The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The Biggsville Village Board convened on September 3, 2025, at 6:04 p.m., led by Mayor Eric Craig, who opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Board members Stephanie Craig, Kathie Curtiss, Casey Goff, James McCabe, and Chris Webb were present, with Tamara Slater absent.
Also in attendance were Village Clerk Judy L. Gravgaard, Treasurer April Hill, Village Attorney Andy Youngquist, Maintenance staff Zach Spiker and Jaegar Craig, Dan Flanagan, and representatives from the Village of Keithsburg.
Approvals and Reports
The board unanimously approved the August minutes, bills, and treasurer’s report following a motion by Curtiss, seconded by Stephanie Craig.
Jaegar Craig updated the board on water infrastructure, noting that pump repairs would be completed by the end of September. In zoning matters, letters were sent to residents violating local ordinances, urging compliance.
Community Engagement and Events
The Beautify Biggsville group announced a Music BINGO event featuring the band “Jive Radio” at the Barn at Fairview Acres on January 17, 2026.
Updates will be shared on their Facebook page. Mayor Craig expressed gratitude to volunteers who installed new basketball hoops at Reid Park, enhancing community recreation.
Plans for updated playground equipment at Lindo Field are set for coordination in September.
Two community events were highlighted: a block party hosted by Dan Flanagan and Sovereign Church on October 25, and the Village Halloween celebration on October 31, featuring a wiener roast from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Village Hall, followed by trick-or-treating from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. All residents are invited to participate.
Old Business
Taxes and Enforcement The board approved a 1% short-term stay tax, effective January 1, 2026, with letters to be sent to property owners offering short-term lodging to outline payment details.
Discussions also covered reinstating late payment fees for water/sewer bills to offset administrative costs.
Village Attorney Youngquist clarified that water shutoffs for non-payment must occur during office hours, with a new policy scheduling suspensions for the first Tuesday on or after the 26th of each month.
Representatives from Keithsburg discussed a potential partnership to provide part-time law enforcement, with Mayor Craig thanking them for their input.
New Business
Taxes, Payments, and Appointments The board appointed April Hill as Village Clerk.
A proposal to introduce online and ACH payment options for water/sewer bills, alongside improved communication tools, was tabled for further consultation with the Village’s computer service providers and banking partners.
Youngquist presented a 1% grocery tax proposal, noting that while the State of Illinois is eliminating its grocery tax, municipalities may adopt their own.
Chris Webb moved to implement the tax, effective January 1, 2026, with Curtiss seconding; the motion passed.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m. following a motion by Webb, seconded by Stephanie Craig.
The Biggsville Village Board continues to prioritize infrastructure improvements, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility while exploring innovative solutions for resident convenience.