Carlinville State of the City Presentation
By RUTH GILL
Enquirer~Democrat Reporter
Mayor Doug Downey presented his second State of the City presentation on Wednesday, May 27. He stated that the purpose of the presentation is to provide citizens with information about the projects underway and the initiatives the City is considering. During the evening, the Mayor reviewed the budget and some capital infrastructure projects, and discussed some of the hot topics the City has been working on. The main purpose, he said, is to give citizens the opportunity to listen to what is going on and what the City has planned, and to ask questions. He understands that during City council meetings, there is an opportunity for public comment, but not for questions and answers. The City’s main goals are transparency, honesty, accessibility, and availability.
Public Safety and Services
The City hired a Code Enforcement Officer dedicated to handling various code enforcement issues. In the past, individual law enforcement officials were left to enforce different codes, but it was not their primary duty. They were busy with the investigation and answering calls. It was the Mayor’s goal to have a Code Enforcement Officer. Then their primary duties would be to handle various compliance requirements and issue tickets for violations. The City’s biggest complaints have usually been about grass, trash, and abandoned cars, among other things. Chief Derek Graham said they have 62 violations so far and 9 citations. This person will also serve as an extra Officer if the current police force is short-staffed or needs extra help.
A few months ago, the City passed a Solicitation Ordinance. One can sign up online if they prefer a solicitor not to come to their house. This is located under “Forms” on the web page. So far, there are around 440 people on the list. When a Solicitor comes to City Hall to register, they are given a list of addresses they are not to visit. If they come to an address on the list, they will be fined.
A new link has also been added to the City’s website that allows citizens to submit a service request or concern related to public safety, public works, zoning, or city administration. They would be required to submit their name and contact information and specify the concern or service request, which would then be routed to the designated area based on the box they choose. This form will be found under the “Forms” link. It would be similar to the solicitation link that was added a few months ago. This link is not for emergencies; if there is an emergency, the person should call 911.
On the City’s website, there is a place to check one’s water usage. They will need their account number to monitor their usage and determine whether they have a leak. One can also pay their water bill through this link.
Read the full story in the June 04, 2026 issue of the Macoupin County Enquirer~Democrat.
