Du Quoin finances looking good per treasurer

DU QUOIN - Du Quoin City Treasurer Stephanie Cravens reported to the City Council Monday that two big city funds were in the black financially.

The Government Fund, she said had revenues in May of $506,265 versus $441,875 in expenses. As a result, there was a positive change in fund balance of $64,390. For the year, the fund in the black to the tune of $232,788.

On the business side for May, Cravens said the Water Fund had revenues of $230,651 with expenses of $229,420 - a positive differential of $1,232. For the year, the account remains in the black by $15,072.

Regarding total city cash less accounts payable and payroll, the bottom line is up from $2.45 million to $2.5 million or about 2.2 percent.

The council also officially accepted "with regret" the resignation of Les Vancil, who retired unexpectedly last Monday. The council then formally approved Mayor Guy Alongi's appointment of Steve Ingram as its interim police chief.

Ingram is a 12-year member of the Du Quoin Police Department.

"I'm excited to have this chance to lead the department," he said. "Chief Vancil did a good job when he was here and was a good man to work for and learn from. I wish only the best for him in retirement."

Ingram said he would like to think he has a good working relationship with officers in the department, which consists of nine full-time patrolmen, four full-time dispatchers and five or six part-time dispatchers, as well as auxiliary officers.

On Monday, the council hired Jody Compton and Lori Ichou as part-time dispatchers effective July 23 at $12.50 an hour.

The council also approved an ordinance amending an existing Solar Power Purchase Agreement; authorized a parade permit to Du Quoin High School Pep Club for Homecoming and the condemnation of a structure at 545 N. Division St.