Community News
Gillespie council votes ‘yes’ to City-Wide cleanup
John Fassero advised the council of the 2 events the Municipal Band will be playing at this year.
Jim Alderson brought up the city-wide cleanup event to the council during a regular scheduled meeting on April 8, 2013. Alderson explained “everyone wants it.” Mike Bertolis added it was a little expense, but the council owes it to the community. “At least give the city this, we pay taxes,” Bertolis explained. “Give us a little something.” The late cleanup for Gillespie was in the fall of 2009.
Alderson investigated the issue and said the only open date left for Flowers was on Saturday, May 25. Flowers could possibly arrange to have it Friday as well, but Saturday is the best date for the company as so many communities have already booked weekends. In 2009, the City of Gillespie used ten 30-yard dumpsters and one 20-yard dumpster at the lake.
If the council chooses to have the cleanup on May 25, the last dumpster has to leave Gillespie by 2 o’clock. They would drop the dumpsters off around 6 or 6:30am leaving Gillespie 7am-2pm open for drop-offs. The council agreed there would be no curbside service added and council members would have to help out during the day to save on police wages.
Alderson explained employee costs for the day would be around $1,000 since the city needs a backhoe operator and a bobcat operator to smash the junk down to get the most in the dumpsters. Overall, the cost would not exceed $8,000 Alderson explained, but he was going to check with other trash companies. The council made a motion to investigate the clean-up, but approved a motion to have the city wide cleanup on May 25 spending up to $8,000.
Emergency Warning
Jerry Grandone voiced his concerns with the warning siren not being heard on the West side of town.
Jerry Grandone explained he has lived on the west side of town for 43 years and he never hears the sirens go off when a storm is rolling in. “If it’s quiet, I can hear it,” Grandone explained. “Storms come in from the west, not the east.” He went on to add the problem is 700 kids on the west side of town right now. “I am not here for me; there are a lot of kids and people on the west side of town.”
Grandone explained the sirens are hard to hear if there is a 10 mile wind. Dave Tucker explained the sirens are for the people outside as the school has an early warning system. Tucker explained he tried to surface the issue as well, but it is a county issue and not a city issue. Steve Kluethe explained the council needs to reapproach the possibility of a new plan in addition to the current systems being used right now. “This has been going on for years and I am not considered about me, I am considered about the kids,” Grandone explained.
Committee Reports
Frank Barrett explained the insurance company doesn’t want to give the city any money for a pavilion since they sent us $69,000 four years ago and the city should have enough money left over to build the $38,000 pavilion. “I would like to put my project on hold until we can come up with some more money,” Barrett closed.
Barrett also nominated John Knowles to fill in at the lake to avoid overtime hours for other lake employees. The council approved the decision 5-0. Frank also reported the lake is down 0.5 inches.
New Business
The council approved MPACT’D request 5-0 to close Kelly Street on May 8 from 8am-3pm where they are having a Road Safety Rally. In addition, FFA is sending 3 kids to Washington and the council thought it would be nice to send them with spending money. The council voted to send each kid with $50 each since they will be doing all the work on the planters on Macoupin Street.
The council brought up the Farmer’s Market ordinance #13-5 questioned in March. The ordinance clarified the business owner would be responsible and on site of all markets. In addition, any citizen growing produce can sell the produce on the same property it is grown on. The new ordinance was passed 5-0. Ageless Farmer’s Market is now a go!
Municipal Band
John Fassero explained the Municipal Band is under new leadership and notified the council of the band’s budget for 2013 consisting of a performance at the Memorial Day service and at Black Diamond Days. The 2013 budget totals to $2,500 for the two performances and music.
New Wave Communication – Franchise Agreement
Bill Flowers, with New Wave Communication, explained the franchise is being acquired by a new ownership group planning on taking over on May 1, 2013. “Any change of ownership has to be approved by the councils,” Flowers explained. He asked the council to approve a resolution to move on with the acquisition.
City attorney Kevin Polo explained he had an issue with two sessions of the agreement advising Flowers to take it the owners to get a response back with Polo. The council would move forth with it once New Wave responded to Polo. Flowers closed with mentioning New Wave customers would not notice any changes as billing would remain the same and it would come from the same people.
Police News
Chief of Police Jared DePoppe notified the council of a business in town receiving four $1 counterfeit bills. He said he doesn’t think the issue is going to be a problem. DePoppe went on to add the police department collected $3,500 from February court fines, $100 in ordinance fines, $285 in towing fees. Overall, the revenue from March totaled to $4,500. DePoppe also explained the department salvaged the old Impala and two other cars from the impound lot for $1,150.
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FELONIES
Austin C. Drake, 30 of Girard, is charged with theft/unauthorized control (>$500<$10k) and bad checks/obtaining control of property in connection with a September 22 and an October 7 incident.
William C. Cooper, 41 of Gillespie, is charged with burglary in connection with a November 1 incident.
Joseph L. Schnurr, 63 of De Soto, Mo, is charged with aggravated fleeing in connection with a November 26 incident.
Derek J. Bultema, 40 of Gillespie, is charged with possession of methamphetamine in connection with a November 26 incident.
Brandon A. Martin, 26 of Wood River, is charged with aiding/abetting/possession/selling a stolen vehicle and aggravated fleeing in connection with a November 26 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
Richard J. Williams, 44 of Staunton, is charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle in connection with a November 14 incident.
Ryne L. Manion, 41 of Mt. Olive, is charged with criminal trespass to a building in connection with a November 20 incident.
TRAFFIC
Terence L. Binion, 51 of University City, MO, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 22 incident.
Andrew J. Goewey, 34 of Sawyerville, is charged with driving on a revoked license and driving 21-25 mph above the limit in connection with a November 22 incident.
Teresa J. Niewiadomski, 47 of Bethalto, is charged with driving on a suspended license, expired registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with a November 19 incident.
Keona D. Roos, 22 of Freeburg, is charged with driving on a suspended license, improper use of registration/title, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and no valid registration in connection with a November 21 incident.
Zachary A. Johnston, 44 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 23 incident.
Alexis R. Spann, 32 of Auburn, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with a November 19 incident.
Alicia N. Tamosaitis, 29 of Girard, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 19 incident.
Justin A. Collins, 37 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 20 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Allan L. Petit versus Teresa M. Pettit
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a domestic battery. Ashley A. Esmon, 39 of Staunton, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Calcari Street in East Gillespie. Angel L. Bricker, 22 of East Alton, was cited for operating an uninsured vehicle and driving while registration was suspended.
An officer was dispatched to Spruce Street and Laura Street in reference to a noise complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Elm Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Charles Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Elm Street. Zachary A. Johnston, 44 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for driving while license was revoked.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 400 block of East Central in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Cloud Street in reference to a domestic dispute. Steven O. Smith, 36 of Chicago, was arrested on a warrant out of Chicago on a weapons charge.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to theft and criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to criminal damage to property and criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Charles Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a 911 call.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Locust Street in Benld in reference to the removal of a subject.
An officer was dispatched to Circle Drive at Gillespie Lake in reference to an alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Penny Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to unwanted solicitors.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025
An Officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Easton Street. Joseph L. Schnurr, 63 of Eagarville, was arrested for reckless driving, fleeing/eluding a peace officer, squealing tires, failing to obey a stop sign, improper use of registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer spoke with a female at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 300 block of South Illinois Street in Benld.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to a suicidal subject.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a fire alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Horizon Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henry Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Cedar Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Francis Street in reference to a 911 call
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Henrietta Street in reference to an animal complaint.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to disorderly conduct.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Central in Benld in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a reckless driver.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer spoke with a male on Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a vehicle that was parked on the lot for a few days.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2025
An officer was dispatched to West Central Street and North Trolley Street in Benld in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Lynn Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street at Gillespie High School in reference to the fire alarm sounding.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Ye Olde Christmas is the theme of the Macoupin County Historical Society’s annual Christmas Show, which will be held Friday through Sunday, December 5–7, at the John C. Anderson Home and Museum, 920 West Breckenridge in Carlinville.
“The Christmas Show is one of the most magical times to visit the Anderson Home,” said MCHS Board Member and House Manager Brandy England. “Some families make it an annual Christmas tradition to visit the Anderson Home when it is decorated for Christmas. It’s a great opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit and pick up some ideas for decorating your own home for the holidays.”
MCHS member Kendra Mize, of Bunker Hill, who has coordinated the decorating effort for more than two decades, has again marshalled a small army of volunteers to decorate all 13 rooms of the home. Each room features a themed Christmas tree, along with mantle pieces, centerpieces, tabletop decor, garlands and florals, and other special touches.
The home will be open for self-guided tours from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, December 5; from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, December 6; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 7.
“We’re very excited to offer for the first time candlelight tours from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday,” said Shawna Ashby, who serves as a co-manager with England. “Viewing the decorated home by candlelight promises to be a magical experience.”
The final candlelight tours on Friday and Saturday start at 7:30 p.m. Admission to the home is five dollars for adults and one dollar for children ages five to 12, with four-year-olds and younger admitted free of charge.
The Anderson Home Gift Shop will be open during tour hours, offering one-of-a-kind gift items and stocking stuffers. Santa Claus will be on hand in the downstairs parlor to greet children and listen to their Christmas wishes from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6.
While the decorated home is the centerpiece of the Christmas Show, several other features on the Historical Society’s grounds will be open. The Red Barn will be open and serving hearty beef stew, chili, homemade pies, and warming holiday beverages such as wassail and hot chocolate on Friday and Saturday.
The General Store and Print Shop will be decorated and open to the public, with the Print Shop offering its popular handmade Christmas cards and other items produced in the shop; kids can print their own blank “Santa List” to keep track of their Christmas wishes.
“The General Store offers unique gift items, including some small antiques, for shoppers to peruse,” England noted.
Local blacksmiths will demonstrate their craft in the MCHS Blacksmith Shop located on the north side of the Historical Society Grounds, with wrought iron gift items, including stocking hooks and decorative pieces, available for purchase.
The Macoupin County Historical Society’s Christmas Show runs concurrently with the Carlinville Christmas Market and Downtown Christmas events, and a free trolley and shuttle buses include the Anderson Home as a regular stop during the festivals, enabling visitors to ride from the square or the Macoupin County Fairgrounds to the Historical Society grounds.
