1961-1970

1961	Twelve trees were planted with the assistance of the various Scout Troops of the Village in celebration of our Fiftieth Anniversary.
1963	President Fanning suggested a Christmas tree in Dewey Park would be a good thing to have "for the good will of the Village". He would obtain a tree if the board would buy bulbs and help decorate the tree. He would also donate a flag pole to be erected in a suitable location.
1964	The alley, west of South Main, was named Village Lane, running from W. Michigan to W. Vandalia Road.
1966	Attorney was instructed to write City of Jacksonville to purchase raw water from their line at low rate and unrestricted. Layne Western Co. reported sufficient source of water for now and future use of the Village after drilling several test holes. Motion was made to proceed with plans and specifications for complete water and sewer systems. Election to approve issue of $865,000 of waterworks and sewerage revenue bonds: 1,095-yes; 98-no.
1967	Election to approve issue of $80,000 water-works bonds: 716-yes; 248-no. Issuance of $270,000 sewer improvement bonds: 710-yes, 251-no. The Village Board moved to obtain land on West Vandalia for location of water tower and treatment plant at cost of $4,800 from Lowell and Ruth Delong. Approved contract for purchase of land for lagoons from Charles and Helen Johnson for $50,000.
1968	Mr. Roach of 1427 South Main was granted permission to operate a bait shop at his home Wilbert Delong reported our fire department is acting as stand by for the City of Jacksonville until temporary quarters are established after damage by storm. Don Caldwell reported West Vandalia sewer line almost complete and work would begin soon on Village Lane sewer. He also reported that the lagoon was ready for fence and grass was growing on the banks. Mr. Rhoads reported that the water would be turned on September 20, 1968 and pumping would continue until the tank is filled. The first test on the water system had been completed and the remaining two tests would be completed within the week.
1969	Reported 6,689,000 gallons of water pumped in 31 days of operation. Reported all of the sewer project was in operation. Fire Chief Hickox reported on the fire at the Birdsell Apartments. The Village Board commended members of the fire department for doing good job to avoid more serious disaster. An 8 inch water line was approved to run to Hertzberg Bindery. Lengthy discussion of flooding conditions in the Village due to seven inch rain in October.
1970	Motion passed to approve the planned development called Laborer's Homes located on West Vandalia. Chief Hickox announced delivery of new fire truck would be September 29 at a cost of $21,989.

Excerpts from meetings held during the years 1961-1970 . . .