Published on November 4, 2025 7:10 pm
Last Updated on November 4, 2025 7:10 pm
Action was delayed on rezoning 1219 E. Rickelman in Silverlake Estates Tuesday.
No vote was taken after information included in the Council paperwork indicated the item was for discussion only.
Two residents spoke against the rezoning and developer Dick Rhodes spoke in favor. Most Council members indicated the proposal complies with the Comprehensive Plan and that they would be supportive.
The Council did vote to move ahead with development of land along Heritage Avenue for 15 residential properties. The City received a $373,000 grant to move the project ahead.
City Director of Public Works Jeremy Heuerman discussed an urban forestry management plan for Effingham. Components of the plan include getting rid of bad trees and utilizing the right spots for the right trees, and to prune all trees on City right of way. A goal would be to increase by 2,000 trees over the next 20 years.
There was debate over billboards along the interstates. Commissioner Jake Niebrugge voiced opposition to the amount of signs utilized currently, but there was no vote.
The Council discussed engineering work on Evergreen Avenue from Sherwood Park Street to Oceola Street. The goal is to award the work and get the project underway in 2026.
There was discussion over placing new playground equipment in Bliss Park, but no vote. Commissioner Libby Moeller pushed for placement of a splash pad at the park.
Additional decorative signs were discussed on major collector streets, but there was no vote. There was discussion over rehabilitation of properties at 406 South 5th Street and at 114 South 4th Street utilizing TIF dollars, with a vote expected at the next Council meeting.
