The Village of Stronghurst held its regular meeting on December 1, 2025, at the village hall. The board quickly and unanimously approved the November minutes and bills.

Mike Bohnenkamp gave the November financial report, showing a balance of $17,927.60 to the good.

Ronnie Gittings reported that the well is able to keep up with current demand and that the village is not losing water throughout the week. Gittings also cautioned that those plowing snow need to be aware of water meter locations. If one is damaged, it could create a serious problem for the village given its current water situation. It was recommended that cones or flags be purchased to mark their locations.

Police Chief Arbry Vancil reported just 14 hours of service for the month of November, as well as 10 hours of state-mandated training that took place in Mt. Sterling. He reported 184 miles on the squad car.

The Zoning Board meetings were scheduled for 2026. They will be held at the village hall at 5:00 p.m. on the following dates: January 14, March 18, May 20, July 15, September 16, and November 18.

Mayor Brendan Schaley updated the board on the current well situation. He has been in contact with engineer Doug Erickson regarding the costs associated with upgrading the existing test well, which would allow the village to begin using it instead of purchasing water from Galesburg.

Schaley estimated that hauling water, as done this summer, would cost the village $7,000–$8,000 per month. Upgrading the current test well to meet EPA standards is estimated at $35,000–$40,000. Erickson will review the numbers and provide a recommendation. The board plans to discuss this further at a mid-month meeting that has yet to be scheduled.

The board unanimously approved the tax levy ordinance in the amount of $1,343,300.00. This is the same amount as last year.

In new business, the board approved this year’s Christmas lighting contest. There will be first-, second-, and third-place winners receiving $100, $75, and $50 respectively. Last year’s winners are not eligible, and judging will take place on Wednesday, December 17, at 6:00 p.m.

The 2026 regular board meetings were set for the first Monday of each month, except September, which will be held on Tuesday, September 8, due to Labor Day. All meetings will be held at the village hall beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Bohnenkamp raised ongoing concerns from residents regarding garbage service provided by LRS. The board discussed obtaining quotes from alternative providers such as Waste Management and Quick’s. Although Stronghurst is under contract with LRS, it was noted that other communities, including Aledo, Blandinsville, and Monmouth, have successfully terminated their contracts with LRS.

The board entered executive session at 6:29 p.m. to discuss Christmas bonuses for employees. The bonus amounts were not disclosed.

Present were: Mayor Brendan Schaley; Trustees Mike Bohnenkamp, Janice Smith, Paige Torrance, Amanda VanArsdale, Mike Swisher, and Nathan Harden; Employees Arbry Vancil, Ronnie Gittings, and Brittany Smith; Guests Dennis Day and David Knutstrom.

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 5, at the village hall beginning at 6:00 p.m.