Du Quoin Workman's Compensation Premiums Climb

The Du Quoin city council heard Monday night that workman's compensation insurance premiums will climb from $206,000 this past year to over $267,000 in the coming year, the result of more claims being filed in the past five years. City administrator Brad Myers and finance commissioner Rex Duncan said the city has been holding weekly safety meetings with employees. Duncan recommended the council accept the increase and take a harder look at coverage options next year. "We are in a vulnerable position now," he said.

In other action, the council accepted IDOT/FAA terms and conditions for receiving any future grants; tax levies were approved based on numbers that have been on public display; small commercial vinyl signs promoting things like home buying and house washing must come down; the city will offer a surplus Woods side-mount tractor mower for sale; the council moved to begin condemnation of two trailers on Pope Street and a house on North Washington.