08-05-2024 City Council Highlights

COUNCIL APPROVES 18TH AVENUE SOLAR PROJECT TO RECEIVE NATURAL SCREEN OF TREES; FREEPORT POLICE TO PROVIDE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER

FREEPORT, IL — Highlights from the July 15, 2024 Freeport City Council meeting include the approval of a natural tree wall between the public and the 18th Avenue Solar Development and more.

Arborvitae Wall Approved for Screening 18th Avenue Solar Development

The Solar Development, presented by Generate Capital, on 18th Avenue now meets specific conditions laid forth by City officials as they have agreed to fund a landscape plan that will naturally aid in blocking its noise and sight from adjoining neighbors.

The approved Landscape Plan accomplishes this requirement via a natural screening of 5-foot-tall Arborvitae spaced at 4 to 6 foot intervals.

Freeport Police to Provide School Resource Officer

The Freeport Police Department has worked with the Freeport School District to supply a School Resource Officer (SRO) starting on a part-time basis this Fall, with hopes of providing a full-time officer in Spring 2025.

An SRO provides expertise in dealing with youth involvement in crime and substance abuse, participates in preventative programs to deter the use of alcohol and drugs, helps prevent crime within the school and much more.

Other News

The City recognized several employees for their extended tenure and their commitment to their community: Aaron Dykema, Police Department, 25 years; Kurtis Schnoor, Police Department, 25 years; Brett Hartwig, Fire Department, 25 years; Timothy Randecker, Fire Department, 15 years; Patrick Ingram, Public Works – Street Department, 20 years.

Surf Internet was approved by Council to install fiber duct systems in the City’s Right of Way, a total process that will most likely require 24 months.

More information about these topics and more can be found in the City Council meeting packet, viewable here: LINK TO AGENDA