The Newton City Council approved several personnel, infrastructure, and ordinance-related items during its regular meeting Tuesday evening at Newton City Hall.
Among the major actions taken, the council approved a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) application submitted by United Country Burke Auction and Realty for the property at 110 S. Van Buren Street. The agreement authorizes reimbursement for 15 percent of the total project cost, up to $16,060, upon completion of the project.
Council members also approved the appointment of department heads and authorized a one-year contract agreement with the Chief of Police. The police contract passed with Alderman Eric Blake voting against the motion.
Jennifer Holland was officially hired as the new Water Plant Operator Department Head, with a start date of June 1, 2026.
In additional personnel-related action, department heads were approved to receive certificate pay matching union contract schedules along with a $1.25 hourly wage increase, retroactive to May 1, 2026.
The council also approved a Letter of Agreement with the PBPA Labor Committee modifying residency requirements.
For infrastructure and city improvement projects, the council awarded the demolition bid for 311 S. Jackson Street to Double B’s Land Management in the amount of $9,990.
A proposed $23,900 project change request connected to the Electric Line D Grid Resilience Grant was tabled until the June 2 meeting.
Council members passed Ordinance 26-03 revising the city’s electric system net metering policy to comply with the 2026 Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act. Ordinance 26-04, amending residency policy language, was also approved.
Another proposed ordinance aimed at encouraging demolition and disposal of dangerous and dilapidated buildings within the city was tabled until June 2.
The council additionally approved Ordinance 26-06 expanding and clarifying specified drug prohibitions.
Members authorized a $5,355 quote from Barlow Lock and Security for fire alarm and carbon monoxide detector additions at City Hall and the Newton Police Department.
A grant writing agreement with South Central Illinois Regional Planning and Development Commission was approved for submission of the Illinois Strong Communities Program Grant.
During statements by council members, Alderman Gayle Glumac highlighted several upcoming community activities, including the Strong Girls and Strong Boys Run, the opening weekend of the Newton Aquatic Center, and the Summer Reading Program Kick-Off at the library.
Mayor Joshua Kuhl also addressed recent flooding concerns caused by heavy rainfall, noting that city crews continue monitoring drainage issues and assessing impacted areas as water levels recede.
The next regular meeting of the Newton City Council is scheduled for June 2, 2026, at 6 p.m.
