Engineer to replace retiring Peru Public Works Superintendent

A retirement in Peru’s Public Works Department is a new job for a civil engineer.  Public Works Superintendent Gary Bleck has worked for the city since 1973 when he began as a maintenance person in the Electric Department.

Bleck’s last day is September 6.  Before he leaves he’ll teach new-hire Sean Mikos the role of public works superintendent.

Mikos begins August 5.  The city council approved his hiring Monday night.  This will be his first job as a city engineer and public works superintendent.  He’ll be responsible for overseeing the 15 full-time employees plus seasonal workers.  He’ll also be expected to handle the city’s small engineering projects.  His annual salary will be $87,000.

Five People Hurt In Rollover Near Utica

A Peru teen hurt in a rollover is in fair condition.

18-year old Kayla Evans was flown to St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria after a rollover crash Monday afternoon east of Utica.  Deputies say Evans was westbound on Route 6 when she lost control trying to exit the road.

Her 18-year old passenger Jonathan Annivalli of Canada and three children in the back seat were taken to Illinois Valley Community Hospital.

The crash remains under investigation by the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office.