NEWTON – The Newton City Council approved several infrastructure projects, business incentives and community event requests during its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 7.
One of the evening’s most significant discussions centered on a potential Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) grant. Mitch Hardiek of Milano & Grunloh Engineers presented the opportunity to seek grant funding for a multi-use pathway along the former railroad bed owned by the City of Newton. The proposed project is still in its early stages, and council members agreed to continue evaluating possible routes, project scope and local funding requirements before taking action. The council voted to table authorization to partner with Milano & Grunloh until its July 21 meeting.
Residents Alan Beard and Barb Long addressed the council during public comments regarding ongoing drainage and flooding issues affecting their properties. Both said excessive water problems have continued despite previous improvements. City officials acknowledged the unusually heavy rainfall this year and said they will continue working with the city engineer and township officials to evaluate the drainage concerns and identify possible solutions.
The council unanimously approved a $3,900 Tax Increment Financing (TIF) incentive for BS Square, LLC for improvements at 101 S. Jackson Street, following a recommendation from the Finance and Audit Committee.
Several bids related to the city’s 2026 Motor Fuel Tax Street Maintenance Program were also approved, including:
- $41,435.50 to Lee Kintner and Sons for 10,490 gallons of AC-5 bituminous material.
- $10,416 to 3 Sisters Logistics for 420 tons of seal coat aggregate.
- $7,140 to 3 Sisters Logistics for 300 tons of CA-6 stone.
- $9,637.50 to 3 Sisters Logistics for 75 tons of road salt.
Council members also approved payment of $21,665 to Courts and Cracks for the Electric Transmission and Consumer Generation (ETCG) painting project at the city’s new pickleball courts. Mayor Joshua Kuhl thanked City Clerk Maggie McDonald and Alderman Gayle Glumac for their work on the project and encouraged residents to enjoy the new courts.
Additional action included authorizing a $9,990 payment to Double B’s Land Management for the demolition of the property at 311 S. Jackson Street and approving a contract with Loewenstein & Smith, P.C. for legal services related to the city’s electric system.
The council also approved a one-year extension, until Oct. 1, 2027, for construction of a residence on Lot 4 in the Five Aprils Subdivision.
Community events also received approval. The Embarras River Tourism Council was granted permission to host the Rural Roots Music Event on the west side of the square on Thursday, July 23, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The American Legion also received approval for its Jeepin’ for Vets Jeep Run on Saturday, July 11, including use of parking around the square.
The council approved sending one alderman and the city clerk to the Illinois Municipal League Annual Conference in Chicago in September.
During council comments, Alderman Gayle Glumac reported that the Honey Do volunteer program has already completed 14 community projects this year and thanked volunteers, churches and donors for their support.
Mayor Kuhl also expressed appreciation to everyone involved in Ste. Marie’s America 250 celebration over the Independence Day weekend and offered condolences to the family of longtime community member Dave Dhom.
Following the regular meeting, the council entered executive session to discuss personnel and potential litigation. No action was taken after returning to open session.
The Newton City Council will meet again on Tuesday, July 21, at 6 p.m.
