The McLeansboro City Council met Tuesday night for its regular monthly session. During the meeting, residents raised concerns about teenagers speeding and driving recklessly on Hurst Street, citing several near-misses. The police department acknowledged the ongoing problem but noted limited manpower to monitor the area consistently. Board members suggested measures such as speed bumps, additional speed limit signs, and increased police presence. The city said it will continue efforts to keep residents safe. Parking shortages on the south side of the square were also discussed, mainly due to high traffic volumes. Council members said little can be done at this time, but the issue will remain under review. The council conducted the first reading of an ordinance updating the Zoning Code to expand access for the MR1 zoning district. Approval of the ordinance will be considered at next month’s meeting.
The Consent Agenda was approved, including a FY 2026 Appropriations Amendment and a façade grant for Dairy Queen at 134 East Market. The aggregated tax levy was also approved. The council conducted the first reading of the ordinance establishing the city’s annual tax levy for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2025, and ending April 30, 2026; corrections may be made prior to next month’s meeting.
Police Chief Nathan Taylor proposed joining the Downstate Illinois Major Case Squad, which allows the department to collaborate on major crimes at no cost. Concerns were raised about potential overtime costs, and a motion to join the task force died due to lack of a second, meaning no action will be taken. The issue of natural gas rates was tabled until next month. Regarding storage containers within city limits, the current ordinance will be enforced, with potential changes considered in the future.
The council approved an ordinance amending McLeansboro’s net metering policy, reducing the electricity rate from $0.11 to $0.04 per kilowatt hour. An ordinance amending sections of the 1916 ordinance on gaming and gambling houses was also approved, incorporating a new class of liquor license approved two months ago. The board voted against spending $8,500 of a $20,000 matching grant to purchase 1,000 feet of fire hose but approved $4,250 for 600 feet of hose for the Fire Department. Additionally, the contract with consulting firm Bellwether LLC was renewed at no change in price. The council adjourned into Executive Session at 6:43 PM to discuss collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees, with no action expected