Casey City Council held its regular meeting Monday, January 5, 2026.
Public Comment
Patty Richards addressed the council during public comment, providing updates on upcoming community events and celebrations.
Founder’s Day
Patty requested part of Main Street to be closed on May 9th, 2026 for Founders Day activities
At 9am, the Legacy Award will be presented at a ceremony to be held at Lang’s Landing.
The Founder’s Day Parade will start at 10am at City Hall. Patty noted that last year the parade ended at fire house. This year’s parade route has not been completely settled yet, but will be similar to last year’s parade. Activities will be held afterward.
The Big 250: Casey Celebrates America
Patty mentioned the upcoming Semiquincentennial Celebration of the United States.
Patty mentioned working with Jennifer Reddicks, April Hagan, and Casey Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee, who designed the banner which will include Casey’s Big Things branding. Banners will also include a list of activities.
Three contests will be held, with a First prize of $250, including a community-wide essay contest entitled “What America Means to Me.”
Entries will be accepted via email. Follow the Facebook page for more information.
Patty noted that she’s particularly looking forward to the history fair will be held in the high school gym over two days with help from 5th grade through seniors.
She also noted remembering the 1976 Bicentennial and how every business and organization had a float in the parade.
A unique celebration
Patty also mentioned Casey doing something a little different. In her historical society resources, Patty noticed the mention of Mary Katharine Goddard — the only woman whose name appears on the Declaration of Independence. Goddard was not a signer, but the printer to the Continental Congress.
Whisk and Lollies will be holding a birthday celebration June 13 to mark her birthday, which falls on June 16. Learn more about Mary Katharine Goddard at the National Park Service.
Department Reports
Director of Public Works Ryan Staley mentioned to the council that City workers had started taking down Christmas lights and decorations in the park.
Spoke with EJ Water on the subject of the storm and wastewater systems. Ryan also reported that gas rates have been locked in through March of 2027. He noted that the price difference is within a few cents, which means prices will remain fairly stable.
Council Action
The council approved the following items:
- Authorizing Director of Public Works Ryan Staley to sign the IMUA Mutual Aid Agreement
- Ordinance #602: Water Service Update – prohibiting landowners within City limits from drilling wells.
- Ordinance #603: Electric rates for security lights: $350 for each security light installed with monthly fees of $20 for 175W, $45 for 400W, or $30 for the LED option.
- Resolution #010526A License Pole Agreement with Frontier Communications. The city will be charging $20 per site fee for using the City’s poles. The agreement also authorizes the City to move Frontier’s service in the case of emergencies or in cases where adequate notice was issued.
Police Adam Chief Henderson spoke to the council about approving Officer Cody Glazewski to full-time status. The council approved.
Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee thanked the council for approving the City’s Comprehensive Plan. He also mentioned that several members of the community have contacted him for copies.
After an Executive Session to discuss the lease or purchase of property, the council approved Ordinance #601 – Acquisition of an easement for utility Purposes.
Economic Development Committee meeting report
Council member Marcy Mumford reported on the Economic Development Committee meeting held January 2, 2026.
She noted that applications for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Regional Site Readiness Grant are due January 30, 2026.
The committee recommended working with Lee Beckman of Milano and Grunloh Engineers (Effingham) to apply for grant funding for infrastructure improvements east of Illinois Route 49, between U.S. Route 40 and Interstate 70, aimed at attracting industrial and commercial development. The committee plans to bring a resolution forward for consideration at the next council meeting.
Council Comments
Council Member Lori Wilson asked about a sign on U.S. Route 40. Director of Public Works Ryan Staley explained that the sign is missing a post. He noted that he reached out to IDOT, but noted delays due to the holidays.
Mayor Nichols and members of the council expressed their condolences to the family of former mayor Ed Bolin.
Additional Approvals
The Council also approved the following:
- Minutes of the Meeting held Monday, December 15, 2025
- December 2025 Bills paid in the amount of $1,323,326.63
- Memorandum of Agreement with Illinois Council of Police for health insurance.
The next regular meeting of Casey City Council will be held at 6pm, Monday, January 19, 2026 at City Hall.
