The city of Sumner has come to an agreement with the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) over the status of the water tower which serves the Lawrence Correctional Facility.
City administrator Travis Trainer reported to the city council that after over 6 years of negotiations between attorneys and persistent phone calls from State Representative Adam Niemerg, the state has agreed to take over ownership and maintenance of the tower. An intergovernmental agreement between the city and IDOC signed when the prison located west of Sumner had expired with the city left to pay the costs. The move will save a significant money for Sumner.
The council did approve the annual appropriation ordinance for fiscal year 2025-26. The hiring of a new police officer has been delayed. The police committee has made a candidate recommendation, but he continues to be vetted. The council could meet in a special session in the near future to approve the hire.
Incumbent Mayor Betty Brian was sworn into office for another term and the council approved the appointment of Deanna Dugger as the new City Clerk and the reappointment of Jane Inyart as City Treasurer.
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