Bishop resigns as public works director for family considerations

The Du Quoin city council Monday night accepted with regret the resignation of public works director Doug Bishop. Bishop detailed in a letter the family considerations that led to his retirement, but asked that they not be shared with the public.

Mayor Rex Duncan said, "Personally, I would like to fill the position" while realizing the temporary savings if the position is not filled immediately.

The Du Quoin council hired Bishop as the public works director in January 2013 after former director Dale Spencer retired. He was paid a salary of $62,500 and reported to city administrator Brad Myers.

Mayor Rex Duncan said Bishop has served the council well during his short tenure.

Bishop, 59, is a 1972 graduate of Du Quoin High School and holds a bachelors degree in Civil Engineering from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He is a registered Professional Engineer and has a broad background in civil engineering, including 12 years as the Perry County highway engineer.

Bishop left the county when his contract was not renewed in 2012. In 2013, he filed a lawsuit seeking $532,150 in unpaid comp time, vacation time, sick time and personal days for the 12 years he was employed. In July 2013, the lawsuit was moved to federal court.

Earlier this year, that board approved a settlement with Bishop for a total of $105,000. The county paid $52,500 and their insurance company, Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust will paid $52,500. Bishop has commented that if he had a favorable outcome on the litigation it would enable him to retire and give him more time to take care of his family.

In other action:

The council approved the annual $3,000 stipend to Du Quoin Tourism toward Fourth of July fireworks at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.

The council again tabled a hiring policy amendment to an employee personnel as detailed in an earlier story.

The council was given the first draft of a "Property Maintenance" code to provide in-progress inspection procedures for imminent danger facility repair. It will be written in ordinance form for consideration at the next council meeting.

The council approved an agreement with Extenet Telecommunications utility company to improve Verizon internet service in Du Quoin, hoping the city itself can benefit from the connectivity.

The council approved a plan to participate in an energy efficient lighting program if grant monies are available to pay most of the cost of the new LED and related equipment.