Macomb's Courthouse Square

Independent Stores in an On-Line World

Rich Egger — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 18:51:06 +0000

Once upon a time, browsing through a book or record store was one of life’s simple pleasures. But now many people prefer to browse on-line, which is making it more difficult for independent stores to remain in business, especially in small towns.

But there are independent stores that are finding ways to keep the doors open. One example is Stone Alley Books & Collectibles in Galesburg. Owner Ben “Stone” Stomberg said he once sold comics on-line. But when the Walden Bookstore in town closed, he got a loan and a grant from the city and set up shop on Seminary Street.

Historic District Dilemmas for Macomb

Rich Egger — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 18:27:28 +0000

Macomb's downtown historic district presents the city with a chance to show off something unique. It also presents some challenges.

The big challenge facing aldermen this week concerned the level of oversight the city should have when building owners want to make changes to their facades.

Ron Purdum asked the city for permission to cover the seven-foot tall windows on the second floor of his building at 113 South Side Square.

Plan in the Works for Macomb Street Repairs

Rich Egger — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 01:14:13 +0000

There are plenty of streets in need of repair in Macomb and the city council is now looking at options to pay for the work.

Aldermen this week discussed whether to issue bonds. Sixth Ward Alderman Tim Lobdell said he's debated the idea for a while and now believes it's the city's best solution.

“I hope we see the long-term value in this. You're talking capital projects. They're going to be used in the future. Those people should be paying the interest debt on them in the future as well,” Lobdell said.