Litchfield public meetings in 2025

Area Ambulance Special Service Board

The Litchfield Ambulance Special Service Area Board will meet on December 18, 2025 at 6:15 pm in City Hall. The board will consider three items: accepting the minutes from the December 5, 2024 meeting, submitting the district’s budget to Montgomery County, and approving a resolution to levy taxes for the special service area. No other business is listed.

• Motion to accept the minutes from the December 5, 2024 meeting
• Motion to submit the SSA budget to Montgomery County
• Motion approving a resolution for a tax levy for the Litchfield Special Service Area

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider several motions, including approving the citywide tax levy of $1,846,887 for fiscal year May 2025‑April 2026 and the Litchfield Ambulance Special Service Area levy of $787,185. Other items include accepting prior meeting minutes, approving the current period expenditure and payroll reports, and authorizing a lease of 118 Westlake Trail. The council will also enter an executive session for restricted topics.

• Motion to approve citywide tax levy ordinance for $1,846,887
• Motion to approve ambulance special service area levy of $787,185
• Motion to accept minutes from the December 4, 2025 meeting
• Motion to approve the expenditure and payroll report for the current period
• Motion to approve a lease with James Chambers and Emily Brauer for 118 Westlake Trail

Planning and Zoning Board

The Planning and Zoning Board will meet to conduct procedural business. The agenda includes the election of board officers and the approval of the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Election of Planning and Zoning Board officers
• Approval of 2026 meeting dates

The board approved the August 11, 2025 meeting minutes, elected Larry Pence as chairman and Kent Wolff as vice‑chairman, and approved the 2026 meeting dates. All motions carried with eight yes votes and five members absent. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 11, 2025 Public Hearing and Meeting Minutes (8 yes, 5 absent)
• Elected Larry Pence as chairman (8 yes, 5 absent)
• Elected Kent Wolff as vice‑chairman (8 yes, 5 absent)
• Approved 2026 Planning and Zoning Board meeting dates (8 yes, 5 absent)
• Adjourned the December 8, 2025 meeting (unanimous yes)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider approving a $12,500 subrecipient agreement with the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau to repair Route 66 wayside exhibits and expand a parking pad at the Route 66 monument. The body will also vote on committee appointments, minutes, and several contracts for water and fire services.

• Approve $12,500 subrecipient agreement for Route 66 wayside exhibit repairs
• Approve $11,560 actuarial valuation for Firefighters' Funding Act
• Approve Pfund Construction watermain tap request for $28,309.13
• Approve watermain replacement contract for up to $1,763,517
• Approve amended development agreement for 1403 W. Ferdon Street

The council approved an emergency expenditure of $230,466.56 for the Litchfield Water Treatment Plant. It also adopted an amended parks master plan excluding references to a sports complex, approved a $12,500 tourism sub‑recipient agreement, and authorized a $38,865.32 change order for the State Street water main. Additional actions included appointing Todd Neuhaus to the Economic Development Committee, approving prior meeting minutes, and authorizing a fire‑fund actuarial valuation up to $11,560.

• Approved emergency water‑treatment plant expenditure $230,466.56 (ayes: Holloway, Hughes, Garcia, Sisson, Zumwalt, Huffman)
• Approved change order increase $38,865.32 for State Street Water Main Project (ayes: Hughes, Garcia, Sisson, Zumwalt, Huffman, Holloway)
• Approved amended Parks and Recreation Master Plan excluding sports complex references (ayes: Sisson, Zumwalt, Huffman, Hughes, Garcia, Holloway)
• Approved tourism sub‑recipient agreement $12,500 for Route 66 exhibits (ayes: Huffman, Holloway, Hughes, Garcia, Sisson, Zumwalt)
• Approved fire‑fund actuarial valuation proposal up to $11,560 (ayes: Zumwalt, Huffman, Holloway, Hughes, Garcia, Sisson)
• Approved amended development agreement for 1403 W. Ferdon St. (Marshalls/TJ Maxx) (ayes: Holloway, Hughes, Garcia, Sisson, Zumwalt, Huffman, Kellenberger)
• Approved appointment of Todd Neuhaus to Economic Development Committee (ayes: Zumwalt, Huffman, Hughes, Garcia, Holloway, Sisson)
• Approved minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting (ayes: Holloway, Zumwalt, Hughes, Garcia, Huffman, Sisson)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission’s regular meeting scheduled for November 26, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. was cancelled. No agenda items were presented for discussion or decision.

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution authorizing a demolition agreement for the property at 1325 N. Jackson Street. It will also consider an ordinance to authorize acceptance of funds from Embrace the Lake Inc. for the Lake Lou Yaeger Recreation Area. Additional motions include approval of meeting minutes, expenditure and payroll reports, emergency spending for the water treatment plant, 2026 meeting dates, insurance coverage, IML‑RMA membership, and a personnel manual amendment. All items are presented for council vote.

• Resolution approving demolition agreement for 1325 N. Jackson Street
• Ordinance authorizing acceptance of funds from Embrace the Lake Inc. for Lake Lou Yaeger Recreation Area
• Resolution waiving competitive bidding for emergency expenditures at the Litchfield Water Treatment Plant
• Motion to approve insurance coverage from IML‑RMA
• Ordinance amending the Personnel Manual to add a Return to Work Policy

The council approved an ordinance to accept donations from Embrace the Lake Inc., a demolition agreement for 1325 N. Jackson Street, emergency water‑treatment equipment purchases totaling $35,078.61, and a new insurance contract with IML‑RMA. It denied a motion to join the Illinois Municipal League Risk Management Association and also approved the 2026 meeting schedule and a return‑to‑work policy amendment to the Personnel Manual.

• Approved ordinance to accept funds from Embrace the Lake Inc. (7-0)
• Approved demolition agreement for 1325 N. Jackson Street (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved emergency water‑treatment purchases: HF Scientific $2,229.71 and USA BlueBook $32,848.90 (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved new insurance coverage with IML‑RMA (8-0)
• Denied motion to join Illinois Municipal League Risk Management Association (not approved)
• Approved 2026 City Council meeting dates and holiday schedule (8-0)
• Approved amendment to Personnel Manual adding Return‑to‑Work Policy (8-0)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The committee will approve the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting and discuss new business, including Spencer’s Annual Showdown. A tourism office report will recap the 2025 Litchfield Pickers Market and present a schedule of upcoming events. The meeting will also include announcements from the chamber, hotels, members, lake updates, and Great Rivers & Routes.

• Approve minutes of the August 19, 2025 meeting
• Discuss Spencer’s Annual Showdown (Oct. 15‑18)
• Tourism Office Report – 2025 Litchfield Pickers Market recap
• Present schedule of upcoming events (May‑Oct 2025)
• Announcements from chamber, hotels, members, lake, Great Rivers & Routes

The Tourism Advisory Committee approved the July 15, 2025 minutes after a motion and second. No other substantive actions were taken. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion and second.

• Approved July 15, 2025 minutes (motion by Steve Bryant, seconded by Brooke Steinmann)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Brooke Steinmann, seconded by Carol Sneed)

Litchfield Fire Pension Board

The Litchfield Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports and membership applications. The board will consider the actuarial valuation and tax levy request, as well as the municipal compliance report.

• Review and approval of Actuarial Valuation and Tax Levy Request
• Membership applications for Brady Bishop and Zachary Hogan
• Conversion of disability benefits to regular retirement benefits for Scott Haenel
• Review of terminated member unclaimed contributions
• Disability status updates for Benjamin Black and Curtis Glover

The board approved the August 18 minutes, accepted the monthly financial report and $13,346.69 disbursements, and approved a $2,173.50 professional services invoice. It set the 2026 monthly recurring deposit at $65,000, accepted two new members, and approved conversion of Scott Haenel’s disability benefits to regular retirement. The board also authorized the tax levy request submission and established the 2026 meeting dates.

• Approved August 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $13,346.69 disbursements from Quarterly Disbursement Report (roll call vote)
• Approved $2,173.50 professional services invoice (roll call vote)
• Set 2026 monthly recurring deposit at $65,000 from FPIF (roll call vote)
• Accepted Brady Bishop as Tier II member effective Oct 8 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Accepted Zachary Hogan as Tier II member effective Oct 6 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved conversion of Scott Haenel’s disability benefits to regular retirement (roll call vote)
• Authorized tax levy request submission and set meeting dates for 2026 (unanimous voice vote)

Litchfield Police Pension Board

The Litchfield Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet on November 17, 2025. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes, a financial report and bill approvals, investment updates, and a review and approval of the actuarial valuation and tax levy request. The board will also adopt a municipal compliance report and discuss resolutions regarding authorized agents and unclaimed contributions. Additional items include trustee training fee approvals and setting 2026 meeting dates.

• Approve minutes from the August 18 and November 3, 2025 meetings
• Accountant’s report: monthly financial statement, bill approvals, cash management policy update
• Investment report from Verus Advisory, Inc. including State Street statement
• Review and approve the actuarial valuation and request for a tax levy
• Adopt the municipal compliance report

The board approved the August 18, 2025 and November 3, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the monthly financial report, authorizing $10,547.90 in disbursements. It set the 2026 monthly repeat deposits at $62,000 from IPOPIF. The board accepted the actuarial valuation and requested a $725,549 tax levy from the City of Litchfield. Additional actions included adopting the municipal compliance report, updating authorized agents for IPOPIF, and establishing the 2026 board meeting dates.

• Approved August 18, 2025 and November 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Accepted Monthly Financial Report and approved $10,547.90 disbursements (roll call vote)
• Set 2026 monthly repeat deposits at $62,000 from IPOPIF (roll call vote)
• Approved Actuarial Valuation and requested $725,549 tax levy from the City (roll call vote)
• Adopted Municipal Compliance Report and authorized signatures (unanimous voice vote)
• Removed Kenny Ryker; appointed Trustees Spaur and Wakefield as IPOPIF authorized agents (unanimous voice vote)
• Established 2026 board meeting dates (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:23 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)

Planning and Zoning Board

The regularly scheduled meeting for November 10, 2025, has been cancelled. The notice states the cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

City Council

The council will consider a resolution to waive competitive bidding and authorize emergency expenditures for the Litchfield Water Treatment Plant, totaling $397,476.14, to be funded from enterprise reserve funds and a $100,000 donation from Dr. Dennis Billiter. The meeting also includes approval of committee appointments, acceptance of the October 16 minutes, and approval of payroll and expenditure reports. Additional items include several finance, economic development, and building & zoning resolutions, such as demolition contracts for vacant homes.

• Waive competitive bidding and authorize emergency water plant repairs totaling $397,476.14
• Award bid to Woodsmanor Land Management Services for demolition of three vacant homes, up to $14,340.00
• Award bid to BDS Trucking & Excavating for demolition of one vacant home, up to $4,500.00
• Approve resolution setting salary of Finance & Human Resources Coordinator for FY 2026
• Approve agreement with MGT Impact Solutions, LLC for financial services

The council approved waiving competitive bidding and authorizing emergency expenditures for the Litchfield Water Treatment Plant. It also adopted a CDBG procurement policy, amended the municipal code to make the Deputy Clerk a part‑time position, and approved several financial and façade improvement agreements. Additional actions included approving the meeting minutes, the expenditure and payroll report, and designating office space for the Finance & HR Coordinator.

• Waived competitive bidding and authorized emergency water plant expenditures (approved, 6‑0, 1 abstain)
• Adopted Community Development Grant (CDBG) Procurement Policy (approved, 6‑0)
• Amended Title II Administration to make Deputy Clerk part‑time (approved, 7‑0)
• Approved agreement with MGT Impact Solutions for financial services (approved, 7‑0)
• Approved façade improvement grant with Short Furniture Co. at 319 N State St (approved, 7‑0)
• Approved façade improvement grant with Jonathan & Maya Reid at 110 E Ryder (approved, 7‑0)
• Approved office space location for Finance & HR Coordinator (approved, 7‑0)
• Approved minutes from Oct. 16 meeting and expenditure/payroll reports (approved, 7‑0 each)

Litchfield Police Pension Board

The Litchfield Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting to discuss and potentially take action on a specific pension matter. The primary item is the interest rate and payment schedule for a military service purchase calculation.

• Discussion/Possible Action: Military Service Purchase Calculation Interest Rate and Payment Schedule — Cory Bilyeu

The board voted to direct Lauterbach & Amen to use a 6.9% interest rate for Cory Bilyeu’s military service purchase calculation. The motion passed by roll‑call vote with all four present trustees voting aye and no nays. The board noted the purchase must be paid in full while the member is an active officer and will consider the payment schedule at the next regular meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by voice vote.

• Directed L&A to use 6.9% interest rate for Cory Bilyeu’s military service purchase calculation (unanimous roll‑call)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Economic Development Commission

The Litchfield Economic Development Commission will approve the minutes from its June 30, 2025 meeting and consider two business assistance requests. One request concerns the property at 110 E. Ryder, and the other seeks an amendment to the development agreement for 1403 W. Ferdon Street. The commission will also receive a staff report and comments before adjourning.

• Approve minutes from June 30, 2025 meeting
• Business assistance request for 110 E. Ryder
• Amendment to development agreement for 1403 W. Ferdon Street
• Staff report
• Comments by commissioners or guests

The commission approved the June 30, 2025 minutes by voice vote. It amended the TIF proposal for 1403 W. Ferdon to a 30% reimbursement capped at $1 million over six years, and the motion carried. The body also approved a façade grant of up to $10,000 for Reid Eye Care at 110 E. Ryder Street, payable upon project completion. The meeting was adjourned at 1:07 pm.

• Approved June 30, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Amended TIF reimbursement to 30% capped at $1 M over six years for 1403 W. Ferdon (motion carried)
• Approved façade grant of up to $10,000 for Reid Eye Care, 110 E. Ryder St (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:07 pm (motion carried)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Tourism Advisory Committee’s regularly scheduled meeting for October 21, 2025 at 4 p.m. was cancelled. The cancellation was announced because there were no pending business items. No agenda items or decisions were presented.

City Council

The City Council is discussing a resolution to waive competitive bidding for emergency expenditures at the Litchfield Water Treatment Plant following a catastrophic chemical feed system failure. The proposed repairs and evaluations total $183,336.80, with most funds coming from enterprise reserve funds.

• Emergency expenditures for Litchfield Water Treatment Plant totaling $183,336.80
• Lake Lou Yeager sign replacement by Jorn Sign Co. not to exceed $12,790.00
• Annual Dam Inspections for Lake Lou Yaeger and Litchfield Lake by HMG Engineers, Inc. not to exceed $10,500.00
• Water billing credit of $3,675 to the City of Mt. Olive
• Contract for services agreement with Ryan Gorman for the Police Department

The council waived competitive bidding to authorize $85,000 for emergency repairs at the Litchfield Water Treatment Plant. It also approved several contracts and purchases, including lake signage, dam inspections, a fire‑education partnership, legal services, and a police services agreement. A proposed $3,675 water billing credit for Mt. Olive was denied. All actions were passed by roll‑call votes except the denied credit.

• Approved $85,000 emergency water‑treatment plant expenditure, waiving competitive bidding (Aye: 6, Nay: 0, Abstain: 1)
• Approved replacement of two Lake Lou Yaeger signs up to $12,790 (Aye: 7, Nay: 0)
• Approved HMG Engineers contract for dam inspections up to $10,500 (Aye: 7, Nay: 0)
• Approved resolution for fire‑education partnership with Litchfield Community School District #12 (Aye: 7, Nay: 0)
• Approved amended legal services contract with Lashly and Baer, P.C. (Aye: 6, Nay: 0)
• Denied $3,675 water billing credit to Mt. Olive (Aye: 0, Nay: 7)
• Approved police services contract with Ryan Gorman, grant‑funded (Aye: 6, Nay: 0)
• Approved entry into executive session (Aye: 7, Nay: 0)

Planning and Zoning Board

The October 6, 2025, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Board was cancelled because there was no pending business to discuss.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of business
• Scheduled for 120 E. Ryder Street, Litchfield

City Council

The City Council will discuss hiring a full-time police chief and approving a $10,251.99 equipment upfit for a 2024 Dodge Durango. The body is also considering a demolition agreement for 716 North Locust and changes to municipal grocery taxes.

• Contract for 2024 Dodge Durango upfit from Data Tronics for $10,251.99
• Authorization for Illinois Police Chief’s Association to perform an executive search for a full-time Police Chief
• Demolition agreement for a structure at 716 North Locust
• Ordinance amending Municipal Grocery Retailer’s and Service Occupation Taxes
• Termination of Service Level Agreement with Brycer LLC for fire system tracking

The Litchfield City Council appointed Zachary Hogan and Brady Bishop as firefighters after reviewing over fifty applicants. The meeting also included updates on the recent water boil order, plans for an interim Class A water operator, and estimates for emergency water‑system repairs, but no formal votes or approvals were recorded on those items.

• Sworn in Zachary Hogan as firefighter (appointment)
• Sworn in Brady Bishop as firefighter (appointment)

Economic Development Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Economic Development Commission for September 24, 2025, has been cancelled.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will vote on several items, including a $1,936,997.77 contract with Baxmeyer Construction to rebuild and resurface Skyview Drive. Other actions include purchasing a Bobcat tractor and brush hog mower for $36,668, adopting a hunting‑registration ordinance, approving a daily engineering services agreement up to $1,200, and authorizing a water‑and‑sewer rate study for up to $20,000. Routine approvals of minutes, expenditure and payroll reports are also on the agenda.

• Award contract to Baxmeyer Construction for Skyview Drive road improvements – up to $1,936,997.77
• Purchase of a 66 HP Bobcat utility tractor and a 72" brush hog mower from Niehaus Cycle – $36,668.00
• Adopt ordinance establishing hunting registration requirements on city property
• Approve professional services agreement with HMG Engineers for Wildflower Subdivision inspections – not to exceed $1,200 per day
• Approve water and sewer rate study proposal from Baker Tilly Advisory Group – not to exceed $20,000

The council unanimously approved the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. They also unanimously approved the current period expenditure and payroll report. A motion was made to award a road improvement contract for Skyview Drive to Baxmeyer Construction, but the vote outcome was not recorded in the minutes. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved September 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved current period expenditure and payroll report (unanimous)
• Motion to award Skyview Drive road improvement bid to Baxmeyer Construction introduced (outcome not recorded)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The scheduled September 16, 2025, 4 p.m. meeting of the Litchfield Tourism Advisory Committee was cancelled. The cancellation was announced because there was no business pending for discussion.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on a sidewalk project and vote on several items, including a grocery occupation tax, a police vehicle purchase, and beautification contracts.

• Public hearing on sidewalk project at Litchfield Elementary School
• Motion to approve grocery occupation taxes
• Motion to approve police vehicle purchase up to $45,165
• Motion to approve beautification contract up to $14,825
• Motion to approve water line project change order up to $97,193

The council appointed Alderperson Dwayne Gerl as Mayor Pro Tem. It passed a municipal grocery retailer and service occupation tax to avoid a $250,000 budget shortfall. The council also approved a new police vehicle, waived competitive bidding for lift‑station repairs, rejected all heater‑replacement bids, and committed city funds to the Safe Routes to School grant. Additional actions included authorizing a $14,825 beautification contract and a $753 title‑service contract.

• Appointed Dwayne Gerl as Mayor Pro Tem (motion carried, 7 ayes, 1 abstain)
• Approved municipal grocery retailers’ tax and service occupation tax (7 ayes, 2 nays)
• Authorized purchase of a 2024 Dodge Durango police vehicle up to $45,165 (8 ayes)
• Waived competitive bidding for lift‑station repairs, authorizing Vandevanter Engineering up to $52,562.42 (8 ayes)
• Rejected all bids for the heater replacement project (8 ayes)
• Approved Resolution of Financial Commitment for the Illinois Safe Routes to School Grant (8 ayes)
• Accepted fall and holiday beautification proposal up to $14,825 (8 ayes)
• Authorized Spears Title Company for closing services at 35 Timber Ridge Drive up to $753 (7 ayes, 1 nay)

Economic Development Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Economic Development Commission for August 27, 2025, has been cancelled.

City Council

The City Council will discuss amendments to the Municipal Code regarding licensing fees for raffles and grass height restrictions in commercial areas. The body is also considering several infrastructure repairs, easement vacations, and commission appointments.

• Proposal to limit weeds and grass to 8 inches in commercial areas
• Proposed creation of Class A, B, and C raffle licenses, including a $300 annual fee for Class C
• Contract with Vandevanter Engineering for Wendy’s lift station pump repair not to exceed $16,158.76
• Resolution to reject all bids for the Skyview Drive Street Improvement Project
• Ordinances to vacate utility and drainage easements in the I55 Commerce Center

The council appointed Mandy Jewell to the Police and Fire Commission and Jerry Williams to the Economic Development Commission. It also approved the meeting minutes from August 7, 2025, and the current period’s expenditure and payroll report. Finally, the council adopted an amendment to Section 113.06 of the Municipal Code governing door‑to‑door solicitation.

• Approved appointment of Mandy Jewell to the Police and Fire Commission (Aye: Garcia, Sisson, Gerl, Zumwalt, Huffman, Kellenberger, Holloway, Hughes)
• Approved appointment of Jerry Williams to the Economic Development Commission (Aye: Zumwalt, Sisson, Gerl, Huffman, Hughes, Garcia, Kellenberger, Holloway)
• Approved minutes from the regular meeting held on August 7, 2025 (Aye: Gerl, Holloway, Zumwalt, Hughes, Garcia, Huffman, Kellenberger, Sisson)
• Approved the expenditure report and payroll report for the current period (Aye: Garcia, Sisson, Gerl, Zumwalt, Huffman, Kellenberger, Holloway, Hughes)
• Approved ordinance amending Section 113.06 (door‑to‑door solicitation) (Aye: Zumwalt, Sisson, Gerl, Huffman, Hughes, Garcia, Kellenberger, Holloway)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Litchfield Tourism Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss a grant opportunity for the Route 66 centennial. The body will also review the August pickers market and a schedule of events through October.

• Route 66 centennial grant opportunity
• Marketing grant for Route 66 RC Jet Rally (Sept. 4-7)
• Cancellation of Litchfield Triathlon (Sept. 7)
• Pickers Market dates for Sept. 14 and Oct. 12
• Gold Star 500 on Sept. 27

The committee approved the July 15, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion and second. Members were informed that the city council approved a $1,000 tourism marketing grant for the Route 66 RC Jet Rally. Updates were given on recent events, lake conditions, and upcoming centennial celebrations. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 15, 2025 minutes (motion by Brooke Steinmann, seconded by Steve Bryant)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Brooke Steinmann, seconded by Debbie Sneed-Short)

Litchfield Fire Pension Board

The trustees unanimously approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes. They approved the quarterly disbursements of $15,143.61 and a professional services invoice for $684.95. They also approved registration fees for the required 2025 trustee training. No changes were made to the Cash Management Policy.

• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $15,143.61 disbursements per Quarterly Disbursement Report (4‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved $684.95 professional services invoice (4‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved training registration fees for all trustees (4‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Determined no changes needed to Cash Management Policy

Litchfield Police Pension Board

The board approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. It accepted the July 31, 2025 monthly financial report and approved the $6,037.56 disbursement with a roll‑call vote. Alexander Rodgers was admitted as a Tier II member effective May 18, 2025. The board also elected a new slate of officers and decided no changes are needed to the Cash Management Policy.

• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved July 31, 2025 monthly financial report and $6,037.56 disbursement (roll‑call vote, all present approved)
• Determined no changes needed to Cash Management Policy
• Accepted Alexander Rodgers as Tier II member effective May 18, 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Elected Trustee Black President, Wakefield Vice President, Spaur Secretary, Weatherford Assistant Secretary (unanimous voice vote)

Planning and Zoning Board

The Planning and Zoning Board approved the July 7, 2025 public hearing and meeting minutes. The board confirmed the City Engineer’s letter of contingent approval for the Wildflower Subdivision Improvement Plan, allowing the city to notify the subdivider and proceed after required corrections. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 7, 2025 public hearing and meeting minutes (8‑0)
• Confirmed City Engineer’s contingent approval for Wildflower Subdivision Improvement Plan (8‑0, 5 absent)
• Adjourned meeting (8‑0)

City Council

The City Council approved Larry Pence as Chairperson of the Planning & Zoning Board with an 8‑0 vote. The council also approved the July 17 meeting minutes and the current period’s expenditure and payroll reports, each by unanimous roll‑call vote. A motion to amend the door‑to‑door solicitation ordinance was tabled, also by an 8‑0 vote.

• Approved Larry Pence as Planning & Zoning Board Chair (8‑0)
• Approved July 17, 2025 meeting minutes (8‑0)
• Approved expenditure and payroll report for current period (8‑0)
• Tabled amendment to Section 113.06 door‑to‑door solicitation ordinance (8‑0)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council unanimously approved demolition agreements for properties at 1015 West Buchanan and 130 West South Street. They also approved a resolution merging the Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals into a single Planning & Zoning Board, set 2025 meeting dates for that board, and changed the zoning of PIN 10-31-400-004 from Agricultural (A‑1) to Industrial (I). Additional actions included annexing the same PIN into city limits, purchasing a Behnke 24' trailer for up to $18,778.00, amending the tobacco and hemp ordinance, and creating a Lieutenant position in the Police Department.

• Approved demolition agreement for 1015 West Buchanan (PIN 5-05-276-016)
• Approved demolition agreement for 130 West South Street (PIN 15-04-176-006)
• Approved ordinance merging Plan Commission and Zoning Board into Planning & Zoning Board
• Approved annexation of PIN 10-31-400-004 into corporate limits
• Approved zoning change from Agricultural (A‑1) to Industrial (I) for PIN 10-31-400-004
• Approved purchase of Martin Equipment 2025 Behnke 24' trailer, not to exceed $18,778.00
• Approved amendment to Chapter 116 regulating tobacco and hemp products
• Approved ordinance creating a Lieutenant position in the Police Department

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Tourism Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 special meeting. It also approved a $1,000 grant request from Ken Merrill to promote the Route 66 RC Jet Rally scheduled for September 4‑7, 2025. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved minutes from May 20, 2025 special meeting
• Approved $1,000 tourism marketing grant for Ken Merrill (Route 66 RC Jet Rally)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the January 13 and March 10, 2025 public hearing minutes. It accepted an amendment to change three parcels (10-31-300-001, 10-31-300-002, 10-31-300-006) from agricultural to industrial, contingent on annexation. It also accepted an amendment to change parcel 10-31-400-004 from agricultural to industrial, also contingent on annexation. A discussion was held about merging the Planning Commission with the Zoning Board of Appeals, but no decision was made.

• Approved Jan 13 & Mar 10, 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Approved zoning change A‑1 to I for parcels 10‑31‑300‑001, 10‑31‑300‑002, 10‑31‑300‑006 (6‑0)
• Approved zoning change A‑1 to I for parcel 10‑31‑400‑004 (6‑0)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council approved the June 19 meeting minutes and the current expenditure and payroll reports. It authorized asbestos remediation ($18,100), a fire‑station driveway and sidewalk contract ($76,245), and a pickleball‑court project at Madison Park ($103,333). The council also adopted an ordinance amendment requiring a maintenance bond for major subdivisions. After entering and exiting executive session, the council adjourned the meeting.

• Approved June 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved expenditure and payroll reports (unanimous)
• Approved asbestos remediation up to $18,100 (unanimous)
• Awarded fire‑station driveway/sidewalk contract to KRB Excavating up to $76,245 (unanimous)
• Awarded pickleball‑court project at Madison Park to KRB Excavating up to $103,333 (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amending Chapter 154 to require a maintenance bond for major subdivisions (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session as authorized by Illinois Open Meeting Act (unanimous)
• Adjourned the regular council meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The commission recommended an economic development agreement to cover 50% of TIF‑eligible expenses for the Five Below tenant improvement, capped at $532,000, and approved it unanimously. It also accepted an amendment to the 219 N. State Street agreement to reimburse $180,000 over three years, with three members abstaining. The proposal for the 114 W. Ryder Street project was accepted under the same terms, with three abstentions. Finally, the meeting schedule was changed to the last Wednesday of each month, effective July 30, 2025.

• Approved 50% TIF assistance for Five Below project, cap $532,000 (unanimous)
• Accepted amendment for 219 N. State Street project, $180,000 reimbursement over three years (9 in favor, 3 abstain)
• Accepted proposal for 114 W. Ryder Street project, 50% of $78,000 cost over three years (9 in favor, 3 abstain)
• Changed meeting dates to last Wednesday of each month, starting July 30, 2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The council voted to approve the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting. A second motion approved the expenditure and payroll report for the current period. Both motions passed unanimously with all eight alderpersons voting aye and none voting nay.

• Approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes (8‑0)
• Approved expenditure and payroll report (8‑0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission heard a presentation from National Primers on a proposal to purchase and develop 200 acres of the city‑owned industrial park. Commissioners asked questions about investment, jobs, environmental impact, flood‑zone status, and contract terms. No vote or formal decision was recorded; the commission noted that a development agreement must be approved at the next city council meeting.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council voted unanimously to sell 901 S. McKinley Ave and 401 N. Madison to Jared and Kristin Lilley. It also approved an emergency roof repair for the Carnegie Building, a demolition agreement for 417 S. Harrison, and several public‑service contracts and agreements. All motions passed with all present members voting aye and no nays recorded.

• Approved emergency roof repair for Carnegie Building ($38,060) – unanimous aye
• Approved ordinance to sell 901 S. McKinley Ave to Jared and Kristin Lilley – unanimous aye
• Approved ordinance to sell 401 N. Madison to Jared and Kristin Lilley – unanimous aye
• Approved demolition agreement for 417 S. Harrison – unanimous aye
• Approved EMS Paramedic program enrollment for three students, up to $26,250 – unanimous aye
• Approved waiver of competitive bidding to repair fire ladder truck by Mac’s Fire and Safety, up to $36,789.79 – unanimous aye
• Approved agreement with IDOT for rail‑highway grade crossing surface improvements – unanimous aye
• Approved emergency repair of 2020 Freightliner Vac‑Con Sewer Jetter‑Vac Truck – unanimous aye

Tourism Advisory Committee

The committee approved the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to use the Cubby Hole in Carlinville for the new t‑shirts. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (motion by Matt Vaughn, seconded by Carol Sneed)
• Decided to use Cubby Hole in Carlinville for new t‑shirts
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Jean Elmore, seconded by Lauren Plummer)

Litchfield Fire Pension Board

The board approved the February 24, 2025 meeting minutes and the monthly financial report with related disbursements. It also approved the attorney's invoice and certified the re‑election of two active members. Additional actions included appointing a FOIA officer, updating bank signers, publishing legal decisions, and continuing a member's disability benefits.

• Approved February 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Monthly Financial Report and $13,059.31 disbursements (roll call vote, all yes)
• Approved attorney invoice for $2,554.81 (roll call vote, all yes)
• Certified re‑election of Chad Dooley and Adam Pennock to active member seats (unanimous voice vote)
• Designated Trustee Julie Elizondo as FOIA Officer and OMA Designee (unanimous voice vote)
• Designated Trustees Dooley, Pennock and Treasurer Peecher as signers on BMO Bank operating account (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved and published Decision and Order for Thomas Priddle (roll call vote, all yes)
• Continued Sean Vinson’s disability benefits pending further exams (roll call vote, all yes)

Litchfield Police Pension Board

The board certified the May 2025 election, confirming Zach Spaur and Andrew Wakefield as active trustees and re‑electing Jason Black as a retired trustee. It approved the monthly financial report and $5,482.70 in disbursements, accepted Amanda Sunley as a Tier II participant, and designated Trustee Wakefield as FOIA Officer and OMA Designee. The board also updated BMO Bank signers and adopted Resolution 2025‑01 to change authorized agents and account representatives for the fund.

• Certified election results; Zach Spaur and Andrew Wakefield elected active members (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved February 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Accepted Monthly Financial Report and approved $5,482.70 disbursements (roll‑call vote, all 5 trustees aye)
• Accepted Amanda Sunley as Tier II participant effective March 31, 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Designated Trustee Wakefield as FOIA Officer and OMA Designee (unanimous voice vote)
• Designated Trustees Spaur, Wakefield and Treasurer Peecher as BMO Bank signers (roll‑call vote, all 5 trustees aye)
• Removed Brian Reid as authorized agent; adopted Resolution 2025‑01 appointing Wakefield and Chief Kenneth Ryker as agents and representatives (roll‑call vote, all 5 trustees aye)
• Reappointed Trustee Julie Elizondo for a three‑year term expiring May 2028 (noted by board)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council voted to adopt an amendment to Chapter 115 that reduces paperwork and fees for food trucks. The council also approved a $367,715 water‑main contract, a water‑sale extension with Henderson Water District, and a development agreement for 606 N. State Street in TIF #2. An executive‑session was entered to discuss restricted items before the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved amendment to Chapter 115 – Food Trucks (unanimous)
• Awarded water‑main contract to Haier Plumbing & Heating, up to $367,715 (unanimous)
• Approved Third Term Extension Addendum with Henderson Water District (unanimous)
• Approved development agreement for 606 N. State St in TIF #2 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session as allowed under Illinois Open Meeting Act (unanimous)
• Accepted special and regular minutes from May 1, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved expenditure and payroll reports for current period (unanimous)
• Adjourned regular meeting at 8:26 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The council accepted the April 17, 2025 regular and executive session minutes, reappointed the city attorney and treasurer, and appointed new alderperson Bob Garcia and city clerk Vickie Throne. It approved the transfer of city sales‑tax funds to the general fund and adopted an ordinance declaring about 254 acres of city‑owned land surplus for sale via request for proposals. The council also authorized emergency wastewater pump repairs, a sole‑source purchase of a John Deere backhoe for up to $133,217, and various committee assignments, with all motions passing unanimously.

• Accepted minutes from April 17, 2025 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Reappointed Michael McGinley as City Attorney (unanimous)
• Reappointed Stacie Peecher as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Appointed Bob Garcia to fill unexpired Ward 4 alderperson term (unanimous)
• Appointed Vickie Throne as City Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance declaring ~254+ acres of city land surplus and authorizing sale via RFP (unanimous)
• Approved sole‑source purchase of John Deere 410P backhoe, up to $133,217.00 (unanimous)
• Approved emergency repair of wastewater treatment pump, up to $29,690.87 (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The commission amended the minutes to require CETE Partners to repay half of the building's appraised value, at least $400,000. It then recommended a TIF agreement with Erik and Meghan Hyam to fund up to $49,600 for façade, roof, and window repairs at 606 N. State Street, payable over six years. The meeting was adjourned at 12:35 pm.

• Amended minutes to require CETE Partners to pay back half of appraised value or minimum $400,000 (all in favor)
• Recommended agreement with Erik & Meghan Hyam for 50% of 606 N. State St. improvements, capped at $49,600, paid over 6 years (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:35 pm (all in favor)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting after a motion by Brooke Steinmann and a second by Carol Sneed. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion by Matt Vaughn and a second by Carol Sneed. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

City Council

The council approved the City of Litchfield’s fiscal year 2026 budget and set salaries for the Public Works Coordinator and Building Inspector. It also authorized a $40,000 tourism advertising contract, a $696,370 road‑improvement allocation, and several utility and emergency‑generator resolutions. Additional actions included a demolition agreement for 112 S. Grant and a memorandum of understanding for a School Resource Officer.

• Approved FY 2026 budget (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved salaries for Public Works Coordinator and Building Inspector (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Authorized advertising services contract with Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau up to $40,000 (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Allocated $696,370 in MFT for Skyview Drive road improvements (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved demolition agreement for 112 S. Grant (grant‑funded) (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved emergency rental of 500 kW generator ($2,080 install, $2,080 disconnect, $14,186.57 monthly) (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved emergency repair of 560 kW generator up to $19,409.47 (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved memorandum of understanding for a School Resource Officer with Litchfield CUSD #12 (unanimous roll‑call vote, one abstention)

Economic Development Commission

The commission approved the meeting minutes from March 31, 2025. It voted to recommend that the City Council issue a $1,162,000 24‑month, 0% interest loan to CETE Partners for the 608 N. State Street project, with repayment of half the appraised value or a minimum of $400,000. The meeting was then adjourned at 1:04 pm.

• Approved March 31, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended City Council issue $1,162,000 0% loan to CETE Partners (Meghan Hyam abstained)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:04 pm (motion carried)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council approved moving city sales‑tax money to the general fund to cover checks, bills and payroll. It also renewed the city employee health‑insurance contract, added two fire‑department staff members, and approved demolition agreements for two properties. Several committee appointments and reappointments were confirmed, and the March 20 meeting minutes were accepted.

• Appointed Lee Hyde to fill Jerry Cruthis' unexpired term (7-0)
• Reappointed five members to commissions (5-1-1)
• Approved transfer of sales‑tax funds to general fund (7-0)
• Renewed city employee health insurance with Assured Partners (7-0)
• Increased fire department staffing by two employees (7-0)
• Approved demolition agreement for 726 North Locust (7-0)
• Approved demolition agreement for 511 East Henrichs (7-0)
• Accepted March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)

Economic Development Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the December 30, 2024 and January 27, 2025 meetings. A motion to table the Litchfield Unlimited Corporation’s request for a city contribution toward a recreational center was carried. The meeting was adjourned at 2 p.m.

• Approved Dec 30 2024 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Jan 27 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Tabled LUC recreational center request (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 2 p.m. (motion carried)

City Council

The council accepted the March 6, 2025 regular meeting minutes and transferred city sales‑tax revenue to the general fund for payroll and bill payments. It approved contracts and resolutions for animal control services, fire‑system inspection tracking, a subdivision variance, tourism marketing, fireworks, mowing services, and lake signage. All motions passed unanimously.

• Accepted March 6, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Transferred city sales‑tax funds to the general fund for payroll and bills (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Montgomery County Animal Control for animal control services (unanimous)
• Approved Service Level Agreement with Brycer LLC for fire system inspection tracking (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Wildflower Subdivision rear‑yard setback (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 museum & Route 66 Welcome Center tax‑fund allocation for marketing (unanimous)
• Awarded three‑year fireworks contract to Spectrum Pyrotechnic, up to $24,200 per year (unanimous)
• Awarded three‑year mowing contract to Precision Mowing, up to $172,000 per year plus $40 per lot per cut (unanimous)