Published on May 1, 2025 2:47 pm
Last Updated on May 1, 2025 2:47 pm
Six people submitted letters of interest to fill a vacant seat on the Effingham City Council.
Here are the letters submitted:
JACOB NIEBRUGGE–
“Effingham is a special place. Reflecting on the positive influence the city and the community has had on my life, I have a strong desire to ensure a bright future for subsequent generations to come. I am interested in the opportunity to serve as commissioner because I believe in the city, the community, and its people. It is important for me to contribute to a prosperous future for the city of Effingham. The role of city commissioner allows me the opportunity to give back while ensuring the future remains bright for generations to come.
“My professional experience, knowledge and desire for Effingham to thrive uniquely qualify me to serve as an Effingham city commissioner. In my current role as the Vice President of Development at Heartland, I lead a team focused on growth. Specifically, the team is challenged with capturing opportunity within markets across the country. In order to achieve positive results, the team must understand the realities of supply and demand, allocate resources effectively and efficiently while remaining abreast on the external market. I believe these skills are correlated to the requirements of a city commissioner role.
“The responsibility of a city commissioner is real and I take it seriously. I fully support growth, business, and opportunity for the city and its citizens. Each of those will remain as guiding principles for decision making if I am selected as an Effingham city commissioner.”
JIM NIEMANN–
“I’m interested in filling the remainder of Merv’s term, if the Council believes I am a good fit to succeed him. I served the city for 26 years as a police officer, and am familiar with the city infrastructure, her residents, and the city’s operations. I served 12 years on the Effingham County Board representing District B, which is the northwestern part of the City of Effingham, 10 of those years I served as board chairman. I am uniquely familiar with the field and and administrative side of local government operations and budgeting. I believe Merv and I have very similar ideas on issues, and I would be a good fit to succeed him in continuing his efforts in representing the citizens of the City of Effingham. With regards to proof of being eligible to vote, I have resided at my current address for nearly 30 years. I’ve voted in nearly every election during that time. I was born and raised in Effingham, graduated St. Anthony High School, and with the exception of attending Eastern Illinois University and working four and a half years at the Mattoon Police Department, I have been a lifelong resident of the city. My mother still lives here, and both of my daughters have made Effingham their home. I have a vested interest in our community.
“If you need further information or documentation, please feel free to reach out to me. As a side note, I’ve already taken the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) training this year via the Attorney General’s website. I would still need to complete the Open Meetings Act training.”
KEVIN PALMER–
“My name is Kevin Christopher Palmer and (I live in) Effingham. I am writing this letter to express my interest for the City Commissioner position vacated by the retiring Mr. Gillenwater.
“My qualifications include a masters degree in Educational Administration and over 15 years of educational administration. During this time, I have had the opportunity to get to know and work with many individuals and groups. These groups have included the St. Anthony Booster Club, educational groups, and outside groups within the city which have given me the experience to work on many projects and events. I am currently serving as a commissioner on the Effingham Park Board. Prior to my current career of 20 years in the educational system, I worked for over 20 years in the printing industry. I have also owned two businesses. During this time, I have been involved with budgeting and financing with several of my positions. I have also been involved with employee contracts, hiring, and being involved in creating pay scales.
“My knowledge of Effingham has been cultivated by being a resident for 54 years. I understand that Effingham has a commission form of government which establishes city policy through ordinances and resolutions. Effingham is home to numerous business industries including manufacturing, banking, agriculture, printing and publishing as well as medical facilities. Effingham’s central location at the intersection of I-57 and I-70, along with two railways, has it known for being a crossroads of transportation where industry can thrive and residents along with visitors can enjoy the many amenities that Effingham has to offer.
“I am interested in the Commissioner for many reasons. I am proud to have lived most of my life in Effingham, attended schools here, and raised a child here. During this time, I have witnessed the city’s progression and I take great pride in being a resident. I support the vision of continued growth in Effingham through industry, development, focusing on the quality of life for residents, visitors, and by attracting new residents. I have seen improvements to recreational facilities, city attractions, and public spaces. I would like the opportunity to work together with others to ensure that this type of progression continues to make Effingham a place that future generations will be proud to call home. I look forward to further discussing with you my qualifications for this position. Thank you for your consideration.”
RYAN GEBBEN–
“I am writing to express my interest in serving as city commissioner for the City of Effingham, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Merv Gillenwater. I am a lifelong resident of Effingham and my wife and I are raising our family here. I am eager to contribute to the leadership of our city and help continue the important work of guiding our community forward.
“Though I do not have previous experience in public office, I bring a strong sense of civic responsibility, a willingness to learn, and a deep commitment to serving the people of Effingham. I value transparency, fairness, and open-minded decision making. I take pride in being someone who listens first and strives to represent all sides with respect and integrity. I hold a leadership position where I work, and I supervise others while preparing a weekly schedule. I also work closely with police departments all over the state of Illinois, to relay video footage in the event of a crime.
“Having lived in Effingham my entire life, I have a strong understanding of our city’s people, values, history, and potential. I’ve seen firsthand how the community has grown and adapted over time, and I care deeply about preserving what makes Effingham special while also supporting progress and innovation. I’m familiar with local businesses, neighborhoods, and issues, and I’m committed to representing the interests of all residents.
“I believe in giving back to the community that I’ve always called home. Serving as a commissioner would be an opportunity for me to make a meaningful difference by helping shape policy and improve the lives of residents. I am ready to bring a fresh perspective and a strong work ethic to the city council. I care about Effingham’s continued growth and want to contribute to its success in a thoughtful, respectful way.
“I confirm that I have been a qualified voter and resident of Effingham for over one year. I am prepared to provide documentation if requested. Thank you for considering my application. I would be honored to serve on the Effingham City Council and help support the goals and needs of our city and its residents.
TIFFANY TONEY–
“I am writing to express my sincere interest in serving as a city commissioner for Effingham. As a nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to community well-being and public service, I believe my professional service and ongoing volunteer efforts have prepared me to contribute meaningfully in this role.
“My background in healthcare has given me a strong foundation in service, advocacy, and critical decision-making–skills that align closely with the responsibilities of a city commissioner. In addition to my professional work, I actively give back to our community in a number of ways:
“Unit 40 Mentor–I have been a mentor now for over 10 years. I have mentored one student from 3rd grade to high school graduation and am now mentoring a new student. In this role, I provide guidance, encouragement and a positive role model to help them succeed academically and personally.
“Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)–I serve as a voice for children in the foster care program, ensuring their needs are heard and their best interests are represented in court.
“EARS Volunteer–I dedicate time to supporting animal welfare through volunteer work with a local rescue organization, EARS (Effingham Animal Rescue Sanctuary). I have been organizing fundraising event for this organization for several years. The funds raised help to provide care, find homes, and raise awareness of our efforts locally.
“These experiences have deepened my understanding of the diverse needs within our city–from healthcare and education to social services and public safety. I am passionate about creating inclusive, compassionate, and forward-thinking policies that reflect the needs and values of all residents.
“Effingham is a community that proudly embodies the spirit of small-town America while embracing the promise of a dynamic future. Known as the “Crossroads of Opportunity”, our city is more than just a geographic hub–it’s a place where tradition and progress intersect. With strong family values, deep community roots, and a hardworking spirit, Effingham offers the warmth of close-knit neighborhoods alongside the infrastructure and potential of a larger city. Effingham stands ready to build on its foundation and shape a bright, inclusive, and forward-thinking future.
“As a resident of Effingham for the past 17 years, I am committed to ensuring our city remains a safe, vibrant and supportive place for all. I would be honored to serve on the City Council and bring my perspective as a healthcare professional and community advocate to the table.
“Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to the continued success and well-being of our city.”
TRENTON HARTKE–
“I am writing to formally express my intent to be considered for the position of Commissioner for the Effingham City Council. With a strong background in the City of Effingham infrastructure, public administration, and construction management, I am confident in my ability to lead with integrity, transparency, and vision.
“Over the course of my career, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to make progression to the Effingham community, public service, community engagement, and policy implementation. My experience as the Project Engineer for the Mattoon Emerald Acres project has equipped me with the skills necessary to navigate complex systems, foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and implement effective, strategic policies.
“As Commissioner, I would prioritize bringing new development to the Effingham community, that would bring tax income to the City of Effingham to increase the overall City of Effingham fiscal budget. This would overall increase the strength of the community as well as the Effingham Police, Fire, and Public Works Departments, and work tirelessly to ensure that the organization continues to thrive and evolve in alignment with its mission and goals.
“Thank you for considering my candidacy. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my background, vision, and leadership style align with the expectations of this important role. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience.
The City Council next meets on Tuesday, May 6.
