The Magill House Project on Mr. Lincoln Square in Clinton was the dominant topic of discussion Monday night at the Clinton City Council meeting.
Tim Jamieson of the DeWitt County Restoration Association (DCRA) came forward to the Council to address the importance of the restoration of the Magill House and receiving funds from a TIF fund that was to be directed towards the DCRA. Jamieson explains since the city has become owner the building, progress has been slow, but it has been made. The important thing he explains is the city has accrued no extra expenses with the building.
[audio:dcra1.mp3] [/audio]
The Magill has had been neglected for many years, but Jamieson says many major issues have been addressed and now they have a future vision for the retail space. He says they are right now focusing on that area because of the visibility to the square and they continue to work towards the future.
[audio:dcra2.mp3] [/audio]
The City Council had on file to approve an amendment to allow the DCRA access to 150-thousand dollar portion of the TIF fund. Jamieson believes there are many advantages to the city approving the amendment. He feels it would spur economic growth on the square and would bring more business on the square and encourage current businesses to keep their buildings up as well.
[audio:dcra3.mp3] [/audio]
The Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce was represented last night by Scott Williamson, who is the President of the Clinton Chamber Board. He spoke in support of approving the amendment and feels the DCRA's plans for the future is a good investment for the city to make.
[audio:dcra4.mp3] [/audio]
Clinton City Council voted to approve them amendment by a vote of 4-1. Commissioner Jerry Milton was the lone "No" vote on of the forum. After the vote, Jamieson was very happy the council voted for the amendment and is excited to get things going with for the Magill House.
[audio:dcra5.mp3] [/audio]
Keep it tuned to Regional Radio News and also dewittdailynews.com as we will bring you more from last night's discussion from the City Council meeting regarding the Magill House restoration project.
