Litchfield public meetings in 2025

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

The Litchfield City Council approved the 2025-26 tax levy ordinance, setting the total levy at $1,846,887 with a tax rate of 1.35, down from last year's 1.39. The council also approved the minutes from the December 4 meeting, the expenditure and payroll reports, and a lease extension for 118 Westlake Trail. The meeting included a detailed presentation on the water plant's turbidity violation and maintenance needs, but no formal action was taken on that topic.

• Approved 2025-26 tax levy ordinance totaling $1,846,887 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 4, 2025 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved expenditure and payroll reports for current period (unanimous)
• Approved lease extension for 118 Westlake Trail with James Chambers and Emily Brauer (unanimous)
• Entered executive session at 7:23 p.m. and resumed at 7:52 p.m. (unanimous)

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

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.

Planning and Zoning Board

The regularly scheduled Planning and Zoning Board meeting for the City of Litchfield on September 8, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. was cancelled because no business was pending.

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 Litchfield Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to conduct board officer elections for President and Secretary. The board will also review the disability status of Benjamin Black and a decision and order for Sean Vinson.

• Board Officer Elections for President and Secretary
• Review and adoption of Decision and Order for Sean Vinson
• Disability status update for Benjamin Black
• Review of Cash Management Policy
• Approval of Trustee Training registration fees and expenses

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 of Trustees will meet to elect a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary. The body will also review a preliminary actuarial valuation and the IDOI annual statement.

• Board Officer Elections
• Review of Preliminary Actuarial Valuation
• Application for Membership for Alexander Rodgers
• Review of Cash Management Policy
• Approval of Trustee Training registration fees and expenses

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 will meet to review and confirm the City Engineer's approval of the Wildflower subdivision improvement plan. If confirmed, the subdivider may submit the final plat for approval by the board and City Council.

• Confirmation of City Engineer’s letter of approval for Wildflower subdivision improvement plan

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 will discuss a joint agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation for roadwork and a change to door-to-door solicitation rules. The body is also reviewing several contracts for city signage and building maintenance.

• Joint agreement for Skyview Drive reconstruction with a total project cost of $2,846,800
• Proposal from Carlinville Glass Cutters for City Hall window replacement not to exceed $41,850
• Quote from Jorn Sign Co for Lake Lou Yaeger wooden signs not to exceed $13,390
• Ordinance to allow background checks in lieu of a $1,000 bond for door-to-door solicitation
• Zoning change from Agricultural (A-1) to Industrial (I) for part of PIN#10-31-300, 10-31-300-002, and 10-31-300-006

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)

Economic Development Commission

The Litchfield Economic Development Commission will meet to discuss a business assistance request. The primary item is an amendment to the development agreement for the property at 606 N. State Street.

• Amendment to Development Agreement for 606 N. State Street

City Council

The City Council will vote on several infrastructure projects, including a water main replacement on State Street and the demolition of two structures. The body is also considering changes to the Municipal Code regarding tobacco products and the creation of a police Lieutenant position.

• Proposal to pay Petersburg Plumbing & Excavating LLC up to $680,249 for the State Street water main project
• Demolition agreements for structures at 1015 West Buchanan and 130 West South Street
• Bid from Martin Equipment for a 2025 Behnke trailer not to exceed $18,778
• Purchase of an Alpha Elite Forcible Entry Door for up to $13,975
• Ordinance to rezone PIN#10-31-400-004 from Agricultural (A-1) to Industrial (I)

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 committee will discuss a tourism grant application for the Route 66 RC Jet Rally and the Gold Star 500. Members will also review a recap of the Fourth of July celebration and a schedule of events through October.

• Tourism grant application from the Route 66 RC Jet Rally
• Discussion of Gold Star 500
• Fourth of July celebration recap
• Upcoming events schedule including Pickers Market and Litchfield Triathlou Triathlon

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)

Zoning Board

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals for July 14, 2025, has been cancelled. The notice states the cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting to review requests for zoning changes from Agricultural to Industrial. The body will also consider combining the Planning and Zoning boards.

• Requests for zoning changes from Agricultural to Industrial
• Discussion regarding combining Planning and Zoning boards
• Approval of January 6, 2025, and March 10, 2025, minutes

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 City Council will discuss awarding bids for park improvements and fire station infrastructure. The body is also considering an ordinance to require maintenance bonds for major subdivisions.

• Contract for two pickleball courts at Madison Park with KRB Excavating not to exceed $103,333
• Contract for fire station concrete driveway and sidewalk with KRB Excavating not to exceed $76,245
• Asbestos remediation for residential structures at 112 S. Grant, 511 E. Henrichs, and 726 N. Locust not to exceed $18,100
• Proposed ordinance amending Chapter 154 of the Municipal Code to require maintenance bonds for major subdivisions

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 Litchfield Economic Development Commission will meet on June 30, 2025, to discuss and potentially approve business assistance requests for three local properties and consider moving future meetings to the second Wednesday of each month. The meeting will also include routine approval of prior minutes and comments from the chairman and mayor.

• Business assistance request for 1 Litchfield Plaza, Suite 5
• Amendment to development agreement for 219 N. State Street
• Business assistance request for 114 W. Ryder
• Proposal to move meetings to the second Wednesday of each month

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 City Council will discuss a development agreement and the sale of 200+ acres of land to National Primers, LLC for a primer ammunition plant. The meeting also includes several infrastructure repair approvals and a grant for a VFW roof replacement.

• Sale of 200+ acres to National Primers, LLC for $500,000
• Purchase of 62+ acres from Steven Schmidt and others, and 62+ acres from Ross Lay and Michael Hittmeier
• Emergency roof grant for Veterans of Foreign Wars at 215 W. Ryder capped at $10,000
• Purchase of a 2019 Ford Explorer for up to $10,500 and a TruNarc Delta machine for up to $37,400
• Sewer engineering services from Milano & Grunloh Engineers, LLC for up to $30,000

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)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Tourism Advisory Committee has been cancelled. The notice states the cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to review responses to RFP 25-01. This request for proposals concerns the sale and development of property owned or optioned by the city.

• Review of response to RFP 25-01 for Sale & Development of City-Owned & Optioned Property

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.

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Planning Commission for June 9, 2025, has been cancelled. The notice states the cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

City Council

The City Council will discuss several infrastructure repairs, property sales, and personnel residency requirements. Key decisions include funding for emergency building repairs and the demolition of vacant residential structures.

• Emergency roof repair for Carnegie Building from Young’s Roofing not to exceed $38,060.00
• Bid to Durbin Excavating for demolition of three vacant residential structures not to exceed $16,610.00
• Real estate contracts to sell 901 S. McKinley Ave. and 401 N. Madison to Jared and Kristin Lilley
• Enrollment of three students in School of EMS Paramedic Program not to exceed $26,250
• Ladder truck repair by Mac’s Fire and Safety not to exceed $36,789.79

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

Zoning Board

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals has been cancelled. The notice states the cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

TIF Joint Board of Review

The Litchfield TIF Joint Board of Review meets to review annual reports and budgets for Tax Increment Financing Districts 1–4, hear Montgomery County’s valuation update, and elect a new chair. No substantive decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Review of 2024 TIF reports for City of Litchfield
• Update on TIF valuation reports from Montgomery County
• Review of TIF budget for City of Litchfield
• Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman
• Discussion of TIF 1 surplus

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Litchfield Tourism Advisory Committee will meet to discuss pet and trash policies for the Pickers Market. The committee will also receive updates regarding the 4th of July celebration and the Route 66 Centennial.

• Pickers market pet policy
• Pickers market trash
• 4th of July celebration updates
• Route 66 Centennial updates

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)

Economic Development Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting for May 19, 2025, has been cancelled.

Litchfield Fire Pension Board

The Litchfield Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will review financial reports and board election results. The meeting includes a special hearing regarding continuing disability benefits for Sean Vinson.

• Hearing regarding continuing disability benefits for Sean Vinson
• Certification of Board Election Results for Active Member Positions
• Review and adoption of Decision and Order for Thomas Priddle
• Review and adoption of 2024 Decision and Order for Sean Vinson
• Discussion of BMO Bank signature cards and online viewing access

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 Litchfield Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to review financial and investment reports. The board will certify election results for active and retired member positions and discuss updates to BMO Bank signature cards and IPOPIF authorized agents.

• Certification of Board Election Results for Active and Retired Member Positions
• Discussion/Possible Action on BMO Bank Signature Cards and Online Viewing Access
• Discussion/Possible Action on Resolution for Authorized Agents and Account Representatives for IPOPIF
• Review of IPOPIF Compliance Audit status
• Approval of Trustee Training Registration Fees and Reimbursable Expenses

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 City Council will vote on infrastructure bids, water sale agreements, and a development project at 606 N. State Street. The body is also considering updates to food truck regulations and the swearing-in of a new police officer.

• Bid for Haier Plumbing and Heating to install watermain on Jackson and Columbia Streets not to exceed $367,715.00
• Ordinance to amend Municipal Code Chapter 115 regarding food truck regulations
• Third Term Extension Addendum with Henderson Water District for potable water sales
• Development agreement for TIF #2 project at 606 N. State Street with Erik & Meghan Hyam
• Swearing in of Alexander Rodgers as Police Officer

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)

Zoning Board

The City of Litchfield Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for May 12, 2025, due to no pending business. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission's regularly scheduled meeting for May 5, 2025, has been cancelled due to lack of pending business. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled due to no business to conduct

City Council

This combined special and regular meeting includes recognitions, swearing in of newly elected officials, and numerous appointments. The council will also consider several new business items, including declaring 262 acres of city-owned land surplus for sale, a development agreement for property in TIF 2, emergency repairs, equipment purchases, and an increase in police department staffing.

• Ordinance declaring approximately 262 acres of city-owned and optioned land surplus and authorizing sale/development through RFP
• Development agreement with CETE Holdings for rehabilitation of 608 N. State Street in TIF 2, with funds ported from TIF 1
• Emergency roof repair grant agreement with Triple C Holdings LLC at 223 N. State Street
• Sole source purchase of a John Deere 410P backhoe from Martin Equipment for up to $133,217
• Emergency repair of West Excess Flow Basin Solids Transfer Pump at Wastewater Treatment Facility for up to $29,690.87

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 Litchfield Economic Development Commission will meet to discuss a business assistance request for a property at 606 N. State Street. The meeting also includes reports from the City Administrator and comments from the Mayor and Chairman.

• Business assistance request for 606 N. State Street

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 will meet to review updates on the Pickers market and 4th of July celebration. Members will also discuss the Route 66 Centennial and the renewal of the Great Rivers and Routes agreement.

• Route 66 Centennial updates
• Great Rivers and Routes agreement renewal
• 4th of July celebration updates
• Pickers market updates
• Website work

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 Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY2026 budget at 6:15 p.m., followed by a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Council will vote on adopting the budget, setting salaries for certain positions, approving a $40,000 tourism advertising contract, authorizing demolition of a property at 112 S. Grant, and entering into a School Resource Officer agreement with the local school district. Other business includes awarding bids for water treatment chemicals, emergency generator installation and repair at the wastewater plant, and allocating $696,370 in motor fuel tax funds for road improvements on Skyview Drive.

• Ordinance adopting the annual budget for FY2026 (May 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026)
• Resolution authorizing $40,000 advertising services contract with Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau
• Resolution approving demolition agreement for 112 S. Grant
• Resolution authorizing Memorandum of Understanding for a School Resource Officer with Litchfield CUSD #12
• Resolution allocating $696,370 in MFT funds for road improvements and resurfacing on Skyview Drive

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)

Public Notices

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Annual Budget for fiscal year May 1, 2025 to April 30, 2026. The hearing is scheduled for April 17, 2025 at 6:15 p.m. at City Hall. A copy of the proposed budget is available on the city website.

• Public hearing on proposed Annual Budget for FY 2025-2026

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for April 14, 2025, has been cancelled due to no pending business. No public hearings or decisions will take place.

Economic Development Commission

The Litchfield Economic Development Commission will meet to discuss requests for assistance. The body will review requests from the Litchfield Unlimited Corporation and for the property at 608 N. State Street.

• Request for assistance: Litchfield Unlimited Corporation
• Request for assistance: 608 N. State Street

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)

Planning Commission

The regular April 7, 2025 meeting of the Litchfield Planning Commission has been cancelled due to a lack of pending business.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider several personnel and property items, including increasing the fire department by two employees and approving demolition agreements for two properties. The council will also review the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget during a workshop. New police officer Amanda Sunley will be sworn in, and multiple committee appointments and reappointments are up for approval.

• Swearing in of Amanda Sunley as Police Officer
• Motion to increase Fire Department staffing by two employees
• Motion to approve demolition agreement for 726 North Locust
• Motion to approve demolition agreement for 511 E. Henrichs
• Presentation of proposed Fiscal Year 2026 City Budget workshop

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 is meeting to discuss requests for assistance from the Litchfield Unlimited Corporation and for the property at 608 N. State Street. The session includes reports from the Economic Development Director and comments from the Mayor.

• Request for assistance: Litchfield Unlimited Corporation
• Request for assistance: 608 N. State Street

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 City Council will vote on several service contracts and a subdivision plan. Members will also discuss and potentially act on reopening E. Park Place as a public roadway near 800 N. Chestnut Street.

• Three-year mowing contract with Precision Mowing not to exceed $172,000 per year
• Three-year fireworks contract with Spectrum Pyrotechnics not to exceed $24,200 per year
• Preliminary Plan for Wildflower Subdivision including a 20’ rear yard setback variance
• $10,000 in hotel-motel tax funds for Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center marketing
• Signage proposal from Warning Lites for Lake Lou Yaeger Recreational Area not to exceed $12,980.82

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)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Litchfield Tourism Advisory Committee will consider support for the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center. The meeting also covers updates on the Pickers market, Fourth of July events, the Route 66 Centennial, a marketing grant, and website work. Announcements include chamber, hotel, lake, and Great Rivers & Routes updates.

• Discuss Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center support
• Tourism office report: Pickers market, 4th of July, Route 66 Centennial
• Marketing grant update
• Website work update
• Hotel and lake updates

The Tourism Advisory Committee approved a motion to recommend up to $10,000 in funds for the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center for marketing purposes. The recommendation will go to the city council for final approval. The committee also approved the February 18, 2024 meeting minutes and heard updates on the pickers market, fireworks contract bids, and upcoming events.

• Approved motion to recommend up to $10,000 for Litchfield Museum marketing
• Approved minutes from February 18, 2024 meeting

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting to discuss zoning ordinance amendments for the Wildflower subdivision. The body will consider whether the preliminary plan is ready for Final plat consideration.

• Proposed amendment to Zoning ordinance #2831 for rear yard setback variances for Lots 34-45 of the Wildflower subdivision
• Review of preliminary plan for Wildflower subdivision (parcel #10-34-100-019) on the south side of the Clark Street extension
• Approval of January 13, 2025, meeting minutes

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider several items, including a development agreement for a project in TIF #1, contracts for animal control and electric service, seasonal staff wages at Lake Lou Yaeger, and water main replacements on State, Jackson, and Columbia Streets. They will also discuss a lease amendment for Lot 49 in Island View subdivision and hold an executive session on personnel and collective bargaining.

• Motion to approve an ordinance authorizing a development agreement with Eric & Abby Barcum for 224 N. State Street in TIF #1
• Motion to approve a resolution for a contract with Montgomery County Animal Control for animal control services
• Motion to approve professional services agreements with HMG Engineers for water main replacements on State Street, Jackson Street, and Columbia Street
• Motion to approve a resolution for an Electric Service Agreement with Illinois Power Marketing LLC D/b/a Homefield Energy
• Motion to approve a resolution setting hourly wages for seasonal staff at Lake Lou Yaeger

The Litchfield City Council approved a TIF development agreement with Eric and Abby Barcum for repairs to the Happy Tails building at 224 N. State Street, reimbursing 50% of eligible expenses up to $32,500 over six years. The council also approved seasonal wage rates for Lake Lou Yaeger staff, an electric service agreement with Homefield Energy, lease amendments for Lot 49 in Island View, and professional services agreements with HMG Engineers for water main replacements. A contract with Montgomery County Animal Control was tabled until the March 20 meeting pending answers to questions.

• Approved TIF development agreement for Happy Tails (224 N. State St.) with 50% reimbursement up to $32,500 (8-0)
• Approved resolution setting seasonal hourly wages at Lake Lou Yaeger (8-0)
• Approved electric service agreement with Homefield Energy (8-0)
• Approved lease amendment for Lot 49 in Island View subdivision (8-0)
• Approved HMG Engineers agreement for State Street water main replacement (8-0)
• Approved HMG Engineers agreement for Jackson and Columbia Street water main replacements (8-0)
• Tabled animal control contract with Montgomery County until March 20 (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Debbie Sneed to Tourism Advisory Board (8-0)

Zoning Board

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals for March 3, 2025, has been cancelled. The cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

Litchfield Fire Pension Board

The Litchfield Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, review financial and investment reports, and conduct a public hearing on continuing disability benefits for firefighter Thomas Priddle. The board will also consider an actuarial valuation and tax levy request, approve annual cost-of-living adjustments for pensioners, and review trustee term expirations.

• 9:30 a.m. special hearing regarding continuing disability benefits for Thomas Priddle
• Approval of contribution refund for Mathew Boston
• Review/approve actuarial valuation and tax levy request
• Approve annual cost-of-living adjustments for pensioners
• Review trustee term expirations and election procedures

Litchfield Police Pension Board

The Litchfield Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports, approve bills, and address membership and retirement matters. Key actions include voting on annual cost-of-living adjustments for pensioners, reviewing trustee term expirations and election procedures, discussing an engagement letter with Lauterbach & Amen, and considering an application for membership from Broc Jennings. The board may also enter closed session if needed.

• Approval of annual Cost of Living Adjustments for pensioners
• Application for membership – Broc Jennings
• Review/update of Cash Management Policy
• Approval of trustee training registration fees and reimbursable expenses
• Discussion and possible action on Lauterbach & Amen LLP engagement letter

City Council

The City Council will discuss utility bill mailings and vote on several service contracts. Proposed actions include hiring an audit firm and a benefits brokerage. The council will also consider a facade improvement grant and new positions for the Lake Lou Yaeger Recreational Area.

• Proposal from Sikich for audit services for fiscal years 2025-2027
• Proposal from AssuredPartners for Benefits Plan Brokerage and Consulting Services
• Facade improvement grant agreement with Short W W LLC at 319 N. State Street
• Creation of Campground Host and Campground Host Supervisor positions for Lake Lou Yaeger Recreational Area
• Lease for a city-owned campground trailer for Cindy Jarmon

The Litchfield City Council approved resolutions for audit services, benefits brokerage, a façade grant, and new campground host positions. All votes were unanimous (6-0) with two members absent. The council also discussed utility bill mailing delays and accepted prior meeting minutes.

• Approved Sikich audit services for FY2025-2027 with renewal option (6-0)
• Approved Assured Partners benefits brokerage contract (6-0)
• Approved façade grant for Short WW LLC at 319 N. State St. (6-0)
• Created Campground Host and Supervisor positions at Lake Lou Yaeger (6-0)
• Approved lease for Cindy Jarman for city-owned campground trailer (6-0)
• Accepted minutes from Feb. 6, 2025 meeting (6-0)
• Approved fund transfer for payroll and bills (6-0)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Litchfield Tourism Advisory Committee will meet to approve prior minutes, elect a chairperson and vice chairperson, and review the 2025 schedule of tourism events. New this year is the MSE Racing’s Lake Lou Yaeger Triathlon, while the Pickers Market celebrates its 10th year. The meeting also includes announcements from the chamber, hotels, and regional tourism partners.

• Designation of officers – Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• 2025 Schedule of tourism events approved
• May 18: MSE Racing’s Lake Lou Yaeger Triathlon (first event here)
• July 4: Fourth of July Celebration at Lake Lou Yaeger
• September 7: Racemaker Productions’ Triathlou Triathlon (15th year, possible weekend event)

The Tourism Advisory Committee elected Nancy Hyam as Chairperson and Brooke Steinmann as Vice Chairperson, both unanimously. The committee also discussed tourism events, a pending fireworks contract, and lake updates, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Elected Nancy Hyam as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Brooke Steinmann as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 17, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission cancelled its February 10, 2025 regular meeting due to a lack of pending business. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled; no business conducted

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will vote on annexing Schmidt Estates Subdivision and creating TIF Redevelopment Project Area No. 4, including a development agreement with Jack Matthews Development for a residential subdivision. Other business includes adopting a colored flag lake water level notification system, setting 2025 Lake Lou Yaeger Recreation Area fees, and approving lease agreements for campgrounds. Two grant agreements are also proposed: a façade improvement grant for Niehaus Cycle Sales at 718 Old Route 66 and an emergency roof grant for 117 E. Edwards St.

• Ordinance annexing Schmidt Estates Subdivision
• Ordinance approving development agreement with Jack Matthews Development for residential subdivision in TIF #4
• Ordinances establishing TIF Redevelopment Project Area No. 4 and adopting TIF financing
• Resolution for façade improvement grant with Niehaus Cycle Sales, Inc. ($ amount not specified)
• Ordinance setting 2025 Lake Lou Yaeger Recreation Area fees

The Litchfield City Council approved the final ordinances to establish Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District No. 4, including the redevelopment plan, project area designation, and financing adoption. It also approved a development agreement with Jack Matthews Development for a residential subdivision within TIF 4, contingent on stated terms. All votes were unanimous (7-0) with Alderperson Sisson absent.

• Approved ordinance annexing Schmidt Estates Subdivision into city limits (7-0)
• Approved development agreement with Jack Matthews Development for residential subdivision in TIF 4 (7-0)
• Approved TIF 4 redevelopment plan and project ordinance (7-0)
• Approved ordinance designating TIF Redevelopment Project Area No. 4 (7-0)
• Approved ordinance adopting Tax Increment Financing for TIF Area No. 4 (7-0)
• Approved façade grant agreement with Niehaus Cycle Sales, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved emergency roof grant agreement with David Darte (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Lake Lou Yaeger Recreation Area fees and campground lease agreements (7-0)

Zoning Board

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals for February 3, 2025, has been cancelled. The notice states the cancellation is due to a lack of pending business.

Economic Development Commission

The Litchfield Economic Development Commission will meet to discuss routine procedural items and a new business item: a request for assistance from Litchfield Unlimited Corporation. The agenda includes approval of previous minutes, comments from the chairman and mayor, old business, and the economic development director's report. No specific details on the assistance request are provided in the agenda.

• Request for Assistance — Litchfield Unlimited Corporation (new business item)

The Economic Development Commission heard a presentation from Shannon Hall on behalf of the Litchfield Unlimited Corporation (LUC) regarding a proposed recreation facility. The commission asked for additional details, including an operating budget, timeline, and performance projections, before making any decision. No formal action was taken on the request. The commission also discussed maintenance needs in Eagle Ridge and approved a residential TIF project.

• Approved residential TIF project (discussed)
• Requested LUC return with operating budget, timeline, and projections
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Tourism Advisory Committee

The Litchfield Tourism Advisory Committee will consider approving minutes from December 17, 2024, and designate a chairperson and vice chairperson. The committee will also receive a report on the 2025 schedule of tourism events, including the Pickers Market dates and two triathlons: MSE Racing's Lake Lou Yaeger Triathlon (first year) and Racemaker Productions' Triathlou Triathlon (15th year). No other major decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Approval of December 17, 2024, meeting minutes
• Designation of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• 2025 tourism events schedule: Pickers Market (May 11, June 8, July 13, Aug 10, Sept 14, Oct 12)
• MSE Racing's Lake Lou Yaeger Triathlon on May 18 (first event)
• Racemaker Productions' Triathlou Triathlon on Sept 7 (15th year, possibly expanded to weekend)

City Council

The meeting begins with a public hearing on the proposed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Redevelopment Plan for Project Area No. 4. The council then considers motions to approve a development agreement for a residential subdivision in TIF #4, award bids for water infrastructure ($825,598) and street maintenance ($288,053), rezone a lot to multifamily, and approve a reciprocal information exchange with the Illinois Department of Revenue. Other items include a minor subdivision plat and committee appointments.

• Public hearing on TIF Redevelopment Plan for Area No. 4
• Motion to approve development agreement for residential subdivision in TIF #4 with Jack Matthews Development
• Motion to award watermain and sewer force main bid to Haier Plumbing for $825,598
• Motion to award 2025 oil and chipping streets program bid for $288,053.35
• Motion to rezone Lot 1 of Schmidt Estates from single-family to multifamily

The Litchfield City Council approved a minor subdivision plat for Schmidt Estates, splitting 60 acres along North Maple into two tracts, and rezoned the southern 20-acre tract to multifamily. The council also awarded contracts for street oil and chipping, water/sewer infrastructure, and approved a reciprocal agreement with the Illinois Department of Revenue.

• Approved minor subdivision plat for Schmidt Estates (unanimous)
• Rezoned Lot 1 of Schmidt Estates from S-1 to M-F multifamily (unanimous)
• Awarded $288,053.35 MFT street oil and chipping contract (unanimous)
• Awarded $825,598.00 water main and sewer force main contract to Haier Plumbing and Heating (unanimous)
• Approved CampSpot online reservation and point-of-sale agreement for Lake Lou Yaeger (unanimous)
• Approved reciprocal information exchange agreement with Illinois Department of Revenue (unanimous)
• Appointed Nancy Hyam to Board of Economic Development through May 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved fund transfer for bills and payroll (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting to discuss changes to two parcels along the Clark Street extension. The body will consider a zoning amendment and a minor subdivision plat.

• Zoning change request for parcel #10-34-100-019 from (S-1) Single family residence to (M-F) Multifamily residential
• Minor subdivision request for parcel #10-34-100-018 along the Clark Street extension
• Amendment to Zoning ordinance #2831

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals for the City of Litchfield cancelled its January 6, 2025 regular meeting because there was no pending business. No items were scheduled for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled; no business pending

City Council

The City Council will discuss a presentation regarding the dedication of land for an Illinois Nature Preserve. The body will also vote on the annual audit for the year ending April 30, 2024, and swear in a new police officer.

• Swearing in of Broc Jennings as Police Officer
• Committee appointments for Henry Eilers Shoal Creek Barrens Conservation Area: Andy Furman, Don Krefft, and Helen Trost
• Presentation by Andy Furman and IDNR Representative on Illinois Nature Preserve land dedication
• Vote to accept the Annual Audit for the year ending April 30, 2024

The Litchfield City Council approved 3-year terms for three committee members for the Henry Eilers Shoal Creek Barrens Conservation Area, accepted the annual audit, and approved routine financial transfers. The council also entered executive session to review closed-session minutes and approved those minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 3-year committee appointments for Henry Eilers Shoal Creek Barrens Conservation Area (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from December 19, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of sales tax funds to general fund for bills and payroll (unanimous)
• Accepted annual audit for year ending April 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved entering executive session to discuss closed-session minutes (unanimous)
• Approved executive session minutes from December 19, 2024 (unanimous)