Citizens of Sycamore were honored during Monday’s city council meeting.

The council presented plaques to two community members, George Spartz and Jerry Lane, for their years of service with the city. Spartz was honored for 43 years of work as a paid-on-call firefighter.

“This is a retirement that’s bittersweet,” said Sycamore Fire Chief Bill Riddle. “His retirement is earned and we’re happy for him, but we’re going to miss his presence.”

Lane was recognized for 15 years of service in the city as an emergency manager, a position City Manager Bill Nicklas said was the city’s first.

“It’s a real honor to be here tonight,” Lane said. “It’s been a pleasure working with them, and it’s something I’ll always treasure.”

Phyllis Kelley, DeKalb County historian and director of the Joiner History Room, introduced her newly published pictorial history book, “Images of America: Sycamore.” The book is a collaborative effort from Kelley and the Joiner History Room staff.

Kelley said she has received numerous photographs from the community’s present and former residents ever since the book’s publication.

“We’re not going to write another book,” Kelley said. “But we sure wish we would have gotten them sooner.”

The book offers a view of Sycamore’s past.

“It really gives you a flavor of our history over the years,” Nicklas said.

Also discussed were future plans for the former Engh Farmstead, 1730 N. Main St.

Discussion regarding proposals submitted by agencies interested in obtaining the property will resume at a later date.

The council has been gathering information from the community and is still seeking community input said Mayor Ken Mundy.

The Kishwaukee Family YMCA, DeKalb County Court Services, and the Sycamore Historical Society and Museum are interested agencies. The museum partnered with the Sycamore Park District on their proposal, and Kishwaukee may join the partnership.

Mundy said the council will likely review the options in a “more formal setting than tonight” during the next council meeting on Nov. 15.

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