Du Quoin Anticipating a Balanced Budget in '13; Ashauer Contract Reviewed

The Du Quoin City Council Monday placed on display what city administrator Brad Myers believes will be a balanced budget in 2013.

Since his appointment in October Myers has been able to put together all of the elements of the new spending plan in approximately four weeks and received a note of appreciation from finance commissioner Rex Duncan at Monday's meeting.

The tentative spending plan calls for revenue of $9,918,716 and expenses of $9,409,976 for the new year.

The general fund, which traffics much of the city's revenue and expenses, will show revenue approximating $5,867,650 and expenses of $5,482,884.

The largest of the city's capital expenses will be a new South Washington Street water main from the intersection of East Main all the way south to the Southtowne Shopping Center and startup work on a new Main Street water line and sidewalk program.

The council approved the opening of an interest-bearing checking account--required by law--as a repository for the water line construction funds.

In other action during the 18-minute meeting the council reviewed a renewal of the contract for economic development director Jeff Ashauer. Under the 2013 renewal he will be paid $2,600 a month ($31,200 annually).

Ashauer has navigated through the city's grant writing, economic surveys, TIF district and business plan for the past 20 years.

City treasurer Jacqueline Williams, who is a member of Du Quoin Tourism, commented on the opening weekend of Holiday Lights. Traffic was "bumper the bumper" and the Exhibition Hall opening was packed. This is arguably the very best among the 13 festivals held.

Commissioner Rex Duncan expressed the council's sympathy at the death of Marceil Reminger, long-retired administrative aide at Marshall Browning Hospital.

Mayor John Rednour congratulated Gospel Assembly Church on a beautiful Christmas concert.

The council reviewed the library spending plan.

The council tabled condemnation of a property at 519 Hope Street and approved condemnation action on a property at 334 East Poplar Street.

The council approved a proclamation for IDOT December Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month.