Published on July 2, 2025 9:54 am
Last Updated on July 2, 2025 9:54 am
Effingham City Council members Tuesday authorized membership and its annual contribution to Effingham Regional Growth Alliance.
The City’s contribution is $110,000. Two City appointees are a part of the Alliance Board. Those appointees are currently City Commissioner Hank Stephens and Economic Development Director Todd Hull.
The Council finalized the purchase of a 1.64 acre tract of land formerly occupied by the Hodgson Mill building along Interstates 57/70. The City plans to market the tract with adjacent city-owned land for economic development. The parcel was acquired from Iuka State Bank for $295,000.
Council members approved Effingham’s partnership in the Illinois Emergency Management Mutual Aid System Response, and approved an agreement with Sacred Heart Parish for use of parish facilities in the event of an emergency. The City has similar agreements with Unit 40, Unit 50, and St. Anthony schools.
The Council discussed a change to the liquor ordinance that would add a Class P-1 package license with beer, wine and tasting for a property being developed on North 3rd Street. They also discussed an engineering agreement for water main improvements at seven different locations. The work would involve cast iron water lines with a leak history. The engineering work is valued at $100,000 with City crews replacing the lines. It was also informally agreed to replace sewer lift stations on Henrietta Street and Petro Stopping Center.
Council members discussed declaring a structure at 416 North Merchant Street as dangerous and unsafe and demolishing the structure. Building Official Tayler Polk said there are holes in the roof and the foundation of the structure. Also discussed was engineering work for street, sewer and water replacement work on Cherry Street from Fayette north to Jefferson Avenues.
