City Council Discusses Comprehensive Plan

Effingham City Council members talked Tuesday night with a representative of a firm that could lead the development of a new Comprehensive Plan for the city.

Jacob Seid of Sightline Planning and Zoning was present. Stephanie Brown of Chastain and Associates was unable to attend, but sent along a video message. The two shared that they have worked together on projects for 15 years and have done some preliminary work on the Effingham project. 

The project is estimated to cost $170,000. No agreements have been signed, but the matter could come back for a vote by the Council at their next meeting.

Seid and Effingham City Planner Greg Koester said the development of the plan should include transportation, housing, parks and recreation, and future land use. He said the development of the plan would be an 18-month process.

Koester made the point that whoever wants to be involved in the planning process can do so.

Also Tuesday, the Council gave an informal thumbs up on contributing $30,000 in hotel/motel funds for a project to be developed in the Effingham Business Park. Darren Rennels said he and his wife are working on a trampoline park to be located in the Fritz Krampe building along South Raney Street. An arcade and Ninja Warriors courses are to be part of the endeavor. Rennels believes they are 60 days from opening.

The Council also discussed acquisition of property in the area near Henrietta Street and north of Heritage Avenue. The goal is to develop the 2.86-acre tract residentially. The purchase would occur if the City receives grant funding for the $422,488 acquisition from the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis.