Published on July 15, 2025 6:04 pm
Last Updated on July 15, 2025 6:05 pm
The Effingham City Council Tuesday allocated up to $600,000 in Hotel Operators Occupation Tax dollars. The funds are to pay for infrastructure improvements at Thelma Keller Convention Center.
The work is to be completed within one year.
Commissioner Jake Niebrugge voted for the allocation of funds, but said businesses need to guard against letting properties go into disrepair, and then come to the City for assistance.
Commissioner Libby Moeller was not present for the meeting.
The Council issued a liquor license to J&H Liquor at 2400 North 3rd Street; finalized the sale of two lots on the southwest corner at Fayette and Willow to serve as the new location of Wright at Home; approved purchase of two sewage lift stations by Petro Stopping Center and along Henrietta Street.
Council members voted to declare property at 416 North Merchant as dangerous and unsafe. If the property isn’t taken care of by the owner, the City will clean it up.
Tourism Director Jodi Thoele asked for a two-year renewal of a contract for billboards at Brazil, Indiana and at Warrenton, Missouri; Director of Public Works Jeremy Heuerman asked for action on a concrete crushing program; Economic Development Director Todd Hull asked for TIF dollars for cleaning and painting for Ep Legends at 209 North 4th Streets; Heuerman asked for an expansion of the City sidewalk replacement program; and Heuerman announced that bids will be opened July 29th for the reconstruction of East Evergreen from Willenborg Street to the box culvert to the west.
The Council also heard from local businessman Mark Mayhood, who has encouraged the City to open up bidding on vehicles to local dealers. Two and perhaps three vehicles will be purchased locally and at a savings to the City. Mayhood thanked city officials for the first local purchase of vehicles in some time.
