The Casey City Council approved a 3-cent per kilowatt-hour increase for the city’s electric utility at its meeting on Monday, October 6, 2025, a move officials said was necessary to cover rising operational costs. The decision was the most significant action in a meeting focused on infrastructure, public safety, and future development. In a detailed presentation, the council also heard new strategies for tackling blight and spurring housing growth through a partnership with the Central Illinois Land Bank Authority. For more information, see the full story on the electric rate increase and the new housing strategies.

The council also committed to applying for a $250,000 state grant to fund new sidewalks for students as part of the Safe Routes to School program. In other business, the city awarded a $42,120 contract to demolish a dilapidated downtown building at 204 S. Central due to safety concerns and approved over $86,000 in additional contracts for sidewalk, tree, and stump removal work throughout the city.

Trick-or-Treat Hours Set
The council set the city’s official trick-or-treat hours for Friday, October 31, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Street Closure Approved for Lincoln Trail Stunt Show
The council approved a street closure for an upcoming motorcycle stunt show on October 10. A section of Main Street from North Central Avenue to Northwest First Street will be closed from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the event, which serves as a kickoff party for the new “500 East” relay race at Lincoln Trail Motorsports. Organizers expect 4,000 to 5,000 people to attend the weekend events.

Hotel Feasibility Study Moves Forward
Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee reported that a hotel feasibility study is progressing. The consulting firm Core Distinction Group is recommending the city aim to attract a 50- to 60-room “mid-upper scale” hotel, such as a Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express. The city expects to receive detailed financial projections, or proformas, in the coming weeks to begin marketing the opportunity to developers.

Enterprise Zone Expansion Plans Discussed
The council heard an update on plans to expand the Clark County Enterprise Zone to include residential properties. The expansion would allow new home construction and significant rehabilitation projects to benefit from incentives like property tax abatements and a sales tax exemption on building materials. The goal is to encourage residential development and annexation into the city. All taxing bodies in the zone must approve the changes.

Utility Crew Praised for Major Water Main Break Response
Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs praised the city’s utility crews for their response to a major 8-inch water main break that occurred alongside a second 6-inch main break. Biggs thanked his crews for their long hours and credited local businesses, including Richard’s Farm Restaurant and Reflections, for providing food and drinks to the workers.

September Financials Approved
The council approved the payment of September bills totaling $896,374.51. It also accepted the September Treasurer’s Collection Deposit Report, which showed revenues of $578,595.72 for the month.

Park Committee Explores Flea Market, Campground Upgrades
A report from the Park Committee detailed recent discussions, including a proposal from a resident to organize a flea market in the park. The council discussed liability and insurance requirements for such an event. The committee is also working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to get the city’s campground listed on the state website and enable a mobile payment system for campers.