Edwards is next police chief

Sgt. Chris Edwards (photo courtesy of the City of Fairbury).

With the retirement of Fairbury Police Chief Robert McCormick, the Fairbury City Council voted to approve a contract for Sergeant Chris Edwards to become the next Chief of Police.

Sergeant Edwards has served for 10 years on the Fairbury Police force. He will officially start in the role January 12.

Also during Wednesday night’s Fairbury City Council meeting, the group voted to approve the new road known as Westfield Drive near the Sealtite location on Route 24 west.

Alderman Gary Norris reported he recently read an article in a magazine stating e-bikes are gaining popularity and that the state may issue new regulations regarding them. The city already has some ordinances regarding e-bikes but they may need to be updated to comply with any new state laws.

City Superintendent Brett Ashburn reported to the council that a new employee had started work for the Street Department. Aldermen voted to continue paying city employees for unused sick days at the end of the year.

In another matter, the council voted to approve payment of a bill to the Greater Livingston County Economic Development Council (GLCEDC) as the group forgot to bill Fairbury for 2025 membership. The fee supports the GLCEDC efforts to attract new businesses and jobs to Livingston County.