Community News
Vertichio tells Newingham the water line is a big problem: Benld City Council
Shari Albrecht explains the benefits of joining MEDP.
In a regular scheduled council meeting on December 12, Mickey Robinson questioned city attorney Rick Vertichio about a problem “that has risen in the past year and has been pending for a long time.” There is a water line that was put in and tapped onto off Benld’s main line that runs down Macoupin and Clark Street in Gillespie. “Someone that lives in the outside of Gillespie city limits is supposedly tapping onto our line,” Alderman Robinson went on to say, “He was supposedly told by the City of Benld that he has permission and I never gave him permission under my time as water commission. Also, no one knows who gave him permission to him to dig.”
The problem Robinson is referring to is Ned Newingham tapping onto Benld’s main water line that runs down Macoupin Street in Gillespie and then to Benld. Newingham lives outside of Gillespie’s city limits, but does not live in Benld’s municipality either. “My question is if he has tapped on it and he builds more buildings, what happens if there is a water break and who is responsible for the water loss?” Mickey questioned.
According to Rick Vertichio, no one is allowed to tap onto Benld’s line without permission but Mayor Jeff Hendricks assured everyone that Newingham did have permission. “I have been in contact with Mr. Newingham and the Gillespie mayor,” Mayor Hendricks opened, “We approved that tap, sold him that tap and he is legally tapped for that matter.” Hendricks went on to state that problems lie on how the water lines were ran by Newingham through the City of Gillespie.
Vertichio went on to say that the problem has nothing to do with the City of Benld yet because Benld can legally sell Newingham water even if he lives outside of Benld city limits under the permission of the City of Gillespie. “As long as that line is not serving residents inside of Gillespie’s corporate limits,” Vertichio stated, “I see no problems.” If there is any leaks or problems with the 930 feet of water line Newingham installed, Newingham has to fix the problems himself.
The tap on point where Newingham tapped on at is at the driveway of Ameren substation and is beyond Benld’s main meter. The only problem with the installed water line is there is no water meter where Newingham tapped on at and according to previous meeting minutes, he was told to have a shut off valve and a meter at the tap on point. There is a shut off valve installed, but there is no meter until the very end of the installed line.
“I realize what you are saying, “Newingham spoke up, “But when I talked to people here, they told me a meter by the tap was not needed.” Vertichio advised Newingham that 930 feet of unmetered water line is a huge problem and the meter needs to be moved up to tap on point.
Jesse Maynard from HMG Engineers provided some insight on when the project came through. “It was decided that the 4 inch tap was not included in the permit either. So as of now, there is 930 feet of 4″ water line that is obviously not permitted,” Maynard explained. “So not only does he need a 4″ meter tap on his tap-on point, he needs a permit for 930 feet of water line.” Maynard went on to say he is going to check from the EPA, but he is pretty sure Newingham would need a permit for a 4″ service tap from the EPA.
Jesse Maynard from HMG Engineers explains that Newingham's water line is not even permitted.
“I wish all of this would have been done sooner because it is a lot harder to put a meter in now,” Newingham advised, “But I will offer the City of Benld 750 feet of my water line, I got $10,000 in it.” Mayor Hendricks explained that it is up for discussion later, but that line would have to go through numerous EPA inspections. “There has not been a drop of water that has gone through that line,” Hendricks closed, “It has not been charged.”
Maynard went on to say that the Eiler Avenue project is complete and the amount due to Korte Luitjohan is $26,092. Maynard recommended passing the payment pending record drawings. The payment was passed 6-0 with all funds coming from a grant.
Tilashakski then went on to question city attorney Rick Vertichio if the property on Kentucky and Park Avenue was all tied up or is it available for the city. “There is nothing that is all tied up, the only thing there is to do now is sell it,” Vertichio informed, “You have the complete go-ahead. If you can get a buyer, then let me know and I can draw up a contract.”
Next, Tilashakski questioned if there was any way the library could get any money back since they have put over $70,000 into it for repairs. “As I understand since Helitech got in there, it is a not a mine situation,” Tilashakski noted. Vertichio explained that the library was not constructed correctly and yes, there is a statute of repose but on the downside it is only 10 years and the library is past that. All claims against the construction of a building is 4 years from when the damage is discovered, but no more than 10 years from when the discovery occurs.
After voting 6-0 to renew the Macoupin County Economic Development membership, the council heard from Shari Albrecht. The rate is based on population and is $1 per person according to the 2010 census information. “I am sure you all are aware that MEDP was awarded $75,000 from the State of Illinois to award small businesses with energy efficient grants,” Albrecht opened. MEDP recruited 7 new businesses this year to Macoupin County as well as hosted 4 business education workshops. MEDP also maintains a business insight database which is a national listing of Macoupin County proprieties available for purchase or lease.
Shari went on to explain that Ken Snider purchased a building in downtown Benld to open a winery and applied for a grant to upgrade the furnace and air conditioning. Since Benld is a member of MEDP, the grant was available and awarded to Ken for the amount of $5,000.
“I would like to thank MEDP and Shari Albrecht for the tremendous amount of help for my project,” Ken stated, “I thank everyone for their support.” The building Snider bought is the previous Benld Packing Company that rests on 5th and Central.
Lynn Fraelle thanked the council for their help in the Benld Christmas dinner and referred to the event “a huge success.” Fraelle went on to say that Build Benld had a sign made for the Veteran’s Memorial. The sign will be erected in the park and the frame will be made by Chuck Voyles.
After hearing from the pubic, Mickey Robinson gave his report on city properties. First and foremost, the civic center has been upgraded after the south wall was painted. The only thing left is to paint the bathrooms. Secondly, Robinson stated there is a 60-80 foot tree that is about 70% dead on the east side and about 95% dead on the west side at 604 North 6th Street. All other committee reports paid and approved all bills.
Mayor Jeff Hendricks reads the new insurance proposals.
Under new business, the tax levy ordinance was approved for the amount of $1,905,092.00. Last year the levy was increased 1.5%, but this year it remained the same and is identical to last year’s. Recently, the mayor met with the insurance group and received the new proposal based on the amount of employees and current employees the city has.
The new proposal increased the deductible from $500 to $1,000 and increased the out of pocket from $2,000 to $2,500 and the city will save an overall 5% from last years premium by doing so. The city will take the 5% savings and will set up and insurance fund so when the employees reach the out of pocket expense, the city will cover $500 so that will leave the employees where they are at benefit wise. The new insurance proposal was passed 6-0.
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FELONIES
Trey W. Fenton, 34 of Mount Olive, is charged with residential burglary, burglary without causing damage, and criminal damage to property (<$500) in connection with a November 3 incident.
Peyton R. Pehrson, 26 of Benld, is charged with two counts of aggravated DUI/license suspended or revoked, DUI/BAC 0.08, DUI, driving on a suspended license, driving 21-25 mph above the limit, expired registration, disregarding a stop sign, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with a November 6 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
John M. Molinar, 40 of Staunton, is charged with criminal trespass to residence in connection with a November 2 incident.
TRAFFIC
Robert M. Keffer, 38 of Benld, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 25 incident.
Haidyn D. Branson, 25 of Hettick, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 25 incident.
Asa M. Proctor, 47 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 28 incident.
Rodjai A. Johnson, 21 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an October 27 incident.
Amber L. Burgess, 45 of Staunton, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 23 incident.
Shane C. Chance, 29 of Carlinville, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 28 incident.
Jerry J. Wilson, 77 of Carlinville, is charged with canceled/revoked/suspended registration in connection with an October 30 incident.
Shannon J. Ward, 44 of Modesto, is charged with improper use of registration/title, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and being unlicensed in connection with an October 28 incident.
Blake D. Roberts, 28 of Carlinville, is charged with driving on a revoked license, unlawful use of cannabis/driver, and display plate attachment in connection with an October 30 incident.
Shota Gagelidze, 44 of Downers Grover, is charged with speeding 26-34 mph over the limit in connection with a November 1 incident.
Christopher P. Smith, 39 of Chesterfield, MO, is charged with driving on a revoked license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and no valid registration in connection with an October 26 incident.
Chad C. Baumann, 54 of Chicago, is charged with driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an October 27 incident.
David A. Rithe, 44 of Benld, is charged with driving on a suspended license, driver failing to give notice of a crash, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and failure to reduce speed in connection with an October 29 incident.
Donald E. Bruhn, 66 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with an October 29 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Rocky Lyle Smith versus Rebecca Lee Smith
MARRIAGE LICENSES
- Tyler Luke Semplowski of Peoria and Margaret Anne Moore of Gillespie
- Craig Charles Wicker and Cheryl A. Scroggins, both of Staunton
- Jacob William Feeley and Kaitlin Marie Moore, both of Plainview
- Peyton Scott Hudspeth and Macy Danielle Rhodes, both of Divernon
- Cody Stephen Bradley and Savannah Michelle Norris, both of Auburn
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henrietta Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a 911 call.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 2300 block of Staunton Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Oak Street in reference to an animal call.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Baker Street in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer initiated a traffic stop in the 200 block of North Hard Road in Benld. Mandy V. Aldridge, 44 of Benld, was issued a citation for driving a vehicle with suspended registration.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Kentucky Street and Central Avenue in Benld. Stormee M. Lyons, 32 of Benld, was issued citations for operating an uninsured motor vehicle and operating a vehicle while using an electronic device.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Lincoln Street and Edgar Street in Eagarville. Tony L. Law, 58 of Benld, was issued citations for operating an uninsured vehicle, no valid driver’s license, and expired registration.
An Officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025
An officer was out with a vehicle in the 300 block of East Central in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was out with a subject in the 100 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Frey Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer spoke with a juvenile at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a dispute in the 500 block of West Baker Street.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Madison Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Broadway Street. Seth E. Bruhn, 45 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for operating a vehicle with expired registration.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the Gillespie Police Department to speak with a female in reference to a domestic battery in the 400 block of South Kentucky Street in Benld. Devon W. Pulley, 18 of Benld, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint. Kussandra D. Hildebrand, 30 of Benld, was issued a citation for a dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Shelby Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Illinois Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Main Street in Benld. Crystal D. Bryant, 37 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for speeding.
An officer was dispatched to Calcari Street in East Gillespie in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 100 block of South Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to criminal trespass.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to criminal trespass. Melissa J. Hughes, 50 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Montgomery County warrant for failure to appear for theft, and she was also issued a citation for criminal trespass.
An officer dispatched to Cedar Street and Macoupin Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to Route 4 and Route 138 in Mt. Clare in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Dorsey Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to Frey Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer was dispatched to Henry Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and 2nd Street in Benld. Alec T. Laughlin, 20 of Livingston, was issued citations for operating an uninsured vehicle and suspended registration.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a security check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a motorist assist.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South Main Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 1200 block of South Second Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the Gillespie Police Department to take a report of fraud in the 600 block of West Oak Street.
An officer was out in the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Spruce Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Montgomery Street in reference an animal complaint.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Staunton Road and Henrietta Street. Jackeline K. Hernandez-Montufar, 24 of Beardstown, was issued citations for no valid driver’s license and operating an uninsured vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Trolley Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle in their driveway.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Pine in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to Route 138 by Benld Cemetery in Benld in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to an ordinance issue.
An officer was dispatched to Osie Street and Madison Street in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was out on 5th Street and Locust Street in Benld in reference to suspicious circumstances.
An officer was out on the 200 block of West Locust Street in Benld in reference to a security check.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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In a decisive finish that underscored his rising dominance in Illinois Class 1A cross country, senior Chaz Oberkfell of Gillespie High School claimed the state title with a time of 14:31.10 at the IHSA State Cross Country Championships held at Detweiller Park on Saturday, November 8.
Finishing just behind Oberkfell, sophomore Evan Knobloch of Toulon (Stark County) crossed the line in 14:46.25, placing second. Rounding out the top five were senior Blake McLeese of Tuscola (14:46.45), senior Luca Bryja of Elgin (Harvest Christian Academy) with 14:48.38, and senior Elijah Teefey of Pleasant Plains at 14:49.02.
This victory marks Oberkfell’s second IHSA Class 1A state championship. He also won the state crown as a junior in 2024 with a time of 14:31.87. In his sophomore year, he finished 21st with a 15:21.43 season-best time.
Looking ahead, Oberkfell is set to compete in the New Balance NXR Midwest Regional Championships on Sunday, November 16, at the LaVerne Gibson Course in Indiana. The meet serves as a critical stepping stone toward the national championships, and Oberkfell will look to carry his state momentum into the regional stage.
