The McLeansboro City Council handled library staffing, financial matters and preparations for the upcoming Fall Festival during its meeting Tuesday night. Mayor Chad May began by recognizing high school students attending the meeting as part of their civics education.
John Perryman, representing the Kiwanis Club, thanked the city for its assistance with a recent park project and discussed preparations for the Fall Festival. Perryman also asked the city to consider whether property might be available for a building to store festival signs, floats and other Kiwanis equipment.
The council approved a short-term loan from the electric department to the fire station grant fund while the city awaits remaining grant proceeds. The money will be repaid when those funds arrive. Council members also renewed the city’s sewer line of credit. May said officials expect this to be the final renewal as the city works toward completing financing through USDA Rural Development.
A lengthy discussion centered on staffing at McCoy Library and the responsibilities of the city and library board. The council approved hiring Jill Fuquay to fill the position vacated by Ginger Finley, contingent upon completion of a memorandum of understanding between the city and library board.
Officials said the agreement is intended to clarify responsibility for administrative and operational duties involving the library.
The council also considered renewals of liquor and gaming licenses for several businesses and organizations throughout McLeansboro.