Village of Bluffs to seek new trustee upon Welch’s resignation
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By David Camphouse
The Bluffs Village Board will soon begin the process of filling a vacancy following the resignation of longtime board member Tim Welch, who cited changes in his living arrangements at a nursing facility as the reason for stepping down. Welch was absent from the September 3 meeting, and Mayor Linda Sapp announced that his resignation letter will be formally added to the October agenda.
Following the receipt and acceptance of Welch’s resignation letter, the board indicated that it will solicit letters of interest from residents willing to serve the remainder of Welch’s term. Mayor Sapp noted the importance of maintaining full representation and encouraged community engagement in the selection process.
In a unanimous vote, the board approved an amendment to Chapter 21 of the village’s revised code of ordinances, establishing a new liquor license for the Blue Jay Junction gas station. The Blue Jay previously sold packaged alcohol, but the new license will allow alcohol to be served and consumed on-site. The license is required by the state in order for the Blue Jay to operate gaming machines on-site.
Trustee Brenda Kauffman introduced the motion to grant the liquor license, which was seconded by Trustee Kathy Brooks. The measure passed with full board support following brief discussion.
The Village of Bluffs Police Department will welcome a new part-time officer following board approval to hire Hunter Drake at a rate of $17 per hour. The motion, introduced by Kauffman and seconded by Trustee Kim Schaad, passed unanimously. Drake is a resident of Winchester and also serves with the Winchester Police Department.
Chief Patrick Johnson reported minimal police activity for the month of August, with no arrests, citations, or traffic stops. One investigation was noted involving a residential burglary warrant coordinated with the Department of Human Services. The department also assisted with one medical call during the Bluffs Picnic.
Mayor Sapp reported that the pole for the village’s new tornado siren has been installed and paid for at a cost of $1,734.33. The siren itself has not yet arrived, but additional donations are being sought to complete the project. The mayor plans to attend an upcoming school board meeting to request financial support.
In other business:
ν The board approved a three-year contract with Solar on Earth to reduce electricity costs through Ameren Illinois and Homefield Energy.
ν Property tax revenues were deposited across several funds: $30,288 to General, $50,690 to TIF, and $9,144 to the Library.
ν The board discussed plans for the village’s 250th Fourth of July celebration and upcoming “Santa in the Park” event in November.
ν Water and sewer operations remain in good order, with a new EPA-required flow meter installed and testing underway on Well 3.
The meeting adjourned at 6:49 p.m. following a brief executive session.
