Published: December 02, 2008 09:56 pm      

Hoopeston hires engineer

HOOPESTON — The city council unanimously approved hiring an engineer to estimate the cost of moving a lift station and the forced main system of the sewer system at the site of the proposed new motel Tuesday night. The engineer also would look at possible sites in which to move the system and main line.

“We need this moved from the motel site and where a fast food restaurant would possibly be,” said Alderman Bill Goodwine.

The city approved Mike Streff of Foth Engineers of Champaign, to review the site for the city.

Dana Goodrum, economic development director, said there is a need to make the engineered barrier at the motel site a priority.

“We will know in 5-10 days if the agreement with the developers funding source will be approved with what we have sent them,” said Goodrum. “If they accept the agreement, we can wait until spring for the engineered barrier. If they don’t accept the agreement, the barrier has to be done immediately to receive the No Further Remediation letter for the developer to break ground in the spring.”

In other business: aldermen:

-- Will need to look for a 20-acre tract for the housing project, since the [projected site has been sold.

-- Approved a revolving loan of $10,000 for John and Tammy Kelley to help with the purchase of Ruby Nell’s for a restaurant and bar.

-- Approved Local Government Health Plan for the employees’ health insurance. The insurance is with the Department of Central Management, State of Illinois. The plan would cost the city $390,000 and would give the employees no deductible but have a copay with the insurance. It would go into effect Jan. 1.

-- Approved the tax levy of $644,000 and the tax abatement of $358,400.



WHAT’S NEXT

The Hoopeston City Council will meet at 7 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Hoopeston Municipal Building, 301 W. Main St.