Community News
Benld Council approves $120,000 property tax levy
Benld City Council members on Monday night approved a $120,000 levy for 2023 property taxes to be collected in 2024 and approved the purchase of three derelict properties for back taxes, but tabled action on amending a contract to sell a vacant lot on Central Avenue, pending further discussions with the buyer.
Finance Chair Ald. Jerry Saracco said the new tax levy is less than three percent in excess of last year’s levy, except for the Public Library levy, which was increased by five percent. The levies for city funds are governed by the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (PTELL), or tax caps, which was approved by Macoupin voters more than two decades ago. PTELL restricts increases in the property tax levy to five percent or the Consumer Price Index, whichever is less. The Consumer Price Index, essentially the rate of inflation, typically falls short of five percent.
The newly approved levy will be submitted to the Macoupin County Clerk, who is responsible for ensuring the levied amounts are within the limitations of PTELL, making adjustments if necessary, and set the tax rate to generate the amounts requested by the city council.
The new levy unanimously approved on a motion by Saracco, totals $120,605.29 in the aggregate, compared with last year’s levy of $116,912.38. While some individual levies were increased, others were reduced or left unchanged, the total increase was less than three percent, according to Saracco.
Representing about one-third of the total levy, the levy for Police Protection comes in at 43,160, compared with $41,114 a year ago. A total of 30,000 is levied for Administration, compared with $30,300 last year. The levy for Liability Insurance totals $6,386, compared with $6,200 last year, while the levy for Road and Bridge Maintenance totals $6,090, compared with $5,800 last year. The city levied $5,800 for the annual audit, compared with $4.760 last year. A total of $5,250 is levied for Parks, compared with $5,000 last year, and $5,000 is levied for Social Security, compared with $6,600 last year. Other levied amounts include $1,200 for the Municipal Band, compared with a levy of $0 last year; $1,200 for Unemployment Insurance, which is unchanged from the previous two years; and $2,400 for Workers Compensation, compared with $2,300 last year. The levy for Lease/Rental expenses is $0, the same as last year.
Though the library is its own taxing body separate from the city, the library levy of $14110.29, is included in the city levy request, compared with $13,438.38 last year.
PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS
On a motion by Ald. John Balzraine, seconded by Saracco, the council voted unanimously to purchase three properties, previously designated as public nuisances, located across the street from City Hall.
The city will pay $846.12 for 200 East Central Avenue, $1,071.99 for 209 East Central Avenue, and $554.93 for 211 East Central Avenue.
The action enables the city to acquire the properties without pursuing court actions. The properties presumably will be offered for sale, conditioned upon the buyer either abating or removing the nuisance.
TIBURZI CONTRACT
After some discussion, the council tabled action on a request to alter the contract regarding the sale of the lot formerly occupied by First National Bank in the 200 block of East Central Avenue to Derek Tiburzi. The two-story brick bank building was razed in March 2022 after the city acquired the problem through an emergency public nuisance resolution. Tiburzi submitted the winning bid of $30,000 to purchase the lot in April 2022.
Under terms of the agreement, Tiburzi was to pay $6,000 down with the remaining $24,000 to be paid in monthly installments of $1,000 over two years. The agreement further obligated Tiburzi to build a new building housing a business interest within three years.
Tiburzi reportedly asked the city to eliminate the deadline, citing alleged problems with soil compaction on the site of the Old Bank Building. Tiburzi said he has been unable to find a concrete contractor willing to guarantee his work on a foundation because of the condition of the soil.
Jono Verticchio from the Verticchio Law Office said Tiburzi is not asking the city to remedy the compaction issue but is asking that the deadline be removed to allow more time to build and establish a business.
“I don’t want to remove the time limit entirely,” said Ald. Saracco. “We need to have him come in and talk to us.”
Verticchio also updated the council on the status of several public nuisance cases moving through the court system with an eye toward cleaning up private properties. He also clarified for aldermen the circumstances under which the city can tow away derelict cars sitting on public boulevards. According to Verticchio, such vehicles can be removed if they have been sitting for a minimum of seven days. Once the owners have been notified that their vehicle has been impounded, they have 10 days to reclaim the vehicle. If the owner fails to claim the vehicle within 10 days, the city can sell the vehicle.
Ald. Balzraine apologized after learning he had issued an ordinance violation citation on the wrong property. Richard Mitchell appeared before the council to complain about receiving the citation and subsequently received a notice to appear in court. He said the ticket was issued Nov. 11, but he did not receive it until Dec. 5. The court date summons arrived Dec. 15 before he had a chance to respond to the citation.
“Where just trying to get the town cleaned up,” Balzraine said. He mentioned a boat parked on city property and two derelict trailers, prompting Mitchell to deny any of those conditions existed on his property. Balzraine quickly apologized when he realized the citation had been meant for an address on South Kentucky Street, rather than South Illinois Street where Mitchell resides.
Verticchio took a copy of the citation from Mitchell and assured Mitchell that he would file a dismissal with the court.
STRAY CATS
Ald. Balzraine reported that Macoupin County Animal Control plans to start trapping and removing feral cats in the near future. He reminded residents that the city has a leash law for pets, including cats, and that cat owners should keep tabs on their pets to keep them from being inadvertently trapped and removed. He also asked that residents refrain from feeding stray cats.
PAID LEAVE FOR EMPLOYEES
The council unanimously approved an ordinance regarding paid time off for city employees to bring the city’s policy into compliance with a new state law taking effect Jan. 1. Under the new rule, employees requesting paid time off must file their request three days in advance for planned leaves, or as soon as possible for emergencies. Additionally, paid time off must be taken in two-hour increments.
TREE REMOVAL
The council accepted a bid of $1,900 from Emmons Tree Service, Carlinville, to remove four trees on city property on North Main Street. The bid also includes grinding the stumps.
CHRISTMAS BONUSES
Council members approved Christmas bonuses of $125 for full-time employees and $75 for part-time employees.
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The American Red Cross is proud to partner with the Mt. Olive VFW to host an upcoming blood drive on Thursday, May 29th, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This important community event aims to help save lives and provide critical blood supplies.
Presenting donors will receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern, available while supplies last. Additionally, all donors will be automatically entered for a chance to win a U.S. trip of their choice for two — an exciting opportunity to explore new destinations.
Appointments are encouraged to ensure a smooth donation process, but walk-ins are also welcome. To save time on the day of the drive, donors are encouraged to complete RapidPass online on the day of the event.
The American Red Cross invites community members to participate, share, and help spread the word about this vital event. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org.
Help make a difference in our community — donate blood and help save lives!
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SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property, criminal trespass to residence, and theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to an assault.
Anita S. Northcutt, 49 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for unlawful use of possession of weapons by a felon.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Green Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 100 block of South Main Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to Hard Road in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to an animal complaint.
MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025
An officer initiated a traffic stop at East Elm and Springfield Road in East Gillespie. Nathaniel D. Ward, 33 of Sawyerville, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and illegal transportation of alcohol.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic battery. Cody A. Barksdale, 28 of Benld, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Illinois Street in Benld in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of South Second Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2025
William T. Overturf, 38 of Benld, was arrested on a warrant out of Macoupin County for failure to appear for criminal trespass to a vehicle.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to harassment through electronic communication.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North Main Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Henrietta Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was asked to check out a suspicious vehicle that was parked in the 200 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare.
An officer was dispatched to Spruce Street and Second Street in reference to vehicles blocking the intersection.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Park Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to neighborhood trouble.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Park Avenue in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Park Street in Benld in reference to a medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Baker Street in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Litchfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to an alarm call.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2025
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to a medical assist.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
Robert M. Keffer, 37 of Benld, was arrested on an Edwardsville warrant for driving while license was suspended.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Main Street in Benld in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Green Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Park Avenue in reference to a neighbor dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue on South 5th Street in Benld.
THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to a dog at large. Ryan K. Horn, 42 of Benld, was issued a citation for dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to criminal damage to property.
An officer spoke with a male subject at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block to speak with a male in reference to a report of reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Broadway Street and Kelly Street. Caleb D. Fraley, 19 of Jerseyville, was issued a citation for operating an uninsured vehicle.
FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North Main Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Cedar Street in reference to a medical 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to East Locust and North 4th Street in reference to suspicious circumstances.
An officer was dispatched to Mt. Clare Drive in Mt. Clare in reference to a suicidal subject.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of Richard Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to an alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Park Street in Benld in reference to a medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to Benld City Park in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North 6th Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to neighborhood trouble.
An officer spoke with a female at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to criminal trespass in the 200 block of West Walnut Street.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Central Avenue in Benld in reference to suspicious circumstances.
SATURDAY, MAY 3, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of First Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Oak Street in Benld in reference to a suicidal subject.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Shelby Street in reference to a medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to Gillespie City Cemetery in reference to a suicidal subject.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a domestic battery. Cynthia E. Randle, 64 of Benld, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Madison Street in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Montgomery Street in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Berry Street in Mt. Clare in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of Green Street in reference to a neighborhood trouble.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North Main Street in Benld in reference to a civil standby.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Francis Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a fight. Kelly M. Lyons, 36 of Benld, was arrested for battery.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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FELONIES
Britteny D. M. Herr, 31 of Brighton, is charged with violation of a protection order in connection with an April 27 incident.
Camilla D. Cox, 29 of Carlinville, is charged with failure to return from furlough in connection with an April 21 incident.
Emily H. Eckhardt, 33 of Staunton, is charged with aggravated assault/use of a firearm/peace officer in connection with an April 30 incident.
Jacklyn M. Wichman, 30 of Decatur, is charged with possession of methamphetamine (<5 grams) in connection with an October 13, 2024 incident.
Matthew C. Tibbs, 32 of Virden, is charged with possession of methamphetamine (<5 grams) in connection with an April 19 incident.
Amy J. Williamson, 50 of Tovey, is charged with possession of methamphetamine (<5 grams) in connection with an April 19 incident.
Dominique M. Kierbach, 27 of Benld, is charged with possession of methamphetamine (<5 grams) in connection with an April 13 incident.
Brendan M. Stamper, 27 of Jerseyville, is charged with aggravated battery to someone pregnant or handicapped, criminal trespass to residence/person present, and battery/causing bodily harm in connection with an April 29 incident.
Rebecca L. Loker, 45 of Benld, is charged with possession of methamphetamine (<5 grams) in connection with an April 12 incident.
Christian A. Lyerla, 28 of Girard, is charged with aggravated battery of a peace officer in connection with an April 30 incident.
Elijah B. Deffenbaugh, 18 of Hillsboro, is charged with unlawful possession of a credit/debit card in connection with a March 29 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
Bradyn A. Striplin, 18 of Carlinville, is charged with theft/unauthorized control (<$500) in connection with a February 5 incident.
Joseph D. Washington, 42 of Palmyra, is charged with possession of cannabis (>30<100 grams) in connection with an April 9 incident.
Eric M. Streeb, 36 of Staunton, is charged with disorderly conduct in connection with an April 30 incident.
Nicholas O. Landolt, 37 of Gillespie, is charged with resisting a peace officer/firefighter/corrections employee in connection with a March 24 incident.
TRAFFIC
Kyli K. Jackson, 21 of Jacksonville, is charged with driving on a suspended license and driving 15-20 mph above the limit in connection with an April 25 incident.
Randy L. Dean, 67 of Hillsboro, is charged with driving on a revoked license and driving 21-25 mph above the limit in connection with an April 23 incident.
Johnelle B. Crawford, 53 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a suspended license, canceled/revoked/suspended registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an April 25 incident.
Amy M. Hart, 41 of Granite City, is charged with reckless driving, disregarding official traffic control device, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and being unlicensed in connection with an April 23 incident.
Carl R. Albracht, 50 of Plamyra, is charged with canceled/revoked/suspended registration and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an April 29 incident.
Jessica R. M. Green, 37 of Carlinville, is charged with driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an April 29 incident.
Antonio C. Yorke, 25 of Des Plaines, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an April 27 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Adam Priester versus Danielle Priester
- John Contratto versus Frankie Giles-Contratto
MARRIAGE LICENSES
- Grace Jenny Van Doren and Brandy Isabelle Lasko, both of Gillespie
- Brett Michael Lacy and Cambria Faye Admire, both of Virden
- Keith James Moreland and ELizabeth Ann Morgan, both of Mount Olive
- Kane Michael Sneed and Daphne Lynalexa Smith, both of WIlsonville
- Chandler McDaniel and Lilly Booth, both of Gillespie
- Dylan Reed Releford and ALyssa Marie Hermes, both of Carlinville
