LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted August 5, 2021

Dear Editor:

After review of the City ordinance 3858 which was approved August 20, 2018 I feel that the Mayor overstepped his authority.  Section 3-2-4-J of the City Code addresses the use of the Utility Tax monies that are placed into the so called “Ward 5” Common Maintenance Fund.  “All monies to be expended from the Common Street Maintenance Fund for any proposed project from time to time must first be presented, debated and voted on at a Street and Sewer Committee meeting. If such vote results in a positive recommendation, then such proposed project and proposed expenditure of funds from the Common Street Maintenance Fund shall be presented to the City Council for consideration and vote.” 

It appears that this procedure was not followed.  Rather than take this issue back to the Committee level for discussion it was placed on the City Council agenda for approval to use the Common Fund rather than use Ward 1 funds. 

Merrium-Webster shows the definition of the word “Ordinance” is as follows:   “a law set forth by a governmental authority - specifically : a municipal regulation”.  In this case it appears that the “law” has been broken.  Compare this action to one who runs a stop sign.  You will reprimanded for breaking a law if you are caught. 

After review of the City Code, the action taken by the City Council regarding the issue should be considered null and void as proper procedure was not carried out. To further complicate the situation, why is the project being bid after the fact? 

Thank you to Aldermen Driskell, Skultety, Bryant and Dorchinecz for standing up for the people of Taylorville by voting against this use of the Common Street Maintenance Funds.  This fund was set up to assist ALL WARDS with any unforeseen expenses. The reason for the ordinance wording is to protect the funds from being used for nonessential needs.

Martin Vota

Taylorville, IL