Macomb council authorizes letter of intent to DCEO to pursue Starbond district for sports complex

The Macomb City Council unanimously authorized a letter of intent to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) signaling the city's intent to apply for a Starbond district, a financing tool the city says would be part of the capital stack for a proposed sports complex.

City staff member Scott told council the letter is an early, nonbinding step that carries no obligation or immediate cost to the city. He said the city has attended DCEO webinars and that administrative rules are still being finalized. "This is just the start of a long process," Scott said, describing later milestones that would include submission of a district plan and a more detailed project plan.

Scott outlined timing cited in the meeting: a district plan is expected to be due in January 2027 and a project plan in June 2028. Several council members reiterated that the letter of intent itself does not commit city funds or create new tax obligations; council voted to authorize sending the letter.

Why it matters: A Starbond district, if later approved and paired with other financing or incentives, could underpin funding for a major sports facility the city is considering. City officials said they intend public engagement during future steps and stressed that further approvals would be required before the city commits funds.

Next steps: Staff will submit the letter of intent and continue planning and public outreach as administrative rules and subsequent application requirements develop.