Times Staff Report

CALUMET CITY

Aldermen approved liability insurance policy

The Calumet City Council approved a general liability insurance policy for the city through March 31, 2008, at a recent meeting.

Aldermen also authorized the city treasurer to pay Mesirow Financial $559,296.

The treasurer is paying Mesirow Financial $25,000 for broker services for the same period. The council also authorized the mayor and city clerk to enter into a loan agreement with First National Bank of Lansing in the amount of $450,000 to pay for the policy, to be repaid within 10 months through 10 equal payments.

Economic panel promotes Calumet River Corridor

The City Council recently established the Calumet River Corridor Council and adopted the Calumet River Corridor Economic Development Vision.

The Calumet River Corridor Council seeks to "stimulate investment and economic development, preserve and create jobs, encourage tourism and provide additional recreational and open space opportunities," and generally "enhance the area's image and quality of life," according to the ordinance.

Through public and private stakeholders, the Calumet River Corridor Council will target communities adjacent to the Little Calumet River and the Calumet-Sag Channel, which include Blue Island and Calumet City, and the villages of Burnham, Calumet Park, Dolton, Riverdale and Robbins.

Fifth Ward Alderman Gerald Tarka praised the Calumet River Corridor Council and said it carried no cost to Calumet City.

"It's a long-term vision but it has to start here, start somewhere," Tarka said.

Marble Street TIF would develop 32 acres

The Calumet City Council recently passed ordinances approving the proposed Marble Street Tax Increment Financing Redevelopment Project and Plan, the proposed project area and tax increment allocation financing for the project.

The project will redevelop about 32 acres along the city line, a railroad and the Grand Calumet River in northeast Calumet City.

The city previously purchased the land for $1.

The project should allow tax increment financing to help pay for redevelopment project costs.

Vehicle stickers must be purchased by May 31

Calumet City Clerk Gloria Dooley recently reminded residents to purchase their 2007-2008 vehicle stickers soon.

The stickers must be purchased and displayed by May 31.

Residents who purchase stickers on June 1 and after will have to pay an additional late fee.

License plate numbers are needed to process applications.