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7-20-26 City Council Meeting
Published: Jul 20, 2026
Church Rezoning and Special Use Approved for North Cummings Lane Properties
The council considered two related ordinances for Greg and Heather Longfellow, representing 'Where Two or Three Are Gathered LLC', concerning properties at 640 and 624 North Cummings Lane. The first ordinance (Title 362717-26) rezoned 640 North Cummings Lane from I1 (light industrial) to C2 (general retail) with a special use provision to allow a church on the property. Churches are not permitted in I1 but are allowed as a special use in C2 districts. The second ordinance was a special use permit for 624 North Cummings Lane for the same group and purpose. Both ordinances passed unanimously after initial discussion and clarification.
Council Debates Multifamily Residential Eligibility for Enterprise Zone Incentives
The council is considering whether to allow multifamily residential projects to be eligible for certain Enterprise Zone incentives, specifically the sales tax waiver on building materials and a 50% reduction in building permit fees. This discussion arises as part of an application to expand the Enterprise Zone to include Creve Corps and Metamora. Currently, the zone's incentives are primarily for commercial and industrial properties. While some communities allow residential use, it's noted that the property tax abatement is usually the most significant incentive, and its impact on schools would need consideration. The city of East Peoria is also considering similar incentives. Historically, multifamily use was eligible before 2005. Staff expressed no strong recommendation, noting low current demand for multifamily housing in Washington, though the Georgetown property might benefit. Councilmember McIntyre supported the idea for competitiveness and affordable housing, while Councilmember Moss opposed it, citing school capacity concerns and differences with East Peoria's situation. The council conducted an informal straw poll, with two members indicating support and two opposing.
Councilmember Martin Raises Objections to Marlene Miller Settlement Terms
Councilmember Martin voiced strong objections to the proposed settlement with Marlene Miller, primarily concerning the release of liability and the source of funds. Martin insisted on a full release to the city and all related parties, including CLED, to prevent future litigation and maintain the city's legal standing. Furthermore, Martin argued that the settlement payment should be drawn from TIF funds rather than the general fund, believing it was a consequence of a TIF-related development. Martin's conditions included a clear release and payment from TIF, and potentially a redevelopment agreement, otherwise stating they would be a 'hard no'. City Administrator Fagen Shu clarified that previously incurred expenses are not TIF-eligible and would come from the general fund, and that the settlement holds the city harmless from future litigation by Miller. The issue of pursuing compensation from CL Red was also discussed, with the possibility acknowledged but without guarantee of success.
Council Approves Appointments to Pension and Economic Development Boards, Amends Police Chief's Contract
The City Council approved the appointment of Craig Sto to the Police Pension Board and Matt Collins to the Economic Development Commission. Craig Sto's appointment is based on his residency, service on the Economic Development Commission, and expertise in financial management, budgeting, and investment oversight. Matt Collins' appointment is based on his experience as a project manager, community involvement, and current service on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Collins also expressed interest in improving communication between the economic development and planning/zoning commissions. Both appointments were approved unanimously. Additionally, the council approved an amendment to Police Chief Jeff Stevens' employment agreement, implementing a 4% wage adjustment (increasing salary from $140,000 to $145,600) and increasing his personal days from two to three, aligning his benefits with the collective bargaining agreement for the police department.
Cherry Tree Shopping Center Receives One-Month Extension for Improvement Grant Project
The Cherry Tree Shopping Center received an extension of one month for their building and property improvement grant agreement, moving the deadline from July 31st to August 31st, 2026. This extension is to allow for the completion of work on the front facade of the building. The delay was attributed to factors largely out of the applicant's control, and the extra month is needed to finalize financial documentation for reimbursement submission. The resolution to extend the agreement was approved unanimously.
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The Washington News archive
City Council Meeting Agenda 7-20-2026
Committee of the Whole Meeting Agenda 7-13-2026
7-13-26 Committee of the Whole Meeting
City Council Strategic Planning Session One Agenda 7/14/26
City Council Strategic Planning Session One Agenda 7/14/26
City Council Meeting Agenda 7-6-2026
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