Danville Votes To Remove 2 Dams

Aldermen in Danville have voted to remove two of the city's dams where drownings have happened over the last two decades.

The vote, which was taken Tuesday night, will affect a dam over the Vermilion River near downtown Danville and a dam in the city's Ellsworth Park. Some members of the public argued against the move, saying it will affect river levels and fish habitats. But a group of students argued that drownings need to 
be prevented. 

City aldermen and lawyers worried Danville would be liable if there are more drownings.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will pay to have the dams removed. Department officials say there is a long planning process before work begins.