The Sycamore City Council approved another subdivision Monday night after hearing comments from citizens opposed to further development.

The council voted 6-2 to allow Hickory Terrace subdivision to be built at the corner of Peace and Freed roads.

The development will include 47 single-family homes priced around $250,000 and 26 townhomes priced at $190,000 to $230,000.

Sycamore resident John Larson asked the council to hold off voting until residents had more time to voice their opinions in the March 16 expansion referendum.

Developer Dave Sanderson said he thinks the subdivision is good for Sycamore.

“We love the location, we love the town, but it’s hard to attract retail without rooftops,” Sanderson said.

The council also voted to nearly double impact fees assessed to developers. The fees are charged to the developer and go to the city and school district to offset the costs of new services.

First Ward Alderman Chuck Stowe said he wanted to make sure the school board asked for enough money through impact fees. Stowe said he didn’t want the board to keep coming back and asking for more.

The Rev. Donald Phelps of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church showed his appreciation for the rescue efforts after last Monday’s fire destroyed the church.

“On behalf of our congregation, thank you is all we can say,” Phelps said through tears. “To the community, to the city for helping us in our time of need, thank you.”

Police Chief Don Thompson presented the Sycamore Police Department annual report.

Thompson said the department is running smoothly and the crime rate dropped 3.15 percent.