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Galesburg Council approves extension for boutique hotel purchase on first reading

A few weeks ago three Galesburg Aldermen didn’t want to approve the extension of a purchase agreement that could allow Kit Wilcox to purchase two Mulberry Street properties.

That was enough to let the agreement expire then. With new members on the city council, Aldermen approved suspending the rules Monday night, waiving the first reading, and then approving the agreement.

Wilcox will have a year to buy 465 and 473 Mulberry St., know to some as the old “Ferris building”, for $10. His intention all along has been to turn the properties into a boutique hotel.

Mayor John Pritchard says if the hotel becomes operational, it’s estimated to generate $203,000 in taxes for the city alone.

Also, the Council approved creating two part-time positions, as a part of 2019’s employee classifications and salary schedule.

The administration had asked the council to approve adding the position of part-time water clerk in December, but Aldermen Russell Fleming was able to block it, pinning his opposition to a promise made to him that there would be no additional costs going to monthly utility billing.

Aldermen also approved purchasing a playground for Lombard Middle School and paying for the bulk of the $354,000 price tag; $200,000.

A $72,000 grant and $82,000 from District 205 will pay for the rest, and allow the community use of the equipment anytime school is not in session.

City Manager Todd Thompson says the city is using a portion of $300,000 budgeted for the parks and recreation capital project, “Which recommended the installation of a playground in the Southeast section of town because of a gap that exists where there is no playground within a half-mile walking distance of any residence.”

Alderman Peter Schwartzman asked the council to table approval, applauding the intent of the project but feeling that the council hadn’t discussed this specific project. No other member would second his motion.

Alderman Corinne Andersen says this is consistent with long-term plans to make parks accessible to more communities.

Council also approved creating a public safety information systems specialist role.

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