Large reserve fund in Macomb’s new budget
The spending plan projects an $8 million surplus in the general fund reserve. It is largely due to funding sent to the city through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
Mayor Mike Inman said the city is now exploring which of its projects and programs might benefit from a one-time infusion of cash.
At-large city council member Dennis Moon recommended it be put into road repairs.
The council will be asked to make some decisions in the coming weeks.
Reserves could also help the city cover an $800,000 shortfall in its budget.
Drawing down the reserves by a few million dollars would put the account in line with where it’s been in the recent past, with enough cash to cover up to six months of operations.
Three fatal accidents in southeast Iowa
Authorities reported three fatal accidents in southeast Iowa this week.
- Luan Schmitt, 64, of New London, was killed in a single-vehicle accident near Highway 2 and West Point Road.
- Alexis Long, 18, of Burlington, died after being struck by an eastbound SUV on U.S. Route 34 near Danville Road.
- Steven Brownlee, 69, of Warsaw, died following a two-vehicle accident near Route 218 and Franklin Road.
I-74 bridge construction to begin in Galesburg
Construction on the Interstate 74 bridges over Main Street in Galesburg will begin on Monday, April 25.
The project involves joint replacement and deck resurfacing. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in both directions during the work, which is expected to be complete in September.
Motorists can expect delays. They should allow extra time for travel and consider alternate routes.
Macomb to demolish a dozen more abandoned homes
Macomb city council approved a $74,000 bid from Stoneking and Sons to demolish a dozen more abandoned homes.
Most of that will come out of a $200,000 state grant that has already funded the demolition of 16 properties.
Community Development Coordinator John Bannon said there were initially 14 homes on the list this round, but building permits were issued to fix violations on two of them.
The city does need approval from the state historic preservation office before demolition can begin.
“It’s a requirement of the grant that we obtain historic approval on all properties, as unlikely as they are to be historically significant,” Bannon said.
Officials estimate the homes will be torn down by June.
Galesburg awarded ‘Safe Routes to School’ grant
Galesburg is among 57 communities awarded “Safe Routes to School” grants this year, and the money will be used to make improvements to two south side schools.
The grants are meant to boost safety for children walking and biking to school.
Galesburg is getting the maximum award of $250,000. Projects will include new sidewalks, crossings, and ADA-compliant curbs and ramps at King Elementary and Lombard Junior High.
Macomb Interfaith Alliance plans prayer breakfast
The Interfaith Alliance of Macomb will host a National Day of Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 5 at the Spoon River Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
The featured speaker is Ronald Pettigrew, chaplain and Veterans Resource Director at Western Illinois University. Doors open at 7:15 a.m. and breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m.
The cost is $10 per person and registration is required online by 10 a.m. May 2 or in person by April 29 at First Christian Church, 120 N. MacArthur St., Macomb.
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