Casey Moves Forward with Utility Rate Study as Resident Questions City Processes

The City of Casey took the next step toward addressing its utility rate issues during Monday’s council meeting, while a resident raised concerns about city transparency and bidding processes.

Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs reported that information for the water and sewer rate study is ready to be submitted to the Illinois Rural Water Association (IRWA) for review. The move follows the council’s January decision to seek professional analysis after an audit revealed the city was losing money on its water and sewer operations.

The rate study represents the first phase of a comprehensive utility rate review that will eventually include gas and electric services. City officials have indicated rate increases may be necessary to address the identified financial shortfalls.

During the public forum, resident Cody Heer raised multiple concerns about city operations, questioning the bidding process for tree removal contracts and asking about electric rates and the online publication of city ordinances. His inquiries highlighted ongoing resident interest in transparency and city processes, though officials did not provide detailed responses during the meeting.

The council approved $4,199,553.99 in January bills paid, a significantly higher amount than typical monthly expenditures, though no explanation was provided for the increased spending level.

Committee activity continued with Alderman Mumford reporting on a January 27 Downtown Improvement and Economic Development committee meeting. Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee elaborated on the session, indicating the committee has developed a list of ongoing projects, though specific details were not disclosed.

Alderman Hanley announced plans to schedule a City Hall/Public Safety committee meeting in the near future, suggesting renewed focus on municipal facility and safety issues.

The meeting also saw EMA Director David Craig report on emergency services cooperation, noting that his department assisted the sheriff’s office with traffic control during an accident the previous week.

The session was notably brief, adjourning at 6:23 p.m. after just 23 minutes of business. Alderman Richardson was absent from the meeting, while the remaining council members handled all business unanimously.

The council continues to operate with full attendance challenges, as different members have been absent from recent meetings, though quorum requirements have consistently been met.