Plan Commission Considers New Home for Farm Credit Illinois

Farm Credit Illinois has plans for a new home at Effingham.

The Effingham City Plan Commission Tuesday voted to recommend the City Council rezone land along 1600th Avenue, Althoff Avenue in the city limits, from non-urban to general commercial to accommodate an 18,000 square foot facility for Farm Credit Illinois. The business is now located along US Route 40 between Effingham and Teutopolis.

A Farm Credit Illinois representative told Commission members that the local location serves a seven-county area and generates the most foot traffic of any of their locations. Parking will be provided for between 100 and 150 vehicles.

If the rezoning is approved, Farm Credit Illinois plans to purchase the building site from Scott and Stacey Huelsing.

The Plan Commission also voted to recommend the Council rezone land owned by Brad and Sandra Kabbes from highway commercial to non-urban. Kabbes said the 4.6 acre tract doesn't have much buildable area. He said it's too hilly, so having it zoned non-urban provides as many options as possible for a prospective purchaser.

City Planner Greg Koester provided Commission members an update on the 2050 Comprehensive Plan progress. The next meeting is set for Thursday evening at City Hall.