DECATUR — The Decatur City Council moved quickly through a full agenda Tuesday night, approving a series of tax‑abatement compliance forms, adopting three ordinances on final reading, and opening a brief public hearing on proposed building‑permit fee changes.
05/05/26 Decatur City Council Meeting. Council members Jenny Bowers, Matt Dyer, Tyler Fullenkamp and Scott Murray were present; Abby Wilder was absent.
SRF loan authorization approved
The council unanimously adopted Resolution 2026‑4, which authorizes the mayor to sign State Revolving Fund loan documents for the upcoming water‑improvement project. The measure was described as “very straightforward” and tied only to financing paperwork.
CF‑1 compliance forms all approved
Eight CF‑1 forms tied to tax abatements dating back to 2018 were reviewed and approved. The company representative reported stronger‑than‑expected performance, including 78 employees compared to an original estimate of 45 and $3.7 million in salaries versus a projected $2 million.
Fireworks funding request tabled
The Decatur Chamber of Commerce asked the city to increase its annual $2,500 contribution to help expand the July 2 fireworks show in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The chamber has raised $6,000 so far toward a $20,000–$25,000 goal.
Council members expressed support but opted to revisit the request at the next meeting.
Beautification program receives additional funds
At Main Street’s request, the council approved shifting $1,659 in unused façade‑grant funds into the residential beautification program. The program received 38 applications this year, generating more than $84,000 in private property improvements from roughly $16,600 in city support.
Memorial Day parade route adjusted
The American Legion’s May 27 parade will alter its route due to the Jackson Street bridge closure. Participants will stage near the chamber parking lot and proceed to the monument on Monroe Street.
Three ordinances adopted
The council approved three measures on final reading:
- Ordinance 2026‑7 — reallocates Rev Complex concession revenue to include deposits to the parks cash‑change and concession fund.
- Ordinance 2026‑8 — updates job titles and pay rates in the Parks & Recreation and Sanitation departments.
- Ordinance 2026‑6 — amends building‑permit fees and city demolition costs. A required public hearing drew no comments.
Other business
- A resident complaint about yard waste being placed in front of neighbors’ homes prompted discussion, but the city confirmed no ordinance governs placement.
- The water department reported strong progress on service tie‑ins along Jackson Street and 12th Street.
- Grass damage at Riverside Center was acknowledged as accidental.
- Veterans banners will be displayed downtown from Memorial Day through Veterans Day, with thanks extended to the Daughters of the American Revolution for their work.
The meeting concluded with approval of claims.