CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 9th, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the Carthage City Council was held Tuesday, December 9 th ,
2025, at City Hall, 538 Wabash Avenue. Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at
7:00 P.M. Answering to roll call were Aldermen Smith, Roberts, Steinkamp, Long,
Biondolino and Walker. City Treasurer Pam Edris was also present.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve the regular
meeting minutes of November 25 th . All six Aldermen answered “aye” in approval.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve the special
meeting minutes of November 24 th . All six Aldermen answered “aye” in approval.
Mayor Smith reported to the Council that the City has received a TIF Ordinance for
Carthage Centennial Development. This Ordinance approves a forty-five day extension
of the developers obligation to complete “phase 1” of the hotel project. Elizabeth and
Jonathan Pearson were present to answer any questions that the Council had.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve Ordinance No.
2025-14 An Ordinance approving and authorizing the execution of a Carthage TIF
district I redevelopment agreement by and between the City of Carthage and Carthage
Centennial Development and Elizabeth Schell Pearson and Jonathan Pearson. All six
Aldermen voted “yes”.
Alderman Smith reported to the Council that the Carthage Elementary School District
and Mrs. Pearson who was present had submitted a permission form for a CESD Hot
Chocolate Run on December 18 th . During this event all students will run/walk to the CVS
campus for a fun run/walk.
Motion was made by Alderman Smith, seconded by Roberts to approve the Carthage
Elementary School District permission form on December 18 th . All six Aldermen voted
“yes”.
After discussion a Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve
the November Budgetary Report. All six Aldermen voted “yes”.
City Attorney Tom Hartzell reported on several delinquent properties.
Alderman Smith reported to the Council that Chief Himan has applied for a grant in the
amount of $45,000 to help with the purchase of equipment. He also reported that the new
2025 squad car has been purchased and fitted with the old equipment from the 2021
squad car that is being traded in.

Alderman Biondolino reported to the Council that LT Land & Service has submitted the
bill for tree removal. He also reported that AEC, LLC will be meeting with himself, the
Mayor, Public Works director, and the City Clerk to discuss several issues with the
landfill including the billing for services and future sampling.
After discussion a motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Roberts to
approve payment of the November bills. Aldermen Smith, Roberts, Long, Biondolino
and Walker voted “yes”. Alderman Steinkamp abstained. Motion passed by a vote of 5
to 0.
Alderman Long reported to the Council that Doug from Benton Engineering presented to
the public works committee for consideration several improvement options for the
existing well and possible change orders going forward. After discussion the committee
felt that the approval of the installation of a manhole, gate valve and “pig” insertion at the
cost of $21,600.00 was necessary. This will enable cleaning of the well.
Motion was made by Alderman Long, seconded by Biondolino to approve the change
order of $21,600 to the D&L contract for installation of the above materials. All six
Aldermen voted “yes”.
Alderman Long reported to the Council that the Street Department has been working on
removing snow. He also reported that the demo on the old Station House building next to
City Hall has started.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to move to executive session
to discuss the possibility that the City may be brought into litigation. All six Aldermen
voted “yes”.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to leave executive session.
All six Aldermen voted “yes”.
Motion to adjourn by Alderman Smith, seconded by Roberts at 8:06 PM
Respectfully submitted,

Scott Roberts
City Clerk

December Excitement in Nauvoo and January is Business Planning- Rebecca Williamson  Nauvoo Tourism Director is on with the Morning Brew

Sandburg College Ag Seminar  Session 2 , Food Pantry and Spring Registration 

$500K commitment to Sandburg by Graham Health System leads to naming of Science & Technology Center atrium

GALESBURG — Sandburg on Tuesday announced the naming of the Graham Health System Science & Technology Center Atrium following a $500,000 commitment by Graham Health System in support of student success. 

The announcement was made Tuesday morning with members from Sandburg, Graham Health System and the Galesburg Chamber of Commerce in attendance. The atrium is part of the $27 million Science & Technology Center, which opened last year on the college’s Galesburg campus.

“This atrium — now the Graham Health System Science & Technology Center Atrium — serves as a vibrant and enduring symbol of Graham's belief in Sandburg's mission that welcomes students, guests and alumni. It serves as a daily reminder of what is possible when community partners invest in education, workforce development and opportunity.”

Graham’s total commitment came in two parts. The initial portion was a $250,000 pledge in January 2024 to fund the Graham Scholars program, which covers all educational fees for students in select health, career and technical programs encompassed within Graham Health System.

An additional $250,000 commitment made during Tuesday’s announcement will support the Graham Healthcare Scholars program, which is designed to assist students pursuing a nursing or other health professions career.

“This level of commitment reflects a partner that stays engaged and invests strategically in the long-term needs of District 518,” Johnson said. “Graham Health System has consistently supported students' emergency needs, helped strengthen the nursing program and assisted students as they persist along their career pathways. It leads directly to jobs in our communities and helps strengthen our workforce.”

With its most recent $250,000 contribution, Graham also helped the Sandburg Foundation sail past its goal of raising $350,000 during its Giving Tuesday campaign.

“Your support of our institution is a promise to the future,” Sandburg President Dr. Seamus Reilly said. “It's a promise to those students who are not yet born, and it is a promise and a belief in the future of our community. It is, as I always say, an act of faith in the future. We are on the cusp of a new age in medicine and a new age in science and technology, and Carl Sandburg is happy to have these facilities here to advance those new adventures in the future.”

Graham Health System provides patient care through its hospital in Canton and 12 medical group clinics across Fulton, Knox, Mason, McDonough and Peoria counties.

“As a prominent health care provider within the area, we recognize our unique responsibility to support the institutions which prepare future clinicians in our communities,” said Allison Sours, president and COO of Graham Health System. “Through this gift, hundreds of students will have the necessary support and access to high-quality educational resources to ensure their future success.”

Graham Medical Group’s Center for Ambulatory Care on North Seminary Street in Galesburg is slated to open an ambulatory surgery center next year that will support multiple specialties. Eric Rahn, director of Graham Medical Group’s western region, said that expansion will significantly increase Graham’s need for skilled clinical staff, nurses, medical assistants, imaging technicians and other professionals.

“This is why this partnership with Carl Sandburg College is so important,” Rahn said. “You are a phenomenal pipeline to high-quality health care in this region. By investing in Sandburg and its students, we are investing in the future of Graham Medical and strengthening the workforce that will care for our community for the years to come.”

To learn more about how you can contribute to Sandburg, contact the Sandburg Foundation at 309.341.5349 or foundation@sandburg.edu. You can also donate to the Sandburg Foundation at any time at sandburg.edu/givenow. 

Chaddock President/CEO Matt Obert Elected President of National Association

for Children’s Behavioral Health Board

Quincy, IL — Chaddock announced today that its President and CEO, Matt Obert, LCSW, has
been elected President of the Board of Directors for the National Association for Children’s
Behavioral Health (NACBH).
Obert was elected during NACBH’s Annual Association Meeting on December 3 at The Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach, Florida. His term will be two years.
NACBH is a national association that convenes executive leaders and member organizations from across the country—widely recognized as leading experts in advancing children’s behavioral health services—to strengthen systems of care for children, youth, and families impacted by behavioral health needs, trauma, and complex challenges. Obert’s election reflects both his professional leadership in the field and Chaddock’s long-standing commitment to innovative, relationship-driven approaches that help children and families heal and thrive.
“This is a meaningful honor, and I’m grateful for the confidence NACBH members have placed in me,” said Obert. “Across the country, our field is being asked to do more than ever—serve more children, strengthen workforces, and build systems that deliver quality care consistently. I’m excited to work alongside NACBH leaders to advance solutions that support providers and improve outcomes for kids and families.”
As Board President, Obert will help guide NACBH’s strategic priorities and support its work to advance children’s behavioral health nationwide—strengthening collaboration among member organizations, elevating emerging best practices, and helping shape the policies and systems that impact access to effective services. Chaddock leaders emphasized that this election signals national recognition of Chaddock’s expertise and the organization’s growing influence in strengthening the behavioral health landscape for children and families.
“Matt is a consummate advocate and professional for the mission of Chaddock and its impact on those we serve but also our peers, therefore his election is faithful acknowledgement of that commitment Chaddock and our Community share in recognizing him,” said Philip Krupps, Board Chair, Chaddock Board of Directors. “His leadership is grounded in deep clinical experience, A member of the Chaddock Family of Organizations

operational excellence, and a steadfast belief that healing happens through safe relationships.
NACBH is gaining a strong leader at a moment when children’s behavioral health needs demand courageous, practical, and collaborative action.”
Obert has served at Chaddock since 2007 and currently leads the organization’s mission to
strengthen children and families through innovative trauma and attachment-based services. Under his leadership, Chaddock continues to expand services and training that support professionals and systems seeking to improve outcomes for youth and families.
About Chaddock Chaddock is a leading child and family service organization based in Quincy, Illinois. Guided by its mission to strengthen children and families through innovative trauma and attachment-based services, Chaddock provides a continuum of programming designed to promote healing, stability, and long-term wellbeing for youth and families.
About NACBH The National Association for Children’s Behavioral Health (NACBH) is a national membership association comprised of children’s behavioral health organizations and executive leaders  committed to advancing high-quality services and systems of care for children and families.

CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING NOVEMBER 25th, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the Carthage City Council was held Tuesday, November 25 th ,
2025, at City Hall, 538 Wabash Avenue. Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at
7:00 P.M. Answering to roll call were Aldermen Smith, Roberts, Steinkamp, Long,
Biondolino and Walker. City Treasurer Pam Edris was also present.

Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve the regular
meeting minutes of November 11 th . All six Aldermen answered “aye” in approval.

Mr. David Vass addressed the council about his property at 22 main street. The City has
recently been to court over the issue with his property not being cleaned up after his
garage fell in on his neighbor’s fence. The court ordered that if Mr. Vass does not have
the property in compliance by November 17 th the City may do whatever is necessary to
bring the real estate into compliance with the Carthage City code which would include
the removal of any and all structures, debris, accumulation of inoperative or unused
chattel property and all nuisances to make the real estate safe.
Mr. Vass asked if he could have more time to clean up the property and bring it up to
code. The Council felt that he had already been given enough time as this first became an
issue on June of 2023. However, due to the fact that the street department is currently
busy he will be allowed some more time to clean up his property and bring it into
compliance with the City code. If this is not completed by the first Council meeting in
January the City will then remove all items deemed to be a nuisance or debris.

Mr. Ted Ufkes addressed the Council. He would like to ask the City for a variance on his
property at 712 center street. He would like to change that property to be three
apartments however this property is not currently zoned to allow for apartment buildings.
The Mayor notified him that the City has received concerns from several neighbors that
do not want an apartment building at that property. Mr. Ufkes had previously been told
that it is the City’s policy to require a person seeking a variance on a zoning issue to get
signatures of support from all adjoining property owners. As he only procured two
signatures of the 10 or so neighbors the City is reluctant to grant a variance.
Mr. Ufkes stated that his legal council notified him that this was not a legal requirement
for a variance to be granted. Mayor Smith responded that the City was aware that this
was not a requirement but it was also the City’s policy and that the City is not required to
grant a variance just because he has asked for one. The Council felt that a board of
appeals meeting should be held to discuss this issue further and that no more work should
be performed at this property until a board of appeals meeting is held and the Council has
made a decision on this property.

Clerk Roberts will be contacting all members of the board of appeals to set a meeting
date and will publish such meeting in the paper. Also, all property owners within 250
feet of that property are required to be notified.

Mayor Smith reported to the Council that Architechnics has submitted a proposal for
inspection of the 7 homes that are part of the Strong Communities Grant Program
demolitions. This proposal includes a fee for abatement design if required and building
demo bid documents including performing the bid opening. The proposal is for $6,500
for inspection of all seven properties including testing for asbestos. If asbestos materials
are discovered than an additional fee of $3,000 would be required to design the
abatement and bidding process for the abatement. A fee of $10,000.00 is included for the
general building demolition bidding documents and bid opening.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve the Architechnics
proposal as stated above. All six Aldermen voted “yes”.

Mayor Smith reported to the Council that the TIF Ordinance for the Carthage Centennial
Development will be tabled until the next Council meeting.

City Attorney Tom Hartzell reported on several delinquent properties.

Alderman Smith reported to the Council that the Police Department has located a new
vehicle to replace the 2021 cruiser. This cost of the vehicle would be $44,900 plus
delivery fees.
Motion was made by Alderman Smith, seconded by Long to approve the purchase of a
2025 Explorer at the cost of $44,900.00 plus delivery fees. All six Aldermen voted
“yes”.

Alderman Smith reported to the Council that the City had reached out to several local
communities to find out what they are charging for dog boarding overnight. The City
would like to implement a policy/fees for overnight boarding of canines. The fee would
initially be paid by the City and billed out to the dog owner.
After discussion a motion was made by Alderman Smith, seconded by Walker to approve
the animal control officer to charge a fee of $25 for boarding of a dog overnight. All six
Aldermen voted “yes”.

Alderman Smith reported to the Council that the Christmas open house committee has
submitted a permission form for the Christmas Open House event to be held on
Thursday, December 4 th .

Motion was made by Alderman Smith, seconded by Walker to approve the permission
form from the Christmas Open House committee. All six Aldermen answered “aye” in
approval.

Alderman Biondolino reported to the Council that LT Land & Service has completed the tree removal for the City and will be submitting a bill soon. He also reported that he
would be talking to potential bidders for repairs at the Community Center.

Alderman Long reported to the Council that the well pump failed and the City had to
replace that pump. The City will be determining if that pump was under warranty as it is
only about a year old. He also reported that the Street Department has been sweeping the
streets and is trying to prepare for winter as best as possible.

Motion to adjourn by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith at 8:13 PM
Respectfully submitted,

Scott Roberts
City Clerk

CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 9, 2025

MAYOR:
Pledge of Allegiance Approve Regular Minutes November 25, 2025
Roll Call Approve Special Minutes November 24, 2025
Public Comments Approve November Budgetary Report
TIF Ord. Carthage Centennial Development
CLERK:
TREASURER:
CITY ATTORNEY:
530 Wabash - Reed Building Land on end of Wabash
201 S. Scofield - Hundley Property 22 Main – David Vass
160 Prairie – Charlie Mustread 724 Walnut – Xavier Hutchcroft
130 S. Marion – Sebastian Jemison 242 Buchanan – Michael Bennett
Friendship Park
PUBLIC SAFETY:
Report on Fire Dept. Report on Police Traffic Light
PD Cruiser purchase
PUBLIC PROPERTY:
Tree City Report Landfill Report 243 Main St.
Land Bank Community Center
Public Properties Update Asbestos Abatement
FINANCE:
Bills
PUBLIC WORKS:
Building Permit report CFL Loan Program – Dearwester
New Deep Well
LEGISLATIVE:
Code Book Update
Public Works Director Position
EXECUTIVE SESSION: