Mattoon, Illinois Development News
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Regular City Council Meeting 07/07/26
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Matum Police Department to Acquire New Vehicle
The council approved the purchase of a 2026 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor for the Matum Police Department from Dan Pilson Auto Center, Inc., at a cost of $51,971. This purchase is a budgeted item for the typical replacement of squad cars and was procured through a state contract.
Resident Advocates for Ordinance Change to Allow Bow Fishing for Invasive Carp
A resident recommended changing city ordinances on bow fishing for invasive carp to align with state laws. The resident explained that invasive carp are an ecological threat, consuming plankton, dominating fish biomass, and contributing to algae blooms by churning up the lake bed. Bow fishing is presented as a practical method for removing adult carp, reducing competition with native species, and protecting the lake's fishery and recreational value.
Tourism Committee Appointments Ratified
The council ratified the re-appointment of Jim Wolf and appointed Heather Williams to the tourism committee. Their terms are set to end on September 1, 2029. There were no open seats on the committee at this time, as Jim Wolf was a reappointment and Heather Williams replaced Ed Dow at the Fairfield Inn. Other members previously held management positions at hotels.
Council Addresses Lake Water Quality Concerns and Sewage System Inspections
The council discussed concerns regarding private sewage systems for houses on Lake Paradise and Lake Maton. It was noted that the Kohl's County Health Department is beginning inspections of private sewage systems, starting with Paradise. There is also discussion about potential overflows running directly into the lake and the impact on algae blooms. The council also considered a request to change city ordinances concerning bow fishing for invasive carp to align with state laws, as invasive carp pose an ecological threat by consuming plankton, churning up the lake bed, and contributing to algae blooms. Bow fishing is suggested as a practical tool for removing adult carp and protecting the lake's fishery and recreational value. The city is also taking proactive measures to prevent harmful algae blooms by adjusting carbon and chlorine levels and performing treatments, monitoring the situation, and utilizing a spreadsheet from Mr. Curry for guidance. Contact has been made with the county department of public health regarding septic issues, with inspections of some private sewage systems planned to begin this month, though it will be a lengthy process due to the number of properties involved. Efforts are primarily focused on Lake Maton due to its location within Kohl's County, with plans to address other parts of Lake Maton in Cumberland and Shelby counties later.
Liquor Control Motion Postponed Due to Legal Questions and Absence of Key Drafter
The council postponed a motion regarding liquor control due to unanswered legal questions and the absence of a key drafter, Alex Benichc, whose flight was delayed. The postponement is not an indefinite delay, and the item remains a possibility for future consideration.
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The Mattoon News archive
Special and Regular City Council Meeting 06/16/26
Regular City Council Meeting 06/02/26
Regular City Council Meeting 05/19/26
Regular City Council Meeting 05/05/26
Regular City Council Meeting 04/21/26
Regular City Council Meeting 04/07/26
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