The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Stronghurst Village Board members voted to change from a 5 member zoning board to a 3 member board.
The three members will be appointed by the village board and will report to David Vancil, trustee. Any variances or concerns will be brought to the full board for approval.
Tom Doran and Rev. Richard Johnson presented plans for promoting economic activity in Henderson County. They plan to assist communities in grant writing, as well as promoting strengths of communities to entities who are willing to expand activity. They requested a Stronghurst Village representative to help.
Richard Knutstrom brought about questions of zoning again regarding Bryan Heap's property. Mayor Eric Chockley stated that he currently is not in violation of any ordinances and suggested Knutstrom direct any further questions to the Village Attorney Mike Neff. Knutstrom mentioned updating the Zoning maps and other descriptions. There were further discussions but no resolutions made.
Concern was voiced on the village attorney not attending any of the meetings.
Bob Carmean requested approval to have Engineer Ken Schrader of Galesburg draw up new maps to include water, sewer, lot sizes and street numbers at a cost of $2,000-$3,000. This would also help utility companies. The board voted to approve the request.
Bob Carmean reviewed the employees current month's work schedule and answered questions. He will continue to develop a work schedule for himself and two village employees.
Deputy Steve Haynes presented the sheriff's report for the month of February. It included criminal damage to property; theft over $300; battery, and endangering life or health.
Tony Griepentrog submitted an estimated cost of materials for the remodeling of the village office/meeting room in the former Dick Stone Welding building now owned by the village. The estimate was in the amount of $2,100-$3,000. The motion was approved.
At 8:32 p.m. the board voted to go into closed session for the purpose of discussing salaries. They entered open session again at 8:47 p.m.
A motion was passed to give each a $600 raise for the year to Tony Anderson and Kory Nichols. Further revisions will be reviewed in September.
Present were: Board members-Lawrence Neff, David Vancil, Frank Avery, Bob Scott, Angela Myers and Tony Griepentrog; President Eric Chockley; Clerk Eileen Cargill; Treasurer Lori Russell; Employee Bob Carmean; Deputy Steve Haynes; with visitors: Richard Knutstrom, Tom Doran, Rev. Richard Johnson and Terry Myers.
The next board meeting will be held at the MST Fire Station on Monday, April 7, at 7 p.m.