The Taylorville City Council met on Tuesday evening. One of the big topics of discussion was the Taylorville Chillifest. A motion had been put forward to contribute $8,000 for the event payable from the Hotel/Motel tax fund.  This $8,000 has been contributed for quite some time and is nothing new for the city. There are serious concerns though over the money if the event gets canceled due to COVID. Aldermen Larry Budd brought up the motion and noted that he has gotten many questions about this event and whether or not it should happen. Budd said it should be up to the Health Department, not the city.

Budd mentioned it would be hard to conform to the strict 50 person guideline. He continued by saying that no matter what they do, it’s a double-edged sword. Alderman Megan Bryant believes that things will be done in accordance with health requirements after talking to Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says he will do whatever the health board wants to do.

Alderman Ernie Dorchinecz made a motion to table the action until after the County voted on it at the September 15th meeting. The motion failed 6-2 vote. The motion was amended to add the changes that the money gets applied next year if the event doesn’t happen this year. That motion passed 8-0. The city also voted to approve blocking off the street for the event as well again contingent on the event happening.