The City of Fairbury will lend a helping hand to flood-damaged Gibson City.
During Wednesday’s regular Fairbury City Council meeting, Street Superintendent Martin Steidinger said Gibson City officials asked if Fairbury could send trucks or workers down to help with cleanup efforts.
“He said they’ll probably have a bunch (of items to collect) this weekend,” Steidinger said.
A dump truck will be provided for a day and they could possibly use another tractor, according to Steidinger.
“We never know when we are going to need some help,” he added.
Council members and the mayor were good with this decision. Police Chief Robert McCormick said he sent an officer to Gibson City during the flooding to give them a hand recently.
“Whatever you think you can spare,” said Mayor David Slagel.
In another matter, Sewer Superintendent Brad Duncan revealed a blockage was discovered on east Walnut Street and sink holes are a concern.
“The entire tile is in really rough shape,” Duncan admitted.
After consulting with Kafer Tiling, Duncan is hoping for a total cost coming in under $30,000. Work should start before Kafer’s begin fall field tile work around the area. A formal approval will come later from the council.
The group approved annexing property from the Gerald L. Hoffman Trust into the city at 1301 W. Oak Street. This land is located around TMI. In addition to approving previous meeting minutes, the invoice and check register and overtime report, the council granted a request for First Presbyterian Church to hold an event at Sunken Park on Sunday, Sept. 26 at 3 p.m.
During council comments, Alderman Steve Endres expressed appreciation to the police chief and department for efforts in recent arrests. Endres is concerned over more vandalism at Marsh Park. Chief McCormick said the department is investigating and damage included spray paint on buildings. There was even a small fire in the pavilion.
“It wasn’t late at night,” stated McCormick.
Alderman Bill Schmidgall thanked the city’s Street Department for picking up the brush in town after strong winds earlier this month.
