Published on April 22, 2026 4:33 pm
Last Updated on April 22, 2026 4:33 pm
(JANET OHNESORGE LISTENS AS EFFINGHAM CITY ADMINISTRATOR STEVE MILLER READS OFF HER ACCOMPLISHMENTS)
Effingham City Council members Tuesday passed the Appointment Ordinance for the fiscal year that begins May 1.
The ordinance includes additions in the police department, the sewer department and the street department. The Economic Development Director position formerly held by the retired Todd Hull remains unfilled.
Police Chief Kurt Davis introduced new police officer Blaze Hartke, and City Administrator Steve Miller shared a proclamation recognizing Janet Ohnesorge, who is retiring after 15 years in the Utility Billing Office. City Clerk Abbey Nosbisch then introduced Manuel Nora who will succeed Ohnesorge.
The Council established pay ranges for non-union salaried and hourly positions. The 4% increase matches the union pay increases. Also approved was the vacation of a portion of Henrietta Street from Franklin Avenue to St. Anthony Avenue, and the purchase of $342,000 worth of water treatment plant chemicals. Also approved was Phase I of the sidewalk replacement project, valued at $208,000.
Several matters were up for discussion, but were not voted on.
One matter would combine three sections of the Zoning Ordinance regarding site plans. Another matter was the proposed vacation of parking along the south side of Lawrence Avenue at Bliss Park. The vacation is being considered because of the increased use of the park due to the new playground equipment recently installed.
The Council heard about proposed work to clean the City water tanks, the annual $25,000 contribution to the Committee on Aging, and an engineering services agreement for the Rickelman Avenue at 4th Street roundabout. Also discussed…a second route to the Wastewater Treatment Plant, a Downtown/Southtown TIF Rehabilitation Agreement for Wiedman Cleaners on Washington Avenue, and a bid opening on street resurfacing projects for this construction season. City Engineer Luke Thoele said the east parking lot at the Effingham Performance Center will be resurfaced along with the parking lot on the north side of the County Office Building and the County Government Center with the cost split between the City and the County. The roadways involved are Jefferson Avenue from Maple Street to the CN Railroad; Merchant Street, south of Jefferson; Washington Avenue from Front Street to Banker Street; and Market Avenue from 4th Street to 2nd Street. The bid opening is set for Tuesday morning, April 28.
