At the Kewanee City Council meeting, leaders reviewed a full agenda. Items included minutes approval, payroll, and several community event requests, such as fireworks and a parade for CUSD #230. The council considered a proclamation marking 2025 as Constitution Week and tackled proposed ordinances and resolutions, from TIF redevelopment agreements and sidewalk amendments to community solar participation for a 20% rebate monthly and the upcoming fiscal year budget. A resolution was introduced to fund the Lake Street Safe Routes to School project using matching sales tax funds. Discussions also focused on potential changes to retailer taxes and public sector use of TIF, with public comments invited. The City of Kewanee received another $300,000 grant for lead line replacement. An increase in the Retailers Occupation Tax would net approximately $800,000 in revenue for the City of Kewanee. The current rate is half a percent. The city can increase the tax to one percent without a public referendum. Mayor Gary Moore said he wants the increase to state that it can only be used for roads. Mayor Moore asked Gary Bradley to reach out to Hutchinson regarding the possibility of using a slurry mix for roads.
