Denise Hayes

The council approved the payment of bills totaling $385,751.00. Under old business, the council approved deferring a zoning petition for a commercial solar energy system back to the planning and zoning board for further review. New business included the approval of financial contributions to the Unified Advocacy Network and the Jersey Community High School Theatre Department. Additionally, the council received announcements regarding a local burn ban and upcoming construction projects on Hollow Avenue.

Key discussions during the meeting involved the approval of bills for the specified date. Under New Business, the Council approved the notice of award for bid regarding Pleasant Street and vicinity drainage improvements (Phase 2), authorizing necessary signatures. The Council also approved an extension of the real estate lease for the incinerator property used as a burn pit. A motion passed to approve a tourism grant application of $2,000.00 from Jr. Panthers Athletics for a basketball tournament scheduled for March 1st. Furthermore, an ordinance amending Jerseyville City Code Title 10 concerning Building Permits and Inspections was approved, establishing a new fee schedule updated after more than 20 years. The session included a closed session to discuss contract negotiation before adjourning.

The regular session of the Council included the approval of bills totaling $279,781.56 for January 6, 2026. A commendation award was presented to Officer Nick Woelfel for his heroic actions in rescuing two individuals from a house fire on December 22nd. Service awards for 2025 were presented to five employees recognizing 5 or 10 or 20 years of employment. Announcements included the closure of City Hall for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and scheduling a public forum on proposed City-Wide Trash Services for January 20th.

The Council approved the payment of bills and authorized a rental agreement with the Jersey County Business Association for the City Center Plaza to host a Farmer's and Artisan Market. Additionally, the Council approved a certificate of authority for city officials to enter into contracts on behalf of the city and authorized the Director of Tourism and Economic Development to attend an upcoming professional conference. Other business included updates on the Hollow Avenue Road Project, a grant received by the Fire Department, the completion of the Wock Lake dredging project, and plans for new speed limit signage. Public comment addressed safety concerns regarding pedestrian crossings near the local high school and the management of park restrooms to prevent vandalism.

The key discussions and actions during the meeting included the acceptance of a letter of retirement from an employee of the City/Cemetery Department, effective April 3, 2026. The Council also approved the appointment of a new member to the Library Board of Trustees to fill an unexpired term, accepted the resignation of a member from the Fire Pension Board, and approved a letter of support for the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau as a Certified Destination Marketing Organization. Furthermore, the reappointment of a member to the Planning and Zoning Board was approved. In other business, the Director of Public Works acknowledged the efforts of City crews during a recent snow event. An update was provided regarding the city-wide trash RFP, where the city is researching proposals and re-evaluating the current dump site, including the potential for offering recycling services there. A resident expressed thanks for the research into the city's trash service options.