NEWTON – The Newton City Council approved several personnel, property, and infrastructure-related actions during its June 16 meeting at City Hall.
Among the major actions taken, council members unanimously approved Ordinance 26-07 condemning an unsafe and dangerous building located at 205 E. Harris Street. The council also authorized an asbestos inspection and the solicitation of demolition bids for the property at 805 Foster.
The city approved the hiring of two new employees to strengthen operations at its utility facilities. Alex Wagner was hired as a Water Plant Operator with a July 14 start date, while Jacob Lindemann was hired as a Wastewater Plant Operator beginning July 13.
Council members approved payment of $57,710.11 in pre-paid expenses and authorized payment of bills and accounts payable totaling $227,780.82.
During a report from the Water and Wastewater Committee, officials discussed several infrastructure matters, including a sewer service line connection at 309 Lafayette Street, maintenance concerns involving aging filter media at the water treatment plant, hydrant flushing schedules, and repairs following a recent fluoride and chlorine leak at the treatment plant. City staff also reported that a hydrogen tank alarm had previously been bypassed and will be restored to proper operation.
Under new business, city officials discussed a discrepancy involving the municipal telecommunications tax. The Illinois Department of Revenue currently reports the city receives a 1% telecommunications tax, while the municipal code references a 6% rate. The city plans to update its code to reflect the current 1% tax administered through the state.
The council also approved a special event application submitted by Peoples State Bank for its annual Customer Appreciation Free Ice Cream Social scheduled for July 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Several council members highlighted upcoming community activities, including Jasper County Fair events and other local festivities. Alderman Larry Brooks expressed appreciation that the city was able to successfully hire qualified candidates for the Water and Wastewater Departments.
Alderman Mike Swick thanked city employees for their teamwork and encouraged residents to enjoy the many community events taking place throughout the area. He also congratulated Parklanes on its upcoming opening.
Mayor Joshua Kuhl echoed those congratulations and noted that Parklanes will offer Sunday breakfast and lunch service. He encouraged residents to support local events during fair week and thanked city employees and seasonal workers for their efforts. Kuhl also recognized the upcoming Fourth of July holiday and America’s 250th birthday celebration.
The council approved two purchase orders during the meeting. The first authorized $5,421.80 to Vandevanter Engineering for a new Square D motor, labor, and installation for the Wastewater Department. The second approved $3,500 to Midwest Tractor for repairs to a New Holland TL 260 tractor used by the Park Department.
The next regular meeting of the Newton City Council is scheduled for July 7 at 6 p.m. A Finance and Audit Committee meeting will be held that same day at 5:30 p.m.
