A resolution to establish a STAR Bond District was adopted Monday by the Macomb City Council. The City of Macomb filed its intent June 1 to establish the district with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Department of Revenue. The nearly yearlong application process begins Jan. 1, 2027.
The resolution passed Monday evening sets Nov. 17 for a public hearing on the Star Bond plan. The proposed economic development district, which totals 103 acres, is anchored by an indoor sports complex at the intersection of East Jackson Street and Bower Road. The resolution also identifies Russell Group Construction & Development of Davenport, IA as the project’s master developer. In order to apply for state funding the city has to have a master developer in place.
Sam Russell, whose father founded the company in 1983, was on hand to witness the council action. He said, “We believe in your vision and we’re excited to play a role.”
In other business, the City Council held a public hearing on its Illinois Environmental Protection Agency lead service project plan.
Public Works Director Alice Ohrtmann said the city would begin the plan in March 2028. There are 656 lead-lined service pipes in Macomb, primarily in older homes and said 250 lines would be repaired each year for five years at a total cost of $23.2 million.
Ohrtman said Macomb received a starter grant of $1 million.
Mayor Mike Inman said, “There are ways of mitigating some of these costs.” A study by the consultants Baxter and Woodman indicates Macomb can apply for state revolving funds. There is an April 2037 deadline to replace the lead service lines.
Aldermen voted to authorize contract negotiations with A. Epstein and Sons to prepare a community travel plan to all schools. Ohrtmann said Macomb was awarded a $100,000 Safe Routes to School grant and that an additional $100,000 grant has been budgeted. She said Epstein would prioritize all routes and cite sidewalks that need attention.
The council approved three grant awards from the Residential Rehabilitation Program: Helen Thorpe will receive up to $5,000 from the East Side Tax Increment Finance District to replace the porch and deck at the rear of 1501 E. Pierce St. and remodel three bedroom windows; Thorpe will also receive up to $2,132 from the East Side TIF to remodel three bedroom windows at 513 N. Scotland, and Kali Shelton will receive up to $5,000 from the West Side TIF for siding, roofing and new gutters at 336 W. Jefferson St.
Aldermen also approved the purchase of a small property east of Thorpe Park for $1,500 to be used for overflow parking.
