The McLeansboro City Council met this week, with the primary focus on natural gas rates for city residents. The board approved a proposal from USDI to set natural gas rates at $3.25 per 1,000 cubic feet for the next three years, starting May 1st. This marks an increase from the previous rate of $2.10, but the new rate remains lower than what Ameren currently charges. Mayor Chad May noted the city faces a deficit of about $130,000, and the rate increase will help offset ongoing losses.
In other business, Dale Holtmann of Scheffel Boyle presented the FY 25 financial audit. Holtmann reported that city revenues are up and there is no long-term debt. The board unanimously approved the audit. The council also approved the Consent Agenda, which included the Fiscal Year 26 Budget Amendment, an ordinance amending FY 26 appropriations for park activities, a $2,500 TIF Façade Grant to Dairy Queen at 134 East Market, a $2,500 payment to Bonan Bonan & Rowland Law Office, and the schedule for 2026 regular City Council meetings.
Bids for the city’s garbage contract, from Republic and Bulldog, were opened, along with three bids for an addition to the McLeansboro Fire Station, submitted by S.I. Cabinets and More, Zeller Construction, and Evrard. The bids will be reviewed and scored, with decisions expected at next month’s meeting.
The board also approved the annual tax levy for the fiscal year beginning May 1st, 2025, and ending April 30th, 2026. Updates to the Zoning Code were approved to expand access in the MR1 Zoning District. Two ordinances received a first reading: one amending Chapter 21 of the Liquor License Classification and Fees to increase the number of Class E-2 licenses from one to two, and another banning the sale and delivery of kratom and its derivatives within the city. Both ordinances are set for possible approval at the next meeting.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss the purchase or lease of real property and city security procedures.