Pontiac public meetings in 2025

Infrastructure Committee

The Infrastructure Committee will meet on December 16, 2025. The agenda includes a discussion of the city's 2026 Capital Plan. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and adjournment.

• 2026 Capital Plan discussion

City Council

The council will consider several ordinances and approvals, including Ordinance 2025-0-026-2025 that proposes a 2.9% property tax levy for the city and library. They will also vote on public‑safety equipment purchases such as police tasers funded by a grant and fire radios under an AFG grant. Additional items include approval of a concrete pad at the ambulance substation site, conveyance of properties at 403 W Cleary St. and 821 N Oak St. to CILBA, and an incentive letter for Crescent Cinema. The consent agenda covers payment of bills totaling $170,433.07 and a peddler’s license for Weed Man Lawn Care.

• Ordinance 2025-0-026-2025 Property Tax Levy proposing a 2.9% levy for city and library
• Approval of Police Taser Purchase with Taser Grant
• Approval of Single Source Purchase of Fire Radios under AFG Grant
• Approval of RFP Pad Construction at Ambulance Substation Site
• Approval of conveyance of property at 403 W Cleary St. and 821 N Oak St. to CILBA

The council approved several ordinances and contracts, including the tax levy ordinance, a roof rehabilitation program for TIF homes, and a grant‑funded purchase of fire radios and police tasers. It also authorized construction of a concrete pad at the ambulance substation and reappointed Chief Davis to the VCOM Joint Authority Board. Additional actions approved were the conveyance of two city properties to the CILBA and the issuance of an incentive letter for the Crescent Cinema. All votes were unanimous (9‑0).

• Approved tax levy ordinance (9-0)
• Approved construction of concrete pad at ambulance substation site (9-0)
• Approved roof rehab program for TIF 1 and TIF 2 homes (9-0)
• Approved single‑source purchase of fire radios using grant (9-0)
• Approved purchase of 20 police tasers with grant (9-0)
• Approved reappointment of Chief Davis to VCOM Joint Authority Board (9-0)
• Approved conveyance of 403 W. Cleary and 821 N. Oak to CILBA (9-0)
• Approved writing incentive letter for Crescent Cinema (9-0)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board will review updates on an Illinois construction grant for HVAC replacement and a new state standards grant. It will discuss the proposed library levy for the 2026‑2027 fiscal years and address staff holiday scheduling. The meeting also includes routine items such as minutes, correspondence, and public comments.

• Update – Illinois Construction Grant – HVAC Replacement
• New Illinois State Standards Review / Per Capita Grant
• Library Levy for ’26‑’27
• Library Staff Holiday scheduling

The trustees accepted the November minutes and paid bills unanimously. They voted to raise the library levy by the allowable 4.9% for the 2026‑27 fiscal year. The board also approved a staff holiday pizza party on December 18. The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 PM.

• Accepted November minutes and paid bills (all present voted in favor)
• Approved 4.9% library levy increase for FY 2026‑27 (all present voted in favor)
• Approved staff holiday pizza party on Dec 18 (board decision)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:25 PM (all present voted in favor)

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will vote on a draft ordinance to levy property taxes and an RFP to build a concrete pad at the CIRBN substation site. The agenda also includes the Dixon Subdivision ordinance, approval of the Future's Connections agreement, and renewal of liability insurance. Additionally, the council will approve payment of bills totaling $329,433.61 and review the second‑quarter financial report.

• Approve payment of bills totaling $329,433.61 (Consent Agenda)
• Ordinance 2025-O-027 – Dixon Subdivision
• Approval of RFP for concrete pad at CIRBN Substation site
• Draft Ordinance 2025-O-026 – Property Tax Levy
• Approval of Future's Connections agreement

The council approved the consent agenda, Ordinance 2025-O-027, a concrete pad for the CIRBIN fire substation site, the Future’s Connections Agreement, and the liability insurance renewal. Each motion passed unanimously with an 8‑0 roll‑call vote. No other substantive items were decided at this meeting.

• Approved consent agenda (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-O-027 (8-0)
• Approved concrete pad for CIRBIN site (8-0)
• Approved Future’s Connections Agreement (8-0)
• Approved liability insurance renewal (8-0)

Planning and Zoning Board

The Planning and Zoning Board will meet to introduce a new member and review a request for the subdivision of real estate. The board will also approve minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of subdivision of real estate at 21743 North 1710 East Road (Dixon)
• Introduction of new board member Michele Barnett

The Planning & Zoning Board approved the minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. The board also unanimously approved the petition to subdivide a 2.81‑acre tract at 21743 North 1710 East Road, which lies outside city limits but within 1.5 miles of the city. The Board noted the petitioners will present the subdivision to City Council on December 1 for final confirmation.

• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous yes)
• Approved subdivision of 2.81‑acre tract at 21743 North 1710 East Road (unanimous yes)

Infrastructure Committee

The Infrastructure Committee will review the Fagade Grant Addendum labeled #2 for the 309 N Oak/Miller project. No other substantive items are listed beyond standard procedural matters such as call to order, roll call, and adjournment.

• Fagade Grant — 309 N Oak/Miller Addendum #2

The committee gave consent to approve the plan and recommend passage of a new facade grant for 309 N. Oak. The grant total would rise from $18,234.50 to $20,298.73. With $14,763.73 already paid, $5,535.00 would remain if approved.

• Approved recommendation for increased facade grant to $20,298.73

City Council

The City Council will discuss snow removal regulations for the B2 District and the closure of Play Park Road. The body is also reviewing an Enterprise lease agreement and payment of bills totaling $567,156.06.

• Payment of bills totaling $567,156.06
• Ordinance 2025-O-025 regarding snow removal in B2 District
• Approval of Play Park Road closure
• Approval of Enterprise lease agreement
• Approval of employee Christmas gifts

The council adopted Ordinance 2025-0-025 covering snow removal in the downtown business district with an 8-0 vote. It also approved the Play Park road closure, the Enterprise vehicle lease agreement, and employee Christmas gifts, each by an 8-0 vote. The consent agenda was adopted by a 6-0 vote. No other motions were decided.

• Approved Ordinance 2025-0-025 (snow removal) – vote 8-0
• Approved Play Park road closure – vote 8-0
• Approved Enterprise lease agreement – vote 8-0
• Approved employee Christmas gifts – vote 8-0
• Approved consent agenda – vote 6-0

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board will review and approve the Library Policy Manual. It will discuss the Illinois Construction Grant for HVAC replacement and consider a new Illinois State Standards per‑capita grant. Additional items include addressing StoryWalk vandalism and awarding an Illinois Arts Council grant to Chris Vallillo of Forgottonia.

• Library Policy Manual Review – approval
• Illinois Construction Grant – HVAC replacement
• New Illinois State Standards review / per‑capita grant
• StoryWalk vandalism
• Illinois Arts Council Grant award – Chris Vallillo/Forgottonia

The trustees accepted the September minutes and paid bills. They approved the library policy manual, adding three new policies, with all present voting in favor. The board agreed to allocate budget next fiscal year for 50% of the HVAC system replacement and will begin a new strategic plan. The library will remain closed on Veterans Day and Thanksgiving.

• Accepted September minutes and paid September/October bills (all present voted in favor)
• Approved library policy manual with three new policies (all present voted in favor)
• Agreed to include budget for 50% of HVAC system repairs in next fiscal year (agreement among trustees)
• Decided to begin development of a new strategic plan for the library
• Scheduled library closures for Veterans Day (Nov 11) and Thanksgiving (Nov 27‑28)

Community Services Committee

The Pontiac Community Services Committee meeting on November 5, 2025 will open with a call to order and roll call, discuss community festivals, and then adjourn. No specific resolutions, contracts, or ordinance actions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of community festivals

The committee heard a proposal from Mayor Eckhoff to solicit community ideas for new festivals, with the city potentially providing seed money for selected events. No vote or formal action on the proposal was taken.

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee will meet to discuss city operations and infrastructure. The agenda includes reviews of vehicle leasing, the budget process, and a roof rehabilitation program.

• Enterprise Vehicle Leasing
• Budget Process
• Roof Rehab Program
• Madison St. RFP

The Finance & Administration Committee recommended that the council approve a lease for 14 enterprise vehicles. It suggested moving the budget toward more detailed line items. The committee endorsed a TIF roof rehabilitation program to begin Jan. 1. It also advised council to approve a redevelopment agreement for 218 W. Madison St.

• Recommended council approval of lease for 14 enterprise vehicles
• Recommended transitioning the budget to more line‑item categories
• Recommended implementation of a TIF roof rehab program starting Jan 1
• Recommended council approval of redevelopment agreement for 218 W. Madison St.

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The Housing Study Special Committee will meet to finalize an invitation and review a meeting plan for a developer regarding the Upstairs/Downtown area. The agenda also includes a review of the Roof Rehab Program and a CILB update.

• Finalize invitation for Upstairs/Downtown Developer Meeting
• Review meeting plan for Upstairs/Downtown Developer
• Review Roof Rehab Program
• CILB Update

The committee reviewed the upcoming developer meeting invitation, the roof rehabilitation grant program, and a plan to send six abandoned homes to the land bank for rehabilitation. No votes or formal approvals were recorded; the items remain proposals or pending actions.

City Council

The council will consider the consent agenda, which includes approval of the October 20 minutes, payment of bills totaling $321,936.87, and an application for a transient merchant license for Tree‑Ripe Fruit Co. On the regular agenda the council will act on Ordinance 2025‑O‑024 to acquire 116 W Howard St for $10,000, Ordinance 2025‑O‑025 addressing snow removal in the B2 District, and a 2026 purchase of chemicals for the city golf course. The meeting also includes a public‑properties and utilities committee report and time for public comments.

• Approve payment of bills totaling $321,936.87
• Approve transient merchant license application for Tree‑Ripe Fruit Co.
• Ordinance 2025‑O‑024: Property acquisition of 116 W Howard St for $10,000
• Ordinance 2025‑O‑025: Snow removal requirements in B2 District
• Approve 2026 chemical purchase for the city golf course

The City Council voted 9‑0 to adopt Ordinance 2025‑O‑024, allowing the city to purchase the property at 116 W. Howard Street. A separate motion to approve the 2026 golf‑course chemical purchase was also carried with a 9‑0 vote. Both actions were approved without opposition.

• Approved Ordinance 2025‑O‑024 for purchase of 116 W. Howard St. (9‑0)
• Approved 2026 golf‑course chemical purchase (9‑0)

Public Properties and Utilities Committee

The Public Properties & Utilities Committee will meet on Oct. 21, 2025 to consider items on snow removal, grass maintenance in streets, Play Park Road, and other city services. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; these are discussion topics for the meeting.

• Snow removal
• Grass in streets
• Play Park Road
• City services

The Public Properties Committee discussed sidewalk snow removal in the Central Business District and directed staff to prepare an ordinance for the November 3 council meeting. No other actions were approved; the remaining topics were discussed without formal decisions.

• Directed staff to draft a sidewalk snow‑removal ordinance (no vote recorded)

City Council

The Pontiac City Council meeting will consider several approvals, including a police firearms purchase, a request for qualifications for water‑treatment plant process control, and a new staff position for Assistant Director of Building and Zoning. The council will also adopt Ordinance 2025‑0‑023 to amend the FY26 budget and vote on the acquisition of the property located at 116 W Howard St. Additionally, the consent agenda includes payment of bills totaling $246,698.85.

• Approval of police firearms purchase
• Request for qualifications for WWTP process control
• Approval of Assistant Director Building and Zoning staff position
• Ordinance 2025‑0‑023 – FY26 budget amendment
• Approval of property acquisition at 116 W Howard St.

The Pontiac City Council approved several items, all by roll‑call vote of 8‑0. They authorized the purchase of firearms from CI Sports, a request for qualifications for WWTP process control, a new assistant director of building and zoning position, ordinance 2025‑0‑23, and the acquisition of 116 W. Howard Street for $10,000. The consent agenda was also approved unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda (8-0)
• Approved purchase of firearms and add‑ons from CI Sports (8-0)
• Approved request for qualifications letter for WWTP process control (8-0)
• Approved creation of assistant director of building and zoning position (8-0)
• Approved ordinance 2025‑0‑23 (8-0)
• Approved purchase of 116 W. Howard Street for $10,000 (8-0)

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will meet on Oct 8, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The agenda includes discussion of code enforcement, Tax Increment Financing (TIF) financial planning, banking matters, payroll processing, and employee management. No specific actions are listed.

• Code enforcement discussion
• TIF financial planning review
• Banking matters
• Payroll processing review
• Employee management discussion

The Finance Committee reviewed a job description, wage schedule, and budget amendment for an Assistant Superintendent of Building and Zoning and agreed to refer the package to the City Council for approval. The committee also discussed TIF district finances, a possible change of banking institution, payroll processing plans, and employee‑management software, but took no further action on those items.

• Agreed to send Assistant Superintendent job description, wage schedule, and budget amendment to City Council for approval

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The Housing Study Special Committee will receive an update on the city land bank. It will discuss a proposed incentive and outline plans for a meeting with developers, owners, and realtors. These items are presented as new business for the committee's consideration.

• Land Bank Update
• Discussion of Incentive
• Plan for Developer/Owner/Realtor Meeting

The committee discussed beginning a roof‑repair initiative within the TIF using $150,000 earmarked for a housing program, and staff were assigned to develop the program criteria. It also set the date for a developer/owner/realtor meeting to be held on Tuesday, December 2 at 6 p.m., lasting one hour, to discuss the Upstairs Downtown area. No votes were recorded.

• Discussed roof repair initiative within TIF; staff to develop program criteria
• Scheduled developer/owner/realtor meeting for Dec 2, 6 p.m., one hour

Police Pension Fund Meeting

The Pontiac Police Pension Board will meet to hear public comments, review the minutes, and receive the treasurer's report. Old business includes a payment amount for the October training conference and reimbursement for conference expenses. New business covers a payment to Phillips and Associates, proposed cola increases for retirees, IPPFA dues, a benefit application, a Sikich invoice, and a review of the cash management policy and annual statement. The meeting will also set dates for future pension board sessions.

• Phillips and Associates payment amount
• Cola increases for retirees
• IPPFA dues
• Sikich invoice
• Cash management policy review

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider its consent agenda, including approval of minutes from the September 15 meeting and payment of bills totaling $730,464.15. It will also discuss event-related items such as trick‑or‑treat hours, street closures for the Christmas Market and Last Nite, and permits for three parades. The regular agenda includes approvals for the Fagade Grant at 201 N Mill St., a lease addendum with Pontiac Flying Service, and other project items. An executive‑session will address a property acquisition authorized under the Illinois Open Meeting Act.

• Approve payment of bills totaling $730,464.15
• Street closures for Christmas Market and Last Nite
• Parade permits for Jingle Jog, Light Up, and Humane Society parades
• Approve Fagade Grant for 201 N Mill St.
• Approve addendum to lease with Pontiac Flying Service

The Pontiac City Council unanimously approved its consent agenda and appointed Michele Barnett to the Planning and Zoning Board. It also adopted the IDHA housing revitalization study and approved several grant-funded projects, including a facade grant for 201 N. Mill Street, elevator parts for the recreation center, a 600 AMP electrical upgrade at Centennial Plaza, and a sidewalk grant for school safety. Additionally, the council voted to join the land bank and designate Jim Woolford as the city’s representative.

• Approved consent agenda (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Michele Barnett to Planning and Zoning Board (8-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-R-005 Revitalization Study IDHA (8-0)
• Approved facade grant for 201 N. Mill Street (8-0)
• Approved recreation center elevator rehabilitation alternates (8-0)
• Approved 600 AMP electrical change order at Centennial Plaza (8-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-R-006 sidewalk grant for school safety (8-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-R-007 to join land bank and appoint Jim Woolford (8-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Pontiac City Council Committee of the Whole will consider a façade grant for the property at 201 N Mill St. and will hear a presentation on the Farnsworth wastewater treatment plant. No other agenda items are listed.

• Façade Grant for 201 N Mill St.
• Presentation on Farnsworth Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP)

The Committee of the Whole meeting was called to order by Mayor Eckhoff at 6:00 PM. Council members Barr, Gill, S. Hoerner, Causer A. Hoerner, Bradshaw, and Howard were present; Giovanini and Wille were absent. Presentations on the Facade Grant for 201 N. Mill St. and the Farnsworth Water Treatment Plant were discussed, but no actions were approved. The meeting was moved to a regular session.

Joint Review Board

The Pontiac TIF Joint Review Board will hold a meeting to review the FY 2024 Annual Report and provide a forecast/update for FY 25. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, comments, and adjournment. No specific decisions or actions are listed.

• Review of Annual Report FY 2024
• Forecast/Update for FY 25

City Council

The September 15 meeting will include a public hearing on the IHDA Housing Needs Assessment & Community Revitalization Plan. The consent agenda will approve minutes from September 2 and authorize payment of bills totaling $863,728.11. The regular agenda contains approvals for the Housing Needs Assessment, a concurrence letter for the Airport T‑Hangar project, Ordinance 2025‑0‑006 for the Mennenga re‑subdivision and variance, and GLCEDC dues, followed by committee reports and public comments.

• Approve payment of bills totaling $863,728.11
• Approve Housing Needs Assessment & Community Revitalization Plan
• Approve concurrence letter for Airport T‑Hangar project
• Ordinance 2025‑0‑006 – Mennenga Re‑Subdivision and Variance
• Approve GLCEDC dues

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda. It also approved the city administrator's concurrence letter for the Airport T‑Hangar project, Ordinance 2025‑0‑006, and the GLCEDC dues. Each motion passed with a 9‑0 roll‑call vote.

• Approved consent agenda (9-0)
• Approved concurrence letter for Airport T‑Hangar project (9-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑0‑006 (9-0)
• Approved GLCEDC dues (9-0)

Infrastructure Committee

The Infrastructure Committee will discuss the Nuisance Ordinance and consider a façade grant for the Rt. 66 Roadhouse. These items are on the agenda for the September 9, 2025 meeting. No other business is listed.

• Nuisance Ordinance
• Façade Grant – Rt. 66 Roadhouse

The committee reviewed the current nuisance ordinance and determined the existing code is acceptable despite a high workload. No vote or formal amendment was made. The City Administrator said a plan to assist the Director with code enforcement will be prepared by the end of the month.

• Discussion held on nuisance ordinance (no vote)
• City Administrator to develop assistance plan for code enforcement by month end

Planning and Zoning Board

The Planning and Zoning Board will meet to review a request for the subdivision of real estate. The board will also vote on the approval of minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of subdivision of real estate at 952 W. Reynolds St. (Mennenga)

The Planning & Zoning Board approved the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. The board also approved petitioner Chadd Mennenga's request to subdivide the south portion of the JB Hawks property at 952 W Reynolds St and to extend the existing sidewalk and curb‑gutter variances to the new lot, again by unanimous vote. Director Greg Knowles noted the petitioner will present the request to City Council on September 15.

• Approved May 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision of 952 W Reynolds St and extension of variances (unanimous)

Public Properties and Utilities Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the sewer plant, Fell Park and Bandstand, and Block 59. Discussions regarding Block 59 will specifically cover the Shoppes and the Pavilion.

• Sewer Plant
• Fell Park and Bandstand
• Block 59 Shoppes
• Block 59 Pavilion

The Public Properties Committee directed Superintendent Duncan to arrange a presentation by Farnsworth Group to the City Council on the sewer plant nitrate compliance solution. The committee also asked Superintendent Brock to determine the work and cost needed to rebuild the Fell Park bandstand surface. It concluded that the proposed $60,000 Block 59 pavilion does not fit current city priorities.

• Duncan to have Farnsworth Group speak to City Council about sewer‑plant compliance
• Brock to assess needed work and cost for Fell Park bandstand surface reconstruction
• Block 59 pavilion project deemed misaligned with City priorities

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the library policy manual and discuss the StoryWalk grand opening. The board is also considering an intergovernmental agreement with the Rooks Creek School District.

• Rooks Creek School District Intergovernmental Agreement
• Library Policy Manual Review
• StoryWalk Grand Opening

The trustees unanimously accepted the August meeting minutes and paid bills. The board president signed an intergovernmental agreement with Rooks Creek School District to provide library cards and weekly book delivery for district students. A StoryWalk Grand Opening was scheduled for September 13, 2025 at Humiston Riverside Park. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August minutes and paid bills (unanimous)
• Signed intergovernmental agreement with Rooks Creek School District for library services
• Scheduled StoryWalk Grand Opening for September 13, 2025 at Humiston Riverside Park
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider approving over $540,000 in payments and a facade grant for the Rt. 66 Roadhouse. The body will also discuss a commercial outdoor Christmas tree and a school zone speed reduction on Indiana Ave.

• Payment of bills totaling $540,854.30 from all Funds
• Facade Grant for 201 N. Mill St. (Rt. 66 Roadhouse)
• Speed Reduction School Zone Designation for Indiana Ave. Grace Christian
• Change Order #1 for Pickleball Sewer Work
• Street closure of north Elm St. for Pontiac Showdown on 09/13/2025

The council approved the consent agenda unanimously. It also approved an added expense for the pickleball court sewer work, and voted to install speed‑reduction signage on Indiana Avenue near Grace Christian School. No other motions were decided.

• Approved consent agenda (9-0)
• Approved Change Order #1 for pickleball sewer work (9-0)
• Approved speed‑reduction school zone signage on Indiana Ave near Grace Christian School (9-0)

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will meet to approve the minutes from the last meeting and authorize the payment of $867,860.76 in bills. The agenda includes approvals for a Library Story Walk at Humiston Riverside Park and a request to cancel an OSF Transfer Agreement.

• Approval of payment of bills totaling $867,860.76
• Approval of Library Story Walk at Humiston Riverside Park
• Approval to cancel OSF Transfer Agreement
• Approval of TIF RFP for 218 W. Madison St.
• Approval for Train Depot Alley use for transportation business

The council approved the consent agenda and the Library Story Walk at Humiston Riverside Park. They voted 8‑0 to cancel the OSF transfer agreement, to open bids for the TIF project at 218 W. Madison Street, to approve use of the train depot alley, and to close Water Street for the Thresherman’s Parade. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda (8-0)
• Approved Library Story Walk at Humiston Riverside Park (8-0)
• Cancelled OSF transfer agreement with city attorney approval (8-0)
• Opened bids for TIF RFP 218 W. Madison Street (8-0)
• Approved use of the train depot alley (8-0)
• Approved Water Street closure for Thresherman’s Parade (8-0)

Public Properties and Utilities Committee

The Public Properties and Utilities Committee will meet to discuss using an alley at the depot for transportation business and to review fall property maintenance assessments. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

• Use of alley at the depot for transportation business
• Fall property maintenance assessment review
• Meeting location: Council Chambers, 115 W. Howard St.

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees will meet on August 11, 2025, to discuss monthly updates from the library director, committee reports, and progress on grants including RAILS MLIS and Live & Learn Construction. The board will also review a disaster plan update and Knox Box installation, along with plans for staff training and conference attendance.

• RAILS MLIS Grant/StoryWalk Update
• Live & Learn Construction Grant/HVAC Repairs Update
• Disaster Plan Update/Knox Box
• Illinois Library Association Conference
• Staff Training Day/October Meeting

The trustees approved proceeding with a Live & Learn grant application to fund 50% of the library's HVAC replacement. They also approved Kristin Holzhauer's attendance at the Illinois Library Association Conference and an extension of the continuing‑education budget. Additional actions included maintaining Knox Box information, canceling the October board meeting, and entering then closing an executive session on personnel matters.

• Accepted June minutes and paid bills (consent agenda) – motion carried
• Approved proceeding with Live & Learn grant application for HVAC replacement – motion carried
• Approved maintaining Knox Box information in LivComm records – motion carried
• Approved Kristin's attendance at Illinois Library Association Conference and extension of continuing‑education budget – motion carried
• Approved canceling the October board meeting – motion carried
• Approved entering executive session to discuss personnel matters – motion carried
• Approved closing the executive session – motion carried

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The Housing Study Special Committee will discuss updates from a town hall meeting and review an outline for standardized housing incentives. The committee will also discuss amenities and sustainable practices for retention.

• Review of the Outline of Standardized Housing Incentives
• Update from Town Hall Meeting
• Discussion on amenities and sustainable practices for retention

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss several professional service agreements and a housing study update. The body is also considering the approval of bills totaling $807,869.29 and a raffle license for St. Mary’s School.

• Payment of bills totaling $807,869.29 from all Funds
• Farnsworth Project Services Agreement for Phase II Design of Rail Trail and Old Route 66 Trail
• Lease Agreement for Rt. 66 Association at Old Fire Station
• Raffle License application for St. Mary’s School TPO
• Printing proposals for the Rec Center and City Hall plotter

The City Council approved the consent agenda (8‑0). It also approved the Farnsworth Project Service Agreement, a lease for the Route 66 Association, a Hewn Professional Services Agreement, and two printing contracts for the recreation center and City Hall, each with a 9‑0 vote. The lease vote recorded one abstention.

• Approved consent agenda (8-0)
• Approved Farnsworth Project Service Agreement (9-0)
• Approved Route 66 Association lease agreement (8-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Hewn Professional Services Agreement (9-0)
• Approved Marco printer contract for Rec Center (9-0)
• Approved Marco printing plotter contract for City Hall (9-0)

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss the establishment of a Social District and approve reciprocal tax information agreements with the Illinois Department of Revenue. The body will also review a subdivision and variance application for Tom Ware.

• Ordinance 2025-0-021 regarding a Social District
• Payment of bills totaling $253,883.22
• Referral to Planning & Zoning Board for Tom Ware's subdivision and variance application
• Reciprocal Agreements with IL Department of Revenue for Sales Tax and Municipal Telecommunications Tax information
• Executive session for property acquisition

The council approved Ordinance 2025-O-021 with a 7-1 vote. It also approved a reciprocal agreement with the Illinois Department of Revenue for sales tax information by an 8-0 vote. A second reciprocal agreement for municipal telecommunications tax information was approved by an 8-0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Ordinance 2025-O-021 (7-1)
• Approved sales tax reciprocal agreement with IL Dept of Revenue (8-0)
• Approved municipal telecommunications tax reciprocal agreement with IL Dept of Revenue (8-0)

Police Pension Fund Meeting

The Pontiac Police Pension Board will meet to review financial reports and previous business. The board will discuss reimbursements for training and travel, as well as new membership applications.

• Sikich Annual Report review
• Medical Evaluation Bill
• Training reimbursement for Spring Conference
• Payment and travel reimbursement for October Fall IPPFA Conference
• Two membership applications

The Pontiac Police Pension Fund Board approved several reimbursements, paid conference fees, and accepted two new pension members. All actions were approved unanimously. The board also approved a reimbursement of $30,393.77 to Joshua Bray for his pension contributions.

• Approved $160.08 reimbursement to Shawna Coffey for medical evaluation (unanimous)
• Approved $261.99 reimbursement to Don Schlosser for Spring Conference expenses (unanimous)
• Approved payment of Fall Conference registration fees for Brad Baird, Allan Doran, and Carole Petersen to IPPFA (unanimous)
• Accepted application of Marion Ubozhenko for pension membership (unanimous)
• Accepted application of Dalton Steidinger for pension membership (unanimous)
• Approved pension contribution reimbursement to Joshua Bray of $30,393.77 (unanimous)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review monthly updates and grant progress. The session includes a discussion on non-resident library rates and updates on state technology and RAILS MLIS grants.

• Non-Resident Library Rate
• RAILS MLIS Grant/StoryWalk Update
• Illinois State Technology Grant Update
• Reconsideration Request Correspondence

The board accepted the June minutes and paid bills on the consent agenda. It approved maintaining the $75 annual non‑resident library card rate for the upcoming fiscal year. The board also voted to keep the previous fiscal year's executive‑session minutes closed to the public. Additionally, the board approved mailing a patron’s reconsideration letter.

• Accepted June minutes and paid bills (consent agenda) – motion carried
• Approved non‑resident library card rate of $75.00 for next fiscal year – motion carried
• Approved keeping prior fiscal year's executive‑session minutes closed – motion carried
• Approved mailing patron reconsideration letter as provided – motion carried

Fire Pension Fund Meeting

The Pontiac Firefighters Pension Fund will meet to review financial reports and membership applications. The board will also address a board member resignation and a special election for an active position.

• Applications for membership for Michael Naser, Peyton Cramer, and Aeden McDowell
• Special election to fill an Active position on the Board
• Resignation of Campbell from the Board
• Review of Local and FPIF accounts
• Discussion regarding reciprocity for Russell Callahan

City Council

The City Council will swear in three elected officials and consider several approvals, including a community solar agreement and a license for an outdoor cafe. The body will also review bids for pickleball and a special housing study report.

• Payment of bills totaling $729,831.79
• Solar on Earth Anchor Community Solar Agreement
• License Agreement for Noah Nelson Route 66 Roadhouse Outdoor Cafe
• Art Cars proposal for 218 W. Madison St.
• Raffle license applications for Pontiac Firefighters L3239 and PTHS Sports Boosters

The Pontiac City Council approved a pending community solar agreement, a license for the Route 66 Roadhouse outdoor café, and the Vissering Construction bid for new pickleball courts. It also approved a splash‑pad coating, a .02% library tax levy, social‑district parameters pending an ordinance, an art‑car workspace at 218 Madison, and an archeological survey for the ambulance substation.

• Approved Solar on Earth community solar agreement pending attorney and administrator approval (7‑3)
• Approved Route 66 Roadhouse outdoor café license agreement (10‑0)
• Approved Vissering Construction bid for pickleball courts (8‑2)
• Approved maintenance coating for splash‑pad surface (10‑0)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑R‑004 levying an additional .02% library tax (5‑0, 1 abstention)
• Approved social‑district parameters pending Attorney Schrock’s ordinance (9‑1)
• Approved 218 Madison Street as an art‑car workspace (10‑0)
• Approved archeological survey for ambulance substation (10‑0)

City Council

The City Council will meet to vote on a bid for Centennial Plaza and a maintenance levy for the library building. The body is also considering several appointments to the Library Board and City Council wards.

• Payment of bills totaling $378,975.53
• Resolution 2025-R-004 regarding Library Building Maintenance Levy
• Approval of Centennial Plaza Bid
• Raffle license applications for First Baptist Church and SOCU-F.O.P. 186
• Transient merchant licenses for Country Fresh Farms and The Fruit Truck

The council approved the Art Cars Program and appointed three new Library Board trustees. It adopted Resolution 2025‑R‑004, adding a .02% tax for library building and maintenance. The council selected H.J. Eppel and Co. for the Centennial Plaza project and filled three vacant aldermanic seats for Wards 2 and 3.

• Approved Art Cars Program (7‑0)
• Approved three Library Board trustees (7‑0)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑R‑004 adding .02% library tax (7‑0, 1 abstention)
• Approved H.J. Eppel and Co. for Centennial Plaza Bid (6‑1)
• Appointed Sarah Hoerner as Ward 2 alderman (7‑0)
• Appointed Chan Gill as Ward 2 alderman (7‑0)
• Appointed Anna Hoerner as Ward 3 alderman (7‑0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss city fleet management, ambulance transfers, and unkept properties. No formal votes or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of city fleet
• Discussion of ambulance transfers
• Discussion of unkept properties

The Committee of the Whole met on June 25, 2025. City Administrator Woolford and Enterprise presented a fleet vehicle contract. Fire Chief Campbell presented information on ambulance transfers. No motions were made and no decisions were recorded.

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The Housing Study Special Committee will meet to receive an update from Adam Dontz. The committee will also discuss amenities and sustainable practices for retention.

• Update from Adam Dontz
• Discussion on amenities and sustainable practices for retention

The committee reviewed training on land banks and considered contacting Decatur and Kankakee land banks. Alderman Barr presented Bloomington's housing incentives ordinance and suggested studying it for local adaptation. A resident survey was scheduled for July 30 at the Eagle Center. No formal actions or votes were recorded.

City Council

The City Council will discuss the adoption of multiple updated international building, residential, mechanical, and fire codes. The body is also deciding on several appointments to the Library Board and City Council, as well as a maintenance levy for the library.

• Payment of bills totaling $378,975.53
• Resolution 2025-R-004 regarding Library Building Maintenance Levy
• Ordinance 2025-O-013 for IGA with District 90 Pickleball
• Approval of Centennial Plaza Bid
• Adoption of 2024 International Building, Residential, and Fire Codes

The council approved the Centennial Plaza construction bid, selecting H.J. Eppel and Co. with a 4‑1 vote. It also confirmed three new Library Board trustees and passed a resolution adding a 0.2% tax for library building costs, each approved unanimously. The council appointed Sarah Hoerner, Chan Gill, and Anna Hoerner to fill vacant aldermanic seats, all approved unanimously. Additionally, three ordinances were adopted, including a pickleball court agreement and updates to the International Building and Residential Codes, each passing unanimously.

• Approved Centennial Plaza bid to H.J. Eppel and Co. (4-1)
• Approved three Library Board trustees (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-R-004 adding 0.2% library tax (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Sarah Hoerner as Ward 2 alderman (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Chan Gill as Ward 2 alderman (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Anna Hoerner as Ward 3 alderman (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-0-013 for pickleball court agreement (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-0-014 adopting 2024 International Building Code (6-0)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review monthly updates and address new business. The meeting includes discussions on a state technology grant and an agreement with District 429.

• Illinois State Technology Grant
• District 429 Intergovernmental Agreement
• Personnel discussion in Executive Session

The trustees accepted the May meeting minutes and paid bills. They voted to maintain the library’s current policies that prohibit book banning and censorship. The board entered and later exited an executive session on personnel matters, and adjourned the meeting. The library was notified of eligibility for a $27,500 Illinois State Technology Grant and of an extended three‑year intergovernmental agreement with District 429.

• Accepted May minutes and paid bills (all present voted in favor)
• Maintained current policies prohibiting book banning and censorship (all present voted in favor)
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matters (all present voted in favor)
• Exited executive session (all present voted in favor)
• Adjoined meeting adjournment (all present voted in favor)
• Directed Library Director to draft a response letter to Jamie Doubet (requested by Board President)
• Notified board of eligibility for $27,500 Illinois State Technology Grant (information presented)
• Presented extended three‑year intergovernmental agreement with District 429 for Board President signature

City Council

The City Council will vote on a new ordinance regarding recreational off-highway vehicles and golf carts. The body is also reviewing bids for pickleball courts and HMA paving, as well as specific property agreements.

• Payment of bills totaling $345,940.05
• Ordinance 2025-0-012 regarding Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles and Golf Carts
• License Agreement for water line at 1127 N. Division
• Facade Grant addendum for 309 N. Oak
• Authorization for bids for Pickleball Courts and 2025 HMA Bid Award

The council approved several items, including a license agreement for a water line, a facade grant for new windows, and an ordinance permitting golf carts and off‑highway vehicles. It also authorized bids for pickleball courts, awarded the 2025 HMA Maintenance Program contract, and approved downtown pavement striping. Jason Lee was appointed assistant superintendent of building maintenance.

• Approved license agreement for Richardson water line (4‑4 tie, mayor broke tie)
• Approved Facade Grant for Miller windows at 309 N. Oak St (8‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑O‑012 permitting golf carts and off‑highway vehicles (7‑1)
• Approved sending pickleball courts project out for bids (8‑0)
• Approved Kankakee Valley Construction Co. Inc. for 2025 HMA Maintenance Program (8‑0)
• Approved downtown pavement striping project (8‑0)
• Appointed Jason Lee as assistant superintendent of building maintenance (no vote)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review a license agreement and a facade grant. The body will also discuss capital projects.

• License Agreement-Richardson
• Facade Grant-Miller #2
• Capital Projects

The council approved a motion to forward a water‑line easement license agreement to the next council meeting, passing 6‑2. It also approved sending Nate Miller’s facade‑improvement grant application to the next meeting, passing 8‑0. The council decided to await outstanding bids for Centennial Plaza, to receive design plans for a permanent ice‑skating rink at Block 59 by July 15 2025, and to submit new Madison Street designs when available.

• Send water‑line easement license agreement to next council meeting (approved 6-2)
• Send Miller facade‑improvement grant application to next council meeting (approved 8-0)
• Await outstanding bids for Centennial Plaza
• Submit design plans for permanent ice‑skating rink at Block 59 by July 15 2025
• Submit new Madison Street designs when available

Pontiac Fire & Police Commission

The commission will discuss the process for non-certified hires and conduct oral interviews in executive session. The body will vote on establishing an eligibility list and offering conditional employment to the top two non-certified candidates.

• Establishment of a Police Officer eligibility list based on written and oral scores
• Conditional employment offers to the top two non-certified candidates
• Authorization to hire candidates in order of the eligibility list following background checks

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider several items on its regular agenda, including two ordinances and multiple approvals. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, a $227,343.06 bill payment, a transient merchant license for Tree-Ripe Fruit Co., and a street closure amendment for Taste of Pontiac. Regular agenda items include a summer events lineup, a variance for Warren, election of a mayor pro tem, a committee report, purchases for the sewer department, a tub grinding agreement, and a resolution.

• Approval of bills totaling $227,343.06 from all funds
• Ordinance 2025-O-010 amending the Manufactured Home Park Code
• Ordinance 2025-O-011 Warren Variance
• Approval of Sewer Department purchase of lab equipment
• Approval of Tub Grinding Agreement

The council approved a two‑foot setback amendment to Ordinance 2025‑O‑011 with a 6‑2 vote. It also approved Ordinance 2025‑O‑010, appointed Alderman John Wille as mayor pro tem, authorized purchase of new sewer‑lab equipment, continued the Trost Tree Service contract, and funded city staff attendance at an Illinois Municipal League conference, each by unanimous or near‑unanimous vote. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved two‑foot setback amendment to Ordinance 2025‑O‑011 (6‑2)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑O‑010 (8‑0)
• Approved Alderman John Wille as mayor pro tem (7‑0)
• Approved purchase of new sewer lab equipment (8‑0)
• Approved continuation of contract with Trost Tree Service (8‑0)
• Approved funding for city staff to attend conference (Resolution 2025‑R‑2003) (8‑0)

Finance and Administration Committee

The Pontiac Finance and Administration Committee will meet to discuss several local regulation topics. Items include proposed amendments to manufactured home regulations, food truck policies, and neighborhood golf cart use. The committee will also address engineering staff matters.

• Manufactured Homes Amendments
• Food Trucks
• Neighborhood Golf Carts
• Engineering Staff

Planning and Zoning Board

The Planning and Zoning Board will consider a variance to reduce the property line setback for a garage at 416 E. Howard Street, requested by Warren. The board will also vote to approve minutes from the January 13, 2025 meeting. Other items include standard procedural matters and board member comments.

• Variance to reduce property line setback for a garage at 416 E. Howard Street (Warren)
• Approval of minutes from January 13, 2025 meeting

The Planning & Zoning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the January 13, 2025 meeting. The board unanimously voted to recommend approval of a variance allowing a 2‑foot setback on the south and west sides of the property at 416 E. Howard Street. The recommendation will be considered by the City Council on May 19. No other actions were taken.

• Approved minutes from Jan 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous yes vote)
• Recommended approval of 2‑foot setback variance for 416 E. Howard St. (unanimous yes vote)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees will discuss and potentially act on the Library Building and Maintenance Tax Levy and term reappointments for three members. Updates on the StoryWalk project and Heartland Community College signage and tornado shelter plans are also on the agenda. The meeting includes a consent agenda for minutes and bills, and an executive session for personnel.

• Library Building and Maintenance Tax Levy (New Business)
• Term reappointments for Connie, Eric, Kathy (Old Business)
• Update on 'Reading is a Walk in the Park' StoryWalk project (Old Business)
• Heartland Community College updates on signage and tornado shelter (New Business)
• Consent agenda: approval of minutes and payment of bills

The board accepted the April minutes and paid bills. It approved a .02% increase to the building and maintenance tax levy for the next fiscal year. The board authorized hiring three temporary part‑time staff for the summer reading program. Procedural motions to enter and exit an executive session and to adjourn the meeting were also carried.

• Accepted April minutes and paid bills – motion carried, all present voted in favor
• Approved .02% increase to building and maintenance tax levy – motion carried, all present voted in favor
• Authorized hiring three temporary part‑time personnel for summer reading program – decision announced
• Approved motion to enter executive session for personnel matters – motion carried, all present voted in favor
• Approved motion to exit executive session – motion carried, all present voted in favor
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting – motion carried, all present voted in favor

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The Housing Study Special Committee will review preliminary information from an IHDA housing stock survey. The committee will also receive a progress report regarding fire safety for upstairs downtown locations.

• Review of IHDA housing stock survey preliminary information
• Progress report on upstairs Downtown fire safety discussion

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider an ordinance amending manufactured home regulations, approve a renewal of the IDOT Route 116 maintenance agreement (with first-year compensation of $14,845.46), and vote on a police vehicle purchase. Also on the agenda are a rebid for Centennial Plaza, use of Chautauqua Park for the KIDSNIC 2025 picnic, and signage for trucks on N. Locust St. The council will also swear in newly elected officials and hold a meeting of the Civic Center Authority.

• Ordinance 2025-O-010 amending Chapter 28 (Manufactured Homes)
• IDOT Rt. 116 Maintenance Agreement Renewal ($14,845.46 for first year)
• Police Vehicle Purchase (dollar amount not specified)
• Rebid Centennial Plaza (after previous bid was rejected)
• Approval of KIDSNIC 2025 use of Chautauqua Park (free community picnic)

The council approved several actions, each passing with an 8‑0 vote: moving the Kidsnic picnic to Humiston‑Riverside Park, continuing the IDOT Route 116 maintenance contract, sending Ordinance 2025‑0‑010 to the Finance Committee, reopening Centennial Plaza for new bids, installing signage for the printing‑factory loading dock, purchasing a new police vehicle, and upgrading the Rec Center elevator. No motions were denied or tabled.

• Approved moving Kidsnic annual picnic to Humiston‑Riverside Park (8‑0)
• Approved continuing IDOT Route 116 maintenance contract (8‑0)
• Sent Ordinance 2025‑0‑010 to Finance Committee for further discussion (8‑0)
• Approved reopening Centennial Plaza for new bids (8‑0)
• Approved installing signage directing semi‑trucks to the printing factory (8‑0)
• Approved purchase of a new police vehicle (8‑0)
• Approved upgrade of the Rec Center elevator (8‑0)

Infrastructure Committee

The Pontiac City Council Infrastructure Committee is meeting primarily for procedural items. The agenda includes discussion of Centennial Plaza and N. Locust Street, but no specific details are provided. No decisions are listed; the meeting may be informational or preliminary.

• Discussion of Centennial Plaza
• Discussion of N. Locust Street

The Infrastructure Committee reached consensus to let the Centennial Plaza project out for bids again, giving contractors more time to price the work. The committee also recommended posting "no trucks" signs on N. Locust St. and improving driver signage for the LSC loading area, to be taken to the full City Council for approval.

• Centennial Plaza project to be re‑let for bids (consensus)
• Recommend posting "no trucks" signs on N. Locust St. (to be presented to Council)
• Recommend improving driver signage for LSC loading area (to be presented to Council)

Finance and Administration Committee

The Finance and Administration Committee will meet to discuss the Riverside Mobile Home Park. The remainder of the agenda consists of procedural items.

• Discussion regarding Riverside Mobile Home Park

The committee discussed the deteriorating conditions at Riverside Mobile Home Park, including uninhabitable trailers, water‑pressure boil order, and multiple plumbing and sewer issues. It determined the best course of action is to document code violations and ready the city for legal action to address the problems. No formal vote was recorded.

• Document violations and prepare legal action for Riverside Mobile Home Park (no vote recorded)

Pontiac Fire & Police Commission

The Pontiac Fire & Police Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss firefighter candidate interviews in executive session. Possible actions include authorizing the fire chief to finalize a firefighter eligibility list and make conditional job offers to successful candidates.

• Request to enter executive session for oral interviews with firefighter candidates to establish an eligibility list
• Possible action to allow fire chief to complete the firefighter eligibility list per state statute
• Possible action to allow fire chief to offer conditional employment to candidates on the eligibility list
• Possible action to allow fire chief to hire candidates who pass conditional exams

Police Pension Fund Meeting

The Pontiac Police Pension Board will hold a regular meeting to discuss and decide on several financial and administrative items. Old business includes fiduciary insurance, a payment to the city for overpaid contributions, and conference/hotel reimbursements (amounts to be determined). New business includes a medical evaluation bill, a membership application, the Sikich agreement and invoice, a pension transfer, elections, and a review of the cash management policy.

• Fiduciary insurance amount to be determined
• Payment to City for overpayment of contributions (amount)
• Shawna Coffey's Medical Evaluation Bill
• Sikich Agreement and Invoice
• Pension Transfer and Board Elections

The board approved several financial actions, including a $189,497.80 pension transfer to Bloomington Police Department for former officer Brian Enderli. It also renewed fiduciary insurance for $3,746.00 and committed to keep a $300,000 bank balance. Additional unanimous approvals covered reimbursements, membership admission, and small service payments.

• Approved repayment of $3,470.88 overpayment to City of Pontiac (unanimous)
• Approved reimbursement of $510.00 for conference registration and $271.99 for lodging to Don Schlosser (unanimous)
• Approved pension membership for Wyatt Griffith (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $4,855 to Sikich & Assoc. for services (unanimous)
• Approved pension transfer payment of $189,497.80 to Bloomington PD for former officer Brian Enderli (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $185 to Phillips & Assoc. for pension direct deposit (unanimous)
• Renewed fiduciary insurance at $3,746.00 (previously authorized, unanimous)
• Agreed to maintain a $300,000 bank balance (unanimous)

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider an ordinance to implement a 1% municipal grocery tax starting in 2026. Other business includes appointing Seth Brown as Director of the Municipal Band, approving an intergovernmental agreement with the Cornell Fire Protection District for ambulance services, and a variance request for a garage at 416 E. Howard Street. The council also will vote on the City Hall Facade Project, a facade grant for 309 N. Oak-Miller, and a bid for Centennial Plaza.

• Ordinance 2025-0-009: Municipal 1% Grocery Tax starting in 2026
• Appointment of Seth Brown as Director of the Municipal Band
• Intergovernmental agreement with Cornell Fire Protection District for ambulance services
• Referral to Planning & Zoning Board for variance of lot coverage and setback for a garage at 416 E. Howard
• Approval of City Hall Facade Project, Facade Grant at 309 N. Oak-Miller, and bid for Centennial Plaza

The council approved several routine items, including the April 7 minutes, bill payments, a variance referral, and appointments. It adopted an intergovernmental ambulance agreement, purchased a dump truck, and approved the City Hall façade project and a façade grant. The council also passed Ordinance 2025‑O‑009, establishing a 1% municipal grocery tax to take effect in 2026, and rejected the Centennial Plaza bid. All actions were voted on and recorded.

• Approved April 7 minutes (8-0)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $115,367.74 (8-0)
• Approved referral to Planning & Zoning Board for variance at 416 E. Howard St (8-0)
• Approved Seth Brown as Municipal Band Director (8-0)
• Approved ambulance services agreement with Cornell Fire Protection District for $30,000 (8-0)
• Approved purchase of 2023 one‑ton dump truck for $60,309 (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑O‑009 establishing a 1% grocery tax (6-2)
• Rejected Opperman & Son’s bid for Centennial Plaza work (8-0)

Infrastructure Committee

The Infrastructure Committee will meet to review a façade grant for 309 Oak St. and discuss downtown parking arrangements. The parking discussion includes handicap spaces and potential loading/unloading zones.

• Façade Grant for 309 Oak St.-Miller
• Handicap parking spaces
• Potential loading/unloading zones

Finance and Administration Committee

The Pontiac Finance and Administration Committee will discuss four items: a proposed 1% grocery tax, plans for City Hall renovation, a TIF I redevelopment project involving Hoerner, and a review of neighborhood golf cart regulations under Article V of the Municipal Code. No votes are indicated; these are agenda topics for discussion.

• Review of proposed 1% grocery tax
• City Hall renovation discussion
• TIF I redevelopment—Hoerner project
• Neighborhood golf carts review—Article V of Municipal Code

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting covering consent agenda, director's report, and committee updates. Notable new business includes discussion of risks of funding cuts from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, planning for 'Last Night 2025', highlights of the 2025 summer reading program, and term reappointments for trustees Connie, Eric, and Kathy. Old business includes an update on the 'Reading is a Walk in the Park' storywalk.

• Discussion on risks of funding cuts from the Institute of Museum and Library Services
• Term reappointments for trustees Connie, Eric, and Kathy
• Update on 'Reading is a Walk in the Park' storywalk project
• Highlights of Summer Reading Program 2025: Level Up at your Library
• Planning for 'Last Night 2025' event

The board accepted the March minutes and related bills. It approved transferring $50,000 from the money‑market account at the Bank of Pontiac into a certificate of deposit at State Bank of Graymont for a higher interest rate. The board gave Director Kristin discretion on whether to provide story‑time services for the Last Night 2025 event and agreed that members will seek three‑year reappointments. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved acceptance of March minutes and bills (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $50,000 to a CD at State Bank of Graymont
• Board gave Director discretion on Last Night 2025 story‑time request
• Board members Connie Snyder, Eric Hoover, and Kathy McLean will seek three‑year reappointments
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will discuss airport consultant agreements and runway rehabilitation. The body is also considering vehicle purchases for the Streets department and Wastewater Treatment Plant, as well as a housing study report.

• Payment of bills totaling $536,112.73
• Ordinance 2025-O-008 regarding Airport Retainer Agreement Runway Rehab-CMT
• Vehicle purchases for Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) and Streets department
• Street closures for Swinging Bridges Art Festival (May 3-4) and All Pontiac Day (May 18)
• Raffle license application for St. Mary’s School PTO

The City Council approved the consent agenda items, including payment of $536,112.73 in bills. It also approved street closures for upcoming summer events, a substation amendment costing $20,000‑$30,000, and multiple vehicle purchases. Additional approvals covered the airport consultant contract, an airport retainer ordinance, and the disposition of surplus property.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $536,112.73 (7-0)
• Approved street closures for May, June and September events (7-0)
• Approved Farnsworth Amendment to Substation Agreement, $20,000‑$30,000 (7-0)
• Approved Crawford, Murphy & Tilly as airport consultant (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-0-008 for airport retainer agreement (7-0)
• Approved purchase of 2024 F250 XL Ford truck for WWTP, $55,447.70 (7-0)
• Approved purchase of dump truck for streets, $73,866.70 (7-0)
• Approved disposition of surplus property via GovDeals or scrap (7-0)

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The committee will receive a presentation from the Livingston County Housing Authority. The meeting also includes an update on the Illinois Housing Development Authority assessment.

• Presentation by the Livingston County Housing Authority
• Illinois Housing Development Authority assessment update

The Housing Study Special Committee heard a presentation on Low Income Housing Tax Credits and a status update on the Illinois Housing Development Authority neighborhood assessment. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

City Council

The Pontiac City Council is holding a special meeting to consider two ordinances: approving a three-year collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 179 (2025-2028) and adopting the FY 2025-2026 budget. The council will also vote on facade grant applications for two properties. The meeting is scheduled for March 25, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

• Facade grant approval for 214 N Plum St.
• Facade grant approval for 219 W Washington St.
• Ordinance 2025-O-005: Teamsters contract 2025-2028
• Ordinance 2025-O-004: FY 2025-2026 budget

The council unanimously approved the 2025/2026 City of Pontiac budget. It also approved two United Way façade grant projects—$38,040 for 214 N. Plum St. and $4,670 for 219 W. Washington St.—with the city covering half the cost of each. The Teamsters Local No. 179 contract (Ordinance 2025-O0-005) was approved as written.

• Approved 2025/2026 city budget (6-0)
• Approved United Way façade grant for 214 N. Plum St.; city share $19,020 (6-0)
• Approved United Way façade grant for 219 W. Washington St.; city share $2,335 (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-O0-005, Teamsters contract (6-0)

Infrastructure Committee

The Pontiac City Council Infrastructure Committee is meeting to consider two facade grant applications and discuss Block 59. The agenda includes applications for 214 N Plum St (applicant Gary Babb, estimated cost $56,315) and 219 W Washington St (applicant Eppel). No details are provided for Block 59.

• Façade grant application for 214 N Plum St. – $56,315 request
• Façade grant application for 219 W Washington St.
• Discussion of Block 59 (no details given)

City Council

The city council will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2025-2026 budget, which projects total revenues of $8.36 million and expenses of $8.04 million. The regular meeting includes consent items such as approving bills totaling $298,505.39 and minutes from prior meetings. Regular agenda items include approval of the United Way Summer Bash plan, appointment of Dale Newsome to the Fire and Police Commission, and introduction of a new wastewater superintendent. Also up for discussion are a resolution for IDOT street maintenance, an ordinance for Redwood annexation, purchases for street salt and a cemetery utility vehicle, a blower installation at the wastewater treatment plant, and updates on electricity bids and the substation.

• Public hearing on 2026 budget – proposed General Fund revenues $8,363,450, expenses $8,044,100
• Approval of bills totaling $298,505.39 from all funds
• Ordinance 2025-0-006 – Redwood Annexation
• Resolution 2025-R-002 – IDOT Street Maintenance
• Appointment of Dale Newsome to fill vacancy on Fire and Police Commission

The Pontiac City Council held a public hearing on the 2025-2026 budget, then approved all consent agenda items and regular agenda motions unanimously (9-0). Key approvals included the Redwood Home annexation and zoning ordinance, a $35,000 blower installation at the wastewater plant, a street salt purchase agreement, and a $26,343.12 utility vehicle for the cemetery department. The council also accepted a resignation and made an appointment to the Planning & Zoning Board.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes and $298,505.39 in bills (9-0)
• Approved United Way Summer Bash street closure for May 23 (9-0)
• Approved resignation of Dave Lopeman and appointment of Dale Newsom to Planning & Zoning Board (9-0)
• Approved $35,000 blower installation at WWTP with CMI (9-0)
• Approved state street salt purchase agreement (9-0)
• Approved $26,343.12 Kubota utility vehicle for Cemetery Department (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-R-002 for annual street maintenance (9-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-O-002 Redwood Home Annexation and Zoning (9-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Pontiac City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Discussion of the FY 2026 budget

The Pontiac City Council Committee of the Whole discussed non-union city employee salaries and reached consensus on a 3% increase for all non-union employees. The council also agreed to consider salaries for specific positions including fire and police chiefs, administrative staff, and department heads. No formal vote was recorded; the decision was by consensus of attending members.

• Approved 3% salary increase for all non-union city employees (consensus)
• Agreed to consider salaries for Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, Police Chief, Assistant Police Chief, Police Dept. admin, 4 City Hall admin employees, Street Dept. Assistant, Maintenance Dept. Head, and City Administrator

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to review and vote on the FY '25-26 Budget and Compensation Breakdown, approve economic interest forms, and consider a landscaping contract with Mike Legner. Routine items include approval of prior meeting minutes and monthly reports from the director and committees.

• FY '25-26 Budget & Compensation Breakdown discussion and approval
• Economic Interest Forms
• Mike Legner Landscaping Contract
• Consent Agenda: Minutes and Bills
• Director's Report with monthly updates

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees approved the proposed FY 2025-26 budget and staff compensation breakdown with no changes from the prior month's presentation. The board also approved and signed a one-year landscaping services contract with Mike Legner for $6,000. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved the FY 2025-26 budget and staff compensation breakdown; motion carried.
• Approved and signed the Mike Legner landscaping contract for $6,000 for a full year of services; motion carried.
• Accepted the February minutes and paid bills as part of the consent agenda; motion carried.
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:00 PM; motion carried.

Pontiac Fire & Police Commission

The Pontiac Fire and Police Commission will hold a special meeting on March 5, 2025, to consider personnel matters. The commission will enter executive session to conduct oral interviews with firefighter candidates and a lateral and non-certified patrol officer candidate. Possible actions include establishing a firefighter eligibility list and authorizing conditional job offers.

• Request to enter executive session for oral interviews with firefighter candidates to establish a Firefighter Eligibility List
• Possible action for Fire Chief to proceed with completing the Firefighter Eligibility List per state statute
• Possible action to allow Fire Chief to offer the top firefighter candidate a conditional job offer
• Possible action to allow Police Chief to offer conditional employment to one lateral and one non-certified patrol officer candidate

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider several agenda items including a sewer user rate amendment (Ordinance 2025-0-007), bid awards for sidewalk improvements and utility investigation, and approval of topographical surveys for Play Park and Rittenhouse/Norman Drive. Consent agenda includes approving minutes of February 17 and payment of bills totaling $426,261.85 from all funds.

• Ordinance 2025-0-007 – Sewer User Rate Amendment
• Bid award for 2025 Sidewalk Capital Improvement (recommended to Opperman Construction Co.)
• Bid award for Utility Investigation
• Approval of topographical survey proposals: Chamlin & Associates – Play Park ($3,500) and Rittenhouse & Norman Dr ($3,600)
• Approval of 2025 Art Cars Purchase

The Pontiac City Council approved a sewer usage rate increase, awarded contracts for sidewalk maintenance and utility investigation, and approved several other items including a license agreement and art car purchases. The sewer rate increase will take effect April 1, 2025, with a second increase in 2026. All votes were recorded with specific tallies.

• Approved sewer rate increase (Ordinance 2025-O-007) (8-0)
• Awarded $189,952.98 sidewalk maintenance bid to Opperman Construction (8-0)
• Awarded $184,625.00 utility investigation bid to Opperman Construction (8-0)
• Approved $3,500 topographical survey for Play Park (8-0)
• Approved $3,600 topographical survey for Rittenhouse & Norman Dr. (9-0)
• Approved Lefler license agreement for privacy fence (4-3, 1 abstention)
• Approved purchase of 19 Art Cars for $34,331.00 (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and bill payments (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to conduct a budget study for 2025-2026. This session is the first of several, with additional meetings scheduled from February 26 through February 28.

• Budget Study 2025-2026

The Committee of the Whole met four times in late February 2025 to review city departments. No formal votes were taken; discussions covered fire and police staffing, capital projects, cemetery operations, and technology upgrades. The meetings were continued to subsequent dates, indicating ongoing review.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; all items were discussion only
• Fire Chief noted Andrew Hoeniges retiring March 1, 2025; Stephanie Kennedy retiring August 1, 2025
• Police Chief requested new vehicle estimated at $52,000; no action taken
• Cemetery reported 239 burial spaces available at $1,500 each
• Wastewater discussed proposed ordinance to raise sewer rate; no action
• Staff to review status of Square West property and museum
• Zoning plans to update code and permit software at $36,000 cost
• 2023-2024 audit not yet completed due to auditor shortage

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider several items including the approval of the 2025 solid waste user fee, health insurance renewal, and a professional services contract for Farnsworth Pickleball Courts. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, payment of bills totaling $166,804.91, and a peddler's license for AB Marketing, LLC. The council will also discuss a memorandum of understanding for e-citation software, an appointment to the Vermillion Valley ETSB, and an RFQ for airport consultant services for the runway rehab project. An executive session is scheduled for personnel and collective negotiations.

• Approval of 2025 Solid Waste User Fee
• Approval of Health Insurance Renewal
• Approval of Professional Services Contract for Farnsworth Pickleball Courts
• Approval of MOU with Livingston County Circuit Clerk for E-Citation software for law enforcement
• Approval of Request for Qualifications for Airport Consultant for Runway Rehab Project

The Pontiac City Council approved several items, including a $28,050 contract for pickleball court construction documents, a solid waste fee increase to $23.08, and the city's health insurance renewal with BlueCross BlueShield. All other agenda items, including an MOU for e-citation software and an appointment to a regional emergency communications board, were approved unanimously. The council also discussed a housing study and noted the city did not receive a grant for a downtown streetscape project.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills totaling $166,804.91, and peddler's license (7-0)
• Approved MOU for E-Citation Software with Livingston County (7-0)
• Approved $28,050 contract with Farnsworth Group for pickleball court design (6-1, Giovanini nay)
• Approved appointment of Joseph Hassinger to Vermillion Valley ETSB (7-0)
• Approved solid waste fee of $23.08 with Republic Services (6-1, Howard nay)
• Approved health insurance renewal with BlueCross BlueShield (7-0)
• Approved RFQ for airport consultant for runway rehab (7-0)
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel and collective negotiations (7-0)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review and discuss the budget and compensation breakdown for fiscal year 2025-26. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding the "Reading is a Walk in the Park" StoryWalk project.

• FY ’25-26 Budget & Compensation Breakdown review and discussion
• Economic Interest Forms
• "Reading is a Walk in the Park" StoryWalk project
• Executive session regarding personnel

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees met on February 10, 2025, and approved the January minutes and paid bills. The board reviewed the proposed FY '25-26 budget and staff compensation breakdown, but deferred the vote to the next meeting. They also approved closing the library early on April 2, 2025, for a staff retirement celebration and entered executive session for personnel matters.

• Approved January minutes and paid bills (unanimous)
• Reviewed FY '25-26 budget and compensation; vote deferred to next meeting
• Approved early closure at 1:00 PM on 4/2/25 for staff retirement celebration (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The Housing Study Special Committee will meet to discuss local grant matching funding. The committee will also review other items related to the committee needs assessment.

• Local grant matching funding
• Committee needs assessment

The Special Housing Study Committee met and discussed strategies for prioritizing study goals to secure grants and fund matching requirements, including options like TIF districts or a replenishing fund. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational. The walking survey continues, and the March meeting will address building and fire suppression codes for residential-over-commercial properties.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded at the meeting

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public informational meeting regarding the tentative Pollution Prevention Plan for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The body will also consider several contracts, including street lighting and airport professional services, and review a housing study update.

• Payment of bills totaling $335,316.85
• Additional fees for South Side Sewer Separation with Farnsworth
• Revised Mill St. Bridge Load Rating Engineering with Farnsworth
• Authorization for City Administrator to enter into electric service contract for streetlights and city facilities
• First Amendment to Professional Services Contract CMT-Airport (Ordinance 2025-0-003)

The Pontiac City Council approved all agenda items unanimously (7-0), including a $30,129.18 service agreement for the South Side Sewer Separation project, revised engineering for the Mill St. Bridge inspection using TIF funds, a resolution authorizing a street lighting electrical contract, a memorandum of understanding for Route 66 signage, and an ordinance amending the airport professional service contract. The consent agenda, including minutes, bill payments of $335,316.85, and a raffle license for St. Mary's School PTO, was also approved. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned to executive session for personnel matters.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills ($335,316.85), and raffle license (7-0)
• Approved $30,129.18 additional service agreement for South Side Sewer Separation (7-0)
• Approved revised Mill St. Bridge load rating engineering using TIF funds (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-R-001 for street lighting electrical contract (7-0)
• Approved MOU for Route 66 signage grant with Heritage Corridor CVB (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-O-003 amending airport professional service contract (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The meeting agenda is primarily procedural. The body will enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Executive session regarding personnel matters

The Committee of the Whole met on January 29, 2025, and conducted three interviews for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Director position. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned to the regular Council meeting.

• Conducted three interviews for Wastewater Treatment Plant Director

City Council

The Pontiac City Council will consider the issuance of $1,500,000 in debt certificates for the Centennial Plaza Project, a $409,516 pickleball court project budget, and a youth baseball fee increase to $100 per player. Also on the agenda are a special use permit for a tattoo parlor and an additional services agreement for sewer/stormwater separation.

• Ordinance 2025-0-001: Authorizing $1,500,000 debt certificates for Centennial Plaza Project
• Approval of Pickleball Court Project Budget totaling $409,516.64 (funded by Humiston Trust, ARPA Parks, TIF)
• Approval of Parks 2025 Youth Baseball Fees: increase to $100/player, max $200/family
• Ordinance 2025-0-002: Special Use Permit for Tattoo Parlor (Raymond Bohm)
• Additional Services Agreement for Farnsworth - South Side Sewer/Stormwater Separation

The Pontiac City Council approved several items, including a $1.5 million installment purchase agreement for the Centennial Plaza project, a $409,516.64 budget for pickleball courts, and a special use permit for a tattoo parlor. All votes were 8-0 except the tattoo parlor permit, which passed 7-1. The council also approved the consent agenda, including minutes and bill payments.

• Approved minutes of January 6, 2025 meeting (8-0)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $122,009.23 (8-0)
• Approved 2025 Youth Baseball fees (8-0)
• Approved pickleball court budget of $409,516.64 (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-O-001 for $1.5M debt certificates for Centennial Plaza (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-O-002 special use permit for tattoo parlor at 205 W. Howard St. (7-1)
• Approved additional service agreement with Farnsworth Group for sewer project ($30,129.18) (8-0)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees will meet in executive session to discuss personnel matters. The remainder of the agenda is procedural: call to order, roll call, closing comments, and adjournment.

• Executive session for personnel discussion (closed to public)

Public Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review monthly updates and establish the 2025 meeting schedule. The session includes discussions on February programming and a tour of the library basement and archive room.

• 2025 Board Meeting Calendar
• “Journey to Freedom Illinois’ Underground Railroad” Exhibit/February Programs
• Library Basement/Archive Room Tour

The Pontiac Public Library Board of Trustees met on January 13, 2025, and approved the December minutes and paid bills unanimously. The director reported on fundraising, charitable drives, and upcoming events, including the 'Journey to Freedom' exhibit. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved December minutes and paid bills (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Police Pension Fund Meeting

The Pontiac Police Pension Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on January 13, 2025, to review financial reports, discuss old business including the pension examination report, and consider new business such as the 2025 COLA, actuarial valuation, benefit applications, and board elections.

• Discussion of COLA 2025 for retirees
• Payment to Sikich (two separate payments)
• Shawna Coffey’s medical evaluation
• Applications for membership and benefits (two benefit applications)
• Board elections for president and other officers

The Pontiac Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees met on January 13, 2025, and approved several financial and membership actions. These included a military buyback for Officer Franklin, pension benefits for two retirees, a new pension membership, and various payments. The board also tabled a contractual agreement with Lauterbach & Amen for future services.

• Approved military buyback of $5,919.66 for Officer Franklin (unanimous)
• Approved pension benefits for Hugh Roop (17 years, 22 days service) (unanimous)
• Approved pension benefits for Mike Henson (28 years service) (unanimous)
• Approved pension membership for Katie Wilson (unanimous)
• Approved reimbursement of $234.74 to Doran for training expenses (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $825 for IPPFA dues (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $4,855.00 to Sikich & Co. for Annual Report preparation (unanimous)
• Tabled contractual agreement with Lauterbach & Amen (no vote)

Planning and Zoning Board

The Planning and Zoning Board will consider a special use permit for Raymond Bohm to operate a tattoo station within an already established business. The board will also review and approve minutes from the November 25, 2024 meeting.

• Raymond Bohm – special use permit for a tattoo station inside an existing business
• Approval of minutes from November 25, 2024 meeting

The Planning and Zoning Board unanimously approved a Special Use Permit for Raymond Bohm to operate a tattoo station inside an existing business at 502 W Howard St. The approval is contingent on clarifying property ownership, as the current owner of record differs from the leaseholder. The final decision will be made by the City Council on January 21, 2025.

• Approved minutes from November 25, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for tattoo station at 502 W Howard St (unanimous, contingent on ownership clarification)

Housing Study Special Committee Meeting

The committee is meeting to organize a community open house scheduled for January 16th to share survey results. Members will discuss marketing, housing stock survey progress, and funding timelines.

• Plan for Community Open House on January 16th
• Review of Housing Stock Survey and volunteer progress
• Discussion of grant cycle timelines
• Discussion of local funding

City Council

The City Council will consider consent agenda items including approval of minutes and payment of bills totaling $370,877.82. Under regular agenda, they will vote on the FY2026 Facade Grant Budget and Procedures (TIF-funded, up to $50,000 per grant) and The Oaks at River’s Edge 2025 Fees. They will also receive information on the Underground Railroad Exhibit and an update on utility billing online payments, plus hold an executive session for personnel matters.

• Consent agenda: approve payment of bills totaling $370,877.82 from all funds
• Approval of FY2026 Facade Grant Budget and Procedures (TIF-funded, up to $50,000 per grant in Central Business District)
• Approval of The Oaks at River’s Edge 2025 Fees
• Discussion of FY26 Budget Workshops
• Executive session for personnel matters

The Pontiac City Council approved the FY2026 Downtown Facade Improvement Grant budget and procedures, and the 2025 season rates for The Oaks at River Edge golf course, both by 9-0 votes. The council also approved the consent agenda, including minutes and bill payments. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational or procedural.

• Approved consent agenda including Dec 16, 2024 minutes and $370,877.82 in bills (9-0)
• Approved FY2026 Downtown Pontiac Facade Improvement Grant budget and procedures (9-0)
• Approved 2025 season rates at The Oaks at River Edge golf course (9-0)
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel matters (9-0)