Wyanet receives $550,000 grant for sewer upgrades

Plans for this summer’s Wyanet festival are in progress

Village of Wyanet

WYANET — Wyanet Village President Bruce Hand announced that Wyanet will be receiving a grant in the amount of $550,000 for public infrastructure from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Hand said that this money will be used to reline sewer pipes in the village. Work will begin once the grant agreement is complete with the state.

The 2020 Community Development Grants are designed to provide communities with funding to improve public infrastructure and eliminate conditions detrimental to public health, safety and public welfare. Eligible uses of funding include repairs and system upgrades for water infrastructure that will enhance safety and quality of life for those who live there.

The village also received money from the CARES Act. Part of those funds were used to update the bathrooms in the park. Touchless soap and towel dispensers were installed as well as touchless faucets.

Rescue organizations commended for recent search efforts

Hand took time to commend the Wyanet Police, Wyanet Fire and Rescue units, Bureau County Emergency Management Agency Director Keenan Campbell, Bureau County Red Cross, and the Christian Aid Ministry Search and Rescue Team for their combined efforts in locating a missing resident.

Police Chief Todd Marquis told the board in his written report that the search would not have been successful without the help of the Christian Aid Ministry Search and Rescue. Marquis suggested that the board show their appreciation and board trustee Corey Peterson made a motion to give them a $250 gift card from Casey’s and a plaque of appreciation.

2021 Street Plan projects are set

Village Architect Jack Kusek presented the 2021 Street Plan that is paid for with motor fuel tax money. Parts of Locust Street and Canal Road will be resurfaced and then supplies will be purchased such as spray patch, gravel, salt and fill sand. The board approved the projects for the amount of $120,000.

New garbage truck on the way

The new garbage truck will be delivered soon. The company is waiting for the new garbage cans to be ready at the end of the month. The new truck will be put in use as soon as the employees are trained.

Planning in progress for Wyanet Summer Festival

Kim Rich of the Wyanet Community Club addressed the board in regards to this summer’s Wyanet Summer Festival which is scheduled for the second weekend in July. Rich asked permission for Main Street to be closed for the parade on Saturday, July 10, from 1 to 2 p.m. Rich also got information in regards to the beer garden and liquor license.

Rich also told the board that the Community Club has been in contact with the health department to discuss the festival. The food stand will be open with some changes, including limited food selections, limited help and limited inside seating. Hand sanitizing stations will be set up as well.

In other news, the board:

• Accepted a flag in memory of former trustee John Swarczewski to be flown at Forest Hill Cemetery. The flag was donated by his wife.