City Planner Greg Koester discussed re-zoning and re-platting along Heritage Avenue to prepare for the upcoming housing project during a city council meeting earlier this week.
The City of Effingham received a grant to purchase 2.65 acres of un-developed land on Heritage Avenue from the HSHS hospital group. The city then received a $200,000 proposal from Heritage Drive, LLC, to develop a 18 single-family attached homes – similar to duplexes – over three years.
During the April 14 plan commission meeting, Effingham resident Edward Correll spoke in opposition of the re-zoning, but the plan commission proceeded to recommend the plans.
All but the west 200 feet of the property is zoned R-3A, attached single-family dwelling. Koester requested that the west 200 feet be re-zoned from R-2, single-family residence, to R-3A.
“We’re gonna work towards closing that as soon as we can,” said City Attorney Tracy Willenborg.
City Commissioner Jake Niebrugge noted that since affordable housing is a hot topic, it would be a good idea for the city to report how many single-family residence permits have been issued each quarter.
“In the first quarter, we had three. That’s not good enough. I think everybody would acknowledge that, but I think the Heritage Avenue project is a step in the right direction. All I’m doing here is making it known to the community that this is a focus that we’re focused on as an entire council,” said Niebrugge. “It’s important for the community to know that we’re thinking about it. We’re working on it.”
In other news, Deputy City Administrator Dennis Presley updated the council with staff appointments for the upcoming fiscal year.
Although the city has yet to fill the economic development director role, the position is included in the appointment ordinance. Once the role is filled, the city will make the necessary revisions.
The number of police lieutenants decreased to two, and the number of police sergeants increased to four. In the public works department, an additional sewer equipment operator and a street equipment operator have joined the team.
City Administrator Steve Miller recognized Utility Billing Department Customer Service Representative Janet Ohnesorge’s retirement by presenting a plaque to her.
“She’s managed several changes and has embraced those changes for better service to our customers. Most people in Effingham know Janet. She will be missed by staff and [the] public,” said Miller. “She’s a good friend, and [I] wish you the best.”
“This was a great place to work, great co-workers,” said Ohnesorge. “I met a lot of people in the public that became friends, and this is a super place to work, and I’m gonna miss it. Thank you.”
Then, City Clerk Abbey Nosbisch introduced Manuel Mora as the new utility billing office’s customer service representative.
“I come from Denver, Colorado, so obviously, a big difference from Effingham,” said Mora. “But I’m very excited to start my career here with the City of Effingham.”
Lastly, Police Chief Kurt Davis introduced new Police Officer Blaze Hartke.
“I’m excited to start my career here. I’ve heard nothing but good things, heard that it’s really rewarding, and really looking forward to what the future brings,” said Hartke. “Happy to be here.”
The next Effingham city council meeting is scheduled for May 5 at 5 p.m.