Dallas City Council

Dallas City Accepts Police Chief Resignation, Welcomes New City Attorneys

(From the minutes taken by Steven K. Vorhies, City Clerk)

Dallas City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, June 15, at 5:30 p.m., with Mayor Kevin Six presiding. Commissioners Carole McDowell, Peggy Newberry, Harold Northup Jr., and Greg Olson were present.

The council first approved the minutes of the June 1 meeting on a motion by Commissioner Newberry, seconded by Commissioner Olson. Commissioners McDowell, Newberry, Olson, and Mayor Six voted aye, while Commissioner Northup abstained.

Chip Owens and Alicyn Gerhardt of the Hauk & Owen Law Firm introduced themselves to the council and attendees. The firm has agreed to serve as the city’s new attorneys.

Keith Durand inquired about the recently awarded $200,000 BAAD Grant for improvements to the city’s boat docks. Council members outlined current plans for the project, though a timeline for construction has not yet been determined.

Durand also reported that an issue at 36 West Fifth Street has been resolved with the installation of a new driveway. He briefly mentioned challenges the Village of Pontoosuc is experiencing with its Adopt-A-Lot program. Council noted that the issue does not affect Dallas City, as the city does not participate in such a program.

Chari Purchatzke asked about potential new building codes under consideration. Mayor Six, who is scheduled to attend a related meeting the following day, said he would provide an update at the next council meeting.

The council also discussed possible fees for renting the Dallas City Community Center and agreed to continue the discussion at its next meeting.

Mayor Six read a letter of resignation from Police Chief Scott Rosson, effective June 30, 2026. On a motion by Commissioner Northup, seconded by Commissioner Olson, the council unanimously accepted the resignation “in good standing.” All commissioners and the mayor voted aye. The council expressed gratitude to Chief Rosson for his service to the community.

The council then entered executive session at 5:55 p.m. to discuss police personnel matters, as permitted under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1). They returned to open session at 6:28 p.m.

Commissioner McDowell raised a concern from a water customer whose service had been shut off for non-payment.

On a motion by Commissioner Northup, seconded by Commissioner Newberry, the council voted unanimously to advertise for a new police chief.

The meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m. In addition to council members, others present included Anne Thompson, Steven James, Keith and Shari Durand, Tom Durand, Chari Purchatzke, Laurey Wibbell, Judy Melton, Alicyn Gerhardt, and Chip Owens.

This information was taken from the May 4 minutes approved at the July 6 regular meeting.

The Dallas City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 20, at city hall.