•October 18, 2017•

The Moultrie County Board renewed its commitment to attracting visitors to the area by establishing a $50,000 tourism fund at the October 12 meeting.

“The expanded support puts tourism to the forefront,” chairman Dave McCabe said, explaining the county is working in cooperation with the Lake Shelbyville Corp to promote the area.

Laurrie Minor, director of Sullivan Chamber and Economic Development, reported that the office is in the process of collecting tourism information from area visitor locations ranging from the Pumpkin Patch to The Little Theatre on the Square to the lake in an effort to improve tourism partnerships for the region.

“As part of our expanded effort the Corp and Economic Development will have a booth at the Rosemont, Ill. Outdoor and Boat Show in February,” Minor said of the cooperative effort planned for next year.  Read More

Family Asks for Chicken Variance

•October 18, 2017•

By Ariana Cherry
for the News Progress

Discussion regarding the possible “shelter/pavilion” on 1 E. Jefferson continued at the last Sullivan City Council meeting.

The $6-8,000 donation for the proposed structure will finance a “bare bones” facility, leaving the city to pay for other additional details of the structure.

Some of the additional details of the structure include whether to anchor it or allow it to be moved.

Discussion among the council focused on the “appearance” of the structure and whether it would be a just a “pole-barn” or created with some type of timber to blend in to the existing structures on the square.  Read More

•October 18, 2017•

By Ariana Cherry
for the News Progress

The city of Sullivan purchased 17.325 acres of land south of town for $213,219 ($12,200/acre) in September. This purchase gives Sullivan a chance to expand its economic growth and prevents being landlocked.

For the past few years Sullivan’s economic growth has been stagnant as there has been a limited opportunity for growth. The 17.3 acres will allow for potential commercial or industrial sites that could add employment opportunities within the city thus bringing new families and individuals to town.

“The population has been stagnant because there hasn’t been any room for growth in the past” city administrator Dan Flannell began. “This is a small step to open the door to the south allowing for growth. If we grow, we will have more attractions which will bring more population and more business, etc.”   Read More

File photo
Chad J. Matheson

•October 11, 2017•

By Mike Brothers

Chad Matheson, 42, of Bethany was supposed to report to Moultrie County Sheriff Chris Sims for transport to Graham Correctional Center in Hillsboro September 25.

Matheson was given time to put his affairs in order before serving a three year sentence following his guilty plea for forgery in Moultrie County. Public defender Marvin Hanson represented Matheson who was ordered to make restitution of $40 to the Red Apple Restaurant and $20 to Hardee’s. State’s Attorney Jeremy Richey appeared for the state in court proceedings. Read More

•October 11, 2017•

By Ariana Cherry
for the News Progress

Over the last few years Sullivan has issued bonds for various street improvement projects.

At a recent meeting the council decided not to issue bonds since there were no pressing projects.

The last time was when the city issued $100,000 in bonds for the square resurfacing project. Other bond issues were for as little as $50,000 at a 0.45% interest rate. Future street projects will raise revenue by borrowing from other departments such as the gas or electric.  Read More