Concerns over Rt. 24 noise

U.S. 24 is shown in Fairbury near the Intersection with Second Street.

Engine braking noise from semi-trucks traveling through town on Route 24 was a topic of discussion at Wednesday’s regular meeting of the Fairbury City Council.

Alderman Jim Tipton asked about the status of braking noise signs as motorists enter Fairbury since this issue has been observed near places such as Dairy Queen in the middle of town. Tipton has received complaints about it.

Street Superintendent Lonnie Rhoads said the signs which were formerly up on the highway are at the city shed after someone apparently took them down.

“I never really knew what the reasoning was,” stated Rhoads, referring to the signs being put in the shed.

Some speculate the state made the city take the signs down but no one seems to know for sure.

Rather than being enforceable, police chief Robert McCormick said it may need to be more of a considerate action on the part of truck drivers not to use the engine brakes in town.

“The signs in Forrest don’t help much anyway,” noted Alderman Bill Schmidgall.

“I can sure hear them from my house,” added Alderman Jon Kinate.

City Attorney Matt Schrock believes the issue could be enforceable but the state could be in charge of it since it is along the highway. He will follow up and look into the matter to see what the city can or cannot do.

An engine brake, also referred to as a “Jake Brake,” is a powerful engine retarder on a semi-truck which helps to slow the vehicle, saving regular brakes, especially when traveling downhill. This can prevent the overheating of service brakes on long descents. A loud braking noise is observed from this particular type of system.

Also during Wednesday’s meeting, the council approved the 2026 regular meeting schedule. This follows a previous discussion about the possibility of moving to just one meeting a month. One negative aspect of this option is waiting a whole month for something to be approved. Council members seemed ok with the twice a month meeting schedule currently in place.

“There’s only one meeting for August because of the fair,” explained Mayor David Slagel.

Chief McCormick gave a brief department update, saying two people are going to the police academy starting Jan. 5.

Sewer Superintendent Bruce Pride told council members the city decal has been placed on the sewer department truck.

“It looks good,” said Alderman Kinate.

A police contract and resolution was approved with the Village of Forrest. According to Attorney Schrock, this is almost identical to the previous one except figures have changed.

It was announced a retirement party will be held at City Hall Dec. 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Randy Vedder and Chief McCormick.

Aldermen approved the consent agenda, including Dec. 3 meeting minutes, voucher invoice register listing the bills, treasurer’s cash report, check register and overtime report.