The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
It's Getting Brighter in La Harpe, Thanks to New Lights by Ameren IL
by Michael Rodeffer, The Hancock County Quill
The City of La Harpe may be getting a little brighter, as Ameren-IL has been replacing lights around the city, and still have a few more to replace, according to Tim Graves in his public works report to the City Council October 8th. Graves put in a request at the regular council meeting for a 250 watt light for the flag in the La Harpe City Park.
Clerk Lucretia McPeak announced the Consolidated Election will be April 2, 2019 with the following La Harpe city offices up for Election for a 4 year term: Mayor, Treasurer, City Clerk, 1st Ward Alderman, 2nd Ward Alderman, 3rd Ward Alderman, and a 2 year unexpired term for 3rd Ward Alderman. Clerk McPeak has nominating petitions available for anyone who would like to run.
The short Monday evening meeting (24 minutes) was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Katherine Hasten-Reed began with everyone reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the U.S. flag and answering of roll call.
PUBLIC WORKS
Tim Graves also reported the raw water has been installed, as well as the updating to the water billing computer, and said he had attended a seminar on lead and copper lines/pipes.
Randy Shumaker reported on the Safe Routes to School Grant. This will be put on the next agenda.
The First check for the dock at the reservoir has been sent, and work should begin soon.
There are mole issues at the cemetery, and Marte McKee will be notified and the board approved for him to get rid of them.
Larry Finch reported on Dodge truck issues with the motor. A new truck would cost around $35,000.00 for a Ford. This issue will be checked into.
COUNCIL REPORT
City Clerk Lucretia McPeak asked the council to approve appropriating funds from Motor Fuel Tax to pay Central Stone Co. $575.47.
City Treasurer Maggie Link reported that the schooling cost for Officer Ben Sweizer was $1,900.00.
Mayor Hasten-Reed, on behalf of the Council, expressed well wishes to Alderman Brian Covert and his wife.
IMEG Representative for La Harpe Megan Crook reported they are waiting on permits for the La Harpe Water Improvements. She has been in contact with Lynn Armstrong following the Special meeting on September 24.
La Harpe Attorney Chris Scholz reiterated what Megan Crook stated.
Motions were made and carried to:
-Approve appropriating funds from Motor Fuel Tax to pay $575.47 to Central Stone Co.
-Approve the September minutes.
-Approve the Treasurer's report and pay bills.
-Approve Trick-or-Treat on Wednesday, October 31st, from 6-8 pm.
There was discussion on the Bradon Finch Judgement (fines) in connection with the property under demolition east of the City Park. Finch did not attend the meeting, therefor it will be addressed at the next meeting.
There was discussion on formerly approved Illini West HS signs that were to be placed at each entrance to town. The council will check into this, and report later.
Answering roll call were: Dave Clover, Jerry Burford, Kelly Harkey, Randy Shumaker, Greg Wisslead, Treasurer-Maggie Link, City Clerk-Lucretia McPeak, and Mayor Katherine Hasten-Reed. Brian Covert was absent.
Also present were Larry Finch, Megan Crook, Dan Gillett, David Little, Tim Graves, Richard Wood, and Michael Rodeffer. Christopher Scholz joined the meeting at 7:18 pm.
The regular council meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m..