The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The Dallas City Council convened its regular meeting on September 15, at 5:30 p.m., tackling key issues from animal control to infrastructure improvements. With Mayor Kevin Six absent, Finance Commissioner Peggy Newberry presided over the session, joined by Commissioners Carole McDowell, Harold Northup Jr., and Greg Olson.
Meeting Attendees and Approval of Minutes
In addition to the commissioners, the meeting included City Clerk Steven K. Vorhies, Anne Thompson, Darren Smith, Dave Dooley, Tracy Markey, and Police Chief Gary Smith.
The council unanimously approved the minutes from the September 2, 2025, meeting on a motion by McDowell, seconded by Olson. All present commissioners—McDowell, Newberry, Northup, and Olson—voted aye, with Mayor Six absent.
Tackling the Feral Cat Overpopulation Crisis
Resident Darren Smith raised alarms about the growing feral cat population in town, urging the council to enact an ordinance for better management. After brief discussion, the commissioners agreed to consult the city attorney for feasible solutions and legal options.
Neighborhood Nuisance Complaints Prompt Action
Dave Dooley reported ongoing issues at a property he maintains, including a neighbor’s dog repeatedly soiling the yard without cleanup, improper garbage placement attracting wildlife, and unchecked weed growth. Police Chief Gary Smith committed to investigating and issuing ordinance violations as needed.
Updated Nuisance Ordinance and Police Report
Chief Smith presented an updated nuisance ordinance violation sheet, identifying additional properties for review. He pledged to inspect these sites and enforce violations promptly.
In his August 2025 monthly report, Chief Smith highlighted the department’s receipt of eight free NARCAN doses from ILEAS, distributed as three per squad car and two in his office.
He also outlined upcoming training: the Deflection Law Enforcement Summit in Carthage on September 24 and a session in Moline, Illinois, from September 29 to October 1.
Additionally, Smith inspected the Veterans Memorial light, confirming it functions as a street light, and recommended installing a flood light for better illumination.
Infrastructure Updates: Roads, Signs, and Zoning
The council reviewed progress on the road to the city’s water tank, where streets employees cleared blocking trees. Gravel will soon be hauled in and spread to complete repairs.
Discussions touched on potential zoning implementation or targeted ordinances to curb undesirable activities citywide.
A resident-requested relocation of the speed limit sign on West Fifth Street was approved; streets employees will move it a few feet.
OSLAD Project Funding Advances
The council greenlit Pay Estimate #2 for the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) project.
On a motion by Northup, seconded by Olson, Laverdiere Construction will receive $217,515.08 (less 10% retainage) from the OSLAD Grant Fund Account. The vote passed unanimously among those present.
City Clerk Vorhies announced that an additional $300,000 short-term loan from the Bank of Stronghurst has secured funding until state reimbursement arrives.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:01 p.m. on a motion by Northup, seconded by McDowell, with all present commissioners voting aye.
This information was taken from the September 15 minutes approved at the October 6 regular meeting.
The Dallas City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:30 on Monday, October 20 at City Hall.