The City of Salem will be seeking an $820,500 low interest loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to replace the water line on Main Street from College to Jefferson.
City Manager Annette Sola says the replacement would not begin until at least next spring.
“There have been a lot of breaks on that line,” Sola said. “I’m concerned that at some point in time IDOT is going to fund this road to be repaved, and I would really like to see the water line completely done before we get into new pavement and tearing that back up again.”
Sola says this is the last section of waterline on Main Street still in need of replacement.
In other action, the board approved a $25,000 contract with J and M Amusements to provide the 4th of July fireworks display over the Salem Reservoir. That’s the same amount that was spent on last year’s display.
The council approved a recommendation from the Salem Planning Commission to rezone property on North Hotze near Benz Crossing at West Boone and then across I-57 to the large open field behind the houses on Newport Drive to RS-2 for residential development.
The council agreed to remain in a public works mutual aid group to assist each other in the event of a disaster. The city has participated in the past but with a reorganization the Illinois Public Works Association Municipal Aid Network wanted approval from the Mayor and City Councils of participating cities. There is a $100 a year fee.
Bids were awarded for materials to be used in this summer’s oil and chipping program as well as patching.
