Community News
Amid anticipated increasing costs, Benld Council moves to seek bid for sewer improvement project
With expected increases in the cost of materials, members of the Benld City Council voted unanimously to seek bids for an extensive sewer improvement project on the city’s east side. The city has been approved for a $505,000 Community Development matching grant administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The city is committed to spending $98,934 in local funds, representing a 25 percent match to comply with the terms of the grant program.
Ald. Jerry Saracco moved to seek bids, noting “it’s not going to get any cheaper.”
Justin VonderHaar, an engineer with HMG Engineers, told the council that rising prices could force the council into a position of making some hard decisions when the bids are opened. If the low bids exceed the engineer’s original $600,000 estimate, the council can opt to either rebid the project or opt to pay the difference with local funds. Because the grant was awarded on the basis of the project proposal, reducing the scope of the project apparently is not an option.
VonderHaar said the city could apply for supplemental grant funds to cover the additional costs, but he said it’s unlikely such an application would be successful.
The originally proposed project involved replacing about 3,400 feet of deteriorating sewer lines on the city’s east side and relining about 1,600 feet of lines that can be salvaged by lining.
VonderHaar said Mount Olive also is planning a significant sewer rehabilitation project and he recommended that Benld and Mount Olive advertise for bids at the same time. The existence of two projects in close proximity, he said, may encourage contractors to submit more attractive bids in hopes of securing back-to-back projects within a few miles of one another.
“You can wait (to seek bids),” VonderHaar said, “but so far, if we wait, the cost goes up and up.”
VonderHaar said HMG will advertise for bids for both the Mount Olive and Benld projects in late March or early April with an eye toward awarding contracts on April 18.
In other actions related to the sewer project, the council voted unanimously to establish a separate bank account for grant funds and voted to increase the bond for the City Clerk to $250,000. The bond increase is required to administer grant funds. The Illinois Municipal League will insure the bond at a cost of $750 for the year.
Before leaving the meeting, VonderHaar reported to the council that new legislation will require all municipalities to inventory pipes used to deliver water to homes by April 15, 2023. The intent of the legislation is to identify homes serviced with lead pipes with a goal of replacing those pipes with PVC or copper lines.
The expectation is that grant funds will become available at a later date to help pay for replacing lead water supply lines, according to VonderHaar.
EAST CENTRAL BANK BUILDING
On the advice of City Attorney Rick Verticchio, the council voted unanimously to approve an emergency resolution declaring the former bank building at 223 East Central Avenue a public nuisance and entering into a contract Schafer Excavating and Demolition to raze the building as soon as possible. The action follows the report of a structural engineer who deemed the building unsound and in danger of collapse. The building currently is barricaded to keep pedestrians and trespassers away.
Following a 20-minute executive session during which the council discussed pending legal cases with Verticchio, Verticchio advised the council that liability insurance the city has on the structure will expire in 45 days, after which the city would be vulnerable for damages if someone was injured because of the building’s condition.
Shafer offered a bid of $134,800 to demolish the two-story brick building and haul away debris. Mayor Jim Kelly said the debris will go to a certified landfill and Shafer will wet down the building during demolition to control asbestos.
PART-TIME ORDINANCE OFFICER
On a motion by Ald. John Balzraine, the council authorized Mayor Kelly to advertise for applicants to fill a position as a part-time ordinance enforcement officer. Kelly said the previous Jake Simmons will not return to work due to employment commitments with his full-time job.
Kelly said the city hopes to hire someone with a police background or experience, ostensibly to ensure the new officer is able to carry a firearm when serving ordinance violations on local residents. The mayor, however, said he had spoken with Gillespie Police Chief Jared DePoppe who assured him a police officer would be made available to accompany the ordinance officer when needed if the new ordinance officer is not certified to carry a weapon.
AUDITOR CONTRACT
After some discussion, the council voted to accept Scheffel Boyle’s proposal to perform the city’s annual audit with the stipulation that the accountants produce an audit report by Sept. 1. Scheffel Boyle, who has done the state-mandated audit for the past several years, proposed conducting the audit at a cost not to exceed $14,500, plus $4,500 if the firm is required to produce a separate audit report for grant funds.
Ald. Jim Tilashalski insisted on giving the accounting firm an earlier deadline for producing the audit report. State law requires the audit to be filed before the end of October, but Tilashalski said the audit contains critical information the council needs to consider in making financial decisions earlier in the year.
“I don’t think its unfair to request a much earlier date,” he said before moving to accept the proposal with a provision for an earlier deadline.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the council:
- Voted to accept revisions to the zoning map recommended by the Zoning Board. The changes primarily correct errors that have been a part of the map since it was first adopted several years ago.
- Approved the purchase of about $4,000 in supplies for the Maintenance Department. The purchase will replenish the Department’s inventory of fittings, water meters and other supplies.
- Gave the Mayor power to act on accepting or rejecting an aggregate contract bid to supply electrical power for city properties. Bids for alternate power suppliers will be opened on March 24 and must be accepted or rejected that day.
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FELONIES
Austen W. Nieder, 31 of Gillespie, is charged with aggravated battery in a public place in connection with an October 20 incident.
Nathan A. Baker, 47 of Hettick, is charged with obstructing justice/destroying evidence, driving under the influence of alcohol, and illegal stopping/standing/parking in connection with an April 13 incident.
Teresa K. Tucker, 83 of Benld, is charged with aggravated battery/use of a deadly weapon and domestic battery causing bodily harm in connection with an October 26 incident.
Janet L. Andrews, 44 of Gillespie, is charged with possession of a controlled substance, DUI any amount of drug, driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to reduce speed, carrying/displaying license, and transporting/carrying alcohol/driver in connection with an October 31 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
Jamie M. Griffiths, 53 of Palmyra, is charged with violation of an order after being served a notice in connection with an October 24 incident.
TRAFFIC
Aiden A. Knodel, 18 of Mount Olive, is charged with speeding 26-34 mph over the limit in connection with an October 17 incident.
Matthew T. Troeckler, 38 of Mount Olive, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with an October 18 incident.
James C. Fitzwater, 54 of Mount Olive, is charged with driving on a revoked license and disregarding a stop sign in connection with an October 18 incident.
John E. Tisdale, 43 of Modesto, is charged with headlight violation and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an October 27 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Jacquelyn Simons versus Jason Simons
- Ashline L. M. Harris versus Jeffrey Harris
- Jennifer L. Parker versus Darrin C. Parker
- Heather R. Elliot versus Ray K. Elliot III
MARRIAGE LICENSES
- Jesse Clay Wright and Rebecca Lyn Mouser, both of Gillespie
- Colin David Robertson and Earl Reah Pastidio Sacabin, both of Staunton
- Gary Eugene Bellm and Micky Sue Cody, both of Virden
- Michael David Pratt and Bailey Ann Schmidt, both of Staunton
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2025
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Litchfield Road in East Gillespie. Cheri L. Bagwell, 48 of Carlinville, was arrested for operating a vehicle with a suspended driver’s license, improper use of title, operating an uninsured vehicle, and operating a vehicle without valid registration.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a domestic battery. Teresa K. Tucker, 83 of Benld, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Madison Street in reference to a death investigation.
Skylar A. Stewart, 33 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for methamphetamine delivery.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 300 block of North Kentucky in Benld.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a juvenile issue that took place in the 100 block of North Macoupin Street.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Illinois Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Spruce Street in reference to illegal burning.
An officer was dispatched to Fillmore Street and Burton Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Burton Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to 6th Street in Benld in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Oak Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of North 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute. Peyton R. Pehrson, 26 of Benld, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Olive Street in reference to a death investigation.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Easton Street in reference to an ordinance issue. Richard D. Grove, 76 of Gillespie ,was issued a citation for nuisance prohibited-obstructed alleyway.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Hard Road in Benld. Summer J. Blevins, 24 of Gillespie, was issued citations for uninsured vehicle and suspended registration.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South 1st Street in Benld in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to Burton Street and Fillmore Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute. Lucas I. Smith, 35, of Benld was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Henrietta Street in reference to a medical call.
An officer initiated a traffic stop in the 2300 block of Staunton Road in Benld. Jessica M. Brackman, 34 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Madison County warrant for fraud/bad checks. She was also issued a citation for expired registration.
Douglas D. Davis, 58 of Pekin, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for driving while license was revoked.
Melissa J. Hughes, 50 of Benld, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Central in Benld, in reference to an animal complaint
An officer was out on North Main Street in Benld in reference to a motorist assist.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to reckless driving in the 300 block of North 6th Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to assisting Animal Control with a call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henrietta Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Walnut in Benld. Donald E. Bruhn, 66 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for driving while license was revoked.
An officer assisted the City Alderman at Gillespie Lake on a call in the 15000 block of Oak Ln.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to a battery. James J. Hamilton, 19 of Brighton, was issued citations for battery and illegal consumption by a minor. Joshua T. Reese, 19 of Jerseyville, was issued citations for battery and illegal consumption by a minor. Kyle T. Yate, 19 of Wood River, was issued citations for battery and illegal consumption by a minor.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Berry Street in Mt. Clare in reference to an altercation and a suspicious vehicle.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Elm Street. Jessica M. McCoy, 27 of Eagarville was issued a citation for driving while license was suspended.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Mor Street in East Gillespie. Teresa C. Dickerson, 45 of Mt. Olive ,was issued a citation for speeding.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Harding Avenue in East Gillespie in reference to an ordinance issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Shelby Street in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 6th Street in Benld in reference to an assault.
An officer was dispatched to South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to an alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to Kentucky Street in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Elm Street to speak with a female in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to Big Brick Park in reference to juvenile issues.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Gillespie Street in reference to a neighbor dispute.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a criminal trespass warning.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie. Thor S. Barnes, 45 of Benld, was arrested for criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to a dog running at large.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 4th Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to East Chestnut Street and 2nd Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Illinois Street in Benld in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to South Macoupin Street and West Burton Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 200 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie.
An Officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Walnut in reference to an unwanted solicitor.
An Officer was dispatched to 5th Street in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An Officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Maple Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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