09-16-2024 City Council Highlights

COUNCIL APPROVES RADIO EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT USE; UPGRADES TO CITY’S FUEL STATION

FREEPORT, IL — Highlights from the September 16, 2024 Freeport City Council meeting include the increased radio capability between the Freeport Fire Department and Stephenson County and the repairs approved for the City’s fuel station.

New Radio Equipment to Improve Fire Department’s County Communications

Council approved an agreement between the County Highway Department (Stephenson County) and the Freeport Fire Department to place an antenna, receiver equipment, and an amplifier at the County Highway Building located at 295 W. Lamm Road.

The Emergency Telephone System Board (ETSB 911 Board) has agreed to fully fund ($108,000) the replacement of the Fire Department’s VHF radio network. These specific pieces of equipment to be placed at the County Highway Building will greatly enhance radio communications to the southern portion of Stephenson County.

Fuel Station at City Yards to Receive Upgrades in 2025

The underground fuel system at 1001 N. Island Avenue will soon receive necessary replacements to its 33-year-old components. This fuel system serves Public Works and Street crews, Police, Fire, Water, Sewer, Pretzel City Transit, Community Development, Animal Control, and the Housing Authority.

Some major elements of this system have outlived their life expectancy of 30 years and are in need of replacement.

Other News

Trick or Treating hours were once again established by Council approval as 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 31.

A Vactor Sewer Cleaner truck was also approved to be purchased through tax-exempt financing to replace the water and sewer department’s currently depleted truck.

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