Community News
Gillespie Council continues campaign against derelict properties
Members of the Gillespie City Council approved a resolution on Monday night declaring 301 E. Maple St. a public nuisance and directed the City Attorney to prepare a similar resolution for property a 106 Henry St. as the city continues its crackdown on derelict properties.
Additionally, the council voted unanimously to convey property at 204 W. Baker St. to the neighbors on either side of the property in exchange for the neighbors satisfying the city’s lien against the property. The agreement is contingent upon the new owners abating the nuisance within 60 days. The former owner of the property agreed to give the parcel to the city after the city declared it a public nuisance.
A public nuisance declaration authorizes the City Attorney to initiate legal proceedings against the property owner. Owners of public nuisance properties are initially given 60 days to abate the nuisance, which generally is a matter of cleaning up accumulations of trash and debris. In some instances, however, nuisance abatement can be more extensive, involving structural repairs or demolition of deteriorating houses. In the event the property owner fails to abate the nuisance, the city can seek a court order to enter onto the property and abate the nuisance, in which case a lien is placed on the property for the cost of the abatement. In some cases, the city can be awarded ownership of the property to satisfy the lien.
The city has become more aggressive about pursuing nuisance properties since appointing Rick Verticchio as City Attorney. As City Attorney for the City of Benld, Verticchio has pursued similar cases for the past several years with an overall goal of cleaning up derelict properties.
“I want to recognize the work Dona (Ald. Dona Rauzi) and Rick Verticchio have been doing to clean up these properties,” Ald. Bill Hayes noted. “Since Verticchio became City Attorney, it looks like we’re really moving forward.” Rauzi has been actively documenting derelict properties for possible legal action.
Rauzi reported to the council she had been seeking bids to clean up property at 508 Park Avenue. The court authorized the city to clean up the property after the owners failed to do so. Rauzi said the only bid she was able to get was from Waste Management calling for a minimum charge of $8,000 and possibly as much as $15,000 if the workers encounter hazardous materials.
Jon Verticchio, sitting in for Rick Verticchio, said the City Attorney hopes to get the court to require the owner of the property to reimburse the city for the cost of the clean-up but the city will have to pay for the clean-up initially. The property is owned by a New Jersey holding company that buys properties for back taxes.
“Our guys aren’t doing the clean-up because of the materials that might be in there,” Rauzi said.
WATER BILL
The council deferred responding to a complaint about an excessive water bill at 106 Park Avenue until city workers have an opportunity to check and possibly replace the water meter. Last month the council voted against adjusting the $1,200 water and sewer bill on the assumption a leaking toilet was responsible for the excessive water use.
Appearing before the council Monday night, homeowner Lauren Welsh said she was informed of the situation on Feb. 3 when the City Clerk’s office called her to report excessive water usage of 147,000 gallons indicating there could be a water leak. She said her husband checked the main water supply in the basement and found no leak but said he could hear a toilet running. When she asked what the bill amounted to, she was told $1,200—an amount she and her husband said they could not afford.
Welsh said they attempted to contact the Mayor but that Mayor John Hicks failed to call them back. Likewise, she said no one called after last month’s council meeting to report the council’s decision. In the meantime, the couple received a second bill showing 106,000 gallons of water usage.
According to Welsh, the couple had two plumbers check the house for water leaks, both of whom found nothing but a leaking toilet that has since been repaired.
“This whole time, we never had any water in the basement,” she said.
Welsh said her research showed a leaking toilet could waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. On a 35-day billing cycle, the leaking toilet should have consumed “7,000 gallons, not 147,000,” she said.
Ald. Wendy Rolando agreed that a 147,000-gallon leak would have resulted in a flooded basement or standing water outside. “It would have been something you would have seen,” she said.
Ald. Landon Pettit said he suspected a malfunction with the city’s remote electronic meter reading system. “This has happened before,” he said. Likewise, Mayor Hicks said the meter could have malfunctioned or may have been read incorrectly. Hicks recommended have the meter tested and replaced if necessary before making a determination about adjusting the Welshs’ water bill.
At one point, Rolando and Pettit appeared ready to calculate an adjustment, but Hicks asked the council to defer a decision until the meter could be checked. In the meantime, he assured Welsh there would be no late fees or penalties accessed against them.
The council heard briefly from Mike Bertolis, a write-in candidate for city alderman in the upcoming April 4 election, who complained about an open basement at the site of a demolished house on Wilson Street and compromised drainage in the area of his late son’s house. He said the lack of a culvert at the home causes water to back up into the yard and remain there until it dries up. He said the standing water has scared off several prospective buyers who suspect a water leak when they see the water.
Bertolis also argued for a city-wide clean-up program.
“All these dinky little towns around us find the money to have one, why can’t we?” he wanted to know. He said the last time the city provided dumpsters for a weekend clean-up was three years ago. “People can’t get rid of stuff. A dumpster costs $300 or $400 and most people can’t afford that. The city needs to do something for its citizens.”
Mayor Hicks opposed the idea, saying the city isn’t responsible for other people’s trash.
Lori Fields also appeared before the council to make sure she can legally place a modular home on a vacant lot in the 700 block of South Street. Mayor Hicks said the modular home is legal as long as it’s on a permanent foundation. A building permit is required to build the foundation.
“As long as you’ve got a building permit, you’re okay,” he said.
FIBER OPTIC ISSUES
Ald. Bob Fritz complained that workers installing fiber optic lines through the city are trespassing on private property and failing to restore disturbed yards and boulevards. City Treasurer Dan Fisher said the city has little authority to regulate fiber optic installers because of the federal broadband expansion program. The city cannot charge a franchise fee, for example, he said.
However, Fisher said, installers do not have authority to cross private property or city property without permission or without obtaining an easement.
ARPA FUNDS
Fisher reported that bids for a sewage lift station are expected to come in lower than expected, freeing up a substantial amount of American Rescue Plan Act funds that were awarded to the city for COVID relief. He said the city’s Finance Committee is recommending those surplus funds be rolled over into an omnibus fund to be used for projects ranging from city park improvements to creating a new police station.
He suggested earmarking $75,000 to $150,000 for park improvements, $192,000 for replacing aging emergency sirens, along with money for renovating the former fire department space at the Civic Center for use as a police station.
Fisher also told the council the city has previously charged $100 per month to the water and sewer departments for using city employees to process bills. The Finance Committee is raising that fee to $1,000 per month, which should cover the cost of using city clerical workers for processing and collecting sewer and water bills.
OSHA REQUIREMENTS AT WATER TREATMENT PLANT
Both Ald. Rauzi and Water Plant Operator Dave Pickett reported that the Water Plant is in compliance with OSHA mandates requiring respirators on site for Water Plant employees. Rauzi said the city was able to have employees fitted for the masks at the Maple Street Clinic, saving the city about $300 in fees.
“Instead of having someone come here to fit them, they can go a half-block away,” she said.
Additionally, to meet OSHA requirements for storing respirators, Rauzi said she bought gallon-size storage bags at the Dollar Store. The city plans to acquire a lockable filing cabinet to secure the equipment.
SURPLUS PROPERTY
Council members voted unanimously to declare five lots as surplus property and offer them for sale via sealed bids. The lots include two lots behind the Superbowl Bowling Alley in which the bowling alley owner expressed an interest in acquiring for a solar panel field.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the council:
- Approved resolutions authorizing Tax Increment Fund expenditures in the amount of $4,700 to Schuette Design Architects for work associated with plans to convert Civic Center vacant space for use by the Police Department, and $1,805 to Moran Economic Development for work associated with establishing a second TIF District.
- Approved a resolution to reimburse the General Fund with $3,000 in TIF funds originally paid to Schuette Design Architects for work associated with the Police Department project.
- Approved an amendment to the Lake Lease ordinance creating a new lease classification allowing persons who lease so-called “picnic lots” to use those lots year ‘round for an additional fee.
- Approved a measure to allow city aldermen to cast votes by phone or Zoom when they cannot attend meetings in person.
- Accepted a contract with AT&T to erect a 305-foot communication tower at the lake. The eight-year contract calls for AT&T to make lease payments of $700 per month.
- Voted to purchase a zero-turn mower for $20,900.
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The Wilsonville Progressive Club will celebrate and host a 90 year Anniversary Party on Saturday, May 11. The party will include a catered dinner, a live band, and fireworks.
Doors will open at 2 pm with a catered dinner being served at 4 pm. The Shane Kessinger Experience (live band) will play at 5 pm, and a grand fireworks display will be held at dusk.
The Progressive Club was originally established in 1934 by the Progressive Miners and was located on the northwest side of Wilsonville’s main street. The Club moved to their new building in January of 1949 and today this is still the current location at 212 Wilson Street in Wilsonville.
Wilsonville was founded in 1917 when Superior Coal Co. Mine No. 4 was sunk and this was the most modern mine in the Superior field. At that time, the little settlement which grew up around the mine was called Wilson. One day a worker paused and asked, “What are we going to name this town?” President Wilson was in office, thus the town was then and there named Wilson until 1919 when it was incorporated and the name expanded to Wilsonville.
The Wilsonville Progressive Club is operated and maintained by an elected panel of trustees and loyal members. The Club is open to the public and membership is always welcome. The large outdoor covered pavilion and manicured grassy side lot offer an attractive and convenient venue for any event along with inside facilities.
If you are interested in renting for any kind of event, call 217-835-3122 during open hours which are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 4 pm to close, and Sunday doors open at 2 pm. Every Sunday afternoon at 4 pm is the Queen of Hearts drawing and the Club is on Facebook as well.
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SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Oak Street in reference to a dog bite.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street to pick up a found item.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to a burglary.
An officer was out in the 200 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a motorist assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Schmidt Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South 1st Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Broadway Street in reference to a medical call.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of South Illinois Street in Benld in reference to illegal burning.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Horizon Street in reference to a 911 call.
MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2024
An officer was dispatched to Gillespie Police Department to speak with a male in reference to a theft in the 100 block of South Main Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Osie Street in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
Nicholas O. Landolt, 36, of Gillespie was arrested on multiple warrants including one out of St. Clair County for possession for methamphetamine, a second one out of Montgomery County for failure to appear for driving while license was revoked, and a third out of Macoupin County for failure to appear for methamphetamine.
An officer was dispatched to East Walnut Street in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Broadway Street in reference to a medical alarm.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a theft in the 200 block of West Oak Street.
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to criminal damage to her property.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to identity theft.
An officer spoke with a female in the 100 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to a neighbor dispute.
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to a suspicious person.
TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 1100 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to criminal damage to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of East Walnut Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property. Melissa J. Hughes, 49, of Benld was arrested on a Montgomery County warrant for theft/larceny.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Francis Street in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 700 block of Rose Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Pine Street to assist the Department of Children and Family Services.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to fraud in the 200 block of South Macoupin.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to Route 4 and Staunton Road in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Gillespie Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer was dispatched to High Street and Gillespie Street in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of High Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil standby.
An officer was flagged down at Elm Street and Clinton Street and spoke with an individual in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Mt. Olive Road in Eagarville in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a suspicious circumstance.
THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 400 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a panic alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 1300 block of South Second Street in reference to a civil standby.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Osie Street in reference to a dog bite. Heather L. Kimberlin, 47, of Gillespie was issued a citation for dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Baker Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was out with a suspicious vehicle in the alley in the 500 block of Park Avenue.
An officer was dispatched to East Walnut and South Main Street in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the Veterans Memorial Park in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle that had been parked there for a couple of days.
Gillespie Police Department was requested for traffic control by the Gillespie Fire Department for a fire on Eagarville Road.
FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of East Walnut Street in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Street in Gillespie in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Litchfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a suspicious person at the storage units. Kathy J. Henderson, 49, of Sawyerville was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for bad checks
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Maple Street and Macoupin Street. Kenny L. Fults, 18, of Belleville was issued a citation for possession of cannabis.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Mt. Olive Road in Eagarville in reference to civil standby.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Burton Street in reference to an animal complaint.
SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespassing. Timothy J. Dalpozzo, 57, of Benld was arrested for criminal trespassing to residence and a Macoupin County warrant for criminal trespassing to a residence.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at South Street and Chestnut Street and charges are pending crime lab results.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to Macoupin Street and Elm Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Osie Street in reference to a dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Spruce Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Baker Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a medical call.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to an ordinance issue.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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LITCHFIELD, Ill. — HSHS St. Francis Hospital is offering service opportunities to area teens this summer through the 2024 Junior Volunteer Program. Applications are being accepted now through May 1.
Applicants must be high school students maintaining at least a “C” average, be a minimum of 14 years of age by June 1 and be willing to volunteer at least two hours per week during the summer program. Junior volunteers will perform a variety of duties in various hospital departments.
Registration materials are available on the hospital’s website volunteer page at https://www.hshs.org/st-francis/community/volunteer.
All participants in the program will be required to present proof of immunizations for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), and Varicella (chicken pox). An additional requirement includes attendance at a hospital orientation.
A limited number of positions will be available. For more information, contact HSHS St. Francis Hospital at 217-324-8200.
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