State Representative Jason Bunting appeared at Wednesday’s regular meeting of the Fairbury City Council to present a resolution to family members of the late Alderman Charles Hoselton Sr.
House Resolution 934 was offered by Bunting in Springfield and adopted in November by the Illinois House of Representatives.
The resolution states that Hoselton dedicated himself to the community with unwavering support while he played a pivotal role in the construction of a new fire station.
“He tirelessly advocated for the residents of Ward 2 and the city as a whole,” stated Bunting.
It was also noted that Hoselton’s family brought him the greatest joys in life.
“Charles Hoselton will be remembered for his outstanding contributions to his community.”
During public comment at the meeting, a resident voiced numerous concerns over the police department, being watched by neighbors, people knocking on her door at night and vehicles revving up and down roads. She would like officers around for a child exchange.
“I need to have an officer present,” she said. “I have come here several times to talk to these officers.”
Street Superintendent Lonnie Rhoads reported the department has received its new truck.
“You might see it out and about shortly hopefully,” said Rhoads.
Fire Chief Josh Hoselton noted the fire department is wrapping-up a busy year which saw 126 responses. The drought added quite a few calls for the department during 2024.
Alderman Jon Kinate said he has been asked by residents if there is anything the city can do to help out the Faithful Friends daycare that is for sale. They wondered if any loan money was available.
“To me, it’s not a city thing,” replied Mayor David Slagel. “It’s the sale of a private business. I hope somebody buys it.”
State Representative Bunting said they are trying to get an extension from DCFS. He understands the license for Faithful Friends runs out January 20 and they are trying to find someone to streamline the DCFS application process.
“DCFS is telling us their hands are tied so we are going to keep working on it,” explained Bunting.
Council members approved $10,000 for interior framing work in the Stafford Center gym which is used by the Boys and Girls Club. The club is expected to cover the rest of the cost.
Currently, balls get caught up high in the framing and the club would like to have that fixed.
“Plus, it holds all of the dirt up there,” said the club’s Jodi Martin.
The total cost is $14,600, according to Martin and the 2x4 framing would have painted plywood on the gym side.
“It will look so much better,” added Martin.
A quote was approved to repair a compressor at the city’s Wastewater Treatment plant. This is more maintenance work than repair work.
“Sounds like somebody made a mistake in the beginning and we get to pay the bill,” stated Alderman Bruce Weber.
The council tabled the purchase of a cutter attachment for the Vactor truck.
Bruce Pride of the Sewer Department reported the Mirlynbeth Drive project has concluded.
Also at the meeting, the consent agenda was approved. This includes the voucher invoice register listing the bills, treasurer’s cash report, check register, overtime report and a sidewalk request for north Fifth Street at $340.
The council entered executive session to discuss personnel matters, although no action was expected.
