Brandun Schweizer has been sworn in as the Illinois 104^th District representative. He was selected by the 104th Representative District Committee to fill the vacancy of retiring state Rep. Michael Marron. Marron recently stepped down to become President and CEO of Vermilion Advantage.

Schweizer is a retired United States Marine Corps Master Sergeant.  He has been working the last few months as an Environmental Code Inspector position with the City of Danville.  Schweizer will fill the reaming year of Marron's term. The Illinois primary election is in March. Schweizer is the Republican Party candidate in the primary. 

“I am honored to be the new representative for the 104th District and serve the residents of Champaign and Vermilion counties,” said Schweizer. “Serving our community as state representative will allow me to prioritize real relief for taxpayers, entice businesses to build and grow here, and work to rebuild trust in government."

He and his wife, Amy, reside in Danville with their three children.

Information provided by Sen. Faraci

A new law sponsored by State Senator Paul Faraci will give community college students a clear path to in-state four-year universities.

“I believe that any student who grew up in Illinois should have the opportunity to attend one of our state’s universities,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This new law will give community college students a clear path to stay in-state.”

Under the new law, all Illinois four-year public universities will be required to create a four-year admissions program that admits community college transfer students each semester, beginning with the 2024-2025 academic school year.

The new program would guarantee university admission to all applicants who have enrolled at an Illinois community college after graduating from an Illinois high school, have earned a minimum of 36 graded, transferable semester hours at the time of application to the university, have attained a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in all completed transferable coursework, and have satisfied the university’s English language proficiency requirement.

Faraci’s legislation builds upon two existing laws that provide automatic admissions to Illinois universities, with one designated for high school graduates and the other for community college graduates. The University of Illinois began guaranteed admissions last year for community college transfer students who meet certain requirements, and Faraci’s initiative extends that guarantee to all state public universities.

"If a program is working at one school, why shy away from implementing it across the state?” said Faraci. “This is a common-sense change that will help students across the state continue their higher education journey right here at home.”

House Bill 3760 takes effect Jan. 1.

Info from City of Danville

The Danville Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division would like to announce its Holiday Collection periods. All garbage routes will operate one day behind the week of Christmas and New Year’s. This will result in collections being done Tuesday through Friday of both weeks.
The week of December 26 th - 29 th will be the Christmas extra collection. During this period, you may put extra holiday trash outside of your container for collection. Wrapping paper and packages should be broken down and placed in plastic garbage bags, set no closer than four feet from your Toter. Any large packages should be broken down, tied into manageable bundles, and placed no closer than four feet from your Toter.
The weeks of January 2 nd - 5 th , and January 8 th - 11 th , we will collect live trees. Trees should be set out no closer than four feet from your Toter. Flocked trees will be collected by the garbage trucks, and unflocked trees will be collected by the yard waste trucks. In addition, during the same two-week period, any remaining yard waste in Toters and bags set at the curbside, will also be collected.
Thank you for your cooperation, and may all Residents enjoy their Holiday Season.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Public Works office at 217-431-2288.

The Danville City Council has voted against allowing cannabis dispensaries to be located in more areas of the city.  Currently they can only locate along Lynch Road. The proposal would have allowed  dispensaries to get a special use permit  along other city road. Mayor Rickey Williams is disappointed the change was defeated.

The zoning ordinance change was defeated by a 6-7 vote.  One alderman was absent.

Those favoring the change said such dispensaries can provide a legal, safe product and bring tax dollars into the city. The opponents either were against cannabis in general, or thought the change would bring such businesses next to residents.

There is one cannabis dispensary now operating along Lynch Road another is under construction. Two others were stopped by fear that there could be saturation of such businesses in the same area. One of those companies went to Tilton.

The Danville City Council Tuesday approved the budget for the upcoming year despite reservations from some aldermen. A motion to table the budget until aldermen have a chance to study a wage compensation plan was defeated. Five council members were in favor of tabling the budget until February. The city had a firm do a compensation study to establish wage levels for all city jobs. Some council members felt they had not had enough time to review the plan before voting for the budget.  Mayor Rickey Williams says the budget that was approved is a good one.

Williams said the wage study came later than anticipated and did not allow much time for studying it.

The budget is about 66 million dollars and goes into effect May 1, 2024.  The council also approved the tax levy for the upcoming year.  It is the same rate as last year. The group also approved establishing tax levies for some special programs and abating some levies for other  organizations.

Danville Mayor Rickey Williams remains optimist about the future of the Turk Furniture building, despite the developer dropping the planned development. For months, there have been plans to bring three restaurants to the building. Williams said that the developer is no longer interested in the plan and the building is now for sale.  But he thinks there is still a bright future.

The plan was for the building to be turned into a bakery, a barbecue restaurant, and an Italian restaurant.  The owners of the bakery earlier announced that it will still be opened in Danville, but at a different location. 

Williams says the city is working with local developers who could bring an even better project to the city.

The listing for the Turk Furniture building sets the price at 350 thousand dollars.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) is seeking a paid intern for her Danville district office. Qualified applicants should have strong interpersonal skills, the ability to manage multiple tasks, possess strong writing skills, and demonstrate a solid work ethic. Responsibilities include but are not limited to logging constituent concerns, assisting staff with research and special projects, and performing administrative duties. 

Those interested can apply at Internships | Congresswoman Robin Kelly (house.gov) or call 217-516-4556 or email Mary.Roberson@mail.house.gov for more information.

Gilbert St. between Voorhees St. and Columbia St. in Danville will be closed on Wednesday, December 20 from 7:30 AM until 9:30 AM. This is necessary due to a tree removal. Residents living in the area will still be able access driveways.

Appropriate signage will be posted, please choose an alternate route. Expect delays in traffic during operations. Motorists and pedestrians are urged to use caution while traveling near the work zone and to be attentive to changes in signage in the area.

The plan to bring three restaurants to the former Turk Furniture building in downtown Danville is over…at least for now.

Mayor Rickey Williams announced that the developer is no longer interested in the plan and the building is now for sale.  The price is 350 thousand dollars.

The plan was for the building to be turned into a bakery, a barbecue restaurant, and an Italian restaurant.  The owners of the bakery earlier announced that it will still be opened in Danville, but at a different location. 

Williams says the city had not received updates from the developer and was concerned, but officials were surprised to see the building across the street from the Fisher Theatre was for sale. He said the good news is that the city is working with local developers who could bring an even better project to the city.  He said these developers have already been responsible for several new businesses in Danville.

Cold winter weather has hit the area which could lead to concerns about frozen waterpipes. Jonathon Keim is Area Manager of Aqua Illinois.  He says there are certain places in homes that are more likely to freeze.

He says if pipes do freeze, be careful thawing them out.

Keim says you can get more information about Aqua and even pay your bill online at Aquawater.com

Warm Neighbors Cool Friends is a partnership between Ameren Illinois and the Energy Assistance Foundation. The grant program helps out moderate income families who fall behind on their heating bill in the winter months as Kim Mangan, Director of Marketing for the Energy Assistance Program explains...

The Energy Assistance Foundation can direct low income struggling families to other programs that can help. Get more information by contacting Ameren Illinois.

Info from City of Danville

The City of Danville is pleased to announce our Corporate Membership
program for 2024! The program is open to area businesses for registrations until April 1, 2024.
Here’s how it works:
-Your company signs up with the City of Danville for a corporate membership ($1,000.00 fee)!
-Your employees are now eligible to sign up for the program. Employees choose a base membership to include
a Harrison Park Golf Course membership, Garfield Pool membership, or both ($300.00 - $800.00 expense).
Employees can then select additional entities to add to their membership at their discretion ($125.00 per
entity).
-You can offer payroll deduction to your employees to make this program affordable to everyone at your
company!
Check out what the program offers and reach out to corporatememberships@cityofdanville.org for more
information or to get signed up!

The holidays are a time for caring and sharing, which is why The Danville Police Department is
partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation to spread the word about the dangers of impaired
driving with a “Driver Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.” enforcement campaign. From Dec.
15 through Jan. 2, law enforcement across Illinois will show zero tolerance for alcohol- and drug-impaired
driving to keep our roads safe and help ensure a happy holiday season.
“If you’ll be celebrating with festive drinks or other impairing substances, make a plan for a safe ride home
before you leave for the party,” said Sergeant Andrew Brooks. “Driving impaired is simply unacceptable. That’s
why we make zero exceptions and arrest all impaired drivers. There are no excuses.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, in the
United States in 2021, a total of 13,384 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-
impaired driver. On average, more than 10,000 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes each year from
2017 to 2021, with one person killed in a drunk-driving crash approximately every 45 minutes. These fatalities
are preventable, and drivers must remember that driving impaired — by alcohol, cannabis or any other
substance, whether legal or not — is potentially deadly and illegal behavior.

Partners with our Community
The Danville Police Department recommends these safe alternatives to drinking and driving:
? Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service.
? If you see an impaired driver on the road, pull over and contact 911.
? Have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take their keys and make arrangements to get them
home safely. They’ll thank you later.
? Remember to buckle up!
The holiday enforcement campaign is administered by IDOT with federal highway safety funds managed by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Danville City Council this week will act on a proposal to allow cannabis dispensaries to locate in more parts of the city.

City code now allows cannabis stores to locate only along Lynch road.  There is one such business now and another is under construction. Other developers have expressed interest in opening, but there was concern that the area would be saturated with dispensaries.  The plan which was approved by the Zoning committee allows cannabis businesses to be opened along other major roads in Danville.

The city council also will vote on a request to change zoning for 209 Avenue C from residential to neighborhood business.  The petitioner wants to open a dance studio in that building. The City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday at city hall.

Barbara Bailey, chairwoman of the Danville Election Commission, has announced her retirement. Bailey has served 40 years on the commission.

Bailey started as an election judge. He said she is proud of the work of the commission for the past 40 years. The Danville Election Commission is in charge of conducting elections in the city of Danville. It also handles voter registration, trains election judges, creates ballot layouts, communicates election results, and creates polling places

Bailey’s replacement on the 3 member commission is appointed by the Presiding Circuit Judge.

The westbound lane of Liberty Lane at N. Vermilion Street in Danville will be closed on Monday from 7:00 AM until 3:00 PM. This is due to an emergency sanitary sewer repair at the northeast corner of the intersection.

Motorists are urged to choose an alternate route. Expect delays in traffic during operations. Motorists and pedestrians are urged to use caution while traveling near the work zone and to be attentive to changes in signage in the area.

Item provided by Vermillion County

Looking to plan a wedding, birthday party, reunion, graduation celebration, or family gathering in 2024? Kennekuk County Park, Forest Glen Preserve, and Lake Vermilion offer building and shelter rentals for your next gathering. 

The first day to reserve a building or shelter for 2024 will be Tuesday, January 2, 2024.  For those making reservations in person, we will begin at 7:30am at the VCCD Administration Building in Kennekuk or at the Forest Glen Staff Office.  Phone call reservations will begin at 8:00am. 

To reserve a shelter at Kennekuk or Lake Vermilion, call 217-442-1691; for Forest Glen call 217-662-2142.  For full details on available shelters, including pricing, capacity, and photos, visit https://vccd.org/services/.

This time of year demands on local Food Pantries is high. Supervisor Mike West says the demand for the Danville Township Food Pantry is at an all-time high.

He said there are no income guidelines on the pantry.  Participants can visit every two weeks.  The food giveaway is on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. 

The Township also has commodities give away with paper products and personal care products.  The last one of these for the year will be next Tuesday at the Township building at 18 Southgate Drive.

He says the Township will be announcing its 2024 commodities schedule soon.  

Danville Township moved to its present location at 18 Southgate several years ago.  West says the building is larger, can offer more services, and is cheaper to operate than the former building in downtown Danville.

News supplied by DACC

Danville Area Community College recently received an in-kind donation valued at $10,000 to support the College’s new Cancer Registry Management program.
ERS, a Health Catalyst Company is an industry leader in cancer-registry support. ERS has
donated its nationally acclaimed CRStar software to DACC, providing the College with CRStar
licenses for up to 25 students.
Introduced this year, DACC’s 30-credit certificate program in cancer registry can be completed
within a year and is fully available online. The program includes a virtual practicum that affords
students with hands-on experience to prepare them for careers in this high-demand field.
Hospitals and central registries hire graduates to work in a variety of roles, including as certified
tumor registrars or as oncology data analysts. As DACC’s program director Kelly Johnson
explains, “People in the field of cancer registry are helping save lives. They provide the data and
insights that cancer researchers and public-health officials need to develop cancer treatment and
improve cancer prevention. They also gather information to improve the cancer care for every
patient on an individual basis.”
Besides offering students a real-life experience in cancer registry, CRStar enhances instructor
training, such as through the use of simulated data for homework exercises or tests. Ms. Johnson
will begin receiving CRStar training in early January so that the new system can be introduced
to cancer-registry students during the Spring semester.
Rohit Nayak, the chief executive officer of ERS, was pleased to support DACC’s new program
with the donation of CRStar software. He says, “While there are many opportunities for
donations in cancer care, the ERS team determined that the best way for us to leverage our
impact and funds would be through helping provide new certified tumor registrars with a strong,
practical foundation of their real-world impact through access to our technology. We are thrilled

and appreciative about how this is being received by education institutions such as DACC as
they achieve their own objectives.”
With DACC’s cancer-registry program one of the few in the nation to be available 100-percent
online, Ms. Johnson has begun casting a wide net for students. She says, “For several months
now, we’ve been marketing DACC’s program to prospective students in targeted cities across
the country. Earning a DACC certificate in cancer registry—especially with our association with
ERS and its CRStar product—gives our program instant credibility and will help assure that our
graduates will be in high demand by hospitals and care centers in any part of the country they
choose.”
On behalf of the College, the DACC Foundation is the official recipient of the ERS donation and
plans to recognize the gift in the near future with a “Big Check” ceremony.

Information supplied by City of Danville

Every month on the First Friday of the Month, the City of Danville plans an entertaining event for the community that brings people together in the heart of the city – the Downtown District. These First Friday events are free or low cost so that everyone can attend, bringing hundreds to thousands of people together every month to experience the charm, history, and culture of Danville. These events support local businesses, create positive experiences, and enhance the culture of our city. In a recent study performed by Studio gwa, we can see that the visitor count for Downtown Danville based on cellphone tracking is peaking on every First Friday. The First Fridays in November, December, April, and May all had nearly 8000 visitors! Visitors to Downtown Danville on any typical day range anywhere between 1,000-4,000. We are going on our third consecutive year of First Fridays events in Downtown Danville!

The City of Danville is so excited to announce our 2024 First Fridays event series lineup:

January 5 – Fire & Ice at the David S. Palmer Arena Free ice skating and sledding for the whole family at the arena and fire-themed activities outside and in the conference rooms!

February 2 – Folklore Progressive Dinner Enjoy dinner downtown with each course served at a different venue and folklore storytelling at each location!

March 1 – Danville’s Got Talent An annual talent competition featuring Danville’s finest entertainers at The Fischer Theatre!

April 5 – Spring Bingo An Easter-themed bingo game at Temple Plaza with the chance to win big! Don’t forget to visit the Easter Bunny at Temple Plaza and have your picture taken at the photo booth!

May 3 – Sports and Brews Zip Line down Vermilion Street and see all the outdoor games, including bags, dunk tank, street hockey, tennis, indoor virtual golf, and other themed activities. Food trucks and beer specials at the local downtown bars.

June 7 – Midsummer Luau & Live Music Come out for this Hawaiian party in your best Hawaiian clothes! Activities include a hog roast, live music and entertainment, Tiki drinks & more! Contact: Ashton Greer Community Relations Administrator City of Danville agreer@cityofdanville.org 217-431-2317

July 5 – Downtown Carnival & Live Music Enjoy a carnival-themed evening Downtown! Find talented performers, carnival games & food, a petting zoo, car show, and so much more right at your backdoor!

August 2 –Taste and Style of Danville & Live Music Have a bite of what Danville has to offer, enjoy our many food options, and visit the unique Downtown businesses that will satisfy your shopping needs!

September 6 – The Artisan Table & Market & Live Music Enjoy a peaceful night with a Farm to Table dinner experience in the street, live music, and artisan market at Temple Plaza.

October 4 – Glow Downtown 5K An evening run in the heart of Downtown Danville with neon clothes, glow jewelry and paint, black lights, and party music!

November 1 – Potterfest Downtown Enjoy a Harry Potter themed festival where Downtown Danville transforms into a magical world!

December 6 – Night of Lights Parade & Carriage Rides View the wonderful Night of Lights parade that passes right through Downtown Danville! Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides during the day and visit Santa at Temple Plaza.

Danville’s  Public Works Committee has approved applying to the  Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for a sanitary sewer system rehabilitation loan.

City Engineer Sam Cole told the committee that the application will ask for funding for the first part of a sewer system rehabilitation.

The city has already had a flow monitoring and sanitary sewer study done for various parts of the city.  The study showed some major issues that need to be repaired.

The committee also okayed a $100,000 professional services agreement with an Ohio company for pavement management services in the area for the Danville Area Transportation Study. Cole said the findings from this company will be used to prioritize street repairs.

He said this video will be used to develop street programs for multiple years.

The Public Works committee authorizing a memorandum of understanding for solar development on the H&L Landfill. Cole says this would be a site of about 60 acres.

He said this would be one of the few possible uses for the land. He says the solar power could become part of a major community improvement project in the future.

The council members also amended the engineering services agreement for the realignment and improvements to West Williams Street from Robinson Street to Logan Avenue. The 93 thousand dollar increase is due to changes to the proposed roadway profiles, environmental screening updates, and the addition of needed drainage improvements.

The committee amended the street overlay contract by an additional $60 thousand due to the addition of Jackson Street from the CSX railroad to Woodbury Street along with required adjustment of unknown manholes and valves. The total cost of the overlay project was $1.42 million.

All of the committee’s actions will go to the full City Council next week.

Information provded by YMCA

The Danville Family YMCA has launched the search for a new CEO/Executive
Director as current leader Linus VanderWyst plans to retire next year. VanderWyst has been at
the helm in Danville since 2017 and says he and his wife Kelly plan to stay in the Danville area.
“We’ve enjoyed living in this area as it has allowed us to stay within driving distance of family
and friends,” Wisconsin native VanderWyst said. “The Danville community welcomed us from
the very beginning, and we cherish the friendships we’ve made here. The Y has been a part of
my life for a long time, so retirement is bittersweet, but I’m confident the board will succeed in
finding the right candidate to fill the role.”
Danville YMCA board president Adam Harmon says the board is working with representatives
from the YMCA of the USA to assist with the search and fill the position. “It’s nice to have those

national resources to draw upon, but we have a local hiring committee and we’ll be very hands-
on throughout the process.” Harmon adds that the board is hopeful to find a candidate that can

pick up the mantle and keep the Y moving forward. “Of course we are sad to see Linus go,
particularly given how hard he’s worked to keep the Y on track throughout his tenure. The
pandemic created challenges for a lot of facilities, and we were blessed to have Linus and his
team here guide us through those times. He leaves big shoes to fill.”
The Danville Family YMCA seeks a candidate that will build trust and extend the breadth and
depth of the YMCA’s reach across its service area, including collaborative efforts to grow and
maintain productive working relationships in the community. The board believes its new CEO
should be an experienced leader who has the background and qualities that will permit him or
her to achieve excellence in strategic planning, operational performance, fiscal management,
staff development and managing the facility. The YMCA serves more than 2,700 members in its
Vermilion Street facility, which includes a wellness center, two gymnasiums, indoor track, and a
6-lane swimming pool.
Applications for the position will be accepted through January 2, 2024 and can be submitted at
https://www.ymca.org/get-involved/careers/opportunities/open-positions/16819 Preliminary
interviews will begin January 17, 2024. The hiring committee aims to have the new CEO on
board by March 15, 2024.

Information supplied by Sen Faraci

With the local community already showing support, State Senator Paul Faraci is reminding residents that they can still participate in the Vermilion County warm socks drive until Friday, Dec. 15.

“I want to thank everyone in the community for helping make this warm socks drive successful,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “For those who are still looking to donate, we are still in need of women’s and children’s socks.”

From now until Dec. 15, community members are encouraged to participate by donating new socks for men, women and children in Vermilion County. Faraci is highlighting the need for women’s and children’s socks as the majority of donations so far have been men’s socks. Residents can donate at these participating locations:

5. Senator Faraci’s District Office | 201 N. Vermilion St., Suite 323, Danville
   • Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
5. Robinson Chiropractic | 3595 N. Vermilion St., Danville
   • Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
5. Westville Village Hall | 201 N. State St., Westville
   • Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Donations will benefit Crosspoint at the Y Homeless Program, Danville Rescue Mission (Vermilion Community Restoration) and Fair Hope Children’s Ministry.

For questions or additional information, contact Faraci’s office at 217-442-5252.

The ordinance change that will allow cannabis dispensaries to be opened in more areas of Danville is moving on the city council.  The Planning and Zoning Commission last week approved a change in the zoning requirements for Cannabis.  Currently, any dispensary is limited to opening along the Lynch Road corridor. There is one cannabis dispensary operating in that area, and another is under construction.  Other such requests that been rejected because it is felt that would saturate the area.

A simple majority vote of the City council will make the change official. The council is to act on the measure on December 19^th.  It would allow dispensaries in B2 and B3 zoning districts.  Each dispensary request would still need approval of the city council.

Two Chicago men are in jail after they  lead Danville and Rossville police on a vehicle chase. Thursday night Rossville police requested help from Danville police after pursuing a vehicle due to felony charges on Illinois Route 1 into the north part of Danville.

Deputy Chief Terry McCord said the vehicle continued into the city limits through Danville avoiding attempts made by Danville officers to utilize tire deflation devices. The pursuit ended on the west side of Danville near Harrison Park. Two subjects fled on foot but were ultimately caught by Danville police and Vermilion County Sheriff’s deputies.   During the foot pursuit officers recovered two firearms.

25 year old Malik E Brown and 23 year old David Cox, both from Chicago, face charges of Possession of a stolen vehicle, Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding, and Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, along with other charges. This is an ongoing investigation, and no other information is being released.

News supplied by DACC

Danville Area Community College drew a classy crowd to Jacobs Hall for the Dec. 7 opening of a permanent exhibit honoring Carl and Mark Van Doren, two historically prominent men of letters who were born in Vermilion County. The Van Dorens grew up in Hope, IL, early in the 20 th century. The only Pulitzer Prize winning
brothers in the 108-year history of the award, Carl won his Pulitzer in 1939 for his Benjamin Franklin biography and Mark in 1940 for his poetry collection.
The DACC event opened with historian and attorney Timothy Smith summarizing each man’s lifetime achievements as writers and Columbia University professors. DACC’s Distinguished Professor of Music, Dr. Eric Simonson, followed with his original musical composition based on Mark Van Doren’s famous poem, “Sleep, Grandmother, Sleep.” DACC’s College Chorus—Adrienne Ryan and Marlee Harper—sang to Dr. Simonson’s piano accompaniment. While feasting on desserts from DACC’s culinary students, attendees watched a short documentary based on Mark Van Doren’s life and were also afforded an exclusive opportunity to inspect some of the artifacts in the exhibit, including autographed first editions of the authors’
major works. The DACC library is preserving these rare books under glass in a permanent display that Library Assistant Kathy Hantz is curating in its “Archives” wing. DACC President Stephen Nacco praised Mr. Smith and Texas-based attorney Michael Eberhardt for raising the College’s awareness about the achievements of the Van Dorens. He says, “Tim and Michael approached the College to tell us the story of these two local boys who made good. They also connected us to the Van Doren family so that we would have the means to pay tribute to these two local literary luminaries.”
To ensure the sustainability of the Van Dorens’ exhibit, the DACC Foundation is building an endowed scholarship fund for DACC students. The fund is halfway toward becoming permanently endowed, thanks to a combined $5,000 donation from Mr. Smith and Mr. Eberhardt.

Item provided by the City of Danville

Since the winter of 2022, the City of Danville has been diligently working on a
strategic branding initiative. A piece of this puzzle is a City of Danville logo that
reflects our newly developed story, pillars, and tagline. We are seeking assistance
from local artists and graphic designers in this process, and we are hosting a logo
competition.
Logo Contest Guidelines:
-Artists may submit up to 3 unique logo designs that reflect the City of Danville.
-Submission deadline is December 29, 2023.
-Email Ashton Greer, Community Relations Administrator at
agreer@cityofdanville.org for more specific instructions and logo style guidelines
before you begin designing. Your final submissions will also be emailed to her
directly on or before the deadline.
-The submitted logos will be presented to the public for a vote and narrowed
down to the top 5 logos. The leadership team at the City of Danville will then
select the winner from the top 5!
-The winner will be announced and the new logo for the City of Danville will be
unveiled. The designing artist will be awarded a $500 prize and bragging rights as
the contest winner!
We are so proud to be a city full of creatives, and hope that this contest is an
opportunity for collaboration and inclusion, reflecting our strength of having a
strong arts presence in Danville.

Info provided by City of Danville

The City of Danville would like to announce that a portion
of the eastbound lane of Fairchild St. between Harmon St. and Robinson St. will be
closed on Friday, December 8, 2023, from 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM. This is due to an
emergency sanitary sewer repair.
Appropriate signage with detour route will be posted, please choose an alternate route.
Expect delays in traffic during operations. Motorists and pedestrians are urged to use
caution while traveling near the work zone and to be attentive to changes in signage in the area.

The Republican party looks to continue its dominance of Vermilion County offices after filing for the upcoming primary has concluded.

Those who filed are Erika Ramsey for auditor, Melissa Quick for circuit clerk, Jane McFadden for coroner, Cathy Moulton and Matthew Long for recorder, and Jacqueline Lacy for state’s attorney. All are Republican. No Democrats filed for any county wide office. Incumbent Recorder David Stone is not seeking re-election.

There are a large number of candidates for Vermilion County Board seats. After redistricting the whole county board was up, members had to draw lots to stagger the terms again. The members who drew the two-year terms are the ones up this election and the ones who drew the four-year term will be up the next election.

the primary is in March and the general election is in November.

A new study shows that Downtown Danville is becoming stronger, and the city can do several things to make it even better. A study by the group Studio GWA was presented to the city council Tuesday.  The study was done as part of a 75 thousand dollar grant from the state to develop plans for downtown improvements.   Ashley Sarver said the study concentrated on several items.

She said that occupancy rate and public use of the downtown has soared since the end of the pandemic.  She said activities like the First Friday events have done a lot to bring people downtown.

Mike Smith of the company says the city could consider several ideas to promote downtown.

In other action Tuesday, the City Council approved seeking a state grant of $24,600 dollars to purchase six sets of complete head to toe gear for firefighters.  Alderman also approved spending up to 48 thousand dollars for 2 new police vehicles.  The disposal of three older vehicles was also okayed.

Danville Barbershop Chorus will hold its  annual Christmas benefit concert on Saturday. The concert will be at 3 p.m. at the Fisher Theatre.

Special guests will be the Danville High School Madrigals.

Show proceeds will benefit The Dwelling Place, which helps those experiencing homelessness and those at risk of experiencing homelessness. 

Tickets range from $10 - $15 for floor or balcony seats, with Mezzanine box seats also available. Tickets can be purchased at the door on Saturday. 

The Danville city council Tuesday heard a report about the salary compensation provided by HUB International.  The study examined whether the city salaries were at market levels and how to set up a salary review procedure. City rates were also compared to 11 other communities. The study examined the salary of 105 city jobs.  It found that 41 percent of the jobs were under the proposed pay range minimum. Putting those people up to the proposed levels would cost more than 600 thousand dollars.

Pay levels were also discussed during the review for next fiscal year’s budget. A budget of about 78 million dollars is being proposed.   

Comptroller Ashlyn Massey said the draft budget includes salary increases suggested by the compensation study.

Several council members felt that the compensation study should have been reviewed further and approved by aldermen before it became part of the budget. The budget and tax levy will be reviewed more this month.  The city’s tax levy is the same as last year.

Danville is making progress on funding the police and fire pensions.  Robert Reitz of Lauterbach & Amen presented an actuarial audit of the pension funds to the City Council Tuesday.

          Reitz said Danville has improved the pension outlook in recent years by putting more funds in than the required amount.

Like most cities, Danville still has a way to go before reaching the state requirement of fully funding the pensions by 2040.  But Reitz says at the current  improvement rates, Danville should hit that goal in 17 or 18 years.

In other business, the city council approved an agreement to have four police officers in Danville schools.  The school district will pay 75 percent of the salary for three officers, and 100 percent of the fourth. The officers will be at Southview, North Ridge, Bailey Academy and Danville High School.

Alderman also  accepted a 1.4 million dollar grant from the state of Illinois and set up a budget line item for it.  The grant will be used to repair homes across the city.

Council members also okayed buying a house at 842 Griffin Street for 52 thousand dollars.  The house will be torn down as part of the Garfield Park renovation project.

Danville Police are investigating a shooting that left a man hospitalized.  Police responded to the 600 block of North Griffin Street Sunday morning in reference to shots being fired. Officers began investigating the incident when they were notified that a gunshot victim had arrived at the OSF emergency room.

Officers spoke to the 30-year old victim. He said he was at a party when there was an altercation among several people.  The victim said he was attempting to leave when he heard several shots and was struck by  the gunfire. He has been listed in stable condition with several wounds to the groin area. No other injuries were reported.  No other information is being released at this time.

Information supplied by VA

On December 9, 2023, VA Illiana is hosting a Town Hall and resource fair for women Veterans from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chez Veterans Center in the University of Illinois – Champaign Urbana.

During the event women Veterans can enroll for VA health care benefits, learn about specific VA services for women, and get their flu vaccine or COVID-19 booster. Some of the VA Illiana programs that will be available at the event include nutrition, massage therapy, and women’s health. The event will also feature snacks, a raffle, and activities for children.

“We are very excited as this will mark the start of an annual event for women Veterans,” said VA Illiana’s Women Veterans Program Manager, Angela Howard. “We are looking forward to getting women Veterans connected with the information and resources needed to access the VA health care benefits they’ve earned.”

VA is committed to providing Women Veterans timely, equitable, high-quality, comprehensive health care in a sensitive and safe environment. We strive to be a leader in proving physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual care to women.

About VA Illiana Health Care System

VA Illiana Health Care System provides services at 6 locations serving a 34-county area of central Illinois and west-central Indiana. Locations include the Danville VA Medical Center and 5 community-based outpatient clinics in Bloomington, Decatur, Mattoon, Peoria, and Springfield, Illinois. The VA Illiana Healthcare System is one of the leading health care systems serving Veterans in the VA Great Lakes Network. We’re an innovative care center within the Veterans Integrated Service Network 12 (VISN 12). VISN 12 includes medical centers and clinics in Wisconsin, Illinois, northwestern Indiana, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

John Koller was sworn in as a Probationary Danville Firefighter on Monday. He was sworn in by Mayor Rickey Williams at a ceremony at City hall.

Republican leaders Monday showed their unity in endorsing a candidate for the 104^th Legislative District. GOP chairmen for Vermilion and Champaign counties endorsed Brandun Schweizer in his race for state representative in 2024.

Incumbent Mike Marron is stepping down from the job to become CEO of Vermilion Advantage.

Schweizer is currently the code enforcement inspector for the City of Danville. He is a 21-year Marine Corps veteran.  He will be the only Republican candidate for the post in the March primary.  Marguerite Bailey had considered a run for the post, but changed her mind.

The Republican chairs have apparently not yet decided who they will name to finish the final year of Marron’s term.

Information provided by City of Danville

Join us throughout December for the Light Up Danville Exterior Decorating Contest! Pile into your car and get cozy as you cruise around town and enjoy the holiday lights and this heart-warming holiday tradition.

We put the 16 homes in driving order for you!
617 Bensyl Ave
213 W Harrison St
428 Oak St
1219 McKinley Ave
9 Lincolnshire Ave
1636 Robinson St
1622 N Franklin St
2803 Eastroad
2501 Northview Dr
2323 N Vermilion St
2129 N. Vermilion St
1505 N. Vermilion St
323 Fletcher Dr
932 N Jackson St
1517 Eastview
1428 May St
Be sure to visit these homes at dark before December 20 and place your vote by visiting our Facebook event page here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1557257721776352/?active_tab=discussion
Winners in both the People's Choice and City's Choice categories will be announced on December 21 and get bragging rights for a year and:
1st place: Engraved Traveling Trophy for a year & $200 Lowe's Gift Card & Grand Marshal at the
2024 Night of Lights Parade!
2nd Place: $100 Lowes Gift Card
3rd Place: $50 Lowes Gift Card
We extend our gratitude to our event sponsor, Heather Cunningham with Classic Homes Realty!