Category Archives: Meeting Minutes

City Council Meeting Minutes – February 23, 2026

 

City of Benton

Regular City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: February 23, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Location: Benton City Hall


1. Call to Order & Pledge of Allegiance

The meeting was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.


2. Roll Call

Present:

  • Commissioner Garavalia

  • Commissioner Kays

  • Mayor Messersmith

Absent:

  • Commissioner Cockrum

  • Commissioner Storey

A quorum was present.


3. Reading and Approval of Minutes

February 9, 2026 – Regular Meeting Minutes
Commissioner Kays stated there were no changes.

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.

February 11, 2026 – Continued Meeting Minutes
No changes were requested.

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.


4. Department Reports / Administrative Items

  • Commissioner Storey was absent.

  • No purchase orders under his department.

  • No public property use permits.


5. New Business

(C) RC Drag Racing

Discussion was tabled pending additional information from Mr. Wells.

  • Motion to Table: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.

Sewer Treatment Plant Purchase Order

Mayor Messersmith presented a purchase order for CNC Pumps and Supplies for a motor for the non-potable water system in the amount of $4,560.00.

  • Motion: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.

No pool adjustments and no lot lease transfers were reported.


(D) Hiring of Part-Time Water Clerk

Discussion was held regarding staffing needs due to upcoming retirement and increased workload. Consensus was to begin with a part-time position and reassess if needed.

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.


(E) Excessive Water Use Adjustment Policy

Permission was requested to explore updates to the policy and return with a revised form.

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.


(F) Carter Drive Project Bids

No action taken pending additional information from the City Engineer.

(G) West Main Street Project Bids

No action taken.


6. Purchase Orders

PO #00448 – Sentinel Emergency Solutions
Five SCBA cylinders at $5,449.36 each, total $17,392.32. Discussion included grant possibilities and compliance needs.

  • Motion: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.

PO #00160 – Zimmerman’s Garage
Strut assembly replacements totaling $910.98.

  • Motion: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.


7. Intergovernmental Agreement – Browning Township

Discussion regarding renewal and amendment to reflect additional insured language per insurance carrier requirements.

  • Motion: Commissioner Garavalia (to approve pending insurance approval and final document)

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.


8. Payroll

Payroll dated February 27, 2026, totaling $114,617.26

  • General Fund: $89,432.51

  • Revenue Fund: $25,184.75

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Garavalia – Yes, Kays – Yes, Mayor Messersmith – Yes
    Motion carried.


9. Additional Purchase Orders

PO #00593 – Conference Registration
Community Economic Development Conference, Springfield, IL, for Damien Wilburn – $325.00.

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Unanimous
    Motion carried.

PO #00594 – Hotel Accommodations
Conference lodging for Damien Wilburn – $727.32.

  • Motion: Commissioner Kays

  • Second: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Vote: Unanimous
    Motion carried.


10. City Attorney Report

No updates.


11. Public Affairs

  • No purchase orders.

  • No update from Take Action Today.

Benton Area Little League Sponsorship
Council approved a $300.00 donation, with no names on signage, to be used for youth equipment.

  • Motion: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Unanimous
    Motion carried.

Community Investment Fund balance reported at $1,500.00.


12. Miscellaneous Business

  • Recognition of Benton Rangers athletes and teams advancing to state and postseason play.

  • Decorative heart remains lit on the square in recognition of Heart Health Awareness Month.

  • Hospital Auxiliary dinner announced; proceeds benefit student scholarships.

  • Volunteer groups announced an Easter Egg Hunt on March 28, 2026, at the Benton Community Baseball Fields.


13. Old Business

None.


14. New Business

Commissioner Garavalia requested council consideration of a potential wage adjustment for Police Department Administrative Assistant Karastin Sheedy. No action taken.


15. Public Comment

None.


16. Adjournment

  • Motion: Commissioner Garavalia

  • Second: Commissioner Kays

  • Vote: Unanimous

  • Meeting adjourned at 5:18 p.m.

 

Special Called City Council Meeting Minutes – February 27, 2026

CITY OF BENTON

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

Friday, February 27, 2026

 

CALL TO ORDER

Commissioner Kays called the special meeting to order at 9:30 a.m.

 

ROLL CALL

Present: Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays

Absent: Mayor Messersmith

 

AGENDA ITEMS

 

1. Discussion and/or Approval — Carter Drive Sewer Project Bids

Commissioner Kays introduced the item and deferred to Commissioner Cockrum and City Engineer Rodney Potts.

 

Commissioner Cockrum presented two bids received for a sanitary sewer installation on Carter Lane:

  • Jeff Wiggs Excavating: $100,800
  • Scott Scuda Construction: $94,xxx (approximately $95,000)

 

Commissioner Cockrum indicated he would also seek a third quote from Steve Lampley. City Engineer Potts noted that due to the time-sensitive nature of the project, obtaining three quotes would allow the City to bypass the formal bidding process by treating the project as an emergency.

 

City Attorney Tom Malkovich advised that a motion could be made to accept the low bid from Jeff Wiggs Excavating, or Steve Lampley’s bid if it came in lower.

 

MOTION: Commissioner Cockrum moved to accept the low bid from Jeff Wiggs Excavating, contingent upon the third bid from Steve Lampley not coming in lower. Seconded by Commissioner Storey.

VOTE: Yeas: 4 (Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays) | Nays: 0

MOTION CARRIED.

 

2. Discussion and/or Approval — Spani Street Water Main Project

City Engineer Potts presented an engineering estimate for the Spani Street water main project, estimated at approximately $2,000,000. The project involves installation of a 10-inch water main running from the ground storage tank down First Street, crossing the railroad tracks, down Spani Street, crossing Route 37 South, and continuing to connect with the new water line near the high school on College Street.

 

Mr. Potts noted the project includes approximately 2,000 feet of directional boring and 2,700 feet of open excavation, with crossings at three railroad tracks (including one double track) and two highway bores, all requiring 16-inch diameter casings for the 10-inch water main.

 

Design work has been previously authorized. This item was presented as informational, with a motion requested to proceed with permit applications.

 

MOTION: Commissioner Cockrum moved to proceed with design plans and permit applications, including EPA permits, railroad permits, and highway permits, and to proceed to bid upon receipt of all required permits. Seconded by Commissioner Garavalia.

VOTE: Yeas: 4 (Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays) | Nays: 0

MOTION CARRIED.

 

3. Discussion and/or Approval — Route 37 Service Line Directional Bore

Interim Public Works Director Dailus Richardson explained that there is an ongoing service line leak located on Route 37, between the new coffee shop and the DNR Region Five office. The leak has been recurring and creates a safety hazard by icing the road surface during cold weather. The proposed solution is to directional bore a new service line and install a new tap.

 

Estimate received: $2,200

 

MOTION: Commissioner Cockrum moved to proceed with the directional bore of the new service line on Route 37. Seconded by Commissioner Storey.

VOTE: Yeas: 4 (Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays) | Nays: 0

MOTION CARRIED.

 

4. Discussion and/or Approval — Fire Hydrant Replacements, Bailey Lane

Commissioner Cockrum introduced estimates for fire hydrant work on Bailey Lane, from Dairy Queen to the railroad tracks near Dollar General. Mr. Richardson explained that the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) culvert replacement project in that corridor required relocation or replacement of three City fire hydrants.

 

Estimates presented:

  • Fire Hydrant #1 (remove and replace): approximately $5,000
  • Fire Hydrant #2 (remove and replace): approximately $5,000
  • Fire Hydrant #3 (full replacement — 1982 vintage): $9,000

 

Commissioner Cockrum noted that the two newer hydrants (installed 2008) can be relocated and reused; only Hydrant #3 requires full replacement due to its age. City Engineer Potts confirmed that $9,000 reflects the current market cost for a new fire hydrant.

 

MOTION: Commissioner Cockrum moved to approve the estimates for all three fire hydrant replacements on Bailey Lane. Seconded by Commissioner Storey.

VOTE: Yeas: 4 (Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays) | Nays: 0

MOTION CARRIED.

 

5. Discussion and/or Approval — One West Main Street Project Bids

Commissioner Cockrum reported that three bids were received for the One West Main Street project:

 

  • Groundworks (Breese, IL): $1,740,000 — Low Bid
  • Jeff Wiggs Excavating: $1,890,000
  • Hair Plumbing: $2,400,000

 

City Engineer Potts presented a detailed review of the low bidder, Groundworks of Breese, Illinois. Mr. Potts reported the following concerns identified through reference checks:

 

  • A prior OSHA violation (approximately four years ago) resulting in a $75,000 fine for failure to use trench boxes at required depths.
  • Prior issues with late payments to laborers and subcontractors.
  • Reference from Mount Vernon (900 LF shallow sewer project): acceptable quality, but prompt payment requests raised financial concerns; subcontractor payment inquiries noted.
  • Reference from Effingham (0.6 miles, 24-inch storm sewer, shallow): required significant oversight; directional bore subcontracted.
  • Reference from Granite City (recent project): safety violations involving trench boxes; reviewer stated he would not use Groundworks again if not required to.

 

Mr. Potts expressed concern that the One West Main Street project involves sanitary sewer installation at depths of 10–13 feet in a high-profile downtown corridor with active traffic, making OSHA compliance critical.

 

Mr. Potts recommended rejecting all bids and re-bidding the project with enhanced qualification requirements, including a provision that bidders must have successfully completed at least five similar water/sewer projects valued at $1.5 million or more. He noted that both submitted bids came in below the engineer’s estimate, which was favorable, and that re-bidding should not take significantly longer given that the project has already been publicly marketed.

 

Commissioner Storey expressed support for Jeff Wiggs Excavating based on their known performance record.

 

Mr. Potts also requested that an IDOT coordination meeting be scheduled to align project timelines, with Commissioner Kays (Case) invited to participate.

 

MOTION: Commissioner Cockrum moved to reject all bids for the One West Main Street project and authorize re-bidding with enhanced contractor qualification specifications. Seconded by Commissioner Garavalia.

VOTE: Yeas: 4 (Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays) | Nays: 0

MOTION CARRIED.

 

ADJOURNMENT

MOTION: Commissioner Kays moved to adjourn. Seconded by Commissioner Storey.

VOTE: Yeas: 4 (Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays) | Nays: 0

MOTION CARRIED.

 

Meeting adjourned at 10:00 a.m.

Continued City Council Meeting Minutes – February 11, 2026

CONTINUED MINUTES

BENTON CITY COUNCIL

FEBRUARY 11, 2026

 

The Benton City Council convened in continued session on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in the Benton City Council Chambers, 901 Public Square, Benton, Illinois.

 

RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION

 

Commissioner Storey made a motion to return to regular session. Second by Commissioner Kays.

 

Vote was taken:

Yeas: 5 — Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays, and Mayor Messersmith.

 

Motion carried.

 

PAYROLL APPROVAL

 

Commissioner Kays reported that there is one (1) payroll for February 13, 2026, totaling $132,330.72, with the following breakdown:

General Fund:    $87,607.85

Revenue Fund:    $44,722.87

 

Commissioner Kays made a motion to approve the payroll as presented. Second by Commissioner Cockrum.

 

Vote was taken:

Yeas: 5 — Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays, and Mayor Messersmith.

 

Motion carried.

 

BILLS APPROVAL

 

Commissioner Kays presented the bills for approval with the following breakdown:

Accounts Payable (AP):    $522,812.42

Revenue Fund:             $152,476.28

Motor Fuel Tax (MFT):     $2,400.00

TIF No. 2:                $5,573.33

 

Commissioner Kays made a motion to approve payment of bills as presented. Second by Commissioner Storey.

 

Vote was taken:

Yeas: 5 — Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays, and Mayor Messersmith.

 

Motion carried.

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

Motion to adjourn made by Commissioner Storey. Second by Commissioner Kays.

 

Vote was taken:

Yeas: 5 — Commissioner Cockrum, Commissioner Storey, Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Kays, and Mayor Messersmith.

 

Motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 a.m.

City Council Meeting Minutes – January 26, 2026

City of Benton

Regular City Council Meeting

January 26, 2026 – 5:00 PM
City Hall,

901 Public Square,

Benton, Illinois 62812

  1. Call to Order & Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Messersmith called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

  1. Roll Call

Official

Present

Commissioner Cockrum

Yes

Commissioner Storey

Yes

Commissioner Garavalia

Absent

Commissioner Kays

Yes

Mayor Messersmith

Yes

A quorum was present.

  1. Approval of Minutes
  2. January 12, 2026 – Regular Meeting

Corrections noted by Commissioner Kays:

  • Item B was tabled for meter warranty.
  • Typographical correction: “minimum wage rate,” not “race.”

Motion: Commissioner Kays moved to approve minutes as amended.
Second: Commissioner Cockrum

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

  1. January 23, 2026 – Special Meeting

Corrections noted by Commissioner Kays:

  • “Case” corrected to Commissioner Kays.
  • Agenda Item 3: seconded by Commissioner Storey.
  • Adjournment vote corrected to unanimous.

Motion: Commissioner Kays moved to approve minutes as amended.
Second: Commissioner Cockrum

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

  1. Department Reports

Streets & Improvements – Commissioner Cockrum

Purchase Order #00243:
Replacement of six grader tires from Best One Tire (Marion).

  • Amount: Not to exceed $8,689

Motion: Commissioner Cockrum moved to approve purchase order #00243

Second:  Commissioner Storey.

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

Water Department – Commissioner Cockrum

Hiring of Billing Clerk

  • Employee: Amy Greenwood
  • Position: Full-time Billing Clerk
  • Effective Date: January 27, 2026
  • Wage: $22.00/hour

Motion: Commissioner Cockrum moved to approve this hire.

Second:  Commissioner Storey

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

(Pay resolution to be presented at February meeting.)

  1. Fire Department – Commissioner Garavalia

Billing Services

Council discussed entering a one-year agreement for a third-party billing service to collect hazmat and fire-related reimbursements.

Motion: In the absence of Commissioner Garavalia, Commissioner Storey moved to approve the agreement with PA Fire Recovery Services for hazmat billing.

Second:  Commissioner Cockrum

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

  1. Finance – Commissioner Kays
  2. Payroll Approval

Payroll Date: January 30, 2026
Total: $112,335.37

  • General Fund: $82,626.09
  • Revenue Fund: $27,570.88
  • On-Call Firefighters: $2,318.40

Motion: Commissioner Kays moved to approve payroll for January 30, 2026.

Second:  Commissioner Storey. 

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

  1. Training & Travel Budget – GFOA Conference

Council reviewed a corrective action plan from the audit requiring increased training under GASB standards.

Conference: Government Finance Officers Association
Location: Chicago
Dates: June 25 – July 1, 2026
Attendees:

  • John Dougherty (City Treasurer)
  • Damien Wilburn (Grant Administrator)

Cost: Approx. $3,200 per employee (includes pre-conference)

Motion: Commissioner Kays moved to approve travel and training.

Second:  Commissioner Cockrum

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

  1. Discussion & Approval – City Administrator Process

Commissioner Kays presented a proposal to begin the process of researching and developing a centralized City Administrator position, noting:

  • Increased efficiency
  • Improved continuity
  • Centralized operations
  • Better staff support

 

Commissioner Storey stated that he had done some research on the internet regarding the position of a city administrator.  He stated that the average salary is $103,000.00.  Commissioner Storey stated that this position seems to be a “mayor’s assistant”.  Commissioner Storey stated that this council has 16 months left and he does not think anything should be changed at this point.  Commissioner Kays asked Commissioner Storey if the council should just quit working for the next 16 months.  Commissioner Storey stated that he does not believe anything should change in this term. 

 

Motion: Commissioner Kays moved to begin the process of hiring a City Administrator.

Second:  Commissioner Cockrum

Vote:

Member

Vote

Cockrum

Yes

Storey

No

Kays

Yes

Mayor Messersmith

Yes

Motion passed (3–1).

  1. Public Affairs & Community Recognition

Mayor Messersmith thanked Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments for their response to severe winter weather conditions.

  1. Performing Arts Boosters – Twin Oaks Request

Request: Christina Neff, Current Performing Arts Boosters President, requested the use of Twin Oaks for annual gala fundraiser.
Date: March 27, 2026

Funds support student scholarships and band programs.

Motion: Commissioner Kays moved to approve this request.

Second:  Commissioner Cockrum

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

  1. Old Business – Pension Fund Update

Commissioner Kays reported:

  • Fire Pension Fund: 84.52% funded
  • Police Pension Fund: 82.26% funded
  • Both on track to reach 90% funding by 2040.

Commissioner Kays stated that both pensions are very healthy.  Commissioner Storey asked if Finance Commissioner Kays had offered $250,00.00 to each pension fund.  Commissioner Kays stated that he and City Treasurer John Daugherty have been in talks about doing this to boost the funds for approximately three to five months. 

  1. New Business

None.

  1. Public Comments

None.

  1. Adjournment

Motion: Commissioner Storey moved to adjourn.

Second:  Commissioner Cockrum.

Yeas:  4

Nays:  0

Vote: Unanimous

 

5:32 PM.

Special Called City Council Meeting – January 23, 2026

 

City of Benton

Special City Council Meeting
January 23, 2026 – 3:00 PM


1. Call to Order

Mayor Messersmith called the Special City Council Meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

Roll Call:

Official Present
Commissioner Cockrum Yes
Commissioner Story Yes
Commissioner Garavalia Yes
Commissioner Hayes Yes
Mayor Messersmith Yes

A quorum was present.


2. Agenda Item 1 – Hiring Committee Update

Commissioner Cockrum reported on behalf of the hiring committee that five candidates had been interviewed for an open position. The committee’s selected candidate declined the job offer.

Action:
No action was taken. The committee will reconvene to determine next steps.


3. Agenda Item 2 – Approval of City Auditors

Commissioner Case presented a proposal to replace the City’s current auditor (Atlas) with Lauterbach & Ammon LLP, a municipal auditing firm based in Naperville, Illinois.

Key points included:

  • Atlas has repeatedly failed to deliver audits on time, causing issues with grant compliance and revenue receipts.

  • Lauterbach & Ammon specializes in municipal audits and already serves the City’s police and fire pension funds.

  • Proposed three-year audit contract:

    • FY 2026: $57,100

    • FY 2027: $60,000

    • FY 2028: $63,000

  • The City paid Atlas $145,815 over the previous two years for late and incomplete audits.

Council members and staff emphasized the importance of accurate, timely, and thorough audits, especially as the City pursues more grant funding.

Motion:
Commissioner Case moved to approve Lauterbach & Ammon LLP as City Auditors for the term April 30, 2026 – April 30, 2029.
Seconded by Commissioner Cockrum.

Vote:

Member Vote
Cockrum Yes
Story Yes
Garavalia Yes
Hayes Yes
Mayor Messersmith Yes

Motion passed unanimously.


4. Agenda Item 3 – Fire Pension Fund Accounting Services

Commissioner Case and City Treasurer John Dougherty presented a proposal for Lauterbach & Ammon to provide accounting and pension administration services for the Benton Fire Pension Fund.

Services include:

  • Online pension portals for retirees and active members

  • Monthly account tracking

  • Compliance and reporting to the Illinois Department of Insurance

  • Ongoing verification to prevent improper payments

  • Direct support for pensioners

It was noted that the City (not the pension fund) would pay for the service. Pension funding levels were discussed, with the City being above the statewide average and on track for required funding targets.

Some concern was raised regarding whether the pension boards had approved the change. Legal counsel had advised that City approval must occur first before pension boards ratify the agreement.

Motion to Table

Commissioner Story moved to table the item to allow further discussion with department members.
Seconded by Commissioner Hayes.

Vote on Motion to Table:

Member Vote
Cockrum No
Story Yes
Garavalia Yes
Case No
Mayor Messersmith No

Motion to table failed.

Final Motion

Commissioner Case moved to approve Lauterbach & Ammon for accounting services for the Benton Fire Pension Fund.
Seconded by Commissioner Cockrum.

Vote:

Member Vote
Cockrum Yes
Story No
Garavalia No
Case Yes
Mayor Messersmith Yes

Motion passed (3–2).


5. Agenda Item 4 – Police Pension Fund Accounting Services

Commissioner Case moved to approve Lauterbach & Ammon for accounting services for the Benton Police Pension Fund.
Seconded by Commissioner Cockrum.

Vote:

Member Vote
Cockrum Yes
Story No
Garavalia No
Case Yes
Mayor Messersmith Yes

Motion passed (3–2).


6. Adjournment

Commissioner Cockrum moved to adjourn.
Seconded by Commissioner Garavalia.

Vote: Unanimous

The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:26 p.m.

 

Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2026

 

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY JANUARY 12, 2026 AT 5:00 P.M. IN THE COUNCIL ROOM OF THE CAMPBELL BUILDING LOCATED AT 901 PUBLIC SQUARE, BENTON, ILLINOIS.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED CITY CLERK BROOK CRAIG TO TAKE ROLL.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT.

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT MINUTES WERE PLACED IN ALL THE COUNCIL MEMBERS PACKETS.  HE STATED THAT ON PAGE THREE, THERE’S A STATEMENT THAT WE WOULD NEED TO CONTINUE THE MEETING TO DECEMBER 12TH TO PAY THE BILLS AND THAT SHOULD BE REMOVED.  OTHER THAN THAT, THERE’S NO OTHER CHANGES.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES WITH THE CHANGE NOTED ABOVE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

UNDER PUBLIC PROPERTY REPORT, COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE DID NOT HAVE ANY BUSINESS FOR THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00580 TO MCCOLLUM ELECTRIC FOR REPAIR OF THE DECORATIVE LIGHTING ON MAPLE STREET NOT TO EXCEED $7,000.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD NO POOL ADJUSTMENTS OR LAKE LOT LEASES FOR APPROVAL.

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO TABLE ITEM (B), REGARDING METER WARRANTIES, FOR NOW. HE STATED THAT HE AND THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR WILL BE LOOKING INTO THIS A LITTLE FARTHER BEFORE WE ACTUALLY APPROVE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THE COUNCIL HAD RECEIVED A COST ESTIMATE ON THE SEWER MAIN PROJECT ON CARTER DRIVE. HE STATED THAT WE’VE GOT A NEW BUSINESS COMING IN ON THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE SQUARE AND WE’RE TRYING TO GET PREPARED FOR IT. IN YOUR BOX, YOU’LL SEE A COST ESTIMATE THAT OUR ENGINEERS PUT TOGETHER. AND IT’S ONLY A COST ESTIMATE. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO PROCEED WITH SEEKING BIDS FOR THIS PROJECT. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THE CITY HAD HIRED A PART-TIME PERSON FOR OUR WATER DEPARTMENT TO COLLECT BILLS.   COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HER EMPLOYMENT HAS NOT WORKED OUT AND HE WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO TERMINATE CANDY ARMSTRONG AT THIS TIME.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THE STORM SIREN BY THE GRADE SCHOOL HAS GONE DOWN AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE QUOTE FROM NOVACOM COMMUNICATIONS TO REPLACE THE STORM SIRE IN THE AMOUNT OF $35.999.99.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT EVERYONE ON THE COUNCIL SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED A CALL REPORT FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.  SHE STATED THAT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED TO 605 CALLS AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED TO 133 INCIDENTS.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE WILL START PUTTING THESE REPORTS OUT ON THE TABLE WHERE THE PUBLIC CAN LOOK AT THEM AS THEY COME IN, NOT TO TAKE, BUT JUST TO LOOK AT.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT YOU CAN SEE THAT OUR MEN HAVE DEFINITELY BEEN BUSY OUT THERE. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL FOR THE JANUARY 2, 2026 TOTALING $112,858.88 WITH $84,224.54 OUT OF THE GENERAL FUND AND $28,634.31 OUT OF THE WATER AND SEWER REVENUE FUND.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE BILLS TOTALING $469,679.25 WITH $467,515.47 OUT OF THE AP FUND, $691.28 OUT OF MOTOR FUEL TAX, $736.25 OUT OF IJRL TIF FUND, AND $736.25 OUT OF THE DOWNTOWN TIF FUND.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED HE WANTED TO DISCUSS ITEM 7C, DISCUSSION AND OR APPROVAL OF EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT IT HAS BEEN LOOSELY TALKED ABOUT SINCE HE HAS COME ON THE COUNCIL AND HE STATED THAT WE’RE GOING TO PUT ACTION TOGETHER.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE IS TIRED OF HEARING ABOUT IT, TIRED OF TALKING ABOUT IT, AND TIRED OF THE PANDERING.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THIS HAS DIRECTLY TO DO WITH OUR PAID ON-CALL FIREFIGHTERS.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THERE WILL BE NO MORE MINIMUM WAGE SLIDING SCALE FOR PAID ON-CALL FIREFIGHTERS GOING FORWARD. HE STATED THAT THEY WILL BE PAID MORE THAN MINIMUM WAGE.  SO AS MINIMUM WAGE GOES, THIS RACE WILL BASICALLY BE OUT IN FRONT OF THEM GOING FORWARD. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE IS OPEN TO DISCUSSION, BUT THAT HIS RECOMMENDATION IS THAT WE PAY THEM $3 AN HOUR MORE THAN MINIMUM WAGE GOING FORWARD. COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF ANYBODY HAD ANY OBJECTIONS PR ANY DISCUSSION PIECES TO THAT. MAYOR MESSERSMITH SAID THAT HE HAD TALKED WITH COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ABOUT THIS LINES UP BY THE WAY THIS LINES UP PERFECTLY WITH WHAT HE WAS THINKING.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE FEELS LIKE THE COUNCIL SHOULD PUT TOGETHER A PAID ON-CALL EMPLOYMENT PACKAGE THAT INCLUDES WHAT TRAINING IS, WHAT CLOTHING ALLOWANCE IS, AND INCLUDING THIS PAY SO THAT ANYONE CURRENT OR NEW THAT COMES ON HAS A COMPLETE PACKAGE TO LOOK THROUGH.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE RAISING THE COMPENSATION FOR OUR PAID ON-CALL FIREFIGHTERS TO $3 AN HOUR MORE THAN THE PREVAILING MINIMUM WAGE GOING FORWARD. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE LAST ITEM HE HAS IS (7D) MODIFICATION OF INTENT TO RETIRE.  HE STATED THAT THIS HAS TO DO WITH OUR BILLING CLERK, MELISSA HUNGATE.  SHE IS GOING TO SHIFT HER RETIREMENT DATE UP. THIS STILL FALLS WITHIN THE INCENTIVE FOR THE INSURANCE. HER NEW RETIREMENT DATE WILL BE MARCH 9TH.

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT HER MODIFIED RETIREMENT DATE OF MARCH 9TH.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.   VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE ATTORNEY IS NOT HERE THIS EVENING AND SO THERE ARE NO UPDATES UNDER HIM. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT ONE OF THE THINGS THE COUNCIL HAS BEEN TALKING ABOUT IS ABOUT HOW DO WE PUT TOGETHER A MASTER CALENDAR FOR THE CITY.  HE STATED THAT WE ARE WORKING ON AN UPCOMING MEETING TO BE ABLE TO BRING ALL THE DIFFERENT GROUPS, YOUR ELKS, YOUR VOLUNTEERS, YOUR CHAMBERS, AND THOSE, TO ALL GET ON THE SAME PAGE AND PLAN THAT OUT.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT WE HAVE ALREADY STARTED LOOKING AT A 250TH CELEBRATION, BUT WHAT DOES THAT LOOK LIKE? COULD THAT HAPPEN AROUND 4TH OF JULY? COULD THAT HAPPEN IN SEPTEMBER?  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT WE ARE ALREADY WORKING ON PLANS FOR 2026 AND, FORTUNATELY, JANUARY AND FEBRUARY TEND TO BE SLOW MONTHS, SO IT GIVES US A LITTLE MORE TIME TO PLAN.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE DOES HAVE A COUPLE OF PURCHASE ORDERS THIS EVENING.  HE STATED THAT WITH MOVING PEOPLE AROUND AND SHIFTING PEOPLE AROUND, ONE OF THE THINGS THAT HE HAS ASKED IS THAT OUR PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR BE OFFICED HERE AND NOT AT THE SEWER PLANT.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT BECAUSE HE THINK THAT THERE’S SOME PIECES THAT ARE MISSING AND HIM BEING ISOLATED OUT THERE MAKES IT HARD SOMETIMES TO GET THINGS DONE LIKE WE WANT TO.  THE MAYOR STATED THAT HE HAD ALSO GIVEN HIS OFFICE UP FOR DAMIEN AS THE DEPUTY CLERK AND GRANT WRITER SO THAT HE HAS HIS OWN SPACE.  BECAUSE OF THIS, MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT WOULD ALSO BE NEEDING AN OFFICE.  HE STATED THAT HE HAD PUT TOGETHER AN ESTIMATE OF MATERIALS TO PUT TWO MORE OFFICES IN THE COUNCIL ROOM AND ADJUST THE SPACE OF THIS ROOM TO BE ABLE TO HAVE AN OFFICE FOR DAILUS AND AN OFFICE FOR HIMSELF.  HE STATED THAT THE MATERIALS SHOULD BE LESS THAN THIS, BUT NOT TO EXCEED $1,200.   COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THE MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HIS SECOND PURCHASE ORDER IS FOR VERIZON WIRELESS.  HE STATED THAT DAILUS RICHARDSON AND HE WENT LAST WEEK TO MEET WITH THEM. DAILUS NEEDS A NEW PHONE AS THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, WHICH WILL ASSIGN HIM A NEW NUMBER, AND ADDITIONALLY, IN ORDER TO DO THE JULIE MARKINGS LIKE WE NEED TO, WE NEED TWO TABLETS THAT ACTUALLY HAVE CELLULAR ATTACHED TO THEM SO THEY CAN DO THINGS IN THE FIELD, GENERATE REPORTS BASED ON THE NEW JULIE RECOMMENDATIONS.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT IN ADDITION TO THAT, OUR CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, CALEB, IS ON AN AT&T PLAN.  HE STATED THAT AT&T IS NOT BAD, BUT IT DOES NOT WORK IN THIS BUILDING AND SO HE’S NOT ABLE TO USE THE PHONE AS HE NEEDS TO USE THE PHONE AND SO WE NEED TO MOVE HIM OVER TO VERIZON  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT WE WILL SAVE SOME MONEY ON THE AT&T SIDE WHEN WE CANCEL THAT CONTRACT AND WE ARE ALSO GOING TO SAVE SOME MONEY ON THE VERIZON SIDE. THE PURCHASE ORDER SAYS “NOT TO EXCEED $500”, BUT IT LOOKS LIKE IT’S GOING TO BE ABOUT $263 OR IT MIGHT ACTUALLY BE LESS THAN THAT.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO PROCEED WITH VERIZON.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE CITY HAS RECEIVED A REQUIRED FOR A COMIC-CON SPONSORSHIP. THIS EVENT HAS GROWN EVERY YEAR AND THE CITY HAS SPONSORED IT THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS. THEY APPROACHED THE CITY AND ASKED IF THE CITY WOULD BE WILLING TO PARTNER AGAIN?  THE VENT SAW OVER 1,000 PEOPLE GO THROUGH THE CIVIC CENTER LAST YEAR IN ONE DAY AND IT CONTINUES TO GROW EVERY YEAR.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE BELIEVES THIS HAS BEEN A GOOD INVESTMENT FOR THE CITY FROM A TOURISM STANDPOINT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, BRINGING PEOPLE INTO BENTON, EATING, GETTING GAS, AND KIND OF GETTING THEM EXPOSED TO WHAT BENTON IS LIKE.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO DO A $500.00 SPONSORSHIP.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE HAD RECEIVED A LETTER FROM THE AMERICAN LEGION LADIES AUXILIARY  REQUESTING A DONATION OF $500.00 OR ANY OTHER AMOUNT, FOR THE PURCHASE OF NEW AMERICAN FLAGS.  THESE FLAGS ARE THAT LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS LIKE OUR CHEERLEADER GROUP GO AND PUT THE FLAGS OUT AND THEN OUR FIRE DEPARTMENT HELPS PICK THEM UP EVERY YEAR.  THERE HAS BEEN SOME WEATHERING AND AGING OF THE FLAGS AND SO THEY HAVE EVERY YEAR THEY HAVE A NEED TO GET NEW FLAGS.  THE LETTER STATED THAT LAST YEAR THEY HAD TO SPEND $400.00 TO REPLACE FLAGS.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WONDERED IF THE COUNCIL WOULD BE WILLING TO CONSIDER MAKING A DONATION, WHICH WE’VE DONE IN YEARS PAST, TO SUPPORT THEM FOR THE FLAGS.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE IS NOT AGAINST IT, HE JUST WANT TO MAKE A COMMENT.  HE STATED THAT OVER THE YEARS, THIS HAS BEEN PASSED DOWN.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THE ELKS DID IT FOR SEVERAL YEARS; STORED THEM, BOUGHT THEM, ASKED FOR DONATIONS.  HE STATED THAT THE ELKS GOT TIRED OF DOING IT AND THEN THE AMERICAN LEGION TOOK IT OVER, AND NOW THE CHEERLEADERS ARE DOING IT.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THIS HAS BEEN AN ACTIVE THING AND IT HAS BEEN SHARED THROUGH THIS COMMUNITY.  HE STATED THAT THEY DO GET TORN AND THEY DO GET TATTERED BY THE WIND.  HE ALSO STATED THAT HE THINKS IT IS WONDERFUL THAT FLAGS ARE PUT OUT AND HE WANTED TO MAKE THE MOTION TO DONATE $400.00. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF COMMISSIONER COCKRUM COULD PULL HIS MOTION AS THE LETTER HAD ASKED FOR $500.00 IN THE OPENING PARAGRAPH AS A REQUEST.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD NOT SEEN THAT AND WOULD WITHDRAW HIS MOTION. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE DONATING $500.00 TO THE AMERICAN LEGION LADIES AUXILIARY FOR FLAGS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

 

IN MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS FROM THE COUNCIL, COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAD JUST A COUPLE OF UPDATES FROM FINANCE.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT WE HAVE GOTTEN A COUPLE OF INFORMATION PACKETS REGARDING POTENTIAL AUDITING TERMS.  HE STATED THAT HE IS GOING TO GO THROUGH THEM TONIGHT FOR AUDITING SERVICES.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT WE ARE LESS THAN THRILLED WITH ATLAS AND THE TARDINESS AND HOT WATER THEY HAVE PUT THE CITY IN WITH THE CONSISTENT LATENESS THAT THEY HAVE DONE AND THE FACT THAT THEY JUST DON’T DELIVER ON TIME.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT IT GETS TIRING AND THE CITY CAN’T FUNCTION WITHOUT GETTING AN AUDIT BACK ON TIME FROM THEM. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE CITY GETS THEM ALL THE INFORMATION AND THEY DEPART HERE JUST LIKE THEY NORMALLY WOULD, BUT THAT THE CITY JUST DOES NOT GET OUR AUDIT BACK UNTIL AFTER DEADLINES FROM THE STATE.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT WE HAVE HIRED AN IN-HOUSE GRANT ADMINISTRATOR AND THE AUDIT BECOMES SUBSTANTIALLY MORE IMPORTANT WHEN YOU’RE STARTING WITH GRANT FUNDS.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT WILL BE SOMETHING THAT WE WILL PROBABLY HAVE ON THE NEXT AGENDA, AS WELL AS WE TALKED ABOUT IN THE EITHER IN THE NOVEMBER OR DECEMBER MEETING ABOUT ADDITIONAL TRAINING IN FINANCE AND NEW STANDARDS CONTINUE TO BE AN ISSUE JUST WITH GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD AND GAAP.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THERE IS GOING TO BE SOME ADDITIONAL TRAININGS THAT WE’RE GOING TO HAVE TO DO IN ACCOUNTS AND FINANCE TO MAKE SURE THAT WE ARE UP TO SNUFF AGAIN.

 

NO OLD BUSINESS. 

 

NO NEW BUSINESS. 

 

NO MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS:  0. 

5:15 P.M. 

City Council Meeting Minutes – December 22, 2025

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY DECEMBER 22, 2025 AT 5:00 P.M. IN THE COUNCIL ROOM OF THE CAMPBELL BUILDING LOCATED AT 901 PUBLIC SQUARE, BENTON, ILLINOIS.

MAYOR MESSERSMITH CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.

COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED FOR A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING FROM DECEMBER 8, 2025 AS PRESENTED. MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 4. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0. COMMISSIONER KAYS ABSTAINED.

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED FOR A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE CONTINUED CITY COUNCIL MEETING FROM DECEMBER 12, 2025 AS PRESENTED. MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 3. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0. COMMISSIONER KAYS AND COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ABSTAINED.

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED FOR A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CALLED CITY COUNCIL MEETING FROM DECEMBER 12, 2025 AS PRESENTED. MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER STOREY. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 3. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0.

COMMISSIONER KAYS AND COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ABSTAINED.

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS FOR THIS MEETING. COMMISSIONER STOREY ALSO STATED THAT HE HAD NO APPROVAL OF PUBLIC PROPERTY USE PERMITS FOR THIS MEETING.

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS, POOL ADJUSTMENTS, OR LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFERS FOR THIS MEETING.

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE RESIGNATION OF PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 5. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0.

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPOINT DAILUS RICHARDSON TO A 120-DAY TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT OF INTERIM PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS:

  1. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0.

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE’ ORDER #00443 TO AMERICAN TEST CENTER FOR LADDER TESTING AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT            IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,249.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIOER COCKRUM. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONR COKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA,                          COMM ISSIONER KAYS, MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A   MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #004440 TO MIDAMERICA        FIRE FOR AN INTAKE      VALVE FOR ENGINE #803 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,464.88. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER  COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0.

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE WOULD BE INTERESTED IN FORMING A DECORATING  COMMITTEE FOR DECORATING THE TOWN DURING HOLIDAYS AND EVENTS. MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO TABLE THIS UNTIL AFTER THE FIRST OF THE YEAR AND THEN REVISIT THE FORMING OF         A COMM ITTEE. COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION                                 TO TABLE ITEM (B) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF A DECORATING COMMITTEE. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM. VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONERKAYS AND MAYOR MESSERSM ITH. NAYS: 0.

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE WOULD LIKE TO LOOK INTO AN ORDINANCE FOR THE USE OF E-BIKES, SCOOTERS, AND OTHER LIKE ITEMS.  AFTER DISCUSSION, COMMISSIOENR GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO TABLE THIS ITEM UNTIL A FURTHER DATE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIOENR GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  1.  COMMISSIONER KAYS. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHOP WITH A COP WAS VERY SUCCESSFUL.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RECENTLY COMPLETED TACTICAL TRAINING AT REND LAKE COLLEGE.  THIS TRAINING INCLUDED FIRE, POLICE, AND EMA.  FIREMEN JAMES NEFF AND MATT WARREN WERE IN ATTENDANCE AND STATED THAT THIS TRAINING WAS VERY GOOD.  CHIEF FUNKHOUSER WAS IN ATTAENDANCE FOR THIS MEETING.  CHIEF FUNKHOUSER STATED THAT DISPATCH HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED OVER AND ALL THE BUGS ARE BEING WORKED OUT CURRENTLY. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED DECEMBER 19, 2025 FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $93,541.59 AND FOR THE WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $28,967.53 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL IN THE AMOUNT OF $122,518.12.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRU, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND COMMISSIONER KAYS.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00559 TO LEXIPOL/GRANT FINDER FOR AN ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION IN THE AMOUNT OF $995.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.   WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 5. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0.

 

 ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT HE HAD NO UPDATES OR ITEMS FOR   

 DISCUSSION AT THIS MEETING.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT MALKOVICH AND CAPITOL PARK BOTH HAVE HAD SOME DECORATIONS PUT UP AND HE WANTED TO THANK THOSE THAT HELPED WITH THAT. MAYOR MESSERSMITH ALSO STATED THAT ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA HAS ARRANGED FOR THE HOUSE AT THE CORNER OF TAYLOR STREET AND NORTH MCLEANSBORO STREET BE DEMOLISHED. MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THERE ARE FOUR MORE HOMES SLATED TO BE TORN DOWN AS WELL.

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS FOR THIS MEETING.

NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS.

 

IN OLD BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO TALK ABOUT RESOLUTION 25-14, EARLY RETIREMENT INCENTIVE. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT NO ONE ON THE COUNCIL HAD THE RESOLUTION OR ACTUARIAL IN THEIR POSITION WHEN THEY PASSED THIS RESOLUTION. HE ALSO STATED THAT NO ONE VISITED THE TREASURER TO GO OVER CALCULATIONS ON WHAT THIS WOULD COST THE CITY. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE IS TAKEN ABACK BY THE ACTIONS OF THIS COUNCIL AND THAT THE CITY WILL NOT KNOW THE TOTAL COST OF THIS ERi FOR A WHILE. HE STATED THAT THE COST COULD BE BETWEEN $732,206.00 AND $1,032,509.00 DEPENDING ON HOW THE CITY CHOOSES TO PAY. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE COUNCIL RAISED TAXES TO PAY FOR INFRASTRUCTURE REPAIR AND THEN PUT THE CITY AT HAVING TO FUND THIS LARGE LIABILITY. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE COUNCIL NEEDS TO BE BETTER. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT OF THOSE THAT ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THIS RETIREMENT INCENTIVE, TWO EMPLOYEES HAVE SUBMITTED INTENT FOR RETIREMENT. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT SINCE THE COUNCIL DID NOT CLOSE OUT ANY PRIOR RETIREMENT INCENTIVES, THOSE EMPLOYEES WILL RECEIVE THEIR INSURANCE AND THE EARLY RETIREMENT INCENTIVE. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE IS APPALLED BY THE COUNCIL AND THEIR CHOICE TO PASS THE ERl. HE STATED THAT 80% OF MUNICIPALITIES DO NOT GO THROUGH WITH ERl BECAUSE OF THE COST OF IT AND IT ONLY MAKES MONEY IF YOU DO NOT REHIRE.

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAS SAT THROUGH IO WEEKS OF LISTENING TO LECTURES FROM COMMISSIONER STOREY REGARDING FRIVOLOUS SPENDING AND THEN THIS WAS APPROVED. COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED COMMISSIONER STOREY WHY HE HAD MORE MOLD TESTING DONE AT 1403 SOUTH MAIN FOR OVER $2,000.00 AND DID NOT ASK THE REST OF THE COUNCIL IF THEY AGREED THAT SHOULD BE DONE. COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE INSURANCE CLAIM THAT THE CITY WAS PAID OUT SHOULD HAVE BEEN

 

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ENOUGH PROOF OF THE MOLD IN THAT BUILDING AND THAT WHAT COMMlSSIONER STOREY DID                                INAPPROPRIATE. COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE BELIEVES THAT COMMISSIONER KAYS DOES A LOT OF INAPPROPRIATE STUFF.

NO NEW BUSINESS.

NO MATIERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE.

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN. SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.                                VOTE WAS TAKEN. YEAS: 5. COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH. NAYS: 0.

5:24 P.M.

Video

City Council Meeting Minutes – December 8, 2025

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY DECEMBER 8, 2025 AT 5:00 P.M. IN THE COUNCIL ROOM OF THE CAMPBELL BUILDING LOCATED AT 901 PUBLIC SQUARE, BENTON, ILLINOIS.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.  COMMISSIONER KAYS WAS ABSENT. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED FOR A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING FROM NOVEMBER 24, 2025 AS PRESENTED.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS OR NO PUBLIC PROPERTY USE PERMIT. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO BEGIN OBTAINING ESTIMATES FOR FASCIA AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS, POOL ADJUSTMENTS, OR LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFERS FOR APPROVAL FOR THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00152 TO HEARTLAND OFFICE SUPPLY FOR 12 HIGH BACK OFFICE CHAIRS IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,328.80.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00151 TO ZIMMERMAN’S GARAGE FOR REPLACEMENT OF A WATER PUMP ON A 2019 FORD EXPLORER IN THE POLICE DEPARTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00150 TO AXON ENTERPRISES FOR 10 AXON TASER PACKAGES IN THE AMOUNT OF $46,992.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

IN THE ABSENCE OF COMMISSIONER KAYS, MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED FOR A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED DECEMBER 5, 2025 FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $89,046.54 AND FOR THE WATER AND SEWER FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $27,265.93 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $116,312.47.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE MEETING WOULD NEED TO BE CONTINUED TO PAY BILLS. 

 

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT HE HAS NO UPDATES FOR THIS MEETING.

 

UNDER PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPORT, MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE ELKS PARADE WAS GREAT.  HE ALSO STATED THAT A COMMITTEE HAS BEEN INTERVIEWING FOR THE POSITION OF WATER CLERK AND THAT THERE WERE 161 APPLICANTS FOR THIS POSITION.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE HAD ATTENDED THE GRADUATION FROM THE SWIC POLICE ACADEMY THAT THAT OUR 2 NEW OFFICERS HAVE STARTED THEIR FIELD TRAINING WITH THE BENTON POLICE DEPARTMENT.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED CHIEF FUNKHOUSER HOW THE SWITCH TO THE NEW DISPATCH IS GOING.  CHIEF FUNKHOUSER STATED THAT THERE HAVE BEEN NO MAJOR PROBLEMS OTHER THAN AN ISSUE WITH THE LOBBY PHONE AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND THAT THIS ISSUE HAS ALREADY BEEN RESOLVED. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH PRESENTED PURCHASE ORDER #001077 TO WEEKS IN BENTON FOR REPAIR OF THE OIL FILTER HOUSING ON THE CODES TRUCK IN THE AMOUNT OF $865.49.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS PURCHASE ORDER.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE CITY HAS BEEN WORKING WITH S.C.D. REA AND RKH INSURANCE FOR A NEW HEALTH INSURANCE FOR CITY EMPLOYEES.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO GO WITH THE GOLD 3000 OPTION OF LEVEL HEALTH.  THIS WILL COST THE CITY $716.42 PER EMPLOYEE AND THE EMPLOYEE WILL HAVE NO COINSURANCE WHEREAS BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD WAS OVER $900.00 PER MONTH AND THE EMPLOYEE HAD AN 80/20 COINSURANCE.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE LEVEL HEALTH PROPOSAL FOR THE GOLD 3000 OPTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE THE CITY TO PROVIDE END OF THE YEAR GIFTS FOR ALL FULL TIME EMPLOYEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $100.00 TO SHOW APPRECIATION FOR THEIR DEDICATION.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO ADD THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS TO THE SAFETY STIPEND PROGRAM.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE COUNCIL HAD A LISTING OF ALL THE MEETING TIMES FOR THE BOARDS IN THE CITY OF BENTON FOR 2026 IN THEIR FOLDERS.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THIS LIST.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE NEEDED A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2025-10 ESTABLISHING A GRANT/WRITER/ADMINISTRATOR POSITION IN THE CITY OF BENTON.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA TO ADDRESS ITEM (H) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF A PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 24- MANUFACTURED HOUSING CODE TO INITIATE A SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEVELOPING MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR RESALE.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT THIS IS A CREATION OF A SEPARATE SPECIAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW FOR THE PLACEMENT OF A MANUFACTURED HOME, WHICH HAS NEVER BEEN ISSUED A TITLE, TO BE AVAILABLE TO A DEVELOPER WHO DOES NOT HAVE THE INTENTION TO OCCUPY SAID MANUFACTURED HOME.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS ORDINANCE, #2025-11.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

IN MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS, MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WANTED TO GIVE SOME STATS ABOUT THE VETERAN’S ASSISTANCE PROVIDED IN THE CAMPBELL BUILDING.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THIS OFFICE HAS SECURED $268,832.39 IN BENEFITS FOR VETERANS AND THAT THERE WERE 671 CLIENTS SERVED IN THE PAST YEAR WITH 1,014 INTERACTIONS MADE. 

 

ALSO IN MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE WOULD LIKE TO BEGIN SETTING UP A NON-PROFIT MEETING. 

 

IN OLD BUSINESS, MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WANTED TO MAKE SURE THE COUNCIL UNDERSTOOD THAT THE EARLY RETIREMENT INCENTIVE THAT WAS PASSED WILL STAY THE WAY IT WAS PRESENTED.  NO CHANGES WILL BE MADE FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING.  ALSO IN OLD BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE FORGOT TO SAY THAT THE MONTHLY REPORTS FOR THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT WERE PLACED IN THE COUNCIL MEMBERS FOLDERS. 

 

IN NEW BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO BRING THE AUXILIARY POLICE BACK TO THE CITY OF BENTON.  HE ASKED CHIEF FUNKHOUSER WHAT WE COULD DO TO BRING THEM BACK.  CHIEF FUNKHOUSER STATED THAT UNTIL THE SAFETY ACT HAS BEEN CHANGED, YOU CANNOT HAVE AUXILIARY POLICE IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

 

NO MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO CONTINUE THE COUNCIL MEETING UNTIL FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2025 AT 9:30 A.M.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.  

 

5:30 P.M.

City Council Meeting Minutes – November 24, 2025

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY NOVEMBER 24, 2025 AT 5:00 P.M. IN THE COUNCIL ROOM OF THE CAMPBELL BUILDING LOCATED AT 901 PUBLIC SQUARE, BENTON, ILLINOIS.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.   

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT BEFORE THE MEETING STARTS, HE HAD SOMETHING TO SAY.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE IS TIRED, HE KNOWS THE COUNCIL IS TIRED, BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY HE KNOWS THE EMPLOYEES ARE TIRED.  HE STATED THAT HE DOESN’T HAVE A VOTE THAT COUNTS UNLESS IT IS A TIE, BUT THAT HE DOES HAVE CONTROL OF WHAT HAPPENS AT THE MEETING.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE EVERYONE TO SPEAK RESPECTFULLY TOWARDS EACH OTHER AND ALLOW BUSINESS TO BE CONDUCTED LIKE NORMAL. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED KATHY THOMAS WITH THE MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE TO COME BEFORE THE COUNCIL.  MRS. THOMAS STATED THAT THEY ARE SPENDING APPROXIMATELY $3,000.00 PER MONTH ON FOOD TO PASS OUT.  SHE STATED THAT THERE ARE 150 PEOPLE PER DAY, 2 DAYS A WEEK (TUESDAY AND THURSDAY), THAT COME THROUGH THE MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE FOR FOOD DURING A 3 HOUR WINDOW.  SHE STATED THAT SHE HAS PLANNED A KIDS PARTY FOR DECEMBER 13, 2025 FOR KIDS 9 AND UNDER.  THE PARTY WILL START AT 2 P.M.  THERE WILL BE FOOD, DRINKS, SANTA, AND PRESENTS FOR THE KIDS.  COMMISSIONER STOREY ASKED MRS. THOMAS WHAT SHE WOULD LIKE FOR A DONATION TO THE PROGRAM.  MRS. THOMAS STATED THAT SHE WAS KNEW TO THIS AND DID NOT KNOW WHAT TO ASK FOR.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO DONATE $1,000.00 TO THE BENTON MISTRIAL ALLIANCE FOOD PANTRY.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF ANYONE HAD ANY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS TO BE MADE TO THE MINUTES PLACED IN PACKETS.  NO ONE HAD ANY RECOMMENDATIONS.  COMMISSIONER KAYS THEN MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING FROM NOVEMBER 10, 2025 WITH THE EXCEPTION OF ONE TYPO IN THE VOTE TAKEN REGARDING HIRING A PART-TIME POSITION IN THE WATER DEPARTMENT AND SPELLCHECK CHANGING “IDNR” TO “DINER” REGARDING AN AGREEMENT.    SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF ANYONE HAD ANY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS TO BE MADE TO THE CONTINUED MINUTES PLACED IN PACKETS.  NO ONE HAD ANY RECOMMENDATIONS.  COMMISSIONER KAYS THEN MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING FROM NOVEMBER 17, 2025 AS PRESENTED.   SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.  COMMISSIONER STOREY ABSTAINED. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS OR PUBLIC PROPERTY USE PERMITS FOR APPROVAL AT THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE GENERATOR MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT FOR CITY HALL IN THE AMOUNT OF $830.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00724 TO SANDNER ELECTRIC TO REBUILD THE BOWLING ALLEY LIFT STATION PUMP IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,565.93 PLUS FREIGHT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00705 TO X-CELL SPRAY FOAMING FOR 2 INCH SPRAY FOAM OF THE NEW BUILDING FOR THE STORAGE OF THE SEWER VAC TRUCK IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,650.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00703 TO SOUTHERN ILLINOIS DOOR COMPANY FOR ONE 12’2” X 12 FLUSH PANEL DOOR AND ONE OPENER IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,384.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD NO POOL ADJUSTMENTS OR LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFERS FOR APPROVAL AT THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THE CITY OF BENTON HAS AN ASSET IN PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES.  HE STATED THAT THE CITY HAS BEEN LUCKY TO HAVE HIM AND THE KNOWLEDGE HE BRINGS TO THE JOB.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT WE WILL MISS MR. MILES, BUT HE BELIEVES IT IS TIME THAT WE LET HIM RETIRE.  COMMISSIONER STOREY AGREED AND STATED THAT EVEN THOUGH HE AND MR. MILES HAVE HAD THEIR DISAGREEMENTS, THEY HAVE BECOME BUDDIES.  COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF COMMISSIONER COCKRUM HAS SEEN ALL THE UPDATED NUMBERS FOR THE ERI.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAS SEEN THEM.  COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF HE WAS PREPARED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE RESOLUTION AND COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE WAS.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO MOVE FORWARD WITH AN EARLY RETIREMENT INCENTIVE ALLOW  ING CRAIG MILES, JASON MILES, MELISSA HUNGATE, AND SHANNON TOIGO THE OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE YEARS OF EMPLOYMENT AND RETIRE EARLY.  COMMISSIONER STOREY SECONDED THE MOTION.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.  COMMISSIONER KAYS ABSTAINED.

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO ADD THAT HIS PREFERENCE WAS TO TALK ABOUT THIS LATER IN A CLOSED SESSION BEFORE COMING TO A DECISION.  HE STATED THAT THE POTENTIAL LIABILITY IS $732,000.00 OVER 5 YEARS.  HE STATED IF ONE EMPLOYEE DOES NOT TAKE THIS IT WILL DECREASE THE LIABILITY TO $530,000.00.  HE STATED IF TWO EMPLOYEES DO NOT TAKE IT, IT WILL BRING IT DOWN MUCH FURTHER.  HE STATED THAT THERE ARE SOME VERY GOOD LININGS TO THE ERI, BUT THEY NEED TO TALK ABOUT THESE THINGS BEFORE AGREEING TO THEM.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THERE ARE A LOT OF GOOD PIECES TO THIS, BUT INSTEAD OF MOVING FORWARD WITH THIS TODAY, HE FELT MORE RESEARCH SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT THIS HAS ALREADY BEEN VOTED ON AND THE COUNCIL NEEDED TO MOVE ON. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM ASKED PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES TO SPEAK TO THE COUNCIL.  MR. MILES PRESENTED THE COUNCIL WITH PLANS FROM THE STATE OF ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES OFFICE OF MINES AND MINERALS DISCUSSING THE PLANS FOR A RECLAMATION  PROJECT ON THE WARD MINE.  MR. MILES STATED THAT THE MINE SHAFTS WILL BE FILLED IN DURING THIS PROJECT.  MR. MILES STATED THAT AN AGREEMENT WILL BE DONE WITH IDNR, BUT THIS AGREEMENT IS NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT NO ACTION WOULD BE TAKEN AT THIS TIME ON ITEM (E) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT WITH IDNR. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00149 TO AMAZON FOR 6 BROTHER DESKTOP SCANNERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,964.04.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THIS WILL BE PAID THROUGH THE IMPOUND FUND.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT A STORAGE SHED IS GOING TO BE NEEDED AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE AS WE SWITCH TO ANOTHER CALL CENTER, 7 YEARS OF CALL REPORTS WILL NEED TO BE STORED AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT.  PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES ASKED IF HE COULD MAKE A SUGGESTION THAT SINCE THE WATER BARN IS EMPTY NOW THE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS COULD BE MOVED TO THE WATER BARN AND THE STORAGE SHED, THEY ARE IN COULD BE USED FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT STORAGE.  COMMISSIONER KAYS ASKED IF THIS SHOULD BE A SECURE FACILITY.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT IT SHOULD.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO BEGIN RESEARCHING WHAT WOULD BEST SUIT THE NEEDS FOR STORAGE AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER STOREY ASKED WHAT WE WERE VOTING ON AND THEN VOTED YES ALONG WITH COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA HANDED THE COUNCIL PAPERWORK SHOWING NOVEMBER RESPOND HOURS AND PAID ON CALL PAYROLL FROM JULY 9, 2026 TO OCTOBER 31, 2025.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE IS VERY BIG ON VOLUNTEERISM.  SHE STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CONSISTS OF 6 CAREER FIREFIGHTERS AND A WORKING SHIT AND THEREFORE THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS ARE ESSENTIAL TO OUR COMMUNITY.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THEY ARE ONLY PAID WHEN THE BELL RINGS.  SHE STATED THAT THE POC SAVE THE CITY A LOT OF MONEY BY THEIR VOLUNTEERING.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE IS MAKING A PLEA TO APPROVE GIFT CARDS FOR CHRISTMAS FOR THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAS BEEN IN THAT DEPARTMENT FOR ALMOST 8 YEARS AND HE HAS SEEN THEM GO OUT ON HOLIDAYS AND BIRTHDAYS.  HE STATED THAT 99% OF THE PAID ON CALL RESPOND NO MATTER WHEN CALLED.  COMMISSIONER STOREY ALSO STATED THAT THERE IS 1 PART TIME WORKER IN THE WATER DEPARTMENT AND HE WANTS HIM TO BE INCLUDED AS WELL.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT IT’S THE HOLIDAYS AND THAT EMPLOYEES SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS WHETHER THEY ARE FULL TIME OR PART TIME.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS DO NOT GET PAID FOR THEIR TRAINING.  SHE STATED THAT IT HURTS HEARTS FOR THEM NOT TO BE RESPECTED.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THEY ARE NOT REGULAR EMPLOYEES, THEY ARE BETTER THAN THAT.  SHE STATED THAT THEY ARE SPECIAL EMPLOYEES WHO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE FOR $15.00 AN HOUR.  SHE SAID THEY DESERVE OUR APPRECIATION AT CHRISTMAS TIME.  SHE STATED THAT WE COULD TAKE THE MONEY FROM THE COMMUNITY OUTREACH FUND AS WE GIVE OTHER MONIES FROM THIS FUND TO VOLUNTEERS WHO DO NOT DO AS MUCH AS THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION THAT THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS AND 1 PART TIME WATER DEPARTMENT WORKER BE GIVEN $50.00 GIFT CERTIFICATES.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED NOVEMBER 21, 2025 FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $82,024.71 AND FOR THE WATER AND SEWER FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $27,565.67 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $109,590.38.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS FOR APPROVAL AT THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT IN UPDATES HE WANTED TO REMIND EVERYONE THAT THE HOME RULE SALES TAX OF 1% WILL GO INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 1, 2026.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE AUDIT HAS BEEN RETURNED AND THE ONLY FINDING WAS THAT THERE NEEDS TO BE MORE SEPARATION OF DUTIES, BUT DUE TO OUR SMALL STAFF THAT ISN’T POSSIBLE.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THIS SHOWS THE NEED FOR A CITY ADMINISTRATOR.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE WEST MAIN PROJECT WILL BE LET SOON.  ALSO, COMMISSIONER KAYS REMINDED THE COUNCIL THAT THE CITY CHOSE NOT TO PUT A GROCER TAX BACK ON FOR THE CITY OF BENTON. 

 

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT HE HAS NO UPDATES FOR THIS MEETING.

 

UNDER PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPORT, MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS IS SLATED FOR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2025, BUT DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY OF INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE EVENT HAS BEEN MOVED TO LA GALERIE.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH ALSO STATED THAT DISPATCH WILL BE SWITCHED OVER ON DECEMBER 1, 2025 AT 12:00 A.M.  AND FINALLY IN UPDATES, MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE CITY WILL HAVE TWO POLICE OFFICERS GRADUATING THE ACADEMY ON DECEMBER 5, 2025. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED FOR A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00557 TO CONCEPTE OF ILLINOIS FOR 11 MINI COMPUTERS WITH WINDOWS 11 PRO IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,450.00 DUE TO END OF LIFE FOR WINDOWS 10.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED FOR A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00556 TO CONCEPTE OF ILLINOIS FOR 17 OFFICE 2024 PRODUCT KEYS IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,253.00.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE NEEDED A MOTION TO APPROVE THE CREATION OF AN ORDINANCE FOR THE POSITION OF GRANT ADMINISTRATOR.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.   JOHN OWENS ASKED THE COUNCIL IF THEY ADVERTISED FOR THIS POSITION.  THE MAYOR STATED THAT THIS POSITION IS DEPUTY CITY CLERK AND GRANT WRITER/ADMINISTRATOR AND THAT WE ALREADY HAVE A DEPUTY CITY CLERK AND THEREFORE THE POSITION WAS NOT ADVERTISED. 

 

IN MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER STOREY QUESTIONED THE AMOUNT TO BE PAID FOR DISPATCH.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE AMOUNTS ARE $135,473.84 FOR DECEMBER 1, 2025 THROUGH NOVEMBER 30, 2026, $139,538.05 FOR DECEMBER 1, 2026 TO NOVEMBER 30, 2027, AND $143.724.19 FOR DECEMBER 1, 2027 TO NOVEMBER 30, 2028.  COMMISSIONER KAYS NOTED THAT THE COUNCIL HAD BEEN GIVEN THIS AGREEMENT AT THE LAST COUNCIL MEETING AND THAT THESE NUMBERS WERE ALSO REFERENCED IN THE MEETING MINUTES APPROVED AT THE START OF THIS MEETING.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAS BEEN TOLD THAT TAKE ACTION TODAY HAS BEEN SHUT DOWN IN WEST CITY.  COMMISSIONER STOREY ALSO STATED THAT HE HAS BEEN TOLD THAT STATEWIDE TAKE ACTION TODAY HAS RECEIVED OVER $1,000,000.00. 

 

ALSO IN MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THE ELKS LIGHTS PARADE WILL TAKE PLACE ON DECEMBER 7, 2025 AND THAT HE WANTED TO THANK THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS FOR TAKING PART IN THIS EVENT. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE WANTED TO THANK MAYOR MESSERSMITH FOR STARTING THE MEETING THE WAY THAT HE DID.  SHE STATED THAT THE COUNCIL SHOULD BE SPEAKING TO EACH OTHER WITH RESPECT AND “SHAME ON US” FOR HAVING TO BE TOLD TO DO SO.  SHE STATED THAT THE COUNCIL JUST NEEDS TO AGREE TO DISAGREE ON SOME ITEMS.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT WHEN COMMISSIONER STOREY HAD PREVIOUSLY CALLED COMMISSIONER KAYS AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH SNAKES, HE DID SO IN A FIT OF PASSION.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT COMMISSIONER KAYS HAVING A NAME PLATE WITH “SNAKE” ON IT WAS THOUGHT OUT AND SHE FELT LIKE IT WAS UNCALLED FOR.  SHE ASKED COMMISSIONER KAYS TO REMOVE THIS NAME PLATE.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE WOULD HAVE THE NAME PLATE REMOVED BEFORE THE NEXT MEETING. 

 

NO OLD BUSINESS. 

 

NO NEW BUSINESS. 

 

IN MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE, PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTER JOHN OWNS CAME BEFORE THE COUNCIL.  MR. OWENS STATED THAT HE HAS BEEN A PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTER FOR THE CITY OF BENTON FOR 33 YEARS.  HE STATED THAT HE APPRECIATED THE COUNCIL AGREEING TO GIVE A CHRISTMAS GIFT TO THE PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS, BUT HE IS WANTING TO KNOW WHY THEY ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE SAFETY STIPEND. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0.  

 

5:51 P.M.

CONTINUED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES — NOVEMBER 17, 2025

MINUTES OF THE CONTINUED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2025 AT 9:00 A.M. IN THE COUNCIL ROOM OF THE CAMPBELL BUILDING LOCATED AT 901 PUBLIC SQUARE, BENTON, ILLINOIS.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.  COMMISSIONER STOREY WAS ABSENT

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT NO ACTION WOULD BE TAKEN ON ITEM 7 (D) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF HEALTH INSURANCE.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAS SPOKEN WITH OUR INSURANCE AGENTS AND THERE ARE STILL QUESTIONS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN ANSWERED REGARDING THE INSURANCE PLAN PRESENTED TO THE CITY AT THIS TIME.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO TABLE APPROVAL OF HEALTH INSURANCE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

 

9:02 A.M.