The Amboy City Council met Monday, March 15, 2010, with all board members present and 21 community members in attendance.

Under Committee Reports, Alderman Nancy Kelly advised that due to funding cuts from the State of Illinois, the University of Illinois has to cut from $5 to $7 million from the Extension Service. This will be accomplished in part by downsizing, combining, or closing some county extension offices. We are "working to have them recognize how important our office is," stated Kelly. "We have the amenities to offer that will keep our office open if they combine counties." There should be an answer around mid-April.

Alderman Dave Shaw reported that Barb Goy has resigned as a volunteer at the Depot Museum. Anyone who would be willing to help at the museum should contact Jack Dempsey or Carol Biester.

Alderman Dennis Weidman advised that the Pankhurst Memorial Library is doing well in cataloging their inventory of books. They are, however, in need of a new copier and more computers.

Under Unfinished Business, Mayor Frank Mekeel reported that in order to prevent future freezing problems with the water plant generator, a 5000-watt in-line water heater and a battery blanket have been purchased.

Regarding the water plant water filter, a low bid of $199,900, was received to totally rebuild the old filter. Aldermen Hoy and Willstead felt that the city should not spend that much at this time. The question was raised as to whether just the necessary repairs could be done, and then later finish the job. After discussion, Chamlin & Associates engineers will look into the matter and make a recommendation at next month's meeting.

The council then gave their opinion of the Chamlin & Associates water study that was presented at last month's meeting. Alderman Kelly said she did not review the study in depth, but she was not sure if now is the time to take on the project with over $400,000 the least expensive proposal. Alderman Tim Oester also felt that there was no way the city could afford this. Aaron Full of Chamlin & Associates advised that this could be a viable project for funding and he is taking necessary steps. Alderman Mike Willstead felt that we should try to get grant money. Alderman Shaw stated that this "didn't happen over night and will not be solved overnight." There will be further discussion at the next meeting.

In the past there has been discussion among the council members as to whether the city should stay a part of the Lee County Industrial Development Association (LCIDA), and what benefits the city receives from them for the cost. John Thompson, LCIDA board member and Gary Gehlbach, chairman of LCIDA, spoke about how they facilitate business and commercial development in both the public sector and private sector. LCIDA covers 15 square miles and was created in 1986. Amboy has been a part of the program since 1992. They act as an advisory board to the Lee County Enterprise Zone. There is now a bill, SB3659, to add another 20 years to the Enterprise Zone. They also mentioned various businesses that were started in Lee County due to the LCIDA. Mayor Mekeel mentioned that a lot of opportunities for business in the Amboy area does not come to finalization due to the owners of various properties either not wanting to sell or not giving a price for their property.

The last item under new business was a discussion of planting marigolds along the highway through Amboy and to again request approval of the council. Darlene Hinkle stated that they have always had positive comments from visitors passing through Amboy. The FFA rototills the ground and plants the flowers. Teen Turf weeds the flowers along the whole route. She said that donations have been received to cover the cost of the flowers and only requests that the city crews water them.

Don Schamberger stood up and said that this shows a sense of pride in our town to make it look beautiful. There are other areas that should be cleaned up as well and help the community be proud of the town.

Eileen Piper spoke about how the kids at Teen Turf work daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weeding the marigolds. They feel a commitment and are proud of what they accomplish.

Other members of the audience also spoke regarding their approval of planting flowers and how they increase the beauty of the city.

Aldermen Kelly and Willstead felt that the city maintenance crew should not be used to water flowers. Kelly advised that over $800, plus the cost of fuel and equipment use, was spent last year in watering flowers.

Alderman Dennis Weidman made a motion that the Amboy maintenance department should support the project by watering the plants. It was seconded by Alderman Hoy. The motion passed with two dissenting votes.

Mayor Mekeel concluded the meeting by reminding citizens to complete their Census reports, as it is important for allocating funding to the city.

Mekeel also mentioned that there have been burglaries in the city. He cautions everyone to lock up their cars and homes to be on the safe side.

With no further comments or business, the meeting was adjourned.