Sterling, IL
Recent Sterling City Council topics include contracts & procurement, planning & zoning, resolutions & ordinances, budget & taxes, roads & infrastructure, development projects.
Topics found in recent meetings
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Official website pages
SterlingIL averageUS Census ACS
Typical home value $146,298 +4.6% yr/yr · +25.2% 5-yr
Home-value trend 2006–2026 (Zillow ZHVI)
👤 Members & officials (34)
Members seen in recent official meeting records — names and roles as published.
Who’s on the City Council
- Joe Strabala-Bright — Alderman
- Josh Johnson — Alderman
- Aida Baker — Alderman
- Allen Przysucha — Alderman
- Jim Wise — Alderman
- Retha Elston — Alderman
- Diana Merdian — Mayor
Who’s on the General
- Jamie Schwingle — Commissioner
- Aida Baker — Alderman
- Allen Przysucha — Alderman
- Brian Carradus — Commissioner
- Carol Corwell — Commissioner
- Gordon Harris — Commissioner
- Jim Wise — Alderman
- Joe Strabala-Bright — Alderman
- Josh Johnson — Alderman
- Retha Elston — Alderman
- Rene Morris
Who’s on the Plan Commission
- Jamie Schwingle — Commissioner
- Brian Carradus — Commissioner
- Gordon Harris — Commissioner
- Ryan Nares — Commissioner
- Rene Morris
Who’s on the Sterling Municipal Band
- Allen Lee — Commissioner
- Amy Boze — Commissioner
- Kevin O'Keefe — Commissioner
- Tony Crisp — Commissioner
- Gonzalo Reyes — Commissioner
Who’s on the Sterling Public Library Board
- Carol Siefken
- John Kirchoff
- Julia Swartley-Atilano
- Patti Nice
- Ronda Borgmann
- Skip Lee
Municipal budget
Total revenue$296.9M (FY2023)
Total spending$298.2M (FY2023)
Taxes$11.5M (FY2023)
Debt outstanding$95.9M (FY2023)
Spending per resident$20,218 (FY2023)
Upcoming
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Thu Oct 22, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Plan Commission to hold public hearing on two properties
The Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding 609 3rd Ave and 309 East 7th Street. The body will also discuss draft ordinances for data centers and battery energy storage.
- Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing for 609 3rd Ave and 309 East 7th Street
- Discussion on Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan
- Discussion on Data Center Draft Ordinance
- Discussion on Draft Battery Energy Storage Ordinance
zoningland-useenergy-storagedata-centerscomprehensive-plan
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Thursday, October 22, 2026
Plan Commission Plan Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting at 6:30 PM
PLAN COMMISSION PLAN COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MEETING AGENDA
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
2.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
3.
Staff Reports
4.
Business Items
A.
Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing — 609 3rd Ave and 309 East 7th Street
5.
Discussion
A.
Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan
B.
Data Center Draft Ordiance Discussion
C.
Draft Battery Energy Storage Ordinance Discussion
6.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
Mon Nov 2, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Nov 3, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Nov 3, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Nov 10, 2026 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Nov 10, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Nov 10, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Nov 16, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Thu Nov 19, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Dec 1, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Dec 1, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Mon Dec 7, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Dec 8, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Dec 8, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Dec 8, 2026 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Thu Dec 17, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Dec 21, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Jan 4, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Jan 5, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Jan 5, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Jan 12, 2027 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Jan 12, 2027 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Jan 12, 2027 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Jan 18, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Feb 2, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Feb 9, 2027 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Feb 9, 2027 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Feb 9, 2027 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Mar 2, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Mar 9, 2027 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Mar 9, 2027 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Apr 6, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Apr 13, 2027 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Apr 13, 2027 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue May 4, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue May 11, 2027 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Jun 1, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Jul 6, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Aug 3, 2027 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Recent meetings
Mon Oct 19, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to discuss financial statements and W. Lefevre reconstruction project
The City Council will consider the FY 2025/2026 audited financial statements and several business items. Discussions include right-of-way acquisitions for the W. Lefevre Reconstruction Project and a TIF redevelopment agreement for the Greater Northland Mall.
- Approval of FY 2025/2026 Audited Financial Statements
- Right-of-way and easement acquisition agreements for W. Lefevre Reconstruction Project
- TIF Redevelopment Agreement with Sterling Investments, LLC for Greater Northland Mall
- Ordinance 2026-10-26 amending the composition of the Zoning Board of Appeals
- Pay Request #13 to Sjostrom and Sons for $314,417.97 for Sterling Riverfront Phase I
financeredevelopmentzoninginfrastructurepublic-works
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Monday, October 19, 2026
City of Sterling Council Meeting at 6:30 PM
CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Council Chambers - First Floor
212 Third Avenue
Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81125611515
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
C.
Pledge of Allegiance
2.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
3.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Approval of Bills and Payroll
C.
Extension on Completion Date of Agreement for Parking Lot Improvement at 502 E. 2nd until December
31, 2026
D.
Fire Prevention Week Proclomation
4.
Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
5.
Recommended Personnel Action
6.
Presentations and Awards
A.
Presentation of Annual Audited Financial Statements for FY 2025/2026
B.
Presentation from lobbyist, Matt Hughes
7.
Unfinished Business
8.
Business Items
A.
Approval of Audited Financial Statements for FY 2025/2026
B.
Authorize the City Manager to Enter into Agreements with Right of Way Acquisitions Group, Polach
Appraisal Group and Triple D Valuation Services for Services Related to Right-of-Way and Easement
Acquisitions for the W. Lefevre Reconstruction Project.
C.
TIF Redevelopment Agreement with Sterling Investments, LLC for the Greater Northland Mall
Redevelopment Project
D.
Ordinance 2026-10-26 Amending Chapter 102, Article IX, Section 905 Modifying Designation for
Composition of the Zoning Board of Appeals
E.
Change Order Number 1 - Riverfront Phase I
F.
Pay Reques …
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Thu Oct 15, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Wed Oct 14, 2026 · 17:15
General
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
Tue Oct 13, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Oct 13, 2026 · 18:00
Sterling Municipal Band
Sterling Municipal Band to discuss 2027/2028 budget and Centennial celebration
The Sterling Municipal Band is meeting to review September financials and the 2027/2028 budget. The body will discuss upcoming winter concerts and the planning of a Centennial celebration.
- 2027/2028 Budget
- Tuba Christmas on December 5, 2026
- Winter Concert on January 8, 2027
- Centennial Celebration discussion and calendar
- Direct/Paperless Payroll
municipal-bandbudgetcommunity-eventspayroll
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting at 6:00 PM
STERLING MUNICIPAL BAND MEETING AGENDA
City Council Chambers - City Hall
212 Third Avenue
Sterling, Illinois
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
2.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of September Minutes
B.
Band Director's Report
C.
Band Manager's Report
3.
Financial Report
A.
September Financials
B.
2027/2028 Budget
C.
Direct/Paperless Payroll
4.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
5.
Old Business
A.
Winter Concert - January 8, 2027
B.
Tuba Christmas - December 5, 2026
C.
Sponsors for Winter and Spring Concerts
D.
Discussion on Attire for Formal Concerts
E.
Program Creation with New Computer Program
F.
Stucco Damage
6.
New Business
A.
Centennial Celebration Discussion and Calendar
7.
Discussion
8.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
Consent Agenda
5 yea
Gonzalo Reyes yea · Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Adjourn
5 yea
Gonzalo Reyes yea · Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Tue Oct 13, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Oct 6, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Tue Oct 6, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library Board to discuss and vote on non-resident fee
The Sterling Public Library Board meets Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM at 102 W. 3rd St. in the Community Room. The board will take up routine consent items (minutes, invoices, receipts, cash and investment report) and receive the librarian's report plus circulation and story hour statistics. The main substantive item is discussion and approval of a non-resident fee. No dollar amount for that fee appears in the agenda.
- Discussion and approval of a non-resident fee
- Consent agenda: approval of minutes, invoices, and receipts
- Cash & Investment Report
- Librarian's Report
- Circulation Statistics / Story Hour Report
libraryfeesbudgetpublic-meetingsterling-il
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Sterling Public Library Board Meeting at 7:00 PM
STERLING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEETING AGENDA
102 W. 3rd St., Sterling, IL
Community Room
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Roll Call
B.
Communications
2.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Approval of Invoices
C.
Approval of Receipts
D.
Cash & Investment Report
3.
Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
4.
Business Items
A.
Librarian's Report
B.
Circulation Statistics / Story Hour Report
5.
Discussion
A.
Discussion and Approval of Non-Resident Fee
6.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
Mon Oct 5, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling Council to buy nine AED defibrillators for $22,836.00, waiving bids
The Sterling City Council meets Monday, October 5, 2026 at 6:30 PM to consider routine business and a few specific items. Members will vote on an ordinance changing eligibility rules for the Sterling Industrial Commission and on buying nine Stryker LIFEPAK 1000 AED defibrillators from General Medical Devices Inc. for $22,836.00, with the bid process waived. The agenda also includes a Building and Zoning Department discussion, a recommended personnel action, and consent items such as minutes, bills and payroll, a Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation, and Trick or Treat hours.
- Ordinance 2026-10-25 amending Chapter 2, Article V, Division 13 to modify eligibility criteria for the Sterling Industrial Commission
- Waive bid process to purchase nine Stryker LIFEPAK 1000 AED defibrillators
- Approve purchase of nine Stryker LIFEPAK 1000 AEDs from General Medical Devices Inc. for $22,836.00
- Consent agenda: approval of minutes, bills and payroll, Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation, and Trick or Treat hours
- Building and Zoning Department discussion and a recommended personnel action
city-councilpublic-safetybudgetzoningpersonnelprocurementpublic-comment
✓ Decided: Sterling City Council approves $22,836 for new AED defibrillators
The City Council approved the purchase of nine AED defibrillators and modified eligibility for the Industrial Commission. Much of the meeting involved public complaints regarding the Building and Zoning Department's enforcement and communication.
- Approved purchase of nine Stryker, LIFEPAK 1000 AEDs for $22,836.00 (5-0)
- Approved waiving bid process for AED purchase (5-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2026-10-25 modifying Sterling Industrial Commission eligibility (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills, payroll, and Trick or Treat hours (5-0)
- Denied motion to enter executive session to discuss personnel (2-2, 1 abstention)
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Monday, October 5, 2026
City of Sterling Council Meeting at 6:30 PM
CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Council Chambers - First Floor
212 Third Avenue
Zoom Link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83021312729
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
C.
Pledge of Allegiance
2.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
3.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Approval of Bills and Payroll
C.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
D.
Trick or Treat Hours
4.
Recommended Personnel Action
5.
Presentations and Awards
Building and Zoning Department Discussion
A.
Building and Zoning Department Discussion
6.
Business Items
A.
Ordinance 2026-10-25Amending Chapter 2, Article V, Division 13, Modifying Eligibility Criteria for
Service on the Sterling Industrial Commission
B.
Waive Bid Process for the Purchase of Nine Stryker, LIFEPAK 1000 AED defibrillators
C.
Approve the Purchase of Nine Stryker, LIFEPAK 1000 Automated External Defibrillators from General
Medical Devices Inc. in the amount of $22,836.00
7.
Staff Reports
8.
Council Reports
9.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to mak …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Sterling Council Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026
Meeting Opening
Mayor Diana Merdian called the Sterling City Council to order at 6:30 PM on Monday, October
5, 2026.
Present: Alderman Joe Strabala-Bright, Alderman Josh Johnson, Alderman Aida Baker, Alderman
Allen Przysucha, Alderman Jim Wise.
Absent: Alderman Retha Elston.
City Manager Scott Shumard, City Attorney Tim Zollinger, Police Chief E. Pat Bartel, Fire Chief
David Northcutt, Superintendent of Public Works Brad Schrader, Superintendent of Building
and Zoning Amanda Schmidt, Superintendent of Wastewater Cory Bradshaw, and City Clerk Teri
Sathoff were also present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Communication from Visitors
Matt Reglin – 510 West 11th Street, Sterling
Reglin stated that he is employed by the City of Sterling in the Building and Zoning Department.
He explained that enforcement officers follow the codes adopted by the City Council and that
many complaints come from business owners who are frustrated by requirements that go
beyond what they consider the bare minimum. He noted that some instances involve basic life-
safety requirements. Reglin stated that if business owners believe the codes are outdated or no
longer applicable, the appropriate process is to discuss changes to the codes. Until changes are
adopted, staff cannot be expected to disregard the existing requirements. He emphasized the
importance of treating businesses that comply with the codes f …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu Sep 24, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Plan Commission to discuss BESS, data centers, comp plan amendments
The Sterling Plan Commission will meet to discuss battery energy storage systems (BESS), data centers, and potential comprehensive plan amendments for both. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and staff reports, with the main discussion focused on these land-use topics. No formal votes are listed on the agenda beyond the consent agenda item for minutes.
- Discussion on BESS (battery energy storage systems) and data centers
- Discussion on comprehensive plan amendments for BESS and data centers
- Approval of minutes (consent agenda)
- Meeting held via Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87657939325
plan-commissionbessdata-centerscomprehensive-planland-usemeeting
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Plan Commission Meeting at 6:30 PM
PLAN COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87657939325
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
2.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
3.
Staff Reports
4.
Discussion
A.
Discussion on BESS, Data Centers, and comp plan amendments for both.
5.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
Thu Sep 24, 2026 · 13:30
Sterling Riverfront Commission
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
Mon Sep 21, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to award Riverfront Phase II contract
The Sterling City Council will consider routine consent items, including closing Route 2 and Route 40 for the Christmas parade, and will vote on the Riverfront Phase II award. A study session on IT and email retention is also scheduled.
- Resolution 2026-09-29 to close portions of Route 2 and Route 40 for the Christmas Parade on December 4, 2026
- Happy Tails Humane Society Bucket Brigade on October 3, 2026
- Introduction of Fire Chaplain Tom Howard
- Riverfront Phase II Award
- Study session on IT and email retention
paradepublic-safetycommunity-eventsinfrastructuretechnology
✓ Decided: Sterling City Council awards $1.6M riverfront contract
The City Council approved a contract for Phase 2 of the Riverfront project and passed a consent agenda including Christmas parade road closures. Several residents expressed grievances regarding the Building Department's communication and permitting processes.
- Awarded Phase 2 of the Riverfront to Fisher Excavating for $1,626,477 (5-0)
- Approved minutes, bills, and payroll (5-0)
- Approved POW-MIA Recognition Day 2026 (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2026-09-29 to close Route 2 and Route 40 for the Dec. 4 Christmas Parade (5-0)
- Approved Happy Tails Humane Society Bucket Brigade for Oct. 3 (5-0)
- Entered executive session to discuss employee matters (4-1)
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Monday, September 21, 2026
City of Sterling Council Meeting at 6:30 PM
CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Council Chambers - First Floor
212 Third Avenue
Zoom Link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82604214717
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
C.
Pledge of Allegiance
2.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
3.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Approval of Bills and Payroll
C.
POW-MIA Recognition Day 2026
D.
Resolution 2026-09-29 To Close Portions of Route 2 and Route 40 for the Christmas Parade on
December 4, 2026
E.
Happy Tails Humane Society to hold a Bucket Brigade on October 3, 2026
4.
Presentations and Awards
A.
Introduction of Fire Chaplain Tom Howard
5.
Business Items
A.
Riverfront Phase II Award
6.
Staff Reports
7.
Council Reports
8.
Study Session - IT
A.
Information Session regarding IT and Email Retention
9.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Sterling Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026
Meeting Opening
Mayor Diana Merdian called the Sterling City Council to order at 6:30 PM on Monday,
September 21, 2026.
Present: Alderman Retha Elston, Alderman, Alderman Josh Johnson, Alderman Aida Baker,
Alderman Allen Przysucha, Alderman Jim Wise.
Absent: Alderman Joe Strabala-Bright.
City Manager Scott Shumard, City Attorney Tim Zollinger, Police Chief E. Pat Bartel, Fire Chief
David Northcutt, Superintendent of Public Works Brad Schrader, Superintendent of Building
and Zoning Amanda Schmidt, Finance Director Cindy Von Holten, Superintendent of
Wastewater Cory Bradshaw, and City Clerk Teri Sathoff were also present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Communication from Visitors
Pam Machan, 903 East 2nd Street — Machan stated that the sidewalk near her residence has
not been completed and that bicyclists are entering the street to avoid the open area. She
stated that an Xfinity pole needs to be removed. Machan asked whether a temporary wooden
structure could be constructed to cover the opening. She also raised concerns regarding her
neighbor’s driveway at 910 East 2nd Street.
Machan noted that she participated in last year’s Christmas contest and asked to be considered
as a judge for this year’s contest.
John Brady, 2434 Shoreline Heights — Brady addressed the Council and encouraged others to
come forward to speak about their experiences and concerns regarding the Building …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
Adjourn
4 yea · 1 nay
Retha Elston yea · Josh Johnson yea · Aida Baker yea · Allen Przysucha yea · Jim Wise nay
Thu Sep 17, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Sep 8, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Band director and manager evaluations in closed session
The Sterling Municipal Band is meeting to conduct the yearly evaluation of the Band Director and Band Manager in a closed session, as allowed by the Open Meetings Act. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes, reports from the director and manager, and a financial report for August.
- Closed session for yearly evaluation of Band Director and Band Manager
- Approval of August minutes
- Band Director's Report
- Band Manager's Report
- August financial report
bandevaluationclosed-sessionfinancial-reportminutes
✓ Decided: Sterling Municipal Band approved August financials and consent agenda.
The Sterling Municipal Band held an executive session for yearly evaluations, approved the consent agenda including August minutes and reports, and approved the August financial report. Commissioners also discussed upcoming parade participation, repair estimates, and software transitions.
- Moved into and returned from closed session for Band Director and Band Manager evaluations (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including August minutes and reports (5-0)
- Approved August financial report (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:52 p.m.
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting at 6:00 PM
STERLING MUNICIPAL BAND MEETING AGENDA
City Council Chambers - City Hall
212 Third Avenue
Sterling, Illinois
1.
Executive Session
A.
Motion to move into Closed Session pursuant to Section 2C (4) & (15) of the Open Meetings Act for
matters related to the yearly evaluation of the Band Director and Band Manager.
B.
Motion to Return to the Open Session
2.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
3.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of August Minutes
B.
Band Director's Report
C.
Band Manager's Report
4.
Financial Report
A.
August Financials
5.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
6.
Discussion
7.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026
1.
Executive Session
Executive Session
A.
Motion to move into Closed Session pursuant to Section 2C (4) & (15) of the Open
Meetings Act for matters related to the yearly evaluation of the Band Director and Band
Manager.
Commissioner Lee made a motion to begin the meeting and Move into Closed Session at 6:10
p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.; Seconded by Commissioner Crisp. Voting: Ayes –
Gonzalo Reyes, Amy Boze, Tony Crisp, Allen Lee, Kevin O'Keefe. Nays – None.
B.
Motion to Return to the Open Session
Commissioner Crisp made a motion to Return to Open Session at 7:33 p.m.; Seconded by
Commissioner Lee. Voting: Ayes – Gonzalo Reyes, Amy Boze, Tony Crisp, Allen Lee, Kevin
O'Keefe. Nays – None.
Also present for the Open Session were Annette Hackbarth - Director, and Vanessa Leavitt -
Band Manager.
2.
Meeting Opening
Meeting Opening
3.
Consent Agenda
Consent Agenda
Commissioner O'Keefe made a motion to Approve Concent Agenda; Seconded by
Commissioner Crisp. Voting: Ayes – Gonzalo Reyes, Amy Boze, Tony Crisp, Allen Lee, Kevin
O'Keefe. Nays – None.
A.
Approval of August Minutes
B.
Band Director's Report
C.
Band Manager's Report
4.
Financial Report
Financial Report
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting Minutes September 8, 2026
Page 2
A.
August Financials
Budget
Actual
Personnel
$73,500.00
$41,487.00
Materials & Services
$49,150.00
$21,732.91
Capital …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
Consent Agenda
5 yea
Gonzalo Reyes yea · Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Adjourn
5 yea
Gonzalo Reyes yea · Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Tue Sep 8, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling Council discusses wastewater loans and data center moratorium
The City Council will consider ordinances regarding wastewater treatment facility funding and engineering agreements. The agenda also includes a proposed temporary moratorium on data centers and battery energy storage systems.
- Ordinance 2026-09-21: Borrowing funds from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund
- Ordinance 2026-09-23: Temporary moratorium on data centers and battery energy storage systems
- Engineering agreements with Willett Hofmann and Associates for wastewater plant improvements
- Purchase of a 2027 Chevrolet Equinox for $25,887.63 from Sterling Chevrolet
- Pay Request #15 to Gorman and Company for $46,550.00
wastewaterzoningpolicefinanceinfrastructureenergy
✓ Decided: Sterling council approves wastewater plant loans, engineering deals and data center moratorium
The Sterling City Council approved borrowing from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund and authorized the City Manager to sign IEPA loan documents and engineering agreements with Willett Hofmann and Associates for a new Wastewater Treatment Plant, lift station and forcemain improvements, and abandonment of the existing plant. The council also approved a temporary moratorium on data centers and battery energy storage systems in all zoning districts, annexed territory with zoning at PIN 11-16-153-001, and approved several purchases and payments. All votes recorded were unanimous with no nays. Earlier, two residents criticized the Building and Zoning Superintendent and asked that she be terminated; the Mayor said their questions would be reviewed later rather than addressed at the meeting.
- Approved Ordinance 2026-09-21 authorizing the City to borrow from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund (6-0)
- Authorized City Manager to sign IEPA loan application documents for the new Wastewater Treatment Facility (6-0)
- Authorized engineering agreement with Willett Hofmann and Associates for the new Wastewater Treatment Plant (6-0)
- Authorized engineering agreement with Willett Hofmann and Associates for lift station/forcemain improvements and existing plant abandonment (6-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2026-09-22 annexing territory and establishing zoning (PIN 11-16-153-001) (6-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2026-09-23 establishing a temporary moratorium on data centers and battery energy storage systems in all zoning districts (6-0)
- Approved Pay Request #15 to Gorman and Company for $46,550.00 (6-0)
- Approved waiving the bid process and purchasing a 2027 Chevrolet Equinox for the Police Detective Division from Sterling Chevrolet for $25,887.63 (6-0)
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
||Tuesday, September 8, 2026 City of Sterling Council Meeting at 6:30 PM|
|---|---|
||CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA Council Chambers-First Floor 212 Third Avenue Zoom Link [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81191699058|](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81191699058|)
|1.|Meeting Opening|
|A.|Call to Order|
|B.|Roll Call|
|C.|Pledge of Allegiance|
|2.|Communication from Visitors|
|A.|Public Comment|
|3.|Consent Agenda|
|A.|Approval of Minutes|
|B.|Approval of Bills and Payroll|
|C.|Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation|
|D.|Chamber of Commerce Week 2026 — September 13–September 19|
|E.|Knights of Columbus to hold a Bucket Brigade on September 12, 2026|
|4.|Items Removed from the Consent Agenda|
|5.|Recommended Personnel Action|
|A.|Appointment of Personnel to Boards and Commissions|
|6.|Presentations and Awards|
|A.|Introduction of the Fire Cadets and Chaplain|
|7.|Unfinished Business|
|8.|Business Items|
|---|---|
|A.|Ordinance 2026-09-21 Authorizing the City of Sterling to Borrow Funds From the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund|
|B.|Authorize the City Manager to sign all IEPA Loan Application Documents related to the loan application for the new Wastewater Treatment Facility|
|C.|Authorize the City Manager to enter into an engineering agreement with Willett Hofmann and Associates for the new Wastewater Treatment Plant|
|D.|Authorize the City Manager to enter into an engineering agreement with Willett Hofmann and Associates for the Lift Station and Forcemain Improvements and the E …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Sterling Council Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026
Meeting Opening
Mayor Diana Merdian called the Sterling City Council to order at 6:30 PM on Tuesday,
September 8, 2026.
Present: Alderman Retha Elston, Alderman Joe Strabala-Bright, Alderman Josh Johnson,
Alderman Aida Baker, Alderman Allen Przysucha, Alderman Jim Wise.
Absent: None.
City Manager Scott Shumard, City Attorney Tim Zollinger, Police Chief E. Pat Bartel, Fire Chief
David Northcutt, Superintendent of Public Works Brad Schrader, Superintendent of Building
and Zoning Amanda Schmidt, Finance Director Cindy Von Holten, Superintendent of
Wastewater Cory Bradshaw, and City Clerk Teri Sathoff were also present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Communication from Visitors
Andrew McNinch, Como, addressed the Council about the presence of Flock cameras in the City
of Sterling. Mr. McNinch stated he would like to have the cameras removed.
John Brady, 2434 Shoreline Heights Road, Sterling, addressed the Council regarding the Building
Department’s handling of a rental property he owns, as well as the process for approval of a
sign permit submitted through his company, JJM. Mr. Brady expressed dissatisfaction with the
manner in which Amanda Schmidt handled both matters and stated that he believed her
behavior was rude and condescending. Mr. Brady requested that Ms. Schmidt be terminated.
Brady stated that unless something was done about this issue, he would go to social media wi …
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Tue Sep 8, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Sep 8, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Sep 7, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
Tue Sep 1, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Library board to vote on Willett Hoffman proposals for restroom remodels
The Sterling Public Library Board will review standard consent items including minutes and financial reports. The primary business involves discussing and potentially approving proposals from Willett Hoffman for professional services related to the Carnegie Public Restroom and Staff Restroom remodels. The agenda also includes a Librarian's Report on foundation updates and circulation statistics.
- Discussion and approval of proposal from Willett Hoffman for professional services for the Carnegie Public Restroom remodel
- Discussion and approval of proposal from Willett Hoffman for professional services for the Staff Restroom remodel
- Approval of minutes, invoices, receipts, and cash & investment report
libraryfacilitiescontractsbudget
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Sterling Public Library Board Meeting at 7:00 PM
STERLING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEETING AGENDA
102 W. 3rd St., Sterling, IL
Community Room
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Roll Call
B.
Communications
2.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Approval of Invoices
C.
Approval of Receipts
D.
Cash & Investment Report
3.
Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
4.
Business Items
A.
Librarian's Report
Foundation Update
B.
Circulation Statistics / Story Hour Report
5.
Discussion
A.
Discussion and approval of Proposal from Willett Hoffman for Professional service for the Carnegie
Public Restroom remodel
B.
Discussion and approval of proposal from Willett Hoffman for professional services for the Staff
Restroom remodel
6.
Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
Tue Sep 1, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
Fri Aug 28, 2026 · 10:30
City Council
Council to vote on OSLAD grant application for Northwestern Steel & Wire Park
The City of Sterling Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a resolution authorizing an OSLAD grant application for the Northwestern Steel & Wire Park. The rest of the agenda consists of standard procedural items, including public comment, consent agenda, and staff reports.
- Public Hearing for OSLAD Grant Application for Northwestern Steel & Wire Park
- Resolution Authorizing OSLAD Grant Application
grantseconomic-developmentpublic-hearingcity-council
✓ Decided: Council approves OSLAD grant application for Riverfront Redevelopment Project
The Sterling City Council approved a resolution to apply for the Illinois Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Grant Program. The grant is intended to support the Riverfront Redevelopment Project, with funds potentially awarded in 2027.
- Approved resolution authorizing OSLAD grant application (6-0)
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Friday, August 28, 2026
City of Sterling Council Meeting at 10:30 AM
CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Council Chambers - First Floor
212 Third Avenue
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
C.
Pledge of Allegiance
2.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
3.
Consent Agenda
4.
Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
5.
Recommended Personnel Action
6.
Presentations and Awards
7.
Unfinished Business
8.
Business Items
A.
Public Hearing for OSLAD Grant Application for Northwestern Steel & Wire Park
B.
Resolution Authorizing OSLAD Grant Application
9.
Staff Reports
10. Council Reports
11. Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Sterling Council Meeting Minutes
August 28, 2026
Meeting Opening
Mayor Diana Merdian called the Sterling City Council to order at 10:30 AM on Friday, August 28,
2026.
Present: Alderman Retha Elston, Alderman Joe Strabala-Bright, Alderman Josh Johnson,
Alderman Aida Baker, Alderman Allen Przysucha, Alderman Jim Wise.
Absent:
City Manager Scott Shumard, City Attorney Tim Zollinger, Police Chief E. Pat Bartel, and
Assistant City Clerk Monique Castillo.
Communication from Visitors
There was no public comment.
Business Items
Mayor Merdian opened the public hearing at 10:32 a.m.
Manager Shumard gave a brief overview of what the OSLAD grant is and how it will help benefit
the Riverfront Redevelopment Project. He provided a scope of the finalized project and noted
that while the entire scope of the project is not part of the grant, this grant was originally
addressed as a funding option. If approved, the grant will be awarded in 2027.
There was a brief discussion regarding parking, food truck placement, and Veterans Memorial
statues. Alderman Wise noted the hardscape has been defined; we are now just waiting on
Monuments.
The public hearing closed at 10:40 a.m.
Alderman Elston made a motion to approve a resolution authorizing an Application to the
Illinois Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Grant Program for the
Riverfront Redevelopment Project, seconded by Alderman Strabala-Bright. Voting: Ayes –
Retha Elston, …
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Thu Aug 20, 2026 · 18:30
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Aug 17, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to consider smoking ban in parks, trails, bike paths
The Sterling City Council will consider an ordinance banning smoking in public parks, recreational trails, and bike pathways, and will vote on several business items including a vehicle purchase and a TIF redevelopment agreement. The consent agenda includes routine approvals and several event requests and proclamations. The meeting also includes an executive session for personnel matters.
- Ordinance No. 2026-08-17: Banning smoking in public parks, recreational trails, and bike pathways
- Purchase of 2026 Chevy Silverado for Building Department, $43,523.83 from Sterling Chevrolet (waive bid process)
- TIF Redevelopment Agreement for 324 1st Avenue
- Authorize City Manager to enter into Energy Supply Contract for Wastewater Treatment Plant and Pumping Stations
- Request from Antonio Flores to waive deposit and rental fees for Worship Event at Grandon Civic Center on August 29, 2026
parkssmoking-banpurchasingtifenergyevents
✓ Decided: Sterling Council tables ordinance to ban smoking in public parks
The City Council tabled an ordinance that would have banned smoking in public parks, recreational trails, and bike pathways. The Council also approved the purchase of a new Chevy Silverado for the Building Department and authorized an energy supply contract for the wastewater treatment plant.
- Tabled Ordinance No. 2026-08-17 banning smoking in public parks (6-0)
- Approved $43,523.83 purchase of a 2026 Chevy Silverado from Sterling Chevrolet (6-0)
- Approved waiving the bid process for the new Chevy Silverado (6-0)
- Approved TIF Redevelopment Agreement for 324 1st Avenue (6-0)
- Authorized energy supply contract for Wastewater Treatment Plant and Pumping Stations (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda items including meeting minutes, bills, and various proclamations (6-0)
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Monday, August 17, 2026
City of Sterling Council Meeting at 6:30 PM
CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Council Chambers - First Floor
212 Third Avenue
Zoom Link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87037609946
1.
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
B.
Roll Call
C.
Pledge of Allegiance
2.
Communication from Visitors
A.
Public Comment
3.
Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Approval of Bills and Payroll
C.
Request from Antonio Flores to hold a Worship Event at Grandon Civic Center on August 29, 2026, with
a request to waive deposit and rental fees.
D.
Sterling High School Homecoming Parade on October 2, 2026, at 3:30 pm
E.
Midway Drive-In Theater Grease Day Proclamation
F.
National Overdose Awareness Day Proclamation
G.
Heroes of Hope of the Sauk Valley to hold a bucket brigade on August 22, 2026
4.
Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
5.
Recommended Personnel Action
6.
Presentations and Awards
7.
Unfinished Business
A.
Ordinance No. 2026-08-17 Ordinance Amending Chapter 63, adding a new Section 3 Banning Smoking in
Public Parks, Recreational Trails, or Upon Bike Pathways.
8.
Business Items
A.
Waive Bid Process for the Purchase of a 2026 Chevy Silverado for the Building Department
B.
Approve the Purchase of a 2026 Chevy Silverado in the amount of $43,523.83 from Sterling Chevrolet
C.
TIF Redevelopment Agreement for 324 1st Avenue
D.
Authorize the City Manager to enter into an Energy Supply Contract for the Wastewater Tre …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Sterling Council Meeting Minutes
August 17, 2026
Meeting Opening
Mayor Diana Merdian called the Sterling City Council to order at 6:30 PM on Monday, August
17, 2026.
Present: Alderman Retha Elston, Alderman Joe Strabala-Bright, Alderman Josh Johnson,
Alderman Aida Baker, Alderman Allen Przysucha, Alderman Jim Wise.
Absent:.
City Manager Scott Shumard, City Attorney Tim Zollinger, Police Chief E. Pat Bartel, Fire Chief
David Northcutt, Superintendent of Public Works Brad Schrader, Superintendent of Building
and Zoning Amanda Schmidt, Finance Director Cindy Von Holten, Superintendent of
Wastewater Cory Bradshaw, and City Clerk Teri Sathoff were also present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Communication from Visitors
John Brady - Mr. Brady thanked the City employees who do a good job and treat people with
respect. He stated that his intent in speaking was not to cause problems or attack anyone. Mr.
Brady said that he owns a business and property in the City and supports Sterling.
Mr. Brady discussed issues he has experienced with the zoning and permitting process involving
his property, including a sign at True Smiles and a permit for Star Coin and Collectibles. He
acknowledged that the sign was installed without a permit and accepted responsibility for that
error. He stated that he was later informed that special use options may have been available
but that those options were not previously explained to him. Instead, he said …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Aug 17, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Aug 11, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling Municipal Band plans season review, centennial, and job revisions
The Sterling Municipal Band is meeting to review the Summer 2026 season, discuss centennial celebration ideas, and consider revising job descriptions for the Band Director and Manager. The agenda also includes updates on upcoming events and a report on stucco damage.
- Summer 2026 Music Under the Stars season review
- Centennial celebration planning with Music Commission and guest conductor ideas
- Upcoming events: Sights and Sounds (Dec 4), Tuba Christmas (Dec 5), Winter Concert (Jan 8, 2027), Spring Concert (Apr 23, 2027)
- Fiesta Day Parade on Sept 19
- Revision of Band Director and Band Manager job descriptions
bandeventscentennialjob-descriptionsparadesterling
✓ Decided: Band commission approves consent agenda, financial report, magnet purchase
The Sterling Municipal Band Commission approved the consent agenda, financial report, and a magnet purchase for the Fiesta Day Parade. They also discussed using AI for graphics on a limited basis and continued planning for the centennial celebration.
- Approved consent agenda (minutes, director's report, manager's report) (4-0)
- Approved financial report (4-0)
- Approved magnet purchase for Fiesta Day Parade (4-0)
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting at 6:00 PM
STERLING MUNICIPAL BAND MEETING AGENDA
City Council Chambers - City Hall
212 Third Avenue
Sterling, Illinois
1. Meeting Opening
A. Call to Order
2. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
B. Band Director's Report
C. Band Manager's Report
3. Financial Report
4. Communication from Visitors
5. Old Business
A. Summer 2026: Music Under the Stars Season Review
B. Facebook AI Graphics
C. Centennial Celebration
i) Music Commission with Kevin Jensen
ii) Guest Conductor Ideas
iii) Pre-Concert Possibilities; University of Illinois Marching Band
D. Upcoming Events
i) Sights and Sounds, December 4th, Downtown Sterling
ii) Tuba Christmas, December 5th, Northland Mall
iii) Winter Concert, January 8, 2027, New Life Lutheran Church
iv) Spring Concert, April 23, 2027, New Life Lutheran Church
E. Fiesta Day Parade, Sept 19th
F. Stucco Damage
6. New Business
A. Revision Job Descriptions of Band Director and Band Manager
7. Discussion
8. Adjourn
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
1.
Meeting Opening
Meeting Opening
A.
Call to Order
Commissioner Reyes called the Sterling Municipal Band Commission to order at 6:09 PM on
Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
2.
Consent Agenda
Consent Agenda
Commissioner O'Keefe made a motion to Approve; Seconded by Commissioner Boze. Voting:
Ayes – Amy Boze, Tony Crisp, Allen Lee, Kevin O'Keefe. Nays – None.
A.
Approval of Minutes
B.
Band Director's Report
C.
Band Manager's Report
3.
Financial Report
Financial Report
Budget
Actual
Personnel
$73,500.00
$25,931.50
Materials & Services
$49,150.00
$19,161.53
Capital Expense
$4,000
$446.54
Revenue
$126,650.00
$77,804.03
Operating Balance to Date
$32,264.46
4 outstanding bills for the summer season, which will be taken care of soon.
Donations down $2300 from this time last year, but overall we are doing fine.
Second payment from property taxes usually hits in September. State replacement comes
quarterly, so three more will be coming.
Sterling Municipal Band Meeting Minutes August 11, 2026
Page 2
Interest is a good revenue source that we didn't have previously.
About $1500 of this year's donations came in through the QR code.
Commissioner O'Keefe made a motion to Approve; Seconded by Commissioner Crisp. Voting:
Ayes – Amy Boze, Tony Crisp, Allen Lee, Kevin O'Keefe. Nays – None.
4.
Communication from Visitors
Communication from Visitors
No visit …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
Consent Agenda
4 yea
Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Financial Report
4 yea
Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Adjourn
4 yea
Amy Boze yea · Tony Crisp yea · Allen Lee yea · Kevin O'Keefe yea
Tue Aug 11, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Tue Aug 11, 2026 · 18:00
Plan Commission
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
Mon Aug 10, 2026 · 18:00
General
212 3rd Avenue, Sterling
Tue Aug 4, 2026 · 19:00
Sterling Public Library Board
Sterling Public Library Board meeting canceled
The scheduled August 4, 2026 meeting of the Sterling Public Library Board has been canceled. No business was conducted.
- Meeting canceled
librarycancelled-meetingprocedural
Sterling Public Library 102 West 3rd Street, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Sterling Public Library Board Meeting at 7:00 PM
STERLING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEETING AGENDA
102 W. 3rd St., Sterling, IL
Community Room
1. Meeting Canceled
The City of Sterling in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain
accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have questions about the accessibility of this
meeting or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at (815) 632-6630 to allow the City of Sterling to make reasonable
accommodations for these persons.
Mon Aug 3, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to vote on zoning changes, historic nominations, and $839k sewer contracts
The Sterling City Council will meet to decide on zoning amendments for CGH Medical Center properties, authorize historic register nominations, and approve sewer rehabilitation contracts totaling $839,127.14. The agenda also includes routine approvals and public comment.
- Approve zoning change for 1816 & 1818 1st Avenue from MR-6 to CB with special use for EMS facility
- Authorize historic register nominations for Lawrence Brother's Site and National Manufacturing Site
- Waive bid process and approve $43,400 masonry repair contract for Sterling Public Works
- Approve $55,027.75 change order and $740,699.39 pay request for Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation with Hoerr Construction
- Adopt ordinance banning smoking in public parks, recreational trails, and bike pathways
zoninghistoric-preservationsewer-rehabilitationsmoking-bancgh-medical-centerpublic-works
✓ Decided: Council approves historic tax credit nominations, bans smoking in parks tabled
The Sterling City Council approved a resolution to submit historic register nomination applications for the Lawrence Brothers' and National Manufacturing sites, a step needed for federal and state historic tax credits. The council also approved waiving the bid process and a $43,400 quote for masonry work at Public Works, a change order and pay request for sewer rehabilitation, and two ordinances rezoning CGH Medical Center property for an EMS facility. An ordinance banning smoking in public parks, trails, and bike pathways was tabled to the August 17 meeting to clarify the definition of pathways.
- Approved Resolution 2026-08-26 for historic register nominations (6-0)
- Approved waiving bid process for Public Works masonry (6-0)
- Approved $43,400 masonry quote from Mike Harrison (6-0)
- Approved Change Order #9 to Hoerr Construction for $(55,027.75) (6-0)
- Approved Pay Request #10 to Hoerr Construction for $740,699.39 (6-0)
- Tabled smoking ban ordinance to Aug 17 (6-1)
- Approved Ordinance 2026-08-18 amending Comprehensive Plan for CGH Medical Center (6-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2026-08-19 rezoning CGH property to CB with special use for EMS (6-0)
Sterling City Hall Council Chambers, Sterling
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Monday, August 3, 2026
City of Sterling Council Meeting at 6:30 PM
CITY OF STERLING COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Council Chambers - First Floor
212 Third Avenue
Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82027644377
1. Meeting Opening
A. Call to Order
B. Roll Call
C. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Communication from Visitors
A. Public Comment
3. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
B. Approval of Bills and Payroll
C. Newman Central High School Homecoming Parade on September 25, 2026 at 2:00 pm
4. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda
5. Recommended Personnel Action
6. Presentations and Awards
7. Unfinished Business
8. Business Items
A. Resolution 2026-08-26 Authorizing the Mayor to Execute and Submit Historic Register Nomination
Applications to the Illinois State Historic Preservation Office and the National Park Service for the
Lawrence Brother's Site and the National Manufacturing Site Collectively Known as the “Project”
B. Waive Bid Process for Masonry Work to Be Completed at Sterling Public Works
C. Approve the quote from Mike Harrison Mason Contractor for $43,400 to tuckpoint and repair the
building at Public Works.
D. Change Order #9 to Hoerr Construction for Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation & Improvements in the
amount of $(55,027.75)
E. Pay Request #10 to Hoerr Construction in the amount of $740,699.39 for Sanitary Sewer System
Rehabilitation
F. Ordinance No. 2026-08-17 Ordinance Amending Chapter 63, adding a new Section 3 Banning Smoking in
Public Pa …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Sterling Council Meeting Minutes
August 3, 2026
Meeting Opening
Mayor Diana Merdian called the Sterling City Council to order at 6:30 PM on Monday, August 3,
2026.
Present: Alderman Retha Elston, Alderman Joe Strabala-Bright, Alderman Josh Johnson,
Alderman Aida Baker, Alderman Allen Przysucha, Alderman Jim Wise.
Absent: None.
City Manager Scott Shumard, City Attorney Tim Zollinger, Police Chief E. Pat Bartel, Fire Chief
David Northcutt, Superintendent of Public Works Brad Schrader, Superintendent of Building
and Zoning Amanda Schmidt, Finance Director Cindy Von Holten, and City Clerk Teri Sathoff
were also present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Communication from Visitors
Sara Sheimo, 204 15th Avenue — Ms. Sheimo addressed the Council about concerns she has
with the neighbor's fence being installed on her property. They have since built a pergola on
their deck that she believes is over the property line as well. Ms. Sheimo stated she has never
been able to speak to a code enforcement officer regarding her property survey. She states she
was advised to obtain a survey for her property. She stated she would like a formal review of
how her complaint has been handled, and she would like to be provided with information on
how a permit is issued.
Jeff Gale 1706 17th Ave — Mr. Gale stated that he believes the City of Sterling did not follow
the City Code as it pertains to contracts. Gale asked why Chief Chavira was allowed to si …
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Showing the 30 most recent meetings of 81 on record. See the yearly meeting archives below for the full history.
💰 Federal awards (top 10 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
| $651,284 | MALLARD HANDLING SOLUTIONS LLC Department of Defense · ROLLER TRACK WITH PLASTIC ROLLERS, 20FT |
| $144,271 | STERLING BUSINESS MACHINES INC Department of Energy · 4"-6" CHEMLIGHTS IN MULTIPLE COLORS FOR OFFICE OF SECURE TRANSPORTATIO |
| $143,019 | CITADEL CARE CENTER - STERLING LLC Department of Veterans Affairs · FY24 EXPRESS REPORT Q1-Q3 WITH Q4 ESTIMATE |
| $111,360 | STERLING BUSINESS MACHINES INC Department of Justice · 2-PLY WHITE 1000/ROLL 96/CS TISSUE- $111,360.00 |
| $60,840 | STERLING BUSINESS MACHINES INC National Labor Relations Board · BULK SUPPLY ORDER OCFO/OPS MGMT |
| $36,613 | HALO BRANDED SOLUTIONS INC Department of Defense · VARIOUS CHANNING BETE PRINTED MATERIALS TO BE USED TO HELP ACCOMPLISH |
| $29,183 | HALO BRANDED SOLUTIONS INC Department of Health and Human Services · NIDDK - ACQUISITION OF AWARDS FOR THE NIDDK DIRECTOR'S ANNUAL AWARD CE |
| $28,332 | STERLING BUSINESS MACHINES INC Department of Justice · 8540005303770, SKILCRAFT TOILET TISSUE, SEPTIC SAFE, 1-PLY, WHITE, 1,2 |
| $21,483 | STERLING BUSINESS MACHINES INC Department of Justice · TOILET TISSUE |
| $20,059 | HALO BRANDED SOLUTIONS INC Department of Health and Human Services · NIDDK: PLAQUES FOR NIDDK AWARD CEREMONY |
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.
🌐 County-level context (Whiteside County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Traffic fatalities2 (2 pedestrian · 2023)
Business establishments1,158 (17,838 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$899/mo (194 assisted households · 2025)
Adults with low literacy17.8% (low numeracy 28% · 2017)
Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC
City profile
Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.
165
Recorded votes
$296.9M
Annual budget
$95.9M
Debt outstanding
1
Permitted housing units
The money — in
source: Census gov-finance & state comptrollerBudget
Revenue$296.9M
Spending$298.2M
Operating spending ran ahead of revenue this year.
Debt load MODERATE
Outstanding debt$95.9M
Debt-to-revenue0.32×
Debt-load index52 / 100
A debt-load indicator (national percentile of debt, deficit & aid-reliance) — not a solvency verdict. Cross-checked against official state fiscal-stress scores where they exist.
Outcomes — economic mobility
source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research useFor kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:
Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.
Where it’s happening
geocoded land-use decisions🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the research explorer.