Sterling public meetings in 2025

General

The Sterling City Council will meet to consider a tax levy ordinance, multiple construction pay requests, and an ordinance extending the Rock River TIF district. The agenda also includes personnel actions and routine consent items.

• Tax Levy Ordinance No. 2025-12-43 for $6,354,947
• Pay Request #8 to Sjostrom & Sons for $206,684.38 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I
• Pay Request #5 to Martin & Company Excavating for $126,196.08 for street reconstruction
• Pay Request #3 to Martin & Company Excavating for $42,088.20 for street reconstruction
• Ordinance No. 2025-12-44 amending Rock River TIF to extend expiration date

The Sterling City Council approved the 2025 tax levy ordinance of $6,354,947, a 3.48% increase from the prior year, despite a projected decrease in the tax rate. The council also approved pay requests for the Riverfront Park Improvements and street reconstruction projects, and extended the expiration date of the Rock River TIF district. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Tax Levy Ordinance No. 2025-12-43 for $6,354,947 (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #8 to Sjostrom & Sons for $206,684.38 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #5 to Martin & Company Excavating for $126,196.08 for Street Reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #3 to Martin & Company Excavating for $42,088.20 for Street Reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2025-12-44 amending the Rock River TIF to extend expiration date (unanimous)

City Council

The Sterling City Council will hold a public hearing on CGH bonds and consider several business items, including a solar subscription agreement, a playground equipment purchase, a monument installation, and a construction agreement with IDOT. They will also vote on an ordinance exempting certain family-occupied single-family dwellings from rental registration requirements.

• Public hearing for CGH bonds
• Agreement with Solar on Earth, Inc. for Illinois Community Solar Subscription
• Purchase and installation of 'Sterling' monument at Route 40 and Science Ridge roundabout
• Waive bid process and purchase playground equipment for Platt Park from NuToys Leisure Products for $100,741
• Ordinance No 2025-12-42 exempting single-family dwellings occupied by owner's immediate family from rental registration

Plan Commission

The Sterling Plan Commission will open with procedural items, then hear a public hearing on a proposed annexation of PIN 11-16-153-001. Commissioners will also discuss a potential ordinance allowing hemp-based products and a cannabis smoking lounge in the city.

• Public Hearing for Annexation of PIN 11-16-153-001
• Discussion on sale of hemp products and cannabis smoking lounge ordinance

City Council

The Sterling City Council is meeting to consider routine approvals and several business items. Key actions include receiving an actuarial report, setting a tax levy estimate, holding a public hearing on CGH bonds, and approving agreements and ordinances, including declaring Engine 5 surplus and a lease with Scott Hibbard.

• Public hearing for CGH bonds
• Tax levy estimate
• Maintenance agreement with IDOT for state routes
• Ordinance 2025-11-39 declaring Engine 5 surplus property
• Ordinance 2025-11-40 authorizing laydown and storage lease with Scott Hibbard for property 11-20-352-007

The Sterling City Council approved the tax levy estimate of $6,354,947, which is below the Truth-in-Taxation hearing requirement. They also accepted actuarial reports for fire and police pension funds, authorized an intergovernmental agreement with IDOT for state route maintenance, and approved a lease agreement with Scott Hibbard. A public hearing on issuing up to $41.95M in taxable general obligation bonds was held with no comments.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills/payroll, and Small Business Saturday proclamation (6-0)
• Accepted fire and police pension actuarial reports; fire funding ratio 84.02%, police 98.98% (6-0)
• Approved tax levy estimate of $6,354,947 (6-0)
• Authorized intergovernmental agreement with IDOT for state route maintenance through June 30, 2032 (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-11-40 for laydown and storage lease with Scott Hibbard (6-0)

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board is meeting to handle routine business (minutes, invoices, receipts, cash report) and to discuss several operational items. These include Illinois Public Library Standards, approval of new copy machines, a donation to the library, and the non-resident fee. No final decisions are listed for these discussion items.

• Discussion of Illinois Public Library Standards (access, advocacy, buildings, collection, finance)
• Discussion and approval of new copy machines
• Discussion of a donation to the library
• Approval of non-resident fee

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on a consent agenda that includes nine property tax abatement resolutions for prior bond series and a street closure for the Sights and Sounds Christmas Walk. The main business item is an ordinance authorizing up to $41,950,000 in general obligation bonds for capital improvements at CGH Medical Center. The council will also consider awarding a $4,060 snow removal contract to Burger Brothers, an intergovernmental agreement with IDOT for storm water pump maintenance, new fire department fees, and a $961,862.99 pay request for Riverfront Park improvements. A study session on council salaries is scheduled after the regular meeting.

• Ordinance 2025-11-38: $41,950,000 GO bonds for CGH Medical Center capital projects
• Pay Request #7 to Sjostrom & Sons: $961,862.99 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I
• Award 2025 snow removal to Burger Brothers: $4,060.00
• Ordinances to add Fire Department lift assist fee and shift false alarm citations to Fire Department
• Street closure for Sights and Sounds Christmas Walk on Dec. 5, 2025

The Sterling City Council approved a $41.95 million general obligation bond ordinance to finance capital improvements for CGH Medical Center, awarded a snow removal contract, and passed several other measures including a fire department lift assist fee and false alarm citation authority. All votes were unanimous except for the lift assist fee, which passed 4-1. The council also discussed but did not decide on adjusting council salaries.

• Approved CGH Bond Ordinance 2025-11-38 for $41,950,000 (5-0)
• Awarded 2025 snow removal bid to Burger Brothers for $4,060 (5-0)
• Authorized intergovernmental agreement with IDOT for storm water pumping station maintenance (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-11-36 establishing fire department lift assist fee (4-1)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-11-37 authorizing fire department to issue false alarm citations (5-0)
• Approved Pay Request #7 to Sjostrom & Sons for $961,862.99 for Riverfront Park Phase I (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax abatement resolutions and street closure for Christmas Walk (5-0)

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider approving the FY 2024/2025 audited financial statements and multiple construction pay requests totaling over $1.14 million for ongoing projects, including Riverfront Park, Light Street, and East 7th Street. The agenda also includes a presentation on the audit and CGH bonds, plus an ordinance for a sanitary sewer easement.

• Pay Request #6 to Sjostrom & Sons for $486,013.57 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I
• Pay Request #12 to Gorman and Company for $164,415.00
• Pay Request #1 to Helm for $329,140.82 for Light Street Construction
• Pay Request #1 to O'Brien Civil Works for $161,085.17 for East 7th Street Construction
• Ordinance 2025-10-35 approving sanitary sewer easement at West 2nd and Locust Streets (former National Manufacturing Building)

The Sterling City Council accepted the audited financial statements and approved several construction pay requests, including $486,013.57 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I, $164,415.00 for Gorman and Company, $329,140.82 for Light Street Construction, and $161,085.17 for East 7th Street Construction. The council also approved an easement for a sanitary sewer system at West 2nd and Locust Streets. All votes were unanimous with no nays recorded.

• Accepted audited financial statements and placed them on file (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #6 to Sjostrom & Sons for $486,013.57 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #12 to Gorman and Company for $164,415.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #1 to Helm for $329,140.82 for Light Street Construction (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request #1 to O'Brien Civil Works for $161,085.17 for East 7th Street Construction (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-10-35 for sanitary sewer easement at West 2nd and Locust Streets (unanimous)

General

The Sterling City Council is meeting to receive updates from developer Ron Clewer on the Gorman and Company project, including site construction and fundraising efforts by Terry McGuire and Marc Geil. The agenda is primarily discussion-oriented with no formal votes or ordinances listed.

• Gorman and Company development update by Ron Clewer
• Site construction update
• Fundraising update by Terry McGuire and Marc Geil
• Site visit discussion

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will hold its regular meeting, covering routine consent items (minutes, invoices, receipts, cash report) and reports from the librarian and staff. The board will discuss Illinois Public Library Standards, a bookmobile van design contest, new copy machines, and a proposed all-day staff training closure on December 17, 2025, with possible approvals.

• Discussion of Illinois Public Library Standards
• Discussion and approval of bookmobile van design contest
• Discussion and approval of new copy machines
• Discussion and approval to close December 17, 2025 for all-day staff training

City Council

The Sterling City Council will open a public hearing to discuss designating a River Edge Redevelopment Zone (RERZ) along the riverfront. If approved, the zone could qualify for state tax credits, exemptions, and grants to spur economic revitalization and job creation in eligible areas.

• Public hearing for River Edge Redevelopment Zone designation
• Potential eligibility for state tax credits, exemptions, and grants under RERZ Act

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider several business items, including an ordinance to create an extended hours permit for liquor license holders and extend New Year's Eve hours, final pay requests for construction projects, a waiver of the bid process for paving at Fire Station Two, an intergovernmental agreement with Whiteside County on nuisance properties, and an ordinance designating a River Edge Redevelopment Zone. The consent agenda includes routine approvals, proclamations, and a road closure request.

• Ordinance 2025-10-33 creating extended hours permit for liquor license holders and extending New Year's Eve hours
• Pay Request #6 (final) to Nicam Construction for $70,218.05
• Pay Request #4 to Martin and Company for $41,496.91
• Waive bid process and approve Helm quote for paving at Fire Station Two for $26,690
• Ordinance 2025-10-34 designating a River Edge Redevelopment Zone

The Sterling City Council approved Ordinance 2025-10-33, creating an extended hours permit for liquor license holders for special events and extending New Year's Eve hours, with amendments setting last call at 2:00 a.m., patrons out by 3:00 a.m., and employees out by 4:00 a.m. The council also approved several other items, including pay requests, a bid waiver for paving at Fire Station Two, an intergovernmental agreement with Whiteside County, and a River Edge Redevelopment Zone designation. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Ordinance 2025-10-33 creating extended hours permit for liquor license holders (6-0)
• Approved amendment to Ordinance 2025-10-33 setting last call at 2:00 a.m., patrons out by 3:00 a.m., employees out by 4:00 a.m. (6-0)
• Approved Pay Request #6 (Final) to Nicam Construction for $70,218.05 (6-0)
• Approved Pay Request #4 to Martin and Company for $41,496.91 (6-0)
• Waived bid process for paving at Fire Station Two (6-0)
• Accepted low quote from Helm for $26,690 for paving at Fire Station Two (6-0)
• Approved Intergovernmental Agreement with Whiteside County to address nuisance properties (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-10-34 designating River Edge Redevelopment Zone (6-0, Mayor's vote recorded as Aye)

City Council

The Sterling City Council is meeting on October 2, 2025, with a single agenda item: a leadership retreat with CGH. The meeting is scheduled for 1:00 PM in the Council Chambers. No other business or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• CGH Leadership Retreat

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider several business items, including waiving the bid process and approving the purchase of six garage doors for Fire Station One at a cost of $71,600. They will also vote on an ordinance to increase liquor licenses for Fire Coop LLC DBA Artisan Oven and a remediation reimbursement agreement with Stanley Black & Decker for the former National property. Additionally, the council will recognize the retirement of Chief Alex Chavira and the promotion of Deputy Chief E. Bartel to Chief, and discuss an intergovernmental agreement with Whiteside County regarding nuisance properties.

• Waive bid process and purchase six garage doors for Station One from Raynor for $71,600
• Ordinance 2025-09-31 to increase liquor licenses for Fire Coop LLC DBA Artisan Oven
• Remediation reimbursement agreement with Stanley Black & Decker for former National property
• Recognition of Chief Alex Chavira's retirement and promotion of Deputy Chief E. Bartel to Chief
• Intergovernmental agreement with Whiteside County to address nuisance properties in extra-territorial jurisdiction

The Sterling City Council approved several items, including a resolution supporting the extension of the Rock River TIF district completion date to 2038, a waiver of the bid process and purchase of six garage doors for Station One from Raynor for $71,600, and an ordinance increasing liquor licenses for Fire Coop LLC DBA Artisan Oven. The council also approved a reimbursement agreement with Stanley Black and Decker for environmental remediation at the former National property. All votes were unanimous among the four present alderpersons, with the mayor also voting on the retirement resolution.

• Approved Resolution 2025-09-28 recognizing Chief Alex Chavira's retirement (5-0, including mayor)
• Approved waiver of bid process for six garage doors at Station One (5-0)
• Approved purchase of six garage doors from Raynor for $71,600 (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-09-31 increasing liquor licenses for Fire Coop LLC DBA Artisan Oven (4-0)
• Approved remediation reimbursement agreement with Stanley Black and Decker (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-09-26 supporting TIF extension to 2038 (4-0)

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider two liquor-related business items: a request from Fire Coop LLC for a Class E liquor license at 3203 East Lincolnway, and a request from The Mercantile to change hours of operation for liquor license holders. No other substantive matters are on the agenda.

• Request from Fire Coop LLC for a Class E liquor license at 3203 East Lincolnway
• Request from The Mercantile to consider a change in hours of operation for liquor license holders

The Liquor Commission recommended allowing extended hours for special pop-up events with specific parameters, including last call at 2:15 am and a $100 permit fee. They also recommended amending the liquor license ordinance to increase the number of licenses for Artisan Oven, a new restaurant at 3203 East Lincolnway. Both recommendations will go to the City Council for final approval.

• Recommended extended hours for pop-up events with last call at 2:15 am, patrons out by 3:00 am, staff out by 4:00 am
• Recommended limit of 1 extended-hour permit per month, max 12 per year, $100 per permit
• Recommended 1-year suspension of all extended-hour permits for any alcohol citation
• Recommended applications for extended hours be submitted 30 days in advance
• Recommended extended hours apply to indoor events only
• Recommended New Year's Eve hours mirror extended hours
• Recommended amending Chapter 6 Article II Section 42 to increase liquor licenses for Artisan Oven (unanimous)

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will meet to discuss a contest for designing a wrap for the library’s Book Van. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion on Book Van wrap contest

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider a zoning map amendment for 1813 Locust, a change order for the Riverfront Park project, and several personnel actions including reappointments and swearing-in ceremonies. The consent agenda includes routine approvals, event petitions, proclamations, and two pay requests totaling over $90,000.

• Ordinance 2025-09-30: reclassify 1813 Locust from Community Business to Community Business with Special Use
• Change Order #6 for Sterling Riverfront Park Phase 1 to Sjostrom and Sons: $19,899.75
• Pay Request #11 to Gorman and Company: $23,305.55
• Pay Request #5 to Nicam Construction: $67,566.51
• Reappointment of Robert Allen to the Fire and Police Commission

The Sterling City Council approved a zoning map amendment to reclassify 1813 Locust from Community Business to Community Business with Special Use, and approved Change Order #6 for Sterling Riverfront Park Phase 1 to Sjostrom and Sons for $19,899.75. All votes were unanimous. The council also approved the consent agenda, including a pay request to Gorman and Company, and reappointed Robert Allen to the Fire and Police Commission.

• Approved consent agenda including pay request #11 to Gorman and Company ($23,305.55) (6-0)
• Approved Mayor's reappointment of Robert Allen to Fire and Police Commission (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-09-30 rezoning 1813 Locust to Community Business with Special Use (6-0)
• Approved Change Order #6 for Sterling Riverfront Park Phase 1 to Sjostrom and Sons ($19,899.75) (6-0)

Plan Commission

The Sterling Plan Commission is meeting to hold a public hearing on a request to rezone property at 1813 Locust Street from CB Community Business to CB Community Business with a special use. The commission will also consider approval of prior meeting minutes and receive staff reports. No other substantive business items are listed.

• Public hearing to rezone 1813 Locust Street from CB Community Business to CB Community Business with special use
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

The Plan Commission voted unanimously to recommend City Council approval of a special use permit for Ink and Ivy Tattoo Shop at 1813 Locust Street, subject to conditions including health registration, bio-waste disposal, and signage limits. The recommendation follows a public hearing where the petitioner presented her business plan and staff found no negative impacts. The commission also approved the July 17, 2025 minutes as presented.

• Approved minutes from July 17, 2025 (4-0)
• Recommended approval of special use for tattoo shop at 1813 Locust St (4-0)

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will meet to handle routine business and discuss two major items: purchasing a bookmobile and remodeling the upstairs public restroom. The board will consider a recommendation to request the City Council waive the bid process and approve buying a 2026 Ford Transit book cart hauler for up to $250,000 from TechOPS Speciality Vehicles.

• Discussion and possible approval of bookmobile purchase: 2026 Ford Transit built as book cart hauler, cost not to exceed $250,000, from TechOPS Speciality Vehicles
• Request to City Council to waive bid process for bookmobile purchase
• Discussion on remodel of upstairs public restroom
• Consent agenda: approval of minutes, invoices, receipts, cash & investment report
• Librarian's report and circulation statistics / story hour report

The board approved the Bookmobile Committee's recommendation to request the City Council waive the bid process and authorize purchase of a 2026 Ford Transit bookmobile from TechOps Specialty Vehicles, not to exceed $250,000. The board also agreed to continue design and cost work on the upstairs restroom remodel despite uncertain state grants. All other agenda items were routine and approved unanimously.

• Approved motion to request City Council waive bid process for bookmobile purchase (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to purchase 2026 Ford Transit bookmobile from TechOps, not to exceed $250,000 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills, receipts, and cash/investment report (unanimous)
• Agreed to continue restroom remodel design and cost work with Willett Hoffman

Sterling Riverfront Commission

The Sterling Riverfront Commission is meeting to discuss the riverfront development project, including an update from developer Gorman and Company, a revised budget for all phases, park construction and amenities, and a proposed opening date. The agenda is primarily discussion items with no formal votes scheduled.

• Gorman and Company update on National Buildings 1 and 2
• Revised budget for all phases presented by Zach Simpson
• Park construction update by Zach Simpson
• Park amenities discussion led by City Manager Shumard
• Proposed opening date discussed by City Manager Shumard and Mayor Merdian

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on a consent agenda that includes a $586,747.62 pay request for sewer system rehab, a redevelopment plan for National Buildings 1 & 2, and other routine items. They will also hear presentations on an Eagle Scout project and a new theater, and consider waiving building permit fees and approving a road agreement with IDOT.

• Pay Request #7 to Hoerr Construction for $586,747.62 for Sanitary Sewer System Rehab
• Redevelopment plan and proposal for National Buildings 1 & 2
• Presentation on new theater project at 301 1st Avenue
• Request to waive building permit fees from Tarlton and Pignatelli, LLC
• Joint agreement with IDOT for patching, milling, and resurfacing on IL Route 2 (4th Street) from 19th Ave to IL 40

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will discuss responses to requests for proposals from bookmobile companies and make a recommendation to the full board on purchasing a vehicle. This is the main substantive item on the agenda.

• Discussion of RFPs from bookmobile companies
• Recommendation to full board to purchase vehicle based on RFPs

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board is meeting to discuss proposals for an Open Book truck van and to make a recommendation to the full board on a book cart van. The meeting is a discussion item, with no final decisions expected at this session.

• Discussion of Open Book truck van proposals
• Discussion and recommendation on book cart van

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on a redevelopment agreement with M5 Property Holdings for properties at 302 1st Ave and 112 E. 3rd Street, and consider increasing liquor licenses for the Spark Center of Performing Arts. They will also act on a $435,192.45 pay request for Riverfront Park Phase I and a change order up to $700,000 for Phase 2. Several consent agenda items include street closures for events and a grocery tax ordinance amendment.

• Redevelopment agreement with M5 Property Holdings for 302 1st Ave and 112 E. 3rd Street
• Pay Request #4 to Sjostrom & Sons for $435,192.45 for Riverfront Park Improvements - Phase I
• Change order for Riverfront Phase 2 not to exceed $700,000
• Ordinance 2025-07-27 to increase liquor licenses for Spark Center of Performing Arts
• Ordinance 2025-07-28 amending grocery retailers' occupation tax

The Sterling City Council approved a redevelopment agreement with M5 Property Holdings, LLC for improvements to 302 1st Ave and 112 E. 3rd Street, and approved Pay Request #4 for Riverfront Park Improvements. They also approved an ordinance increasing liquor licenses for Spark Center of Performing Arts and the consent agenda. A change order for Riverfront Phase 2 was removed from the agenda due to missing information.

• Approved redevelopment agreement with M5 Property Holdings, LLC (6-0)
• Approved Pay Request #4 to Sjostrom & Sons for $435,192.45 for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-07-27 increasing liquor licenses for Spark Center of Performing Arts (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills, insurance pool resolution, street closures, and proclamations (6-0)
• Removed Change Order for Riverfront Phase 2 (up to $700,000) from agenda

City Council

The Sterling City Council is meeting to consider a request to amend Chapter 6 of city code to add an additional liquor license for the Spark Theater for the Performing Arts. This is the only substantive business item on the agenda; the rest is procedural.

• Request to amend Chapter 6 to add an additional liquor license for the Spark Theater for the Performing Arts

Sterling Riverfront Commission

The Sterling Riverfront Commission is meeting to receive updates on the riverfront park construction, including a revised bid to add an ice ribbon to Phase I, and on the Gorman development project. They will also discuss fundraising and donor signage for the pavilion.

• Park construction update and planned opening date
• Revised bid to include ice ribbon in Phase I
• Gorman update: National Building roof repairs, Lawrence Building EPA work
• Fundraising update by Terry McGuire and Marc Geil
• Donor signage for the pavilion

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider awarding two street reconstruction contracts totaling $609,931.60, along with several pay requests and property transfers. The agenda also includes a police promotion and an ordinance for a recreational trail easement.

• Award bid to Helm of Freeport for Light Street reconstruction, $408,141.00
• Award bid to O'Brien Civil Works for East 7th Street reconstruction, $201,790.60
• Pay Request #2 to Martin and Company, $237,647.03 and $53,377.84
• Resolution 2025-07-21 and 2025-07-22 transferring real property to Industrial Development Commission
• Ordinance 2025-07-26 accepting easement for multi-use recreational trail

The Sterling City Council approved the consent agenda, awarded bids for the reconstruction of Light Street and East 7th Street, and approved two pay requests to Martin and Company. Additionally, the council approved resolutions transferring property jurisdiction to the Industrial Development Commission, accepted an easement for a multi-use recreational trail, approved a pay request for sanitary sewer rehabilitation, and granted a temporary construction easement to IDOT.

• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, bills, and payroll (6-0)
• Awarded bid to Helm of Freeport for Light Street Reconstruction for $408,141.00 (6-0)
• Awarded bid to O'Brien Civil Works for East 7th Street Reconstruction Project for $201,790.60 (6-0)
• Approved Pay Request #2 to Martin and Company for $237,647.03 (6-0)
• Approved Pay Request #2 to Martin and Company for $53,377.84 (6-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2025-07-21 transferring real property at 406 Broadway to the Industrial Development Commission (6-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2025-07-22 transferring real property at 411 8th Avenue to the Industrial Development Commission (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-07-26 accepting an easement for a multi-use recreational trail (6-0)

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will meet to handle routine approvals and discuss two business items: transferring funds from the Operating account to Illinois Funds and approving a bookmobile vehicle. The meeting is open to the public and will include reports from the librarian and circulation statistics.

• Discussion and approval to transfer funds from Operating account to Illinois Funds
• Discussion and approval of Bookmobile vehicle
• Approval of minutes, invoices, receipts, and cash & investment report

The Sterling Public Library Board approved transferring $750,000 from its Sauk Valley Bank Money Market Account to Illinois Funds, citing a higher average interest rate (4.5% vs. 1.2%). The board also voted to move forward with purchasing a bookmobile van, with the director to ask the City Manager about waiving the bidding process. Both motions passed, with one abstention on the fund transfer.

• Approved $750,000 transfer from Sauk Valley Bank Money Market to Illinois Funds (John Kirchoff abstained)
• Approved moving forward with bookmobile van purchase; director to request City Council waive bidding process

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will discuss the book transit vehicle and consider whether to approve taking the matter to the full board. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items on the agenda.

• Discussion of book transit vehicle and approval to take to full board

City Council

The Sterling City Council is meeting to consider several routine and notable items, including a resolution to designate the riverfront park as 'Northwestern Steel & Wire Park' and a waiver of the bid process to purchase ice equipment for the same park. The council will also vote on an intergovernmental agreement with Rock Falls for shared fire equipment, a sanitary sewer pay request, and an annexation ordinance. Consent agenda items include a library tax levy resolution, proclamations, and rental fee waivers for local organizations.

• Resolution 2025-06-20 designating riverfront park as 'Northwestern Steel & Wire Park'
• Waive bid process and approve purchase of ice equipment for Riverfront Park
• Resolution 2025-06-18 authorizing intergovernmental agreement with Rock Falls Fire Department for shared equipment
• Pay Request #5 to Hoerr Construction for sanitary sewer rehabilitation, $20,808.00
• Ordinance 2025-06-25 annexing territory contiguous to the city (Parcel 11-14-276-004)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will take final action on a previously approved rezoning and condominium plat for a duplex development at 16th Ave/Lynn Blvd, and will hold a public hearing on annexation and zoning for an Aldi lot. It will also consider a commercial subdivision plat for Loeten. The meeting includes routine approval of minutes.

• Rezone and condo plat for duplexes at 16th Ave/Lynn Blvd (Tarlton & Pignatelli LLC)
• Public hearing on annexation and zoning for Aldi Lot 2
• Loeten Commercial Subdivision Plat
• Approval of May 15, 2025 minutes

General

The Sterling Plan Commission will hold a public hearing and consider several land-use items, including a rezoning and condo plat for a site at 16th Avenue and Lynn Blvd, and an annexation and zoning for the Aldi lot 2. They will also review the Loeten Commercial Subdivision Plat. The meeting includes consent agenda approval of minutes and staff reports.

• Rezone Site B at 16th Avenue and Lynn Blvd
• Condo Plat for 16th Ave and Lynn Blvd
• Public Hearing for Annex and Zone of Aldi lot 2
• Loeten Commercial Subdivision Plat

The Plan Commission voted to recommend approval of a rezoning from SR-4 to MR-10 for a 1.47-acre property at Lynn Blvd and 16th Avenue, allowing a 10-townhouse condominium development, with conditions. They also recommended approval of the annexation and RB zoning for Aldi lot 2, a commercial development with multiple businesses, and approved the minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved minutes from May 15, 2025 (4-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning from SR-4 to MR-10 for condominium plat at Lynn Blvd and 16th Ave (4-0)
• Recommended approval of annexation and RB zoning for PIN 11-14-276-004 (Aldi lot 2) (4-0)
• Recommended approval of plat for Aldi lot 2 with conditions (4-0)

Sterling Riverfront Commission

The Riverfront Reimagined Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the Gorman project, including additional costs and re-work for Lawrence and National, as well as interest from parties in developing both properties. They will also hear legislative updates from Mayor Merdian, a construction update from City Manager Shumard, and a fundraising report from Terry McGuire and Marc Geil. The meeting includes an optional site visit.

• Additional costs/re-work for Lawrence and National properties
• Updates on interested parties for development of Lawrence and National
• Legislative updates from Mayor Merdian
• Construction update from City Manager Shumard
• Fundraising report from Terry McGuire and Marc Geil

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will consider approving a $30,000 certificate of deposit investment through Edward Jones with UBS Bank USA at a 4.1% interest rate maturing in May 2028. The board will also discuss bookmobile planning following a committee visit to Fountaindale Public Library. Additionally, trustees will review monthly financial statements and May circulation statistics.

• Approval of a $30,000 CD reinvestment through Edward Jones with UBS Bank USA at a 4.1% interest rate maturing May 22, 2028
• Discussion and update regarding bookmobile research following a staff tour of Fountaindale Public Library's vehicle
• Approval of monthly bills payable, receipts, and May 2025 circulation and story hour reports

City Council

The Sterling City Council will meet to decide on several key items, including approval of a $320,000 federal grant for road safety improvements, a $450,000 property acquisition via eminent domain for a new wastewater treatment plant, and a $10,000 annual contribution to the Small Business Development Center. The meeting also includes routine procedural items and a donation request for the July 4th fireworks display.

• Approve $320,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant with $80,000 local match for road safety planning and quick-build projects
• $10,000 annual contribution to Sauk Valley Community College’s Small Business Development Center
• $450,000 eminent domain acquisition for wastewater treatment plant expansion near southwest Sterling
• Pay Request #3 for $687,327.33 to Sjostrom & Sons for Riverfront Park Improvements - Phase I
• Sterling Rock Falls Jaycees requests $2,500 donation for July 3rd fireworks display

City Council

The Sterling City Council will hold a public hearing on a new Tax Increment Financing District for the Greater Northland Mall area. They will also consider insurance renewals, several street construction pay requests, and the purchase and outfitting of a new dump truck. Additionally, the agenda includes proclamations for LGBTQ+ Pride Month and Law Enforcement Civilian Personnel Appreciation Week.

• 2025-2026 MICA Insurance Renewal Premium of $862,133.00
• Change Order #4 for Public Works Building Addition Project in the amount of $15,421.00
• Accept quote from Sterling Commercial Roofing to replace the E-Waste Storage Building roof for $55,220.00
• Pay Request #1 to Martin and Company for 2024 Street Projects in the amount of $208,862.98
• Purchase of a 2026 International Dump Chassis from Rush Truck Center of Illinois for $101,998.00 and snow plow outfitting from Bonnell Industries for $97,712.89

Plan Commission

The Sterling Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request by Tarlton & Pignatelli LLC to rezone property at 16th Ave and Lynn Blvd. The commission will also consider approval of a condominium plat for the site, which is proposed for the development of duplex units.

• Public hearing on rezoning property at 16th Ave/Lynn Blvd
• Review of proposed condominium plat for 16th Ave/Lynn Blvd
• Approval of minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will consider approving a quote to replace the north flag pole, which was removed due to stress fractures and is no longer under warranty. The board will also vote on signing a revised Rock River Library Consortium contract, which updates language on technology and the reserve fund. Other agenda items include routine approvals of minutes, bills, receipts, and reports.

• Approval of quote to replace north flag pole (memorial to Major Ivan L. Taylor)
• Authorization to sign revised Rock River Library Consortium contract
• Approval of April minutes, bills, receipts, and cash/investment report
• Librarian's report and circulation/children's stats for April

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on consent agenda items including a $1,047,222.72 pay request for sanitary sewer rehabilitation, a 6.5% merit raise for the city manager, and several proclamations. They will also consider waiving bids to buy an asphalt hot box and a skid steer mower, and approve an intergovernmental agreement for mutual aid.

• Pay Request #4 to Hoerr Construction for $1,047,222.72 for sanitary sewer rehabilitation (IEPA loan)
• Change Order #4 to Hoerr Construction decreasing contract by $14,070
• City Manager Shumard's merit-based compensation increase of 6.5%
• Accept quote of $42,570 from Logan Contractors Supply Inc. for a Falcon Hot Box
• Accept quote of $20,060 from Prairie State Tractor for a Baumalight SWF560 skid steer mower

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on several major items, including the adoption of the FY 2025-2026 budget, an annexation agreement, and amendments to wastewater and refuse collection fees. The meeting also includes a public hearing on the annexation and a consent agenda with routine approvals, including a $390,126.22 payment for Wallace Street work.

• Ordinance 2025-04-18: Annexation Agreement
• Ordinance No. 2025-04-14: Adopting FY 2025-2026 Budget
• Ordinance No. 2025-04-16: Wastewater service charges (min. charge $13.50 to $14.50; per 100 cu.ft. $5.25 to $5.75)
• Ordinance No. 2025-04-17: Refuse collection charge set at $20.75/month (75-cent increase)
• Pay Request #7 to Gensini Excavating for Wallace Street: $390,126.22

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board of Trustees' Bookmobile Committee is meeting to discuss converting a van into a bookmobile, including what equipment to include, and to discuss potential sites to visit. The agenda includes reports from committee members and discussions on these topics.

• Discussion on conversion items: shelves, book carts, AC, generator, interior lighting
• Discussion of sites to visit

City Council

The Sterling City Council will hold a public hearing on the FY 2025-2026 budget and consider several action items, including two large pay requests for sanitary sewer rehabilitation funded by an IEPA loan. The council will also vote on adopting updated building and fire codes, approve road closures for community events, and hear presentations on Riverfront Park naming and donor wall design.

• Public hearing on FY 2025-2026 Annual Budget
• Pay Request #2 to Hoerr Construction for $1,215,967.02 for sanitary sewer rehabilitation
• Pay Request #3 to Hoerr Construction for $2,218,463.12 for sanitary sewer rehabilitation
• Ordinance 2025-04-11 adopting updated building codes and permit fees
• Resolution R2025-04-06 to close Fourth Street for Memorial Day Service

Sterling Riverfront Commission

The Sterling Riverfront Reimagined Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the River Edge, Lawrence Building, and National Building, including environmental work, roof work, and prospects. They will also review the Riverfront Park construction timeline, amenities, Phase II and III development, ice skating ribbon, Veteran's Memorial design, and park naming approval status. The agenda includes foundation matters such as the donor wall, donations to date, and donor spotlight, plus media updates.

• River Edge city report discussion
• Lawrence Building environmental work and hotelier updates
• National Building roof work and status of prospects
• Riverfront Park construction timeline and amenities ordering
• Park naming approval status from City Council

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will vote on the fiscal year 2026 meeting calendar and library closure dates for holidays and staff training days. The board will also review monthly financial reports, circulation statistics, and a librarian’s report.

• Approve FY26 meeting schedule: first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Library Community Room
• Approve FY25 library closures for Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and President’s Day
• Approve transfer of $36,000 from Rock River Library Consortium to Illinois Funds for a reserve account
• Approve minutes, bills payable, receipts, and cash & investment report for March

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board of Trustees' Bookmobile Committee is meeting to discuss the purpose of a bookmobile, the size of the vehicle, and next steps. The agenda lists these as discussion/action items, with no specific proposals or decisions detailed.

• Discussion of the purpose of the bookmobile
• Discussion of the size of the vehicle
• Discussion of next steps

Plan Commission

The Sterling Plan Commission will consider whether to issue a letter of objection or no objection to a proposed 4.95 MW community solar farm by Prairieville Road Solar LLC, located off Prairieville Rd. within the city's 1.5-mile extraterritorial jurisdiction. The commission will also approve minutes from a prior meeting. The solar farm proposal includes additional materials and a modified site plan submitted by the petitioner.

• Action on letter of objection/no objection for Prairieville Rd. solar farm (4.95 MWac)
• Proposal by Prairieville Road Solar LLC, off Prairieville Rd. in extraterritorial jurisdiction
• Petitioners submitted supplemental materials and potential pre-annexation agreements
• Approval of minutes from November 21, 2024 meeting

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on several major items, including a $1,946,843 purchase of a new fire truck, a new residential rental housing inspection code, and a public hearing date for a TIF district around Northland Mall. The consent agenda includes routine approvals, street closures for community events, and a $52,050 payment to the riverfront developer. The meeting will also include a budget study session.

• Waive bid process and accept $1,946,843 proposal for Rosenbauer fire truck from Jefferson Fire and Safety
• Ordinance 2025-03-10 adding a Residential Rental Housing Code with inspections starting after June 1, 2025
• Ordinance 2025-03-09 setting a May 19, 2025 public hearing for the Northland Mall TIF
• Pay request #10 to Gorman and Company for $52,050 for riverfront redevelopment work
• Pay request to Sterling Environmental LLC for $30,025 for asbestos abatement at Sterling Theater (402 Locust Street)

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will consider several action items, including approving the FY26 budget, increasing copy fees, funding the staff holiday party, and keeping executive session minutes closed. They will also discuss the bookmobile and receive reports on circulation and finances.

• Discussion and approval of FY26 budget
• Increase copy fees: B&W single from $0.15 to $0.20, color/double-sided from $0.20 to $0.25
• Approval of funds for staff holiday party on March 22
• Approval to keep executive session minutes closed
• Discussion of bookmobile

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on a $154,214.74 pay request for Riverfront Park Improvements Phase I and an ordinance to dispose of two surplus 2021 Ford Interceptor squad cars, possibly by donation. They will also discuss a rental inspection program (no action) and hold study sessions on fire apparatus and the budget.

• Pay Request #1 to Sjostrom & Sons for $154,214.74 for Riverfront Park Improvements - Phase I
• Ordinance No. 2025-03-08 authorizing disposal of two 2021 Ford Interceptors (estimated trade-in value $14,000)
• Consent agenda includes rock salt joint participation agreement with State of Illinois
• Discussion only: Rental Inspection Program (no action)
• Study sessions: Fire Department Apparatus and Budget

City Council

The Sterling City Council is attending the Northern Illinois Mayors Association (NIMA) quarterly business meeting and dinner. No City of Sterling action will be taken during this meeting; it is informational only. A representative from Gorman and Company will provide an update on the Sterling Riverfront and Redevelopment project.

• Northern Illinois Mayors Association quarterly business meeting and dinner
• Update on Sterling Riverfront and Redevelopment by Gorman and Company Market President Ron Clewer
• No City of Sterling action taken during the meeting

City Council

The Sterling City Council will vote on several ordinances, including a new tobacco licensing structure with fees and limits, an additional liquor license for Azul Cantina, and a revised compensation and pay plan. They will also consider a contract for asbestos abatement at 302 4th Avenue and hear a presentation on the Rivers Edge designation. The meeting includes a consent agenda with routine approvals and a budget study session.

• Ordinance 2025-02-04: new tobacco dealer licenses (Class A $250, Class B $500 initial, $250 renewal, max 3 Class B)
• Ordinance 2025-02-05: increase liquor licenses to 40 for Azul Cantina at 3920 East Lincolnway
• Ordinance 2025-02-06: amend compensation and pay plan based on consultant review
• Waive bid and approve contract with Sterling Environmental for asbestos abatement at 302 4th Avenue
• Pay request to Brother's Flooring for $9,959.56 (50% down payment on flooring at Sterling Theater)

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board will discuss and potentially approve a professional services proposal from Willett Hoffman for bathroom upgrades, a FOIA policy, and preliminary FY26 budget discussions. The bathroom project is tied to a future state construction grant application.

• Approval of professional services proposal from Willett Hoffman for bathroom upgrades in the 1904 portion of the library
• Discussion and approval of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Policy
• Preliminary discussion of FY26 budget, with approval expected in March
• Update on bookmobile
• Approval of bills payable and receipts for December and January

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider approving over $1.45 million in payments and a change order for the sanitary sewer rehabilitation project funded by an IEPA loan, and will discuss placing the Greater Northland Mall TIF eligibility report on file. They will also vote on a truck route designation and a joint agreement for road improvements, and review a wage study and budgets.

• Pay Request #1 to Hoerr Construction for $1,152,991.59 for sanitary sewer work
• Change Order #1 to Hoerr Construction for $6,561.00
• Pay Request #1 to Willett Hofmann & Associates for $292,120.60 in engineering fees
• Resolution declaring LeFevre Road from City Limits to Lynn Boulevard a Class II Truck Route
• Joint agreement with Whiteside County for TARP-funded LeFevre/McCue road project

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider Resolution 2025-01-01 to support a federal RAISE/BUILD grant application for reconstructing Griswold and Woodburn streets with curb and gutter, sidewalks, and a multi-use path. The city may qualify for up to 100% federal funding if the project area meets rural or disadvantaged-community criteria.

• Resolution 2025-01-01: support RAISE/BUILD grant for Griswold-Woodburn reconstruction
• Project cost estimate exceeds $8 million
• Potential 100% federal funding if rural or disadvantaged-community criteria met
• Local match capped at 20% if required, funded via local-option sales tax
• Multi-use path proposed to connect Scheid Park to LeFevre Road

Sterling Riverfront Commission

The Sterling Riverfront Commission will meet to discuss updates from developer Gorman and Company, a site construction report from the city manager, fundraising progress, and a donor wall update. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Gorman and Company update by developer Ron Clewer
• Site construction update by City Manager Scott Shumard
• Fundraising update by Terry McGuire and Marc Geil
• Donor wall update by Heather Sotelo and Terry McGuire

City Council

The Sterling City Council will meet to conduct procedural items, approve minutes and bills, and vote on a $270,000 Motor Fuel Tax expenditure resolution. The council will also consider a $644,936.10 street construction bid award and reappoint an alderperson to the Liquor Commission.

• Approve $270,000 Motor Fuel Tax expenditures for winter maintenance and street lighting
• Award $644,936.10 street construction bid to Martin & Company Excavating for 5th Street, 5th Ave, 17th Ave, and 19th Ave reconstruction
• Approve minutes and bills from prior meetings
• Reappoint Alderperson Baker to the Liquor Commission
• Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a proclamation

Sterling Public Library Board

The Sterling Public Library Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 7:00 pm in the Library Meeting Room has been cancelled. No business will be conducted at this time.

• Meeting cancelled

City Council

The Sterling City Council will consider an ordinance to increase the number of liquor licenses to accommodate a request from Primo's Bar & Grill, and will vote on a $353,985 pay request for Riverfront Park playground equipment. The meeting also includes swearing-in ceremonies for new police officers and firefighters, plus routine consent agenda items.

• Ordinance 2025-01-01 to increase liquor license cap for Primo's Bar & Grill at 1711 W. 4th Street
• Pay request of $353,985 to Landscape Structures for Riverfront Playground Equipment
• Swearing in of police officers Kolten Smith and Brandon Jagistch
• Swearing in of firefighters Garrett Helfrich and Justin Kalina
• Approval of minutes and bills/payroll