Josh Hoselton was chosen as Fairbury’s new fire chief while Jeremiah Rinkenberger was named assistant chief by the Fairbury City Council Wednesday night.
Current chief Martin Steidinger plans to retire April 1 which is when the changes will go into effect. Members of the fire department recommended Hoselton and Rinkenberger for the positions. Hoselton has been serving as assistant chief for the department.
“They had very good support,” said Steidinger.
Also during Wednesday’s regular meeting, Steidinger reported Prairie Central Cooperative will give the fire department a $5,000 donation and two businesses will match that for a total of $15,000.
“We just have to get them a letter on what we are going to use it for,” Steidinger explained.
The department plans to upgrade boots, hats and gloves with the funding.
City Superintendent Brett Ashburn noted the city was saddened to hear of Mark Runyon passing away. He worked for the city for several years and retired at the beginning of the year.
“Our condolences are with the family,” Ashburn stated.
Alderman James Tipton asked if the city knew anything about the railroad company working on the Second and Third street crossings. Ashburn said they had promised to come back and do the work.
“I’m just thankful they did as many (crossings) as they did,” admitted Steidinger.
It was also revealed at the meeting that Route 24 work will take place this summer as engineering work has started. The state is reportedly going to grind and re-surface the road this summer from Livingston County Road 1800 all the way into 10th Street in town, according to a letter received by Steidinger.
The city approved cost-sharing parking lot repairs with Dave’s Supermarket in the city lot. Fairbury’s part is around $5,000. Crews will clean the lot, fill cracks, put a sealer on it and re-stripe the surface.
Under old business, the council approved liability releases for paying vehicle damages. This was for damage during a police call a few months ago.
A quote from Reuther Ford was approved to purchase a new squad vehicle for the police department.
An IEPA funding nomination was authorized for the water treatment plant upgrade.
The consent agenda was approved, including Feb. 21 meeting minutes, voucher invoice register listing the bills, treasurer’s cash report and check register.
