City of Centralia, IL

4th of July Parade

2011-06-27T10:30:00.003-05:00

The Centralia Veteran Affairs Committee will be hosting a Fourth of July Parade in collaboration with the American Legion. The event will take place on the Fourth of July, from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. The parade will commence at the intersection of West Broadway and South Chestnut Street and travel west on Broadway to the Fairview Park entrance (0.74 miles) where the parade will terminate and participants may enjoy the American Legion 4th of July activities at the park. The parade lineup will start at 4:00 p.m. at the intersection of Chestnut Street & Broadway.
Anyone interested in participating in the parade must complete a Participant Registration Form, found on the download link below, and submit the completed form to the Parade Registration Coordinator, Jackie "Butch" Mathus. Mr. Mathus may be reached via email at wamacer@att.net or by phone at 533-5602. All parade entries must be received NO LATER THAN JUNE 24, 2011.

Republic Services, Inc. to Provide Automated Trash Collection Services

2011-04-18T08:50:00.003-05:00

Republic Services will be changing the method in which they provide trash collection services from a manual collection system to an automated solid waste collection system. To accomplish this, Republic Services will be distributing 95 gallon trash carts to all Centralia residential customers. These trash carts are provided AT NO COST and are designed to allow an automated collection vehicle to drive to the cart location and utilize an automated arm that will empty the cart into the truck and return the cart to its original position, without the need for a crew member to leave the vehicle. This service is provided AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE to residential customers and is a capital investment made by Republic Services in efforts to increase efficiency in operations and provide for a safer work environment for their employees.

The trash carts will be delivered to each residential customer’s home by a Republic Services’ agent as early as April 16^th and April 17^th. Once you receive your trash cart you are asked to PLEASE NOT USE THE CARTS UNTIL MAY 1^st as the company prepares their equipment to utilize the new carts. Each trash cart will be delivered with an informational flyer on the proper use of the carts along with answers to frequently asked questions. You may also download this flyer from the City’s website by visiting www.cityofcentralia.org.

Important information about these trash carts:

· The carts are provided AT NO COST TO CUSTOMERS

· DO NOT USE THE CART UNTIL MAY 1^st

· Make sure the container is at least 3 feet from mailboxes, parked cars, trees, light posts and the handle and lid is closed to prevent damage.

· The exact time of day in which your trash is collected may change so please have your trash out by 6:00 a.m. on your normal trash day.

· All boxes need to be broken down and placed in your trash cart.

· If you have additional items to be collected (i.e. couch, stove, desk), please contact Republic Services 1-800-631-1156 and inform them the items will be out on your trash day so that they can make proper arrangements for its collection.

· If you move please DO NOT take the trash cart with you. Please just leave the trash cart at the residence for future use.

2011 Budget Document

2011-03-10T11:30:00.001-06:00

(Click the image above to view the 2011 Budget Document)

The 2011 Annual Budget, approved December 13, 2010 is available as a .pdf document above. The document continues its citizen-driven look and format for this year by continuing new additions such as the 10 Year Road Improvement Plan, Capital Improvement Plan Road Overlays for 2011 - 2015, Amount Change columns in Budget Line Item Sheets, Comprehensive Citizen Survey Section spanning 65 questions/responses and continued improvement of visuals to enhance aesthetics and comprehension.The 2011 Operating Budget Section now includes the Top 5 Goals for each Department/division to compliment the previously listed Top 5 Accomplishments of each Department/division. City officials encourage you to explore the City's 2011 Budget Document and continue to stay informed on important issues facing our great community.

Senator Durbin Meets with City Officials

2011-02-24T10:39:00.002-06:00

On Tuesday, February 22nd Senator Dick Durbin met with Centralia City Officials Mayor Rebecca Ault and City Manager Grant Kleinhenz to discuss issues facing the City. Mayor Ault discussed three major projects with the Senator Durbin: 1) Raccoon Lake Dredging 2) Water Treatment Plant Replacement and 3) Relocation/Realignment of the Norfolk Railroad Crossing at US 51. Discussions on the projects focused around potential funding sources and avenues to explore to move the projects forward.

2010 Community Scorecard

2011-01-12T08:19:00.002-06:00

The 2010 Community Scorecard is a collection of performance data and information that measures how well the City is doing in meeting the goals in these eight key focus areas:

Economic Development
Community Planning
Community Image
Transportation
Infrastructure
Public Safety
Citizen Services
Finance & Management

The data comes from the City's monthly performance audits which were established in collaboration with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Center for Performance Measurement.

2010 Community Scorecard Online Version
Reduced image quality for smaller file size (28MB)

2010 Community Scorecard Print Quality
Print quality (162 MB). This file may take several minutes to download

2010-12-22T10:40:00.001-06:00

The City's latest newsletter seeks to inform residents of recently completed and current projects happening in and around the community. Look for your copy of the Centralian in your mailbox along with the new form of statement billing. The City of Centralia encourages an active and engaged citizenry and strives to continually keep residents informed on municipal projects. To read about all the great things happening in your community simply click the download link below. **Please note that the file size is fairly large and will take several minutes to download.

Download Vol. 3 No. 2 The Centralian

Centralia Youth Commission Takes Shape

2010-11-29T08:00:00.006-06:00

City staff held an organizational meeting for the Centralia Youth Commission on Friday, November 19th in the Council Chambers at City Hall with community leaders and youth proponents present. The purpose of this initial meeting was to develop an objective for the Commission that will not be duplicative of other services already in the community and to help identify membership for the Commission. The dialogue focused on the following issues: 1) being proactive rather than reactive; 2) providing resource and support to existing agencies and organizations; 3) developing community-wide activities from a large pool of organizations and resources to help both parent and youth; 4) providing best practice models of activities and programs through City staff support that are shown to be effective in other communities; and, finally providing an accessible networking document so that all “point of contact” inquiries about youth programming can be provided from many organizations. Those in attendance were Jessica Palazzolo, Annie Holtkamp, Yvette Glasgow, April Hardy and JoAnn Glenn of the Community Resource Center, Kay Zibby of United Methodist Children’s Home, Councilman Marva Bledsoe, Linda Dabney of the Pregnancy Care Center, Reverand Hubert Bankhead and Alec Chandler of Second Baptist Church, Tron Young of the Centralia Junior High School, Alex McElroy, Allison Austin and Mayor Ault from the City. The Centralia City Council voted to approve the formation of the Youth Commission on the September 13th City Council Meeting. Official appointments to the Youth Commission will come before the City Council in December.

IDOT proposes work on SR 161 from Randolph to Pleasant

2010-11-22T07:55:00.003-06:00

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has proposed to mill and resurface IL 161 (Noleman Street) between Beech Street and Lincoln Boulevard during 2011. This work should improve the ride of the road as well as the life of the road and will take care of various issues such as potholes at the top of the underpass and issues with the pavement failing at Locust Street.

On Monday, November 22nd City Council will be voting on the approval of a letter of intent to participate with the Illinois Department of Transportation in splitting costs 50/50 for the portion of work for the parking lanes on Noleman Street between Poplar Street and Elm Street. The estimated cost for this work is $6,727, with the estimated cost to the City being $3,364, plus 15% of estimated engineering costs approximated at $505. Total estimated cost to the City is $3,869 ($3,364 cost of milling and resurfacing+$505 engineering costs) and will be added to the Motor Fuel Tax budget request.

Council Considers RFP for New Water Plant

2010-10-22T15:31:00.002-05:00

On Monday October 25, 2010 the Centralia City Council will consider approval of the solicitation of proposals for Design Engineering Services for the Water Treatment Plant Replacement Project. The existing Water Treatment Plant has exceeded its useful life and needs to be replaced to meet current and future water treatment needs. The City has worked with Strand Associates since a contract was approved at the March 31, 2008 Council meeting. Three Task Orders have been issued to Strand to date. Efforts to submit information to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency in order to obtain a low-interest loan have come to a standstill. Staff recommends to the City Council termination of the contract at the October 12, 2010 Council meeting. The information secured by the City through these task orders will be beneficial to selecting the final site of the new Water Treatment Plant, however City staff feels that the design of the new WTP and securing funding for that Plant should be handled by an engineering firm that has a stronger technical background in treating surface water and which is dedicated to helping the City secure financing for this project. Staff has created a Request for Proposal for the design of the Water Treatment Plant. The Request for Proposal is geared toward fulfilling the requirements of the IEPA project planning checklist, site selection and acquisition and preparations for final design. If approved, staff will advertise the RFP to various engineering firms with experience designing surface water treatment plants, experience working with IEPA funded projects and who are creative to methods of treating and providing water for the City of Centralia. The RFP’s are due in the City Clerk’s Office on December 1, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. and will be reviewed by staff with a recommendation to the City Council for acceptance of the successful proposal at the December 13, 2010 Council meeting.

Trick-or-Treat

2010-10-06T11:20:00.004-05:00

Mayor Rebecca Ault would like to announce that this year's Trick-or-Treat Night for the City of Centralia will be on Friday, October 29th from 6 to 8 p.m. for children 12 years of age and under. Please be aware that rain does not cancel Trick-or-Treat; parents are urged to use their own judgment if inclement weather is present.

2010-08-26T15:25:00.000-05:00

Click Here to Download

The City's latest newsletter seeks to inform residents of recently
completed and current projects happening in and around the community.
The City of Centralia encourages an active and engaged citizenry and
strives to continually keep residents informed on municipal projects. To
read about all the great things happening in your community simply check your mailbox or
click the download link below. **Please note that the file size is fairly large and will take several minutes to download.

Council Announces August 9 David Blackwell Day

2010-08-13T15:43:00.002-05:00

At the August 9th City Council meeting, Mayor Becky Ault read a proclamation establishing August 9th David Blackwell Day in Centralia. David Blackwell was a well renowned statistician, mathmetician and author who was born in Centralia on April 24, 1919. David Blackwell attended the University of Illinois where he received a Bachelor Degree in mathematics. Blackwell continued his education earning a Master Degree and a Doctorate by the age of 22.
Blackwell held a professional career as a professor of mathematics for the University of Berkeley California , game theory consultant and author of "Theory of Games and Statistical Decisions" and "Basic Statistics" as well as a publisher of many papers on multistage decision-making. For a full bio on David Blackwell, reference the New York Times Obituary "David Blackwell, Scholar of Probability".

City Recieves Award For Performance Management Efforts

2010-07-29T17:02:00.004-05:00

The City of Centralia was again recognized by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) for their performance measurement and management efforts from the ICMA Center for Performance Measurement™ (CPM). Last year was the first time the City received acknowledgement from the ICMA CPM for two successful years of performance management and received the Certificate of Achievement for their efforts. This year the City has received the Certificate of Excellence, which is the highest degree of accomplishment within the ICMA CPM program.
Over the past three years, the City of Centralia has recorded and measured department performance using comparative performance measurement practices. In 2007, the City of Centralia formulated and began recording performance measures for the thirteen departments/divisions that comprise the City government. The City implemented the practice of measuring performance to ensure accountability in departmental and organizational goals and objectives. Each department has specific performance objectives and measures that both tie into Centralia’s Strategic Plan and Comprehensive Plan. Performance measures and objectives are derived from national benchmarks established through national standards, industry standards, performance of similarly composed governments and expected performance set by either City Council or City Management. City Council and City Management use this performance data for the planning, budgeting and allocation of City tax dollars and resources.
In the current economic climate, performance management is more important than ever. Not only does performance management aid in cost management, program prioritization, and quality improvement, but it encourages accountability and transparency.
“The certificate program is one of the pillars of CPM,” says Michael Lawson, director of the Center for Performance Management. “Through our certificate program, local governments are recognized for their exceptional commitment to continuous learning and improvement. The criteria on which the certificates are based serve as a checklist of effective, results-oriented management practices.”
Criteria for the Certificate of Excellence include:

Reporting of performance data to the public through budgets, newsletters, and/or information provided to elected officials
Verification efforts to ensure the data’s reliability, and
Staff training in the principles of performance measurement.
Using performance data in strategic planning and decision making
Sharing of performance measurement knowledge with other local governments/government entities

Surveying of both residents and local government employees
This marks the second consecutive year the City of Centralia has received acknowledgement and valuable feed back from the ICMA CPM on the City’s performance management system. City staff works diligently to ensure the data collected on a monthly basis is accurate, viable and continually evolving to provide citizens with the most efficient and effective services possible.
Centralia’s Performance Measurement annual results and information may be found in the City’s Budget Document, on Centralia TV and on the City’s official website: www.cityofcentralia.org

City Officials Visit Washington D.C. to promote City Initiatives

2010-07-23T09:10:00.000-05:00

On July 13, 2010, Councilman Howard Jones, Mayor Rebecca Ault and City Manager Grant Kleinhenz left for a two day trip to Washington D.C. to stress the importance of our City’s initiatives. This is the third year City officials have made the trip to D.C. to speak with our legislators and discuss the needs of our citizens. City officials met with Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Roland Burris and Congressman John Shimkus to discuss projects such as the replacement of the current water treatment plant, the dredging of Raccoon Lake, South Hickory Street realignment and extension of Calumet to Brookside Avenue, the extension of Pleasant Avenue north past the hospital to connect with Gragg Street and the US 51 at-grade crossing relocation/realignment project. The identification of these projects was a result of the City’s comprehensive planning process conducted in 2007 with citizens, local stakeholders and City Council members.
City officials held special meetings with the US representatives on Thursday July 14 and later attended an Illinois Constituent Breakfast July 15 before catching a plane returning home. “This is a brief trip but is invaluable when it comes to maintaining relationships with our legislators and keeping them informed of our City’s needs”, said City manager Grant Kleinhenz of the trip.
Currently, Senator Durbin is working to get Raccoon Lake authorized in the Water Resource Development Act which would make the City eligible to receive federal funding for the preservation and development of the lake. The City requested funding in the amount of $7,000,000 with a local commitment of $1,400,000 from the Lake Restoration Fund. The City is also working with the Army Corps of Engineers to use Raccoon Lake as a test dredging site.
City officials also received guidance on different avenues to explore while attempting to retain federal and state funding assistance for the replacement of the water treatment plant. The total project is estimated to cost between $13,000,000 and $20,000,000 and is currently in engineering stages with construction expected to commence in 2013. Centralia leadership plans to continue to work with the Senators for future appropriations.
Results of the efforts made by City officials in the development of relationships with legislators are projects such as the recent Economic Development Administration grant award of $2,000,000 for the Wabash and East 17th Street road and drainage improvement project. The award of the grant funding would not have been possible without extended project solicitation to the Senators and legislators tasked with the recommendation of constituent needs.

Alley Sidewalk and Drainage Improvement Program to be Considered

2010-05-20T13:51:00.004-05:00

At the May 24, 2010 City Council Meeting the Centralia City Council will be considering approving a resolution establishing a policy for the maintenance of alleyways and sidewalks. The City currently budgets $50,000 for annual maintenance of alleyway, sidewalk and drainage improvements which are performed according to the maintenance schedule designed by City staff. The proposed policy would provide interested residents the opportunity to have City staff complete the work with the City providing the labor at no cost and the surrounding residents covering the material costs. The intent of the policy is to give residents the option of paying for the materials if they do not wish to wait until their area is scheduled for regular maintenance.

The proposed process includes completion of a Request for Alley/Sidewalk/Drainage Improvement Form to be submitted to the Public Works Director located at 114 E. Fifth Street. The Public Works Director would then schedule a time to survey the requested improvement. Once surveyed, City staff will issue a quote for the cost of the materials to complete the requested improvements. Commencement of the improvement project would be contingent upon the weather, availability of labor and current workload.

Council to Discuss Residential Dock Policy

2010-04-30T08:08:00.005-05:00

At the May 10 Work Session, City Council will be discussing a policy guiding the size, location, construction, materials and use of docks located on individual lots around Raccoon Lake and Lake Centralia. The City of Centralia maintains a twenty five foot ownership around Raccoon Lake's shoreline extending onto the banks of the Lake (specific location of City property may be found on each addition's Plat of Survey). The majority of current and future docks are or will be located at least partially on City property and will extend into the lake owned by the City. The policy will seek to ensure structures on City property are properly maintained, safe and located in such a fashion as to allow all visitors to enjoy the lake property. The policy will require a permit be attained through the city along with a fee to cover the inspection costs.

Artificial Spawning Structures go in Raccoon Lake

2010-04-08T11:27:00.004-05:00

Click Here to View Structure Locations on a map

The Fishing Quality Committee has been working proactively to increase the success rate of spawning bass in Raccoon Lake for the critical months of April, May and June. According to a November 2009 relative stock indices survey conducted on Raccoon Lake, reproduction and/or recruitment by largemouth bass appear to be lower than optimal. The young-to-adult ratio, for which 1.0 is considered a minimum, the value is 0.3 and the catch per unit of effort is 47 percent of the minimum preferred catch number. Addressing these issues, the Fishing Quality Committee has constructed 50 artificial spawning structures designed to provide a safe and attractive environment for spawning bass. The committee has placed the structures in five non-residential shoreline areas around Raccoon Lake in clusters of ten. Because bass are particularly susceptible to being caught by angling and catching fish off the artificial spawning beds while incubating eggs or guarding fry, the committee is recommending a no boating or fishing ordinance within fifty feet of the structures. This ordinance would render approximately 750 feet of Raccoon Lake’s 16.4 miles of shoreline inaccessible to boating and angling for the months of April, May and June (after which time the structures will be removed). The artificial spawning structures and fifty feet of surrounding shoreline will be marked and partitioned with large round orange floats, provided by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The Fishing Quality Committee feels the adoption and compliance of this ordinance is vital to the success of the spawning structures. The Fishing Quality Committee's Request for Council Action will be before Centralia's City Council on the April 12 meeting.

Council Reacts to State Budget Proposal

2010-03-25T09:55:00.003-05:00

At the March 22nd 2010 city council meeting, Centralia's City Council passed a resolution opposing the governors proposal for a reduction of Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) Income Tax. The governor proposes to reduce municipalities share of income tax by 3% which would reduce the City of Centralia's income tax receipts by over $320,000. The Council's resolution cites the City's dependence on these revenues for the provision of vital services such as fire, emergency medial and police protection. The City joins neighboring municipalities and members of the Illinois Municipal League in adopting resolutions in opposition of the governors proposal and issuing letters to the state describing the potential budget on local communities.

Click Here - to view the Resolution
Click Here - to view the City's letter to the State of Illinois

2010 Budget Document

2010-03-17T15:07:00.006-05:00

The 2010 Annual Budget, approved December 22, 2009 is available as a .pdf document below. The document continues its citizen-driven look and format for this year. New to the document this year: 10 Year Road Improvement Plan, Capital Improvement Plan Road Overlays for 2010 - 2014, Amount Change columns in Budget Line Item Sheets, Comprehensive Citizen Survey Section spanning 86 questions/responses and continued improvement of visuals to enhance aesthetics and comprehension.

The document contains the following sections:

Introduction (Table of Contents)
Budget Message (Written by the City Manager, Assistant City Manager and Finance Director)
Community Profile
Historic Background, Demographics, Economic Conditions, Recreation, Culture
Personnel
Hierarchal Organizational Structure, Department/Division Summary, Position Classification
Management & Budget Policies
Policy Statements, Background, Action, Legal Debt Margin, Long-term Debt
Budget Summary
Financial Overview, Department Matrix, Appropriated Funds
Revenue Manual
All Revenue Sources, Top 75% Budget Sources descriptions, Collection Methods, Rationale
Strategic Plan
Two Year Top 10 Priority List, Department Relationship with Plan
Operating Budget

Part 1 (Administration, Clerk, Community Development)
Part 2 (Economic Development, E.S.D.A.)
Part 3 (Finance, Fire, & EMS)
Part 4 (Police, Public Property)
Part 5 (Recreation, Sewer, Street & Alley, Water)

Five Year Capital Improvement Plan
Routine Expenditures, Non-Routine Expenditures
Line Item Budget
Revenues, Expenditures, Amount Change, Justifications
Citizen Survey
2008 vs 2009 Results, 10 Questions Analyzed, 86 Questions/Responses
Appendix
Resolutions, Glossary of Terms, Index

Council Approves MFT General Maintenance Estimate of Costs

2010-03-09T08:05:00.006-06:00

MFT Maintenance Map

A Maintenance Program funded by Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Funds is brought before the Council each year for approval and subsequently submitted to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for their approval. In the past it has included the City's Oil and Chip Street Rehabilitation and Resealing, Restoration of Pavement Markings, Patching of Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) and Bituminous Pavement Patching as well as the City’s annual allotment of Rock Salt for snow and ice removal. This year in the face of declining revenues and increasing material costs the City's program will only focus on oil and chip pavement maintenance and snow and ice control this year. The City's maintenance program will rely upon the General Fund for some materials necessary to maintain a reasonable level of service. Despite these constraints the City still plan to reseal and rehabilitate 5.23 miles of oil and chip pavement primarily located in the southern sections of the southeast quadrant. Total Estimated Maintenance Cost is $237,161.28. The plan will be to bid the maintenance program at the beginning of April, which after approval by the State, would come to the City Council for approval at the May 10, 2010 meeting. The work would then likely be scheduled to start in June 2010.

Regional Marketing Initiative

2010-03-09T07:56:00.000-06:00

Business Leaders from Centralia and Mt. Vernon met on February 18th at Centralia City Council Chambers to begin dialogue on opportunities for cooperative marketing of the region. The Mayors of Mt. Vernon, Wamac and Centralia were recognized at the 2008 Centralia Chamber of Commerce annual banquet for their ability to work together to bring American Equipment and Machine to the region. Following the award, it was suggested that the partnership expand their cooperative effort with a regional marketing initiative. Present for the discussion were Mayor Mary Jane Chesley, Mayor Rebecca Ault and representatives from Centralia Industries, Inc. and the Executive Board of the Jefferson County Development Corporation. Centralia Industries purchased the Principal Meridian Industrial Park property located on Route 51 between the communities which will be co-marketed by Jefferson County Development Corporation Executive Director Mary Ellen Bechtel and Centralia Director Jeanne Gustafson. The property has a prime location 5.5 miles north of Interstate 64 on divided Route 51. Centralia Industries has completed a Phase I Environmental Assessments which puts the region in a competitive position. The property is also located within the territorial boundaries of the Principal Meridian Tax Increment Financing District and Greater Centralia Enterprise Zone which allows the communities to structure a strong financial package. The communities will be marketing the region through a monthly electronic newsletter targeting site consultants.

Council to Consider Dogs at Large Ordinance

2010-02-19T07:36:00.005-06:00

On the February 22nd City Council Meeting the Centralia City Council will be deciding whether or not to adopt an ordinance restricting dogs from "running at large" within City limits and deeming such dogs as "dangerous dogs". The ordinance seeks to strengthen the language in the municipal code in terms of what powers are given to the City to address dangerous animals. The proposal of the ordinance was partly spurred from concerns from the City's Animal Control Officer, Bobby Patton, regarding a disproportionate responsibility to report an interaction with a dangerous animal being left to the victim or witness of an attack or interaction. As a result of a reluctance to report or follow through with filing these charges, many of these cases do not provide Mr. Patton and City's Attorney, Mark Stedelin, with enough evidence to create a punitive environment that prevents such attacks or interactions from happening again. In addition, both Mr. Patton and Mr. Stedelin are concerned that the language prohibits a more immediate response to the situation, therefore giving the opportunity for the animal to harm someone else if not taken for impoundment.
The new ordinance regarding Running at Large: Dangerous Dogs proposes the following,

Section 5-58. Running at Large; Dangerous Dogs.

(a) Definitions:

(1) “Running at Large” is defined as any dog when not on a leash, not on the premises of its owner, or not under the complete control or its owner.

(2) “Dangerous Dog” is defined as any dog with propensity or tendency to do any act, which might endanger the safety of any person. Any dog that has bitten a person is presumed dangerous.

(b) No dog shall be permitted to run at large within the City.

(c) Any dog running at large is deemed to be a public nuisance, and may be impounded by the City if found running at large.

(d) Any dangerous dog is deemed a public nuisance, and shall be impounded if found running at large.

(e) Any dangerous dog impounded by City shall not be returned to the owner until: (1) said dog is spayed or neutered at owner’s expense; (2) the owner provides a valid certificate of insurance proving liability the dog; (3) the owner acquires or constructs an escape proof pen to hold said dogs. For purposes hereof, an “escape proof pen” shall consist of chain link or other metal fencing, with a concrete or wire flooring and wire cover, with a proper gate with a secure latch.

(f) Any dangerous dog not returned to its owner within fourteen days of its impoundment will be euthanized.

(g) Once determined dangerous, a dog shall thereafter be considered a dangerous dog for application of this ordinance.

(h) A dog previously determined to be a dangerous dog, if found running at large, shall be impounded and euthanized.

(i) The fine for allowing a dangerous dog to run at large shall be not less than $250.00 nor more than $750.00.

For more information visit the City's official website: www.cityofcentralia.org and refer to the February 22, 2010 City Council Agenda

City Adopts 10 Year Road Improvement Plan

2010-01-26T09:44:00.006-06:00

City officials and staff recognize the importance of staying proactive in the maintenance of our City streets, roads and alleyways. On November 9, 2009 City Council voted to approve a 10 Year Road Improvement Plan designed to strategically guide the allocation of City resources in road maintenance. The plan was developed with the input of City Council, City staff and engineering firm Rhutasel & Associates. The plan identifies and prioritizes high traffic roads for the purpose of benefiting the largest amount of residents and travelers possible. For a full list of the maintenance schedule please download "The Centralian" Vol. 2 No. 2 or visit the City's official website: www.cityofcentralia.org. You may also watch Channel 99 or the Channel 99 section of the City's website to view the City Manager's Video Vignette highlighting details of the road improvement schedule.

Download the Latest City Newsletter

2010-01-26T09:10:00.002-06:00

The Centralian - Centralia's Official Newsletter
Vol. 2 No.2 Winter 2009

Click Image to Download

Buchheit Opens in Centralia

2009-11-18T16:08:00.003-06:00

On November 13th, Buchheit of Centralia formally opened their doors at 9:00 a.m. with a Chain Saw Cutting Celebration. The public turnout was excellent and the parking lot was busy with locals who were present for the event. WJBD had a live broadcast for the event. Buchheit indicated sales have been beyond expectation and everyone was very pleased with the attendance. They also indicated that the evening sales are higher than anticipated.

On Wednesday, November 11th, local officials were invited to the store for a pre-opening viewing and appreciation night.

F&L Salvage is donating two cars for a 10:00 a.m. Saturday morning extrication demonstration by the local rescue unit. Following the extrication, the saw will be donated to the Centralia Fire Department.

Your Opportunity Sign Replaced

2009-11-18T15:31:00.005-06:00

The "Centralia Your Opportunity" sign has received a much needed face lift. The historic sign had fallen into disrepair and has been replaced thanks to the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce, Centralia Image Committee and the City of Centralia. Image Committee Chairman Todd Dobbs said, "After seeking infput from a variety of interested parties and much analysis, it was determined that the simplest way to recreate the message the sign originally intended to deliver, was to replace the letters and to light the sign for all to see." The letters taken from the sign were found to be made of wood and in an extreme state of deterioration. The new letters have been made from exterior grade material, painted and sealed so as to not fall into the same state if disrepair.

Downtown Mural

2009-10-28T16:45:00.002-05:00

Orphans Mural Goes Up Downtown

A new historic mural dedicated to the Centralia High School Orphan basketball team’s legacy, has been installed on the east wall of the Uptown Café. This is the second in a series of murals planned by the Chamber of Commerce Image Committee.

Image Committee Chairman Todd Dobbs said, “I am excited to see the year of work and planning that went into this project coming to fruition; what might seem like a fairly simple task, once again proved to be a tedious and painstaking process in order to achieve the desired outcome.”

The mural is a graphic artist’s rendition of an actual photograph taken by Centralia Sentinel photographer Brian Hunt at the last game the Centralia Orphans basketball team played in historic Trout gym. Not only does it recognize the fabled teams’ history but the accomplishment of being the nation’s most winning High School basketball team in the 20th century.

The goal has been to have the mural in place in time for this year’s Fall Fest & Halloween Parade according to Dobbs, “We were able to overcome some last minute technical issues to meet our deadline and are very pleased with the results.”

A plaque describing the Orphans’ record of achievement will be unveiled at a later date in conjunction with a dedication ceremony. Lighting for the mural will also be installed similar to the lighting on the American Legion’s building.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Bob Kelsheimer said, “The murals are a part of a long term plan and a coordinated effort between the Chamber’s Image Committee and the City of Centralia to attract new businesses and visitors to the downtown business district. The Image Committee’s artist’s renderings coupled with the City’s façade improvement program facilitated the building improvements we see today. This process began in earnest two years ago and kicked into high gear starting with façade improvements at the Stanford building on Third Street. The vision created by the Chamber’s Image Committee and City leaders has become a reality, and today we see an ever growing and vibrant “Towne Centre”.

The next two projects the Chamber’s Image Committee will be undertaking is a Civil War mural and a historic downtown walking tour guide.

2009-10-02T08:54:00.002-05:00

Trick-or-Treat

Mayor Rebecca Ault would like to announce that this year’s Trick-or-Treat Night for the City of Centralia will be on Friday, October 30^th from 6 to 8 p.m. for children 12 years of age and under. Please be aware that rain does not cancel Trick-or-Treat; parents are urged to use their own judgment if inclement weather is present.

2009-10-02T08:42:00.005-05:00

Collection Routes Change in October

Effective Monday, October 5, 2009 collection routes for garbage, refuse, yard waste and city wide cleanup will change for some citizens in Centralia. Veolia ES Solid Waste Management L.L.C. will be implementing the new collection routes in an effort to improve service delivery and expedite collection processes. The northeastern portion of the City, which formally received collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will now begin to receive collection services on Monday. This will include streets north of McCord Street (Illinois RT. 161) and east of the Canadian National rail line. Tuesday collection, which was previously an area in the south central portion of the city including Fourteenth Street on the south to Calumet Street, Sycamore Street east to Perrine and north to Second Street, will now, be west of the Canadian National rail line and north of Seventh Street, in the vicinity of Beech Street. Wednesday routes, which used to be an area west of Pleasant Street and north of McCord to Brookside Avenue then west of Brookside to the City limits, will now be streets west of Lincoln, south of McCord and north of Calumet with the west boundary in the vicinity of Beech Street. Thursday routes, which used to be the eastern side of the City from Gragg on the north to Calumet on the south, Perrine and Lincoln on the west will be the same with the addition of Lincoln to Perrine, north of Calumet to Second Street and eliminating collection north of McCord Street (Illinois RT. 161) to Gragg Street which will be moved to the Monday route. Friday collection, formally in the north, west and south areas of the City, will now be streets south of Calumet and west of Pleasant Street with the western boundary being Brookside Avenue.

A detailed map of the new collection schedule may be found on the City’s website: www.cityofcentralia.org. For more information or general inquiries on collection schedules or services, please contact Veolia toll free at (888) 867-8066. Residents may also contact the City Yards (618) 533-7640 or City Hall (618) 533-7623 with additional inquiries.

2009-09-01T16:04:00.004-05:00

City Receives $4.2 Million In Grant Funding For Roadway Project

The City of Centralia, in a joint application with the City of Wamac, has received $4.2 million in grant funding for the Wabash Avenue and East 17th Street road and drainage improvement project. $2.2 million of that funding has been awarded by the Illinois Department of Transportation Truck Access Route Program (TARP) combined with $2 million from the Economic Development Administration American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The money will be used to widen Wabash Avenue to a 3 lane road, two traffic lanes with a continuous turn lane to facilitate safe truck traffic turning radii, covered ditches with upgraded and upsized storm sewer inlets and piping as well as curb and guttering. The funding and slated road work all come at a time where both Wabash Avenue and East 17th Street will be receiving considerably heavier traffic due to an increasingly active Industrial Park, now welcoming new teneats, Hawkins Inc and American Machine & Equipment. Both companies combined, representing over an estimated 150 new jobs to the area.

2009-08-24T15:01:00.002-05:00

In June of 2009 the City of Centralia mailed 6,300 citizen surveys to all water customers along with the City's Consumer Confidence Report. The City received 378 completed surveys or 6% of the total mailed, the results of which were tabulated in August and may be viewed above. The survey contained questions regarding City services, taxes, economic development and spending priorities. The City will use the citizen input for the planning, budgeting, allocation of resources and priority setting for the 2010 Fiscal Year.

Click Here to download a PDF version of the results
Click Here to view Previous Years Results

2009-08-24T14:52:00.002-05:00

City Wide Cleanup Week October 5th through October 9, 2009

The City of Centralia would like to announce that this year’s fall city wide cleanup event is scheduled for Monday, October 5th through October 9, 2009. The pickup of unwanted household items will take place on the same day as regular scheduled trash pickup. Participation is limited to single-family residences, town homes, condominiums and apartments that do not exceed four units per building. All items are to be placed where your garbage is placed for pickup by 6 a.m. on the assigned pickup day.

Any item(s) not longer than 5 feet or more than 50 pounds at any of the above defined residential units will be picked up except for the following:

1. Yard waste, including grass clippings, leaves, brush and tree material
2. Household refuse/garbage that should be put out for normal collection
3. Large quantities of rocks, concrete and construction materials including roofing materials,
siding and lumber (not more than a five gallon bucket full)
4. Large appliances such as freezers, refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, dryers, etc. even
if broken up, cut up, crushed or flattened
5. Tires or cans of paint
6. Large automobile parts such as engines and transmissions
7. Lawnmowers or small engines which still contain gasoline or oil
8. DO NOT mix with trash to be picked up on normal collection days and DO NOT pile items on
top of other items.

Crews WILL NOT sort through material. If an unapproved item is on top of an approved item, your items will not be collected.

Residents are also asked to place smaller items in a container such as a box or a bag. Please consider recycling any cardboard, glass, aluminum and paper products at Clean & Green’s Recycling Center located on West McCord Street.

All items must be out by 6:00 AM on your normal garbage pickup day. The route WILL ONLY BE COVERED ONCE, NO EXCEPTIONS. This is a service provided by the City of Centralia. The City requests each resident’s cooperation in this project.

City Embraces Latest Technology

2009-07-15T08:27:00.007-05:00

City Launches New Community Information Service

The City of Centralia is launching a new Community Information Service designed to deliver important and timely information to residents in our area using the latest technology. This service, created by Nixle, delivers trustworthy and important neighborhood-level public safety and community event notifications by web, email and cell phone.
Nixle is completely free, simple and trusted.
The City of Centralia is encouraging all local residents interested in recieving community updates, in real time, to enroll and spread the word.
About Nixle and the Municipal Wire network:
Nixle is a new community information service provider built exclusively to provide secure and reliable communications. Its authenticated service connects municipal agencies and community organizations to residents in real time, delivering information to geographically targeted consumers over their cell phones (via text message), through emails, and or through web access. Nixle is offered at no cost to all municipal governments, their agencies and orgainizations.
Message from the City Manager:
"By going to www.nixle.com and learning about the system, citizens can research the benefits of enrolling in the program. The City of Centralia will use this tool to communicate important local information regarding public safety alerts, traffic hazard information, advisory data and planned community events directly to the public . Best of all, the service is free and users can determine what information they wish to recieve and how they want to use it." - Grant Kleinhenz
Message from the Assistant City Manager:
"Nixle and the Municipal Wire networks that have been created are another example of local governments remaining progressive and finding new and budget friendly ways to communicate with residents and provide important information. Nixle is capitalizing on the technology behind the popular social networking site, Twitter, and focusing it to provide useful localized information." - Alex McElroy

2009-07-09T11:51:00.000-05:00

City Recognized For Performance Management Successes

The City of Centralia was recently recognized by the International City Managers Association (ICMA) for their performance measurement and management efforts with a Certificate of Achievement from the ICMA Center for Performance Mesurement (CPM). Centralia is one of only 20 jurisdictions in the nation and one of only 2 municipalities in the State of Illinois to receive such an honor.
(Click the picture above for the whole story)

2009-06-29T14:39:00.002-05:00

Looking For Your Input
Annual Citizen Survey

The City of Centralia is asking its citizens to help shape the future of the City by completing and returning the 2009 Annual Citizen Survey (embedded above). The survey contains questions regarding City services, taxes, economic development and spending priorities. Answers to this survey are anonymous and participation is voluntary, although strongly encouraged as the City Council and administration relies on the survey results to determine how best to allocate your tax dollars and to set priorities. As an additional incentive, this year the City is offering the option of having your survey entered into a raffle for a chance to win a $30 gift certificate to a local restaurant. The Survey takes approximately 8-10 minutes to complete, and can be returned City Hall through the mail or dropped off at the Utilites drop-box located on Poplar Street; or to the Clerks Office at City Hall. The deadline to return the survey is August 7, 2009.
Click Here to view Previous Years Results

Award Winning City

2009-06-15T13:25:00.010-05:00

City Receives GFOA Budget Document Award

City Receives Prestigious Distinguished Budget Document Award from the Government Finance Officers Association of America and Canada.
The City of Centralia was recently honored by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA), by announcing that the City has received the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2009 budget.
The award represents a significant achievement by the City. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the City had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well the City’s budget serves as:

a policy document
a financial plan
an operations guide
a communications device

Included in the budget, were a 50 page Strategic Plan which outlines the priorities of the City and gives citizens an idea of what long-term goals and plans are; and a 40 page Capital Improvement Plan that authorizes and provides the basis for control of expenditures in the acquisition of significant City assets and construction of all capital facilities. These two plans, along with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, guide both policy and budgetary decisions each budget cycle.
The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving 16,800 government finance professionals throughout North America. Of this number, only 1,069 entities received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award (or 6%), with only 76 entities receiving the award from Illinois. This award has been earned by cities in Illinois such as Chicago, Peoria, and Champaign. The City of Centralia joins with Carbondale as one of 2 cities south of Interstate 74, and one of 6 cities outside of the Chicagoland area to receive the award.
This year marks the third year that the City of Centralia has successfully applied for the award. The budget was reviewed by three randomly-selected independent reviewers from a cadre of GFOA qualified professionals. Those who reviewed the budget stated that it was "Outstanding," "A great overview of the city along with an assortment of demographic and statistical information." "This document is attractively formatted and well organized with an appropriate level of detail" and "Just an excellent document, many outstanding items!" City staff worked very hard to create such a valued policy document to Centralia which will guide the budgeting process for many years to come.

2009-06-10T10:02:00.003-05:00

May 30th, 2009 Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Elmwood Cemetery

The Centralian

2009-06-10T09:22:00.002-05:00

Spring 2009 - Vol.2 No.1

(Click picture to download the latest edition of the Centralian)
The Centralian, the official newsletter of the City of Centralia, is released twice a year in efforts to keep citizens apprised to local government projects, events, plans and goals for the future. The newsletter is mailed to all resident water customers in the fall and spring and may also be picked up at City Hall or downloaded by clicking the picture above.

Certified Local Government

2009-05-08T15:10:00.001-05:00

The City of Centralia is pleased to announce that the City has recently acquired Certified Local Government (CLG) status. This past winter, the City of Centralia and the Centralia Preservation Commission applied to acquire CLG status from the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA) in order to better serve the interests of those who value the preservation of our historic landmarks and buildings. Obtaining CLG Status would enable our Commission to participate in the various training and educational opportunities that come from belonging to a larger network of preservation commissions within the State. Furthermore, the financial resources available from IHPA would help assist in the implementation of our local preservation programs. Owners of historic homes or buildings can apply for the property tax assessment freeze program and tax credits through the IHPA.

2009 Band Shell Schedule

2009-04-13T13:21:00.008-05:00

(Click the picture above to download 2009 Schedule)

The Pittenger Memorial Band Shell is the place to be this summer for free concerts, entertainment, and movies! The City of Centralia and the Centralia Parks Advisory Board is pleased to announce the 2009 schedule of events at the Band Shell. The Band Shell is located at the corner of S. Sycamore and E. 2nd behind the Centralia Regional Library. New benches in 2006 bring the permanent capacity to 128 seats. Additional improvements include roof replacement, a new marquee sign, and interior painting.

All movies start at dusk. You may want to bring a blanket or chair. The school or organization listed on the schedule will be selecting the movie and theme, but the entire community is invited to attend all movies. Movies are free and concessions (popcorn, nachos and soda) are available for sale. All concerts are free. Show times & rain cancellations (if necessary) will be announced in local media, www.cityofcentralia.org and Channel 99.

Wamac Dedication to the No.5 Mine Disaster of 1947

2009-03-31T11:14:00.009-05:00

To view the event click the player above or for slow connections Click Here to download the video

On Wednesday, March 25th the City of Wamac hosted a memorial dedication to those 111 men who lost their lives in the Centralia Coal Co. Mine No. 5 tradgety. More than 300 people gathered at the Wamac City Park to attend the ceremony as Wamac Mayor Jackie "Butch" Mathus unveiled a massive black granite memorial with coal lining the pathway. The event concluded with the reading of the 111 men's names by Wamac Mayor Jackie "Butch" Mathus, Centralia Mayor Becky Ault and Central City Mayor Elect John Johnston.

Click Here to view the City's web article

2009 Budget Document

2009-03-20T16:25:00.002-05:00

(Click Picture to Download Document)

For the third consecutive year the City of Centralia’s Budget Document has been submitted to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for consideration of their annual Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This award is considered the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting. In the past two fiscal years the City has received this honor and is once again proud to present the document for consideration.

The City’s budget document is a powerful tool used by City staff to measure performance, document City and departmental goals and visioning, report tax dollar revenues and expenditures and inform residents of completed, active and ongoing projects. A copy of the Budget Document is always available at City Hall for review and is also posted on the City website for citizens to download.

Elmwood Cemetery Improvements

2009-03-10T13:13:00.002-05:00

At the Work Session held on February 23, 2009, staff discussed a special project for Elmwood Cemetery which entailed improvements to the two circles located on Chapel Lane. The improvements will include landscaping, new sidewalk ramps, flag poles, brick paver sidewalks and various repairs to existing curb and sidewalks. The project will also include extending water and electric to the two circles to aid in the maintenance of the new landscaping and to allow for flags to flown at night. The main purpose of the improvements is to create spaces for cremains to be buried and a way to honor our veterans at the Pittenger statue. City staff will be starting the project as soon as the Council authorizes the expenditure in an effort to get the area ready for our annual Memorial Day celebration in late May. Staff will order the sod, which is being used to make the project ready for May, and the brick pavers and flag poles and will start immediately with the demolition of the sidewalks and the damaged curb. We will most likely ask the Council to approve a Change Order to the Lincoln Boulevard Sidewalk project due to the low price extended for the ramps and those will be complete by May 1st. Staff is also working with Jim Shoemaker of Howell Paving to get the first half of Chapel Lane from Gragg Street north to the first circle paved in May. This project is budgeted from the General Fund.

The project will be paid using funds from two accounts in the 2009 budget; Special Projects and TIF #6. Staff has proposed using $15,000 from Special Projects 05-02-0-0-502 and $8,500 from TIF #6 63-02-0-0-503. This will leave an unexpended balance in the Special Projects fund of $23,993 and $24,250 in the TIF #6 fund.

City Wide Cleanup Week April 13th through April 17, 2009

2009-03-10T09:11:00.003-05:00

The City of Centralia would like to announce that this year’s spring city wide cleanup event is scheduled for Monday, April 13th through April 17, 2009. The curbside pickup of unwanted household items will take place on the same day as regular scheduled trash pickup. Participation is limited to single-family residences, town homes, condominiums and apartments that do not exceed four units per building. All items are to be placed on the curb by 6 a.m. on the assigned pickup day.

Any item(s) not longer than 5 feet or more than 50 pounds left at the curbside at any of the above defined residential units will be picked up except for the following:

- Yard waste, including grass clippings, leaves, brush and tree material
- Household refuse/garbage that should be put out for normal collection
- Large quantities of rocks, concrete and construction materials including roofing materials,
siding and lumber (small amounts will be taken)
- Large appliances such as freezers, refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, dryers, etc. even
if broken up, cut up, crushed or flattened
- Tires or cans of paint
- Large automobile parts such as engines and transmissions
- Lawnmowers or small engines which still contain gasoline or oil
- DO NOT mix with trash to be picked up on normal collection days and DO NOT pile items on
top of other items. Crews WILL NOT sort through material. If an unapproved item is on top
of an approved item, your items will not be collected.

Residents are also asked to place smaller items in a container such as a box or a bag. Please consider recycling any cardboard, glass, aluminum and paper products at Clean & Green’s Recycling Center located on West McCord Street.
All items must be at the curb by 6:00 AM on your normal garbage pickup day. The route WILL ONLY BE COVERED ONCE, NO EXCEPTIONS. This is a service provided by the City of Centralia. The City requests each resident’s cooperation in this project.

Job Skills Workshops

2009-02-12T13:25:00.005-06:00

The Crossroads Workforce Center will be hosting Job Skills Workshops in March and April. The events aim to inform and educate members of the community about services that are available to assist in career placement. Some of the services provided include resume building, interview techniques and application advice. All of the strategies learned at these workshops will help to prepare citizens for upcoming Resource/Job Fair on April 8th, where they can meet with local employers and apply for available jobs in the region.
Hosted By:
- City of Centralia
- Illinois Department of Employment Security
- Kaskaskia College
- Crossroads Workforce Centers
- Marion County Housing Authority

Date & Times:
- Wednesday, March 25 10am - 11am
- Thursday, March 26 10am - 11am
- Tuesday March 31 6pm - 7pm
- Thursday April 2 6pm - 7pm

Location:
Crossroads Workforce Center
325 S. Poplar
Centralia, IL 62801

For more information or to register for a workshop, Please Call:
Kaskaskia College Continuing Education Center
(618) 545-3255

2009-02-06T21:15:00.016-06:00

Use your legs to save a life! Join the Legs For Life 5K and run or walk for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society!
Date: March 21, 2009
Time: 8:00 am start
Pre-register by: March 14, 2009
Entry Fee for 5K:
- $15 before 3/14/09
- $20 after 3/14/09,
Entry Fee for Little Legs 1-Miller:
- $10 before 3/14/09
- $15 after 3/14/09,

For more information email: ships93@yahoo.com

There are many charitable events happening in Centralia and the City is eager to applaud and promote all volunteers, organizations and citizen efforts to better the lives of those around them. If you have such an event, program or project you would like to make the City aware of please inform the City Blog staff by sending your flyer and any other pertinent information to: cityofcentralia@gmail.org.
DID YOU KNOW!?
The City also has a comprehensive list of recreational activities on our official website:
- City of Centralia Recreation Department
- City of Centralia Recreation Department list of events
- Chamber of Commerce List of Events

City of Centralia Scenic Tour

2009-01-23T17:11:00.003-06:00

The City of Centralia offers many unique and aesthetically appealing amenities from our historical sites, one of a kind carillon, large parks and family friendly lake. City staff is pleased to present some of their favorite photos taken in our community. If you have pictures that make you proud to live in Centralia please share them with us via email at cityofcentralia@gmail.com.

New Staff

2009-01-06T15:49:00.006-06:00

The City of Centralia hired Alex McElroy as the new Assistant City Manager. Mr. McElroy completed a master degree in Public Administration from Maxine Levin Goodman College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University in Cleveland, OH and a bachelor degree in Political Science from Heidelberg College in Tiffin, OH. Mr. McElroy previously served as the Assistant to the Administrator for Pierce Township where he acted as head of the technology committee, provided aid and support to the fiscal office and assisted the administrator with the daily operations of the township.

An Ohio native, Mr. McElroy stated: "I have certainly been honored with the opportunity to serve the residents of Centralia. Our community has a lot of exciting potential and it is a great time to be a resident of Centralia".

Railroad Landscaping Completed

2008-10-28T15:48:00.003-05:00

Did you know that the Amtrak Station in downtown Centralia is the point of departure and arrival for over 20,000 riders every year? Amtrak is having it’s best year ever, with over 25 million riders nationwide in fiscal year 2007. Illinois is a big part of that. The Amtrak website states “Huge gains are tied to increased frequencies in Illinois, with the three routes between Chicago and downstate Illinois showing large increases.” Ridership for the Chicago to Carbondale corridor is up 67% with the addition of a third train on this route in late 2006.

Amtrak trains brought over 250,000 people through Centralia in 2007, and more of them got on and off the train here than ever. The City of Centralia has recognized that this is an important gateway to our community, and an image that those passengers will associate with our community. The City worked with the Centralia Foundation, who owns this land, to asphalt the long-term parking area for the Amtrak Station, as well as the overflow parking for the Recreation Complex. After this asphalt work was completed, the City had a significant amount of new landscaping installed. The Chamber of Commerce Image Committee helped select the winning design, which included the placement of new flag poles and benches on the corner of Broadway & Oak. This improved the look of the downtown not only for those of us driving by on Broadway, but especially for those riding the train.

The City of Centralia and the Chamber of Commerce Image Committee are currently working on further plans to improve the look of other rail crossings in Centralia, especially the 5^th street crossing just south of Downtown.

Centralia Band Shell Scedule - Fall 2008

2008-08-26T13:59:00.004-05:00

Click on photo to enlarge

The Fall schedule has been released for the Centralia Pittenger Memorial Band Shell. City staff works hard to provide entertainment throughout the year at the Band Shell. Movies are shown in the spring and fall, and concerts and other events are held whenever possible. We have had the High School Band, a local Battle of the Bands, and many movies, projected right up on the inside of the shell. The best part about it, is that the events are all FREE!

We have been asked "Why don't you show movies in the summer?" Simply because the movie cannot begin until it gets dark enough, and if the movie can't start until past 9:00, it will not finish until past 11:00. Also, it is much easier to advertise to our primary audience - families - when school is in session, and we can send flyers home with the kids.

As we plan for future events at the Band Shell, TELL US WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE? Is there a movie you want us to show? A local group you want us to invite to perform?

City Staff Volunteers

2008-08-13T15:13:00.003-05:00

The Mayor, City Manger and other department heads spent last Saturday morning volunteering at the Centralia Community Recycling Center. Volunteers at the center help unload paper, glass, plastic and cardboard recyclables from the vehicles of the center patrons, and sorting these into separate containers.

The Centralia community Recycling Center is operated by Keep Centralia Beautiful, which sells these bulk recyclables to pay for the operation of the center, including one full-time and two part-time employees. Keep Centralia Beautiful (also known as Clean & Green) also organizes two annual city-wide cleanups in the fall and spring and works tirelessly to teach children and the community to plant trees, prevent littering, and to recycle.

The Communty Recycling Center is open to receive donations Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, and Saturday mornings. to find out how your family or community group can help, call Keep Centralia Beautiful Coordinator Bev Virobik at 532-8430.

Senator Durbin Visits Centralia to Discuss Amtrak

2008-08-08T09:51:00.003-05:00

Senator Richard Durbin (D. Illinois) visited Centralia on Thursday, August 7 and met with local officials to discuss issues with Amtrak. In attendance were Mayor Leonard Ferguson (Salem), Mayor Mary Jane Chesney (Mt. Vernon), Mayor Rebecca Ault (Centralia), Mayor Ken Buchanan (Central City), Mike Young (Centralia Township), Chamber officials, Kaskaskia College, and Representative Kurt Granberg.

Community leaders were very appreciative of Senator Durbin's recent efforts to work with Amtrak and the City of Chicago to find a compromise for Amtrak service into the City of Chicago. Senator Durbin has also workied with State officials to preserve the State subsidy to Amtrak which has allowed service to continue to Centralia. Ridership has continued to grow with rising fuel prices and the City feels this is a valuable asset that has now been protected.

Fuelvend Express Opens For Business

2008-07-28T09:46:00.007-05:00

Fuelvend Express held a grand opening and ribbon cutting Thursday afternoon before officially opening for business. Fuelvend Express is located at the corner of Poplar and McCord and is owned and operated by Mike and Joe Cooksey. According to the Morning Sentinel, Mike Cooksey stated, "The city was extremely helpful in its willingness to get things done. There are more resources available in the city than what people think." Fuelvend Express utilized the City's facade program to purchase their front awning. Fuelvend Express will be a great addition to the community.

HAWKINS, INC. REPORTS ACQUISITION OF NEW FACILITY

2008-07-17T11:52:00.001-05:00

On July 14, 2008 Hawkins, Inc. (Nasdaq: HWKN) announced the purchase of a 77,000 square foot facility on 10 acres in Centralia. The facility will be primarily used for expansion of the Company’s lactate and other food ingredient manufacturing capacity within its Industrial Group, with the Water Treatment Group using the location as a branch office for its operations as it expands its geographic coverage. It is expected that the facility will be fully operational in the summer of 2009.
Chief Executive Officer, John R. Hawkins, commented, "We have enjoyed significant growth in the volumes of our manufactured specialty food products. As we searched for new capacity and strived to be closer to our raw material suppliers and customers for this product line, we are pleased to have found this existing structure in this strategic location. This acquisition will ultimately allow us to free up capacity at our Minneapolis site for other business growth opportunities." John Sevenich, Vice President-Industrial Group, added, "The facility has everything we need, including adequate rail car siding capacity, which is critical to keeping our supply transportation costs down. We intend to have a state-of-the art specialty chemical manufacturing facility when we are finished with the build-out of this site."
Hawkins, Inc. provides a full range of bulk industrial products complemented with the technical competence and innovation to formulate and blend specialty chemicals. The Company sells and services related products and equipment to safely dispense chemicals in highly controlled environments.
Hawkins serves customers in a wide range of industries, including chemical processing, electronics, energy, environmental services, food processing, metal finishing, pharmaceutical, medical devices, pulp and paper, and water treatment.
Hawkins is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Company operates 18 facilities in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, South and North Dakota and Wisconsin and services customers in Upper Michigan and Wyoming as well.
Mayor Rebecca Ault recently toured the headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota and welcomed Hawkins, Inc. to Centralia. "We are appreciative of the quality employment they will bring to our area and look forward to a strong relationship between the company and the community."

2008 Annual Citizen Survey Underway

2008-07-09T08:39:00.001-05:00

The City of Centralia recently mailed its third annual citizen survey. This survey asks Centralians to help shape the future of the City by completing and returning the survey by August 8, 2008. The survey contains questions regarding City services, taxes, economic development, and spending priorities. Answers to this survey are anonymous and participation is voluntary, although strongly encouraged as the City Council and administration relies on the survey results to determine how best to allocate your tax dollars and to set priorities. In response to the previous two surveys the City has allocated an unprecedented amount of money toward road and sidewalk improvements, infrastructure upgrades and economic development. The survey takes approximately 8-10 minutes to complete, and can be returned to City Hall through the mail or dropped off at the Utilities drop-box located on Poplar Street; or to the Clerk’s office at City Hall. The survey may also be downloaded from the City’s website at www.cityofcentralia.org.

Look for our Signs

2008-06-18T10:32:00.003-05:00

The City has been begun placing its new "Progress in Progress" signs around town. The first few signs have been placed at the location of the CDAP rehabiliation grant homes located near the intersection of 10th and Maple. New signs will be posted as work commences on street improvements and at other sites around the City.

Housing Seminar a Success

2008-06-09T10:43:00.003-05:00

The affordable housing seminar on Thursday, June 5 was a great success for all those who attended.
Susan Hosfield, chairman of the Centralia Area Housing Task Force, gave a brief history of the mortgage industry and how it developed into the current mortgage crisis. She also explained which parts of the country were more affected than others and what the outcome has been.

The class then focused on ways to qualify for home financing, including information about credit scores and the different financing programs. Later, Habitat for Humanity, BCMW and City incentives were also discussed.

Many questions were asked about the CDAP Housing programs. The class was encouraged to fill out CDAP surveys the next time they are sent out by the City. The participants were very impressed with the before and after pictures of the completed CDAP houses.

City Newsletter Now Available

2008-06-02T09:25:00.001-05:00

Results from the 2007 Citizen Survey indicated that 60% of Centralians feel that the City could do a better job communicating with citizens about City issues, decisions and services. Since these results were published, City staff has been very proactive in getting out the word to its citizens by creating blogs and forums on our revamped website, and even a cable channel! However, to be sure that we are reaching as many citizens as we possibly can City staff has been hard at work creating the first citizen newsletter "The Centralian". Newsletters were mailed to all City residents on May 29, 2008. If you did not receive a copy of the newsletter you may pick one up at City Hall or read it online.

Cable Channel 99

2008-05-27T09:27:00.000-05:00

The City of Centralia, in partnership with Charter Communications, began airing local television content on cable channel 99 in August 2007. Channel 99 features City Council meetings, local government activities and community announcements. The purpose of Channel 99 is to inform and involve the citizens of Centralia concerning the issues facing the City as well as to be the number one source for accurate information regarding local government operations.

Cable Channel 99 is on a loop that varies in length depending on the availability of content. Typically this is a four to five hour loop. New content is added to the channel weekly. Future programming on channel 99 will include high school sporting events, 360 degree tours of the City, and programming from Kaskaskia College. For a program guide please visit the City’s web site at www.cityofcentralia.org.

The City is very excited about this channel, and hopes that all residents with access to Charter Cable will be able to utilize it as a tool to stay abreast of important issues facing the City. The channel is available to all cable television subscribers within the City of Centralia at no additional charge.

For citizens of Centralia that do not subscribe to Charter Cable, Channel 99 Online is now available for viewing on the City’s website at www.cityofcentralia.org. All content is available On-Demand, meaning there is no waiting for your program to begin. Channel 99 Online also contains an archive of past City Council meetings and other video footage that previously aired on Cable Channel 99.

The City of Centralia is excited to announce a partnership with Kaskaskia College to produce fresh new content for Channel 99. Kaskaskia College will soon commence a new media-related course offering, and students of this course will also develop content for Channel 99. Together we will strive to produce content that is accurate and relevant to Centralia

CDAP HOUSING GRANTS—IMPROVING OUR COMMUNITY

2008-05-19T09:41:00.000-05:00

The City of Centralia has had some success recently with obtaining funding for Housing Rehabilitation. The City was awarded approximately $300,000 in 2006 and a similar amount was just announced for 2008, through the Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP) with the State of Illinois. Each application is specific to one neighborhood only, and residents to be benefitted are pre-qualified during the application. Qualifying homes must have a household income of no more than 80% of the median income for Marion County and they must own their home. In selecting a target area, Community Development staff surveyed the entire community then used these results to select an area where most of the neighborhood was low-income, home ownership was high, and repairs were needed to the homes.
The area that was funded in 2006 was the 900 and 1000 blocks of South Maple (just south of Calumet). Seven homes in the area have received assistance. The typical amount of investment has been around $40,000 per house. The primary goal of the work is to the home into compliance with all building maintenance codes. This may include new roofing, windows, siding, plumbing (both feed lines and drain lines), electrical wiring, water heaters, furnace, flooring, and even kitchen cabinets. The rehabilitation of the neighborhood also included the demolition of several homes to improve the conditions of blight in the neighborhood.
The City of Centralia submitted the 2008 grant in November of 2007 and just received word this April that the application was funded. The target area for this grant is the 400-600 blocks of North Locust. Approximately eight homes in the are expected to be rehabilitated. Once again, only those residents who qualify as low-income homeowners will be assisted. If more than eight applications are received, they will be ranked according to various criteria. These will include income, the number of people in the home, and the presence of any elderly or disabled residents in the home. The City of Centralia also intends to demolish several dilapidated homes in the target area.

Free preparation of Economic Stimulus Payment tax returns to be offered in Centralia

2008-05-12T08:36:00.000-05:00

Volunteers from the Center for Economic Progress will be in Centralia to prepare free Economic Stimulus Tax returns on Tuesday May 27. Free preparation of returns will be offered to seniors and persons with disabilities who received Social Security (SSA), Railroad Retirement or Veterans Benefits during 2007. Filing the Economic Stimulus Payment tax return will qualify recipients for the advance $300 payment from the federal government.

The free service will be conducted in the City Council chambers at Centralia City Hall from 12:00pm-3:00pm on a first-come, first-served basis. Those wishing to be served should bring statements that detail the amount of their Social Security, Railroad Retirement or Veterans Benefits.

For questions regarding eligibility and for further information, please contact the Joe Hinton, Community Relations Specialist, Center for Economic Progress at 312-252-0280 ext 265.

College / Johnson Sewer Project

2008-05-06T13:49:00.000-05:00

The College Avenue Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation project is nearing completion! In February 2006, the City of Centralia was awarded a $315,870 Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP) Public Facilities and Design Engineering grant for the rehabilitation of sanitary sewer and pump station along College Avenue. The project involves the replacement of the Sanitary Sewer Main from Rexford to Monroe Street and the existing lift station at College and Johnson. Video inspection showed the existing Sanitary Sewer Main was in need of complete replacement and plagued by grease deposits. There were also issues with the slope of the existing main. Construction began April 7, 2008 and will be completed by July 9, 2008.
The City’s portion of this project was 25% of the project cost ($105,290), which was budgeted for in the Sewer Fund. The total cost of this project was $421,160.

Downtown Hot Spot

2008-04-25T11:18:00.000-05:00

The City of Centralia is considering the creation of a downtown wireless hot spot or wireless cloud that would be available to our patrons. This hot spot would allow anybody with a laptop to immediately connect to the Internet from anywhere in the downtown. Such a feature would especially benefit travelers from out town staying in downtown hotels and eating in downtown restaurants. The initial screen that an Internet user would see would be a portal advertising some of the major attractions in the City and also directing the user to nearby businesses. Then, for a small fee the user could surf the net for a specified amount of time. The hot spot would be paid for user fees as well as by selling advertising space on the portal.