The McLeansboro City Council addressed a wide range of issues during its recent July meeting, with discussions focusing on the future of the McCoy Library, proposed license plate reader technology, and a major sanitary sewer improvement project.
Public comments centered on concerns about the McCoy Library after rumors circulated that the facility could close or be sold. Historical Society representative Penny VanWinkle questioned the library’s future and the preservation of its genealogical records.
Mayor Chad May clarified that the Library Board, not the City Council, oversees library operations. He said the current plan is to reduce library hours to three days a week because of financial pressures, including rising operating costs and limited tax revenue. Officials also discussed the possibility of creating a countywide library district, which would require voter approval through a referendum.
The council also heard public concerns about a proposal to install License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras for the police department. Questions focused on privacy, accuracy, and future costs. City officials said the program would only continue if fully supported by grant funding and would not rely on city tax dollars.
In other business, the council approved meeting minutes, financial reports, an asphalt bid for Motor Fuel Tax work, temporary road closures for the 2026 Fall Festival, swimming pool closing dates, TIF reimbursements for local businesses, budget amendments, and several routine consent agenda items. The council also accepted the resignation of Ginger Finley from the Library Board and approved related appointments.
The council spent considerable time reviewing a proposed sanitary sewer improvement project. Engineers outlined an estimated $14 million project involving railroad and creek crossings, force main improvements, and other infrastructure upgrades. Funding would come through a USDA Rural Development loan with a 1.375% interest rate over 40 years.
Despite the favorable financing, council members expressed concerns about the project’s cost and timing. A motion to move forward failed when it did not receive a second, leaving the proposal without further action.
The council also discussed replacing the library’s air conditioning system after repairs proved unsuccessful. However, because library staff indicated the current unit could likely continue operating until next summer, no action was taken on the proposed $9,500 replacement.
Throughout the meeting, officials emphasized balancing needed improvements with the city’s financial constraints while addressing concerns raised by residents.