Community News
Gillespie Council moves forward with TIF district, votes to approve skidsteer purchase
Members of the Gillespie City Council on Monday night voted unanimously to approve ordinances creating the city’s second Tax Increment Financing District, approved a five percent increase in water rates charged to satellite water customers, and approved a controversial purchase of a Bobcat skidsteer along with new tread tracks for the machine.
In separate actions, the council approved three ordinances authorizing the TIF redevelopment project and plan, designating the TIF district boundaries, and setting up the legal mechanism to capture tax revenue increments accruing from the district.
In combination, the ordinances create and authorize the Gillespie TIF District 2 encompassing a substantial area on the city’s north side where scores of vacant residential lots, largely owned by the city and local school district, are located. The new district uses the old Illinois Terminal System railroad right-of-way to connect with an existing TIF district encompassing the downtown business district. It also takes in vacant property on the west side in order to reach and include the Big Brick Park neighborhood.
While the focus of TIF District 1 was to encourage business development, the aim of TIF District 2 is to invest in residential development. The districts generate revenue for the TIF Fund by capturing increases in property tax revenue that accrue after the district is created. The district does not increase property owners’ tax liability but rather redirects increases in tax revenue to future development. Money collected for the TIF Fund can only be spent on projects within the district.
TIF District 2 was the subject of a required public hearing conducted last month. The new district will be in effect for 23 years. TIF District 1 is set to expire in two years.
Council members also voted unanimously to adopt seven separate ordinances to increase water rates charged to satellite customers of the municipal water department. The ordinances impose a five percent rate increase on the City of Benld, and the villages of Sawyerville, Mount Clare, Wilsonville, Dorchester and Lake Ka-Ho, all of whom get their water supply from Gillespie. City Treasurer Dan Fisher said the five percent increase will raise the rate satellite municipalities pay from $4.71 to $4.95 per 1,000 gallons of treated water. Earlier this year, the council increased water rates for Gillespie consumers by five percent. A contractual provision with satellite customers precludes Gillespie from imposing rate increases without first increasing its own rate by the same amount.
BOBCAT PURCHASE
On a motion by Ald. Landon Pettit, the council voted to spend $37,001 to exercise a purchase option on a Bobcat skidsteer currently leased by the city’s maintenance department. Pettit had proposed the purchase last month, but the issue was referred to committee after further discussion. On Monday night, Pettit announced the committee had decided to recommend the purchase at the end of the current lease period.
The equipment was leased primarily to repair damage from the city’s water infrastructure improvement project. Since that project has been completed, however, maintenance workers say they are continuing to use the Bobcat on a regular basis.
Pettit said the committee recommended buying the equipment and “seeing how it goes” as far as usage. The city could opt to enter into another lease at a later date, at which point the newly purchased Bobcat would be sold back to the company. Pettit said the value of used Bobcats is increasing dramatically. Based on current values, he said the city could realize a profit of $15,000 on its investment by selling the machine down the road.
Mayor John Hicks said the city may even be interested in leasing or buying a larger machine in the future.
Also on a motion by Pettit, the council approved the $3,326 purchase of new tracks for the Bobcat from TrackWorks, Highland. Pettit said the purchase of new tracks was necessary regardless of whether or not the council approved the purchase of the machine. TrackWorks’ quote for supplying tracks was about $700 less than buying them from Bobcat.
LAKE ISSUES
Council members voted unanimously to authorize the Lake Committee to proceed with a project to replace a failing sewage holding tank at the city-owned Boat Club property on Gillespie Lake with a septic system. Lake Committee Chair Frank Barrett said the project could cost $10,000 to $20,000.
Ald. Wendy Rolando wanted to know why a septic system would be acceptable when other properties on the lake are required to use holding tanks. Barrett said the soil types around the Boat Club are different from those that exist in the areas where most lake lots are located.
In a related action, the council approved a resolution to codify rules on holding tank installations at the lake. The rules include provisions on specifications for the tanks and a requirement that they are installed by a licensed plumber.
Barrett also announced the committee expects to create another 17 residential lots at Gillespie Lake.
“We have a list of people wanting lots,” he said. Barrett noted there are 42 platted lots on the north side of the lake that remain unused because they are only accessible by boat. Most lot lessees want lots they can drive to.
While not opposing the new lots, Treasurer Fisher reiterated his position that the committee should do more long-term planning before making major changes. The new lots, he said, will create more traffic at the lake and result in more boating on the lake. Such activities could affect water quality or cause the city to incur more expenses for maintenance. He worried about putting too much recreational pressure on a resource that has a primary purpose of providing water.
Barrett argued the committee did not add lots without taking lake resources into account. “In the 1970s and 80s, there was a heck of a lot more people out there than we have now,” he said.
ARCHITECT HIRING
City aldermen voted unanimously to hire an architect to make recommendations regarding the best use of space vacated by the Fire Department at the Civic Center. Fisher said possible options include moving the Police Department from its current location to the Civic Center to resolve parking issues at the department’s current location on Pine Street. The vacated space also could be used as administrative space for the Maintenance Department. A professional architect, Fisher said, would be able to guide the city regarding the best use of the space and prepare cost estimates for remodeling the space for various uses.
On a motion by Rolando, the council authorized the city to obtain bids from several architects for the council to consider.
WELL WATER ORDINANCE
On the recommendation of Mayor Hicks, the council approved an ordinance banning the use of groundwater as a potable water supply for residences and businesses in the area of the Moto gas station and convenience store on Macoupin Street. Hicks said the new rule is necessary because of contamination created in the area by leaking underground fuel storage tanks. As a result, the use of water wells or capturing groundwater by any other means for drinking water is prohibited within a limited area of the city.
DARTS FOR KIDS
Ald. Rolando presented the city with a check for $4,500 on behalf of the Darts for Kids program hosted by CeeJo’s Tavern. Rolando said the check, designated for city parks, is the first donation to the city from the program, which is dedicated to raising money to benefit local children.
SURPLUS PROPERTY
Mayor Hicks opened bids and the council voted to sell surplus property to the highest bidders. Larry Norville was the higher of two bidders to purchase an air compressor for $575.89. Mike Bertolino’s bid of $2,201.50 far exceeded two other bids for the purchase of a surplus boat and trailer.
OTHER ACTION
No action followed a five-minute executive session to discuss a personnel issue. In other open session action, the council:
- Approved a supplemental Motor Fuel Tax program proposal increasing the requested appropriation for the annual oil and chip street maintenance program from $250,000 to $350,000. The appropriation is subject to approval by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Treasurer Fisher said increasing the spending authority was recommended because of increasing materials costs. “This doesn’t mean we’re going to spend $350,000,” he said, noting the appropriation only gives the city an additional cushion.
- Accepted bids of $6,210.55 to add two water main valves at a location near Gilespie High School and $10,000 to replace a water main pipe passing under a bridge on Easton Street from R & K Plumbing, Granite City.
- Asked the City Attorney to send a registered demand letter to the plumber allegedly responsible for requiring the city to initiate $5,383.87 in repairs to the water line at West Oak and Western streets.
- Agreed to reimburse a homeowner for $325.72 in repairs incurred for damage related to the installation of a water line that passes under the house.
- Agreed to spend $1,600 for culverts to replace washed-out culverts at two locations on the recently completed Ethan Fogg Bike Trail at Gillespie Lake.
- Adopted a resolution naming Michael Hadley of Edward Jones as the city’s representative for deferred compensation investments.
- Approved a pay resolution in the amount of $34,003.10 to Korte-Luitjohan Contractors, Inc., for improvements to the water treatment plant.
- Approved a $100 donation to the Gillespie Middle School softball program.
Comments
The Gillespie community is proud to partner with ImpactLife to host a Community Blood Drive on Monday, May 12 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The event will take place at the Gillespie Methodist Church Gym, located at 900 Broadway.
This vital event offers community members an opportunity to help save lives by donating blood, which is essential for patients in local hospitals and medical facilities. The blood drive is open to donors of all eligible ages and backgrounds.
Event Details:
What: Gillespie Community Blood Drive
When: Monday, May 12th, 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Gillespie Methodist Church Gym, 900 Broadway, Gillespie, IL
Appointments are encouraged to ensure a smooth experience. To schedule your donation, please contact Brenda Lowe at (217) 710-1336, visit bloodcenter.org and use code 60020 to locate the drive, or call ImpactLife directly at 800-747-5401.
Donor Eligibility:
Potential donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental permission available online), weigh over 110 pounds, and present a valid photo ID. Donors who have given blood on or before March 17, 2025, are eligible to participate. Individuals with controlled diabetes or high blood pressure may also be eligible to donate. For further eligibility questions, contact ImpactLife at (800) 747-5401.
About Blood Donation:
The blood donation process is safe, quick, and typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. It is a simple procedure that can make a significant difference in the lives of patients in need.
ImpactLife is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing blood products and services to over 100 hospitals and emergency providers across Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin, as well as supporting medical research and resource sharing nationwide. To learn more about ImpactLife, visit www.bloodcenter.org and follow them on social media @impactlifeblood.
Special Donor Incentives:
All successful donors will receive a choice of an e-Gift Card, Bonus Points for ImpactLife’s Rewards Store, or the option to donate their reward to a nonprofit of their choice.
Join us in making a difference—your donation could be the reason someone in our community receives the life-saving care they need.
Comments
Eagarville, IL — The Village of Eagarville is delighted to announce its highly anticipated annual Craft Fair and Vendor Festival, set to take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025. The event will be held at the Gillespie Civic Center from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
This festive celebration will feature the work of 30 talented local artisans, crafters, and vendors showcasing a diverse array of handmade goods. It’s the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors alike to shop local, support our community’s artists, and find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts—ideal for Mother’s Day or to celebrate your favorite graduate!
Attendees can enjoy delicious food options served throughout the day, including hearty biscuits and gravy in the morning, as well as savory sloppy joes and chicken salad for lunch.
Admission is just $1 for adults, with children under 16 admitted free.
Come out, explore the creative talents of our community, and enjoy a fun-filled day of shopping, food, and fellowship!
Comments
Members of the Benld City Council on agreed to spend $319,000 for continuing work on the Benld Family Sports Park and voted to temporarily extend the city’s contract with the City of Gillespie for police protection while the two municipalities continue negotiations to renew the agreement, but it was horses and zoning that dominated the discussion during the council’s regular monthly meeting Monday night.
Appearing before the council as a visitor, Jennifer Zippay, 304 North Eighth Street, voiced concerns about a neighbors plans to board up to three horses on a neighboring lot zoned for agricultural use. Zippay said the property owner plans to fence the lot and build a stabling structure at the rear of the lot. The lot has been zoned for agricultural use since the city approved its zoning ordinance in 2016 and the parcel has been cropped for many years. Zippay said it never occurred to her or her neighbors that “agriculture” could also mean “livestock.”
“What is ‘agriculture’?” she asked. “To me there’s a difference between crops and horses or pigs.” Her concern she said is that the zoning ordinance does not define what animals are allowable, nor does it limit the number of animals the owner of an agricultural property can keep.
“I’m not in disagreement with you,” Mayor Jim Kelly told Zippay. “We should have a limit on the number of animals.”
The lot reportedly comprises about 220,000 square, prompting Zippay to question how many animals the property could accommodate.
“It’s well within the council’s prerogative to limit the number of animals allowed,” City Attorney Rick Verticchio advised, “but we can’t do something about something that hasn’t happened yet.” Without provisions in the zoning ordinance regarding the types and numbers of farm animals allowed, Verticchio said the city’s only option would be to pursue a public nuisance action if the animals become a nuisance.
“How many are too many?” Verticchio asked rhetorically. “Two hundred and forty seven pigs would be too many, but one goat is probably okay. The maximum number is somewhere in between.”
Responding to a question from Ald. John Balzraine, Verticchio said there is no way to preclude the property owner from implementing his plans other than to approve a zoning ordinance amendment before the individual starts to build stabling structure or fencing. The property owner reportedly has not applied for building permits to build on the property or erect a fence. Kelly told Zippay that any fencing would have to comply with the city’s fencing code.
“The council could do something now,” Verticchio said. “Someone could make a motion. Otherwise it would have to be a nuisance.”
Ald. Dustin Fletcher noted the property owner “did the right thing” by approaching the city to familiarize himself with the zoning provisions before making plans to board horses on the property. “I have to give him credit for that,” Fletcher said.
Balzraine later suggested amending the zoning ordinance to define “agriculture” as cropland only. “I wouldn’t want to smell horse poop either,” he told Zippay.
Verticchio said he could prepare the amendment for action within 10 days. “If you want to call a special meeting to approve it, you can.”
“We’ll get this rolling,” Kelly assured Zippay.
POLICE PROTECTION CONTRACT
On a motion by Ald. Mickey Robinson, seconded by Fletcher, the council voted unanimously to extend the city’s police protection contract with the City of Gillespie for 90 days while the two municipalities continue negotiations for a new contract. For the three months, the city will continue to pay the current $20,000 monthly fee for police protection.
Verticchio said the current police protection contract is set to expire April 30. Depending upon negotiations, the new rate could be charged retroactively or commence upon approval of the contract by both parties, according to Verticchio.
Verticchio said the contract can be terminated by giving 30 day’s notice to the City of Gillespie.
OFFICERS AND ALDERMEN SEATED
Before considering new business, the council paused to swear-in newly elected and re-elected officers and aldermen. Verticchio administered the oath of office, using a Bible belonging to his mother “who died 29 years ago today,” he said.
Kelly was sworn-in to begin his third term as Mayor, along with incumbent City Treasurer Cindy Crites and incumbent City Clerk Terri Koyne, both of whom were elected to their third terms.
Verticchio also administered oaths to incumbent Ward 1 Ald. Balzraine, re-elected April 1 to his third term; Ward 2 Ald. Mickey Robinson, currently the longest-serving member of the council, becoming an alderman in 1991; and newly elected Ward 3 Ald. Brant McFarland, who replaces two-term Ald. Lance Cooper, who chose to not seek re-election.
Immediately after being seated, Mayor Kelly thanked Cooper for his “time and dedication to the city.”
“You did a good job,” Kelly said.
On a motion by Balzraine, seconded by Ald. Jerry Saracco, the council ratified Kelly’s new committee appointments as follows:
- CITY PROPERTY: Balzraine (chair), Fletcher, McFarland, Robinson, Saracco.
- HOUSING; Ald. Norm Emmons (chair), Saracco, Robinson, McFarland, Balzraine.
- ORDINANCE/JUDICIAL: Robinson (chair), Emmons, Saracco, Fletcher, Balzraine.
- FINANCE: Saracco (chair), Emmons, Balzraine, Fletcher, McFarland, and City Clerk Koyne as an advisory co-chair.
- POLICE: McFarland (chair), Fletcher, Robinson, Saracco, Emmons.
- PROPRIETARY: Fletcher (chair), Balzraine, Robinson, Emmons, McFarland.
The Mayor’s appointments run for two years and include Verticchio as City Attorney, Balzraine as Mayor Pro-Tem, and Robinson, Fletcher and Jack Burns as members of a Police Liaison Committee.
SPORTS PARK EXPENDITURES
With Ald. Saracco casting the only “no” vote, the council approved expenditures of $319,244.89 for work completed on the new Benld Family Sports Complex, located on the former site of Benld Elementary School. Community Unit School District 7 deeded the property to the of Benld several years after a mine subsidence event destroyed the school. The city secured a $600,000 Open Spaces Land Acquisition and Development grant through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources last year to underwrite developing the parcel as a park. Once completed, the Benld Sports Association will take over operation and maintenance of the facility.
Monday night’s action authorized payment of $132,305 to Hayes Contractor, the project’s general contractor; $88,342.40 to DeLaurent Construction, Wilsonville, for paving a basketball court and walking path; and $98,597.49 to HHH Construction for construction of a pavilion and dugouts, and installation of basketball equipment, scoreboards and goal posts.
To finish the grant, the city estimates another $25,000 in expenditures, including $19,100 for concrete to dugouts and the pavilion, and $6,000 for accounting/audit fees
MFT BID
The council unanimously approved a bid of $32,818 from Illini Road Oil, LLC, Moro, to supply road oil for the city’s annual motor fuel tax street maintenance program. Illini Road Oil offered the lowest of three bids to supply 12,200 gallons of road oil at a cost of $2.69 per gallon. Other bidders were Macoupin County Asphalt, Inc., Carlinville, and Evergreen Roadworks, Urbana.
PARKING LOT BID
Council members accepted a bid of $5,342 from DeLaurent Construction to repave parking areas at the back and on the east side of the newly opened Benld City Hall, formerly First National Bank.
PROPERTY BID
Council members unanimously accepted a bid of $1,000 from Don Pratt for a surplus parcel at 205 South Seventh, provided Pratt demolishes and removes an existing nuisance structure within 120 days. Answering a question from the council, Verticchio said the council could extend the 120-day deadline in the event of extenuating circumstances. Otherwise, the property could revert to the city if the deadline is not met.
Pratt’s lives next door to the property and was the only bidder.
FOIA REQUEST
Monte Oberman, who has a small claims action pending against the city, appeared before the council, complaining that a flash drive he received in response to a Freedom of Information Act request could not be opened. Oberman said he asked for minutes from last month’s meeting of the council during which he also appeared to address the council. Since the flash drive was defective, he asked for written minutes of the meeting.
City Clerk Koyne said she could provide Oberman with a copy of the minutes since the minutes were approved by the council earlier Monday evening.
Verticchio told Oberman that future requests for information should be directed to him since Oberman is a litigant against the city.
“One of the grounds for denying a FOIA request is if the requestor is involved in litigation against the city,” Verticchio said. “I’m not criticizing the way you asked for information, I’m just saying you may not have been doing it the right way. The proper procedure would be for you to contact the city attorney and then I have to give it to you.”
In response, Oberman handed his written request to Verticchio and noted he also is asking for all other written communication about his case.
Property owned by Oberman is the subject of a public nuisance action initiated by Verticchio on behalf of the city. Vertichio told Oberman last week that the city’s nuisance complaint will be dropped after Oberman’s small claims case is adjudicated.
A bench trial set for April 4 was rescheduled for June 19 on a motion by Oberman late last month.
ITALIAN CLUB RECOGNITION
Balzraine publicly thanked the Benld Italian Club for paying for electrical work at the food stand in Benld City Park at a cost of $1,080.
