The McLeansboro City Council convened for its regular monthly meeting Tuesday evening, marking its first official session at the newly established city building located at 603 East Market Street.
The meeting began with the swearing in of elected officials. McLeansboro City Clerk Jodi Brockett, who took her oath earlier in the day, administered oaths to re-elected Mayor Chad May, City Treasurer Mary R. “Ruth” Bryson, re-elected Ward 1 Alderperson Tom Maulding, newly elected Ward 2 Alderperson Duke Griesemer, and re-elected Ward 3 Alderperson Jeff Johnson.
Mayor May expressed his gratitude, stating he appreciated everyone’s willingness to serve and support the community.
During the public comment portion, John Perryman and Bruce Morrison of the McLeansboro Kiwanis Club thanked the council for supporting the ongoing Kiwanis park project. They proposed installing speed bumps and additional “No Parking” signage, and also suggested constructing a wooden concession stand between the ballpark and the pool. Sean Henry from Klingner and Associates provided updates on the city’s sewer project.
The council unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, which included departmental reports, financial summaries, zoning reports, and bill reviews.
Fire Chief reports noted a recent ISO (International Organization for Standardization) audit, in which the fire department’s rating was upgraded from Level 4 to Level 5, indicating improved performance and potentially lowering insurance rates for residents.
The council also:
Authorized the Zoning Department to bid on one property during the 2025 tax sale.
Accepted a $4,500 low bid from Kyle Poore for the demolition of a building at 110 North Walnut Street.
Declined a proposal from Alderperson Jeff Johnson to install stop signs at the intersection of South McLellan and East Cherry Street due to the lack of a motion.
A first reading was held for a proposed ordinance introducing a municipal grocery retailers’ occupation tax and grocery service occupation tax, designed to replace the state’s repealed one-percent grocery tax. Mayor May emphasized that this would not result in a tax increase and would maintain the city’s current revenue levels.
Additional approvals included:
The purchase of forensic software for the police department from Advanced Digital Forensic Solution at a cost of $1,123.
A request by the Kiwanis Club to place a 12×12 building near the Kiwanis ball field.
A pending water aerobics class at the city pool, contingent on lifeguard certification.
The placement of flower pots around the town square for beautification.
The council also approved a job description for a new City Administrator position, with an agreement expected to be finalized next month.
Justin Leuke was officially hired as the city’s new Water/Sewer Superintendent.
In a final item, the board approved appointing Ruth Bryson as City Comptroller, a role she will fulfill two days per week at a salary of $1,700 per month following extensive discussion.
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