MACOMB — City Administrator Scott Coker told aldermen this week that he would like to revive the Resident Incentive for Purchase to Promote Local Economy program. The original RIPPLE program raised $12,750 for local restaurants and other businesses.
Coker suggested that Macomb could provide $50 Chamber of Commerce gift certificates for anyone who spent $200 at local businesses. He said the offer would be limited to 400 applicants, and would include those who spent $150 during Dickens on the Square on December 4 and 5.
Mayor Mike Inman said the state Business Interrupt Grant is also an option to help Macomb businesses during the state’s current COVID-19 mitigation period. “They could speak with city staff about applying,” he said.
Community Development Coordinator John Bannon said Macomb could create local grants from money left over in its revolving loan fund. He said the city could work with the Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation and other local agencies.
In other business at Monday’s city council committee of the whole meeting, Bannon discussed a pending ordinance to rezone 10905 East 1200th Street from residential to agricultural use. He said David Wilson has plans to set up a Christmas tree farm on the property.
Three letters were received and three people addressed council members during the meeting’s public comment period.
Sarah Shoper wrote to promote the establishment of a One Human Family chapter in Macomb. She said one specific focus for the group would be racial injustice.
Kyra Scott wrote that most members of the city council are not adequately informed about oppression. She said silence aids oppressors. Scott offered the challenge, “Look beyond the messengers and consider the message.”
Emiliano Vera wrote in to once again request Macomb to write a letter to the state in support of barring utility disconnections through March 31.
A.J. Rockwell, a poll watcher on Election Day, said he witnessed members of the county election staff failing to give correct information to Western Illinois University students who came to vote.
Heather McMeekan of Democratic Women of McDonough County said she believes county workers have a biased belief that students are trying to vote twice, once in their home community and once in Macomb. She also said that local businesses that fail to enforce mask wearing and social distancing are putting people at risk.
Marcial Anthony continued to push for a formal dialogue between the city council and its weekly critics. He said he encourages people to use their power for change, or to support others. “Listen to your constituents,” he told aldermen. “You can do it.”
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