the retiring Jane Kemper, who has concluded 38 years’ service to the City.
