Martinsville City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Alderman Chris Davidson was absent.
Equalized Utility Billing Ordinance Updated
The council approved an ordinance updating the city’s equalized billing program. Under the change, equalized billing amounts will be reviewed and recalculated quarterly in January, April, July and October instead of once every 12 months.
Mayor Robert Lovell explained the more frequent adjustments are intended to keep accounts closer to actual usage and prevent customers from accumulating large balances. The ordinance also clarifies that customers must continue making their regular equalized payments even when an account has a credit balance. Customers who become more than 60 days delinquent may be removed from the program.
The council also approved posting the city’s appropriations ordinance. Treasurer Terri Connelly explained that the city attorney had recommended several adjustments.
Communications Proposal Considered
The council heard a proposal from Atomic DK Studio regarding municipal communications and project support services. The proposal included assistance with public communications, committee coordination, project documentation, and support for ongoing city initiatives.
Council members discussed the proposal and agreed to review the information before making a decision at a future meeting.
Editor’s note: Atomic DK Studio is operated by Clark County Post editor Dan Kibler.
Taser Lease Approved
The council accepted a quote for a new lease agreement for three tasers.
Chief of Police Ryan Slater explained that the agreement includes training and the final-year buyout of the department’s current lease, which was approximately $1,300. Slater noted the overall cost was reduced by declining some additional options, such as virtual reality training.
Slater also explained that the taser units automatically upload information to Evidence.com for access by the State’s Attorney’s Office.
Splash Pad Update
Mayor Lovell updated the council on delays with construction of the city’s splash pad project. The project was originally expected to begin earlier in June, but work has not yet started.
The mayor said the contractor cited recent rainfall as a factor in the delay. He said he has been in contact with the project engineer and is reviewing the contract to determine the project timeline and whether any provisions apply if deadlines are missed.
The city previously agreed to wait for a crew experienced with splash pad construction, but officials expressed frustration with the continued delay. The mayor also noted the delay affects the city’s ability to close out the project and pursue additional grant opportunities.
Mayor’s Roundtable
Mayor Lovell announced that a mayor’s roundtable will be held at the Martinsville Township Community Center on August 14, 2026. Mayors from throughout central and southern Illinois are anticipated to attend.
Council Comments
Alderman Harley Craig provided an update on an FFA tree project involving grafting trees to root stock. Craig said the grafts were unsuccessful and noted the project likely took place too late in the season, explaining the work should have been completed in February.
However, Craig said the root stock remains alive and could still be used next year if properly maintained.
Alderman Travis Hill asked about the condition of a trailer and whether the concrete pad or pillars meet city ordinance requirements. Hill noted the trailer had been placed across a slab that was previously the foundation of a house.
Council members also discussed another trailer that had been cited for not having skirting installed, as well as other properties on the south end of town.
Alderman Ashley Wilhoit said she had received questions from residents regarding the number of trailers being placed in the community and concerns about their appearance.
Council members discussed whether mobile homes are taxed similarly to traditional houses and mentioned the possibility of developing a mobile home park.
Mayor Lovell said, “For every trailer in town, I can show you a half a dozen houses that I would rather have a trailer than those half a dozen houses.”
Lovell also discussed concerns with the bathroom doors at Linn Park and said changes may be needed to prevent tampering with the locks. He noted he found the doors unlocked on consecutive days.
The council also discussed issues involving use of park facilities, including concerns about public bathrooms and water access.
Additional Actions
The council also approved:
- Minutes of the regular meeting held May 13, 2026.
- Treasurer’s Report for May 2026.
- Payment of bills for May 2026.
