Salem Mayor Nic Farley told those gathered for his State of the City message before the Greater Salem Chamber of Commerce Thursday afternoon that after the community has taken it on the chin for the past two years, COVID has brought out the great spirit of Salem.
He noted a large number of accomplishments. The Salem Theatre has now produced its first play, the ABC has been reborn, 6:10 Coffee and Apollo Restaurant has opened and the Village Garden restaurant started their remodeling work this week in preparation to reopening. Farley also noted the opening of the Inclusive Playground as a huge addition with more amenities still be added to Bryan Memorial Park.
Farley says the expansion of Little Egypt Golf Carts and development of their property to other commercial initiatives will be a positive improvement and provide more jobs for the community. While not in the city limits, the Mayor noted the Iron Saddle Ranch will bring in tourism and more traffic to other businesses.
Farley noted a number of other positives.
“To connect with the rich history of Salem, the Historical Society opened the Salem Historical Museum and plans to tour the Bryan Home on William Jennings Bryan’s birthday. The Tales from East Lawn Cemetery Tour was a big success and is planned again for later this year. Even though progress was slowed on the soccer complex, there is progress happening this spring with dirt being moved and a topographic survey completed by an engineer to determine proper drainage. We are excited for the future of the soccer complex and want to do this right.”
Another improvements is the upcoming $10-million construction of a new Ameren Electric substation in the industrial park that will help attract new business and industry.
Farley commended the Public Works Department for their ongoing work to provide services as well as plans this year for water and street improvements to West Kell Street and the continued installation of automatic read meters for gas and water.
Farley said the city was lucky to have a great Police Department and will continue to improve their equipment and make sure they have the training they need to be safe and effective in our community.
He notes the police department is current and compliant on all mandated training in 2021 required by the new Illinois Police Reform Act.
“2021 saw a significant decrease in crimes against property in the city from the previous year. Burglaries and criminal damage to property were reduced by over 50% and burglary to motor vehicles were reduced by over 33%. These improvements were possible because of the proactivity of our officers!”
Farley also thanked volunteers for their work to make various events successful.
But he admitted the city still has challenges.
“We must continue to work on our Police Pension fund. While we have made strides, there is more work left to do to support our officers after they have worked so hard to support us. We must continue to promote and upgrade our infrastructure. We must promote the great high speed internet access our community has. We are committed to using tax dollars wisely to improve our roads, and water and sewer lines, which continue to see rising costs. The city has made it a priority to apply for more grants, saving where we can, and investing in upgrading our infrastructure.”
Farley says the city must continue to work to strengthen its work pipeline in coordination with schools and local industries. He feels this will help keep young people in the community if they can see the opportunities are right here. Farley says the city will continue to look for private partners for new housing developments. He concluded by saying working together, there is nothing the community can’t do. Farley predicted Salem’s best days are ahead and it will happen because of the work we all do together.
