Get Ready: WSOY Community Food Drive Day is Just Around the Corner!

Decatur and Central Illinois truly shine during the WSOY Community Food Drive, a special day happening on October 3. This event runs from 6 AM to 6 PM at the Kroger parking lot on Route 36 East. The hard work begins long before that day, thanks to WSOY’s Brian Byers, Kevin Breheny, and a team of dedicated volunteers.

Having served as the mayor, I remember how proud I felt on that day. It was inspiring to see our community come together, putting aside differences to support those in need. Now, as a resident, I still feel that pride. I’ll be joining Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe and the team at WSOY to kick off the day, and I encourage everyone to show their support for a great cause.

In other news, Tim Gleason, who recently stepped down as Decatur’s city manager, quickly found a new role as interim city administrator in Davenport. This move, effective Nov. 3, follows his resignation amidst alleged tensions with councilman David Horn. According to Doug Maxeiner, the outgoing city administrator in Davenport, Gleason is “top-notch” and will excel in his new position. This transition leaves Decatur needing to search for a new leader, which raises concerns about the underlying issues that led to Gleason’s departure.

Gleason’s resignation letter cited “ongoing actions by one council member” that undermined trust. This has sparked debates within the community about accountability and leadership. Councilman Horn insists he has always prioritized transparency and community engagement. As the dust settles, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics unfold.

On another note, during a recent drive through the city’s parking garage on West Wood Street, I was struck by how empty it was. The lower level had only seven cars parked, while the upper level had a mere nine. Many spots are rented out, yet there seems to be a decline in usage. In the past, this garage was bustling, filled with shoppers and workers. Today, it’s a stark contrast. The rise of parking lots and fewer businesses in downtown is reflective of changing times, not just in Decatur but across the country.

Maintaining the garage may soon cost the city more than what it collects in rent. The landscape of downtown has shifted significantly, from vibrant stores to mostly empty spaces. It’s a reminder of how local economies can ebb and flow.

As I join Brian Byers each Thursday morning on WSOY’s Byers & Co. for the “City Hall Insider,” I hope to continue discussing these important community topics.

For further local insights, make sure to explore (insert relevant link to the Decatur Tribune or another authoritative source).



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