Development News for Zion, Illinois

Emergency Sanitary Sewer Repair Approved for 23rd Street Alley

The City Council approved payment of an invoice from Campanella and Sons for emergency sanitary sewer repair work. The repair was necessary due to a collapsed 12-inch sanitary main in the 23rd Street North alley west of Emius Avenue, reported by residents on April 18th, 2026. The work involved replacing 120 feet of 12-inch sewer main and two 6-inch service tap connections. The total invoice amount is $14,000.74. The repair required an outside contractor due to the depth and soil conditions. The Public Works crew worked 24 hours a day for 11 days to manage wastewater flow while Campanella and Sons completed the repairs over 9 days. The disruption was significant, affecting approximately 400 residences connected to the main.

City Focuses on Business Retention and Development; Announces Nostalgia Days

Director Ransom provided updates on the city's economic development initiatives. He reported on attending the annual ICSE conference, which connects developers, brokers, and retailers to discuss opportunities and industry trends. The city made connections with potential retailers aimed at showcasing Zion's development potential, noting that fostering such relationships takes time, referencing the Walmart shopping center project as a five-year example. Additionally, the city is launching a Business and Retention Program, starting with a 2026 business survey for both brick-and-mortar and home-based businesses to gather data for supporting existing local businesses and identifying areas for city improvement. Results will be shared with the council. He also announced the 38th annual Nostalgia Days car show and festival will occur on June 19th and 20th in downtown Zion.

Class K Liquor License Approval for Hive Gaming Cafe

The City Council considered the authorization for the issuance of a Class K retail liquor license to The Hive Gaming Cafe, located at 2636 Shard Road. This approval is related to a change of ownership at the establishment. Deputy City Administrator was unable to provide information, but another official confirmed it is a routine approval for a gaming license due to a new operator. A motion to approve was made.

City Council Receives Budget Process Timeline Update

During departmental commentary, Director Waldenorf provided a timeline update for the budget process. A rough draft of the budget will be presented on July 7th, with the goal of approving appropriations on August 4th. He noted that payroll and pension calculations are complex and require careful attention to ensure accuracy, especially concerning prior pensions. The complexity arises from the system not being set up for higher pensions, requiring custom configuration.