Residents expressed their support for the adoption of the North Fifth Ward Neighborhood Plan at the DeKalb City Council meeting Monday night.

The neighborhood, located east of the Kishwaukee River, west of First Street and north of Lincoln Highway, will see an improvement in its appearance.

“It can be a real beacon of a quality neighborhood,” said Fifth Ward Alderman Pat Conboy.

Part of the plan calls for properties to be well-maintained to preserve the character of the neighborhood.

Resident Donna Gable said she approves of the plan.

“It’s an attractive, safe neighborhood,” Gable said. “It’s a good neighborhood and everyone wants to live in a good neighborhood.”

Resident Misty Haji-Sheikh said she wants to see better traffic management around her home.

“I have to walk my children because people are zooming through there,” Haji-Sheikh said.

Resident Walt Wagner agreed with Haji-Sheikh.

“In the time I’ve been here there’s been an explosion of children, and we would like it to continue and have them be safe,” Wagner said.

The council also considered awarding a TIF grant to a new engineering facility at 1827 E. Lincoln Highway. The grant of $38,430 will be used for interior and exterior improvements.

The new facility will create new jobs that pay between $20 to $28 an hour.

“I think it’s a good use of TIF money,” said Fourth Ward Alderman Mike Knowlton.

Property taxes for next year will be decided at the December meeting, although the council provided input.

The proposal is to raise the rate to $.63 per $100. That would mean an additional $17 per year on a piece of property worth $150,000.

“People are saying ‘No new taxes, don’t raises taxes,’ and I agree with that,” said Second Ward Alderman Kris Povlsen. “I propose we keep the tax rate the same.”