At Monday’s City Council meeting, City Administrator David Dyer shared that the state funding for local governments has been in a steady decline, with funding down 8% from last year.
“Since 2012, funding cuts totaled over $2 million for Galva,” he said, adding that larger communities have felt even greater reductions.
Dyer said the Illinois Municipal League has been a great ally in the push to get funding reinstated.
It was announced that replacing the playground equipment in Wiley Park will proceed as planned. Dyer thanked Alderman John Wirth for spearheading the project.
In other business, Superintendent of Water and Sewer Greg Thompson updated the council on the water leak in Veterans Park.
“We are working hard to discover the leak without tearing up too much of the highway,” he said. “Using electronic devices to check below the surface will be less disruptive.”
Alderman Doug Anderson thanked Thompson for his efforts to avoid making this a large, expensive project.
Thompson also announced that Nick Caravello has recently been hired for the department.
“He comes with a lot of experience and will be an asset to the department,” said Thompson. “We are fortunate to have him.”
In a separate statement, Thompson announced that he will be retiring from the department next month after 46 years. Employee Jake McClintic will take over the role.
“The city will be in good hands,” said Thompson.
Anderson complimented Thompson for his many years of great service, adding, “Your job is both appreciated and underappreciated.”
Police Chief Kraig Townsend, noted that the state has new mandates that will affect agencies with noncompliant officers. Townsend said that most of the discrepancies usually involve classroom training scenarios, but that Galva’s force should have few, if any, issues with non compliance. Such mandates will not affect Galva’s police department until 2028.
He added, “Beginning in January, departments must provide employment records, when requested by another law enforcement agency,” said Townsend. “This should help to prevent hiring less desirable employees.”
Alderman Wirth mentioned interest in rewarding homeowners who have made meaningful improvements to their properties. It was agreed that working with the group that honors homeowners with a monthly prize and yard sign would be the best way to do this.
Dyer reported that he is working on a franchise agreement with Ameren and will be submitting the paperwork next month. He is also preparing two RFPs for two lots on NE 2nd Street and NW 1st Avenue, respectively, that will be up for sale. The city will also be accepting bids for a 2006 Ford F450.
The meeting was adjourned. The next council meeting will be held on Monday, Feb. 2, at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The public is encouraged to attend.
