Casey residents will see increases in water, sewer and electric rates following Monday’s City Council meeting, as the city works to address ongoing budget challenges in its utility departments. The council unanimously approved Ordinance 584, which implements new water and sewer rates effective June 1, 2025. The increases follow recommendations from the Public Utility Committee…

Casey may commission a $15,000 hotel market feasibility study as the city explores bringing new lodging options to the community. Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee presented the proposal to the council Monday, explaining that developers require such studies before considering hotel projects in smaller markets. “No developers will come here unless we have one of…

Freedom Fest Planning Underway: Casey’s Freedom Fest is scheduled for July 4-5 with events in Fairview Park. Friday’s schedule includes an antique tractor pull at 10 a.m. and Saturday features a garden tractor pull ending at 3 p.m., followed by food trucks, live music, and a beer and wine tent from 5-9 p.m. Fireworks will…

The Casey City Council unanimously approved a comprehensive park recreation project costing up to $339,041.78 at Monday’s meeting, moving forward with improvements that will enhance the city’s recreational facilities. City Clerk Jeremy Mumford presented cost estimates for the project totaling $289,948.05, well under the approved spending limit. The project includes multiple components with work divided…

Casey in Action received a $40,000 grant from the Lumpkin Foundation to support the second phase of a walking path project in the city park, representatives told the City Council Monday night. Marsha Lee and Caleb Towles, speaking on behalf of the community organization, reported that the group has raised approximately $30,000 in addition to…

Economic Development Initiatives: The Economic Development Committee met May 8 to discuss several initiatives including a Tourism Director position, Freedom Fest planning, a Business District Grant program, and participation in the Central Illinois Land Bank. The committee’s recommendations will be developed for future council consideration. Utility Building Security: The council approved a $27,360 electronic gate…

The Casey City Council unanimously approved awarding a $62,502 sidewalk construction contract to Wallace Concrete at Monday’s meeting, accepting the low bid from among several proposals reviewed by city staff. Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs recommended the council accept Wallace Concrete’s proposal for the sidewalk project, which received unanimous support from the five council members present.…

Casey Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs announced at Monday’s city council meeting that he will retire on December 31, 2025, ending his tenure overseeing the city’s water, sewer, and electric operations. The announcement came during Biggs’ regular report to the council, where he also provided updates on several ongoing utility projects. The city has not yet…