Carbondale City Council approves 20-mile residency expansion for city employees

The Carbondale City Council made significant strides in its recent meeting on July 8, 2025, addressing key community concerns through the approval of a special use permit for a new solar energy project and a revision of employee residency requirements.

In a unanimous vote, the council approved a special use permit for Arena Night 1 Solar LLC to construct and operate a 3.8 megawatt solar array at 1914 Sycamore Street. This initiative is expected to enhance the city’s renewable energy capacity without any financial impact on the city budget. The project aligns with Carbondale's commitment to sustainable energy solutions, providing a clean energy source for residents and businesses alike.

Another major topic of discussion was the amendment of the city’s employee residency requirements. The council voted to expand the residency boundary from a 9-mile radius to a 20-mile radius from the intersection of West Walnut Street and South Illinois Avenue. This change aims to attract a broader pool of applicants for city positions, addressing ongoing staffing challenges. Council members noted that the current residency requirement has hindered recruitment efforts, particularly in light of a housing shortage in the area.

The new ordinance allows all city employees, except for the city manager, to reside within the expanded boundary, which includes parts of neighboring communities such as Du Quoin and West Frankfort. Council members expressed that this change would not only help fill critical positions but also support the city’s goal of providing quality public services.

During the meeting, council members acknowledged the historical context of the residency requirement, noting that it has been a point of contention for many residents, particularly those from minority communities who have felt excluded from city employment opportunities. The council emphasized the importance of balancing the need for local employment with the practicalities of attracting qualified candidates from a wider area.

As the council moves forward, they remain committed to addressing the housing challenges that contribute to the difficulties in attracting and retaining city staff. The discussions highlighted a collective desire to ensure that Carbondale remains a vibrant and inclusive community, capable of meeting the needs of its residents while fostering economic growth and sustainability.