Frank Maxton Appreciation Day is Saturday; Two 'No' Votes on Downtown Roadblocks

The Du Quoin City Council Monday fully honored firefighter Frank Maxton for his 45 years of service by proclaiming Saturday, Oct. 27, 2012 as Frank Maxton Appreciation Day.

Fire Chief Robert Shaw read a special mayor's proclamation which pointed to the start of Maxton's service in 1967, his work as Perry County coroner, the Lion's Club, Rotary, Du Quoin Business Association and Chamber of Commerce. Maxton has "selflessly contributed his energies to the betterment of the City of Du Quoin."

The 10-minute council meeting included final approval of an ordinance that re-instates charitable roadblocks in downtown Du Quoin, but limits the number two no more than six a year. A charity or veterans group must be certified by the state and the six roadblocks will be assigned based on a lottery held in January if there are more than six.

Commissioners Rex Duncan and Kathy West voted "no" on the issue.

The council voted to advertise for bids on a surplus 1994 Ford F150 pickup truck. The truck is being replaced by another used pickup truck the city hopes to purchase.

The council will hold a brief, special meeting on Monday, Oct. 29 at 7:30 a.m. to sign a contract with newly named Du Quoin city administrator Brad Myers.

Myers will begin his work on Monday. He fills the vacancy created by the death of Blaine Bastien.