The Minonk City Council approved an increase in the water/sewer rate while rejecting chickens in the city at its monthly meeting Monday night. The water/sewer rate increase is 16 cents per 100 cubic feet of water.
City Administrator Bill Moline presented a proposal to allow chickens in the city limits per a request from a local resident. The proposal was to allow up to 6 chickens in a pen no more than 100 square feet in size and a $20 annual fee. The council was unimpressed and the proposal was dropped.
The council approved the annual insurance renewal for $60,000 with the Illinois Municipal League. Mr. Moline said it was the third year in a row that the insurance has not been increased. The council also approved the placement of a communication tower at city property located in the Caroline Addition.
Food Pantry representative Larry Miles presented a proposal to the council that would allow the food pantry to expand its operation with a 30 foot extension on the north side of its present location located at the northwest side of city hall. He said the Minonk Township has approved the project and is seeking the City's approval to go ahead with the project. The current food pantry is in a 30 X 36 room and more room is needed due to the increase in the number of families served.
Mayor Bill Koos told Mr. Miles to give the building plans to Administrator Moline for review.