Community News
Gillespie Council will consider grocery tax
The Gillespie City Council directed City Attorney Rick Verticchio to draft a new ordinance during a sometimes contentious meeting Monday night, which would impose a grocery tax on unprepared food items sold in the city limits. Mayor John Hicks acknowledged the city no longer has a grocery store, but noted that the Dollar General store and convenience stores in the city sell a limited number of grocery items.
“We have been notified that the city can collect a grocery tax,” Hicks said. “It’s not going to be a phenomenal amount.”
The one percent grocery tax will replace a state grocery tax that was rescinded as part of the current state budget. The tax also was suspended via executive order during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Verticchio, who participated in Monday’s meeting by phone, said he would prepare an ordinance and have it ready for council action for the council’s August meeting.
In other action, the council authorized the mayor to work with the city’s insurer to expedite repairs to the city garage, approved the final payment for the new boat dock installed at Gillespie Lake, and approved the purchase of 20 American flags for display downtown during patriotic holidays. It was a heated exchange between Street Department workers and a city alderman, however, that lent a contentious tone to the meeting.
PRIVATE USE OF CITY EQUIPMENT
A question from Ald. Dave Link about city workers using city equipment on private property sparked an angry response from Street Department workers, including Supervisor Dale Demkey. Link alleged a city worker used a mini-hoe, skidster and truck for a project on a resident’s personal property. The ensuing argument, however, reached no resolution.
“It was city equipment and a city employee who took the afternoon off for the work,” Link said. He demanded to know who authorized the equipment’s use.
“We’ve done it before,” a maintenance worker responded.
“We put a stop to that back when I first came on the council,” Ald. Bill Hayes countered.
Link angrily denied Demkey’s allegation that Link had used township equipment to move a storage building at his downtown tavern, and to remove concrete from property owned by Link. Link said the broken concrete from his project went to the municipality for its use.
“There’s no reason a city employee can’t use that equipment,” Demkey said. “It’s not like we get paid a lot of money.” Demkey confirmed that he authorized the use of the equipment, and accused Link of targeting the Street Department.
Ald. Hayes said Link was responding to complaints from citizens who saw city equipment being used for private purposes. He said he, too, had received complaints. “If you’re going to do this for one person, you going to have to do it for all,” Hayes said. “You’ve got to treat everyone the same.”
“It’s been this way for years,” Ald. Landon Pettit said. “It’s not the first time this has been done.”
A visitor to the council meeting suggested forming a committee to act on requests to use city equipment. The Army Corps of Engineers, he said, follows a similar practice to loan equipment for “humanitarian purposes.” Establishing such a procedure, the spectator said, would not only standardize how the decisions are made but also protect the city from liability concerns.
“I know this is the way it’s been done in the past and I ‘get’ both sides,” Ald. Dona Rauzi commented. “But is it right?”
The discussion ended with no clear resolution before the council moved on to other business.
DAMAGE TO CITY SHED
The council voted unanimously to authorize Mayor Hicks to work with the city’s insurer to expedite repair of some $13,000 in damage to the city shed that was caused when a street sweeper malfunctioned. Reportedly, the hydrostatic system on the sweeper failed, causing the machine to go out of control and crash into the shed. More damage was caused when the operator backed the malfunctioning machine out of the wreckage.
Mayor Hicks said the city has been unable to get an insurance adjuster to view the damage and authorize repairs. In the meantime, he said, a portion of the building’s roof is in danger of collapse. “I’d like to get this done as soon as possible,” Hick said.
Demkey said the Street Department had asked the council to replace the street sweeper for several years. “No one paid any attention,” he said.
“I say we go ahead and fix it,” said Ald. Pettit, “and if the insurance company gives us any grief, we have a lawyer.”
After further discussion, Pettit’s motion to give the mayor power to act was unanimously approved. Hicks said he will contact the insurer to see if he can expedite the claim and, if the insurance company is unresponsive, take action to get the damage repaired.
“It’s a safety issue, it’s an emergency,” Pettit said. “Let’s get it fixed.”
FINAL BOAT DOCK PAYMENT
On a motion by Ald. Frank Barrett, seconded by Link, the council voted unanimously to authorize a $53,275 final payment on a new boat dock recently opened at Gillespie Lake. The payment represents the city’s share of the new dock’s $253,000 total cost. The city received a $200,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the project.
NEW FLAGS
The council agreed to take donations from the public to subsidize the purchase of 20 American flags to be displayed on downtown utility poles during patriotic holidays such as Memorial Day and Independence Day. Ald. Wendy Rolando said she had sought to purchase new flags for the past four years but had been thwarted by the lack of a budget for the project. She said the brackets for displaying the flags already are on the poles and the Street Department had agreed to place and remove the flags when needed.
“It’s been suggested that we have a fundraiser or offer sponsorships to purchase the flags,” she said, adding she located a source to purchase three-by-five-foot flags with poles for $75 each.
The council informally authorized Rolando to collect donations to purchase the flags, and several people present committed to donating to the project. However, Ald. Pettit’s motion to purchase the flags outright and reimburse the General Fund with donations was unanimously approved. Pettit said the donation fund also can be used to replace flags as they become worn.
FACIAL HAIR
Ald. Pettit suggested amending future employment contracts to include a provision requiring employees to comply with OSHA standards regarding facial hair, after an extensive discussion about a Water Department employee who refused to shave his facial hair. Ald. Hayes said OSHA requires employees at the Water Treatment Plant to be clean-shaven because an emergency with water treatment chemicals could require the employees to wear respirator masks. Facial hair reportedly prevents the respirators from properly sealing around the mouth and nose.
Water Plant Operator Dave Pickett later said the issue was moot because the employee had finally agreed to shave.
Hayes said the employee initially refused to comply on the assumption the rule was an arbitrary decision from Pickett.
“Someone needs to tell him it’s not us, it’s OSHA,” Verticchio said via phone. “I’m surprised they haven’t come down on us already.”
Verticchio said an employee who refuses to comply could be written up and, if he continues to resist, be terminated.
“The only employees this would apply to are people who might have to wear masks,” Hicks noted.
Pettit said future contracts should reference OSHA standards because OSHA rules are subject to change during the employee’s tenure. “It would save our superintendents headaches in the future,” Pettit said.,
EXTRA PAY FOR POLICE CHIEF
The council unanimously approved a resolution enabling the city to pay the Chief of Police an hourly wage in addition to his salary for hours spent on patrol. Verticchio explained the Police Chief has been putting in extra hours as a patrolman because the police force is critically short of personnel.
“The only reason he’s on patrol is because we are short,” Vericchio said. The department currently is short four full-time officers. “This is not a permanent situation,” Verticchio said, noting the resolution authorizes the supplemental payments through October to give the city time to hire additional officers.
The measure was approved with both Link and Hayes voting “present.”
In a related matter, the council authorized Police Chief Jared DePoppe to send two new candidates to the state’s Police Academy at the end of August in an effort to fill vacancies on the police department. DePoppe said those candidates have not yet been selected but he is actively interviewing applicants. He said one current applicant is expected to complete academy training early next month.
Ald. Janet Odell-Mueller asked if there was any way the city could obligate Police Academy candidates to stay in the city’s employ for a specific period since the city pays for their training. DePoppe said there is no such mechanism, noting the city has paid to train numerous officers who later resigned to move on to other positions.
In other action, the council approved DePoppe’s request to spend $2,122 to buy new radios compatible with ambulance and fire department communication devices.
DAMAGED DUMP TRUCK
The council referred to committee the issue of whether to repair or replace a damaged dump truck assigned to the Street Department. The truck bed reportedly is rusted out and in need of replacement, and the truck cab has damage resulting from a collision with a utility pole.
Mayor Hicks said the city received an estimate of $14,443 to replace the truck bed and $6,470 for repairs to the cab. The cab repairs, he noted, may be subject to insurance coverage.
“That’s half of what it would cost to buy a new dump truck,” Pettit said. He asked if the Street Department could function with a F-450 or F-550 instead.
The committee is expected to assess whether it would be more cost-effective to repair the old truck or buy a replacement.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
No action followed a 40-minute executive session to discuss personnel issues and possible real estate. Ald. Bob Fritz requested the session to discuss real estate, while Ald. Hayes asked to discuss a personnel issue. Ald. Barrett asked to enter executive session to discuss resolution to a lake lot lease issue with Don Corby, who was on the agenda to address the council earlier in the meeting. No public action was taken, however, regarding Corby’s issue.
BICYCLE ORDINANCE TABLED
The council voted to table action on a proposed ordinance to ban bicycles, skateboards, scooters and side-by-sides on all sidewalks adjacent to city streets in Gillespie. Police Chief DePoppe urged the council to revisit the ordinance and eliminate the reference to “all sidewalks.” That provision, he said, would force bicycles onto the street and create safety concerns in residential areas where young children typically ride bikes on the sidewalk.
Ald. Link said the original intent was to ban bicycles, skateboards and similar vehicles from downtown sidewalks only. Ald. Rauzi suggested that there needed to be provisions to differentiate between bicycles, skateboards and similar vehicles and mobility equipment used by disabled persons.
The action marked the third time the ordinance has been tabled. Rauzi initially proposed the ordinance because downtown signage banning the use of bicycles on sidewalks during business hours has no ordinance on the books to back them up.
On Ald. Barrett’s recommendation the council also tabled action on a resolution revising procedures for issuing lake lot leases.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the council approved the $2,079 purchase of eight new security cameras for the boat dock and campgrounds at Gillespie Lake.
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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.
