Development News for Pekin, Illinois

City Council Approves Lease of Three New Solid Waste Trucks

The City Council approved a resolution to lease three new side-load solid waste trucks from Key Equipment and Supply, amending a previous proposal to lease two. The decision was driven by the need to replace aging trucks with proprietary parts, transition to a more accessible parts platform, and secure current production engines before stricter emission standards take effect in FY27. The lease terms are structured to avoid simultaneous lease payments in FY28 and ensure no loss of service. The council amended the motion to include three trucks after deliberation on potential cost savings and logistical benefits.

Court Street Construction Continues; Intersection Updates Provided

During the public input session, a resident expressed frustration with the intersection at 14th and Court Street, citing near-misses and community confusion with the flashing red light. The City Manager provided an update on the Court Street construction project, noting that the intersection would be shut down on Wednesday, May 27th, and Friday, May 29th, from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. for major work. The entire project is anticipated to be completed in the fall, weather permitting. The Council also approved a resolution authorizing a real estate contract for the sale of city-owned property at Veterans Drive and 14th Street.

City Council Approves 2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant Plan

The City Council approved the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan. The plan allocates $436,767 from HUD for the fiscal year. Projects include continuing the social worker program within the police department (capped at 15% of allocation), sidewalk rehabilitation, an installment payment for a new fire apparatus, and program administration (capped at 20% of allocation). The approval is subject to HUD's final approval, with potential budget amendments to follow.

City Budget Amended for Creek Drainage Remediation Project

The City Council approved Ordinance 4400-26-27, amending the fiscal year 2027 annual budget. The amendment includes recognizing additional revenue from property taxes and adding a $2 million capital expenditure to remediate a drainage issue at a creek behind Eastport Village. This creek is under the jurisdiction of the Army Corps of Engineers, requiring an extensive permitting process. The city aims to undertake this larger capital project concurrently with a private development's stormwater improvements to save costs and address erosion issues affecting a sanitary line and Sunset Lake.