Due to increased safety and security measures, the minimum age requirement for holding a Rec Center Membership is increasing to 18 years of age, effective Monday, March 6, 2023.

The City of Bushnell understands that under previous policy, individuals as young as age 15 have been permitted to hold memberships. We sincerely apologize for any inconveniences this causes, but are moving forward with this new policy as a part of our commitment to members' safety.

If this new minimum age requirement impacts you, please visit City Hall to receive a prorated refund of any remaining membership fees that were pre-paid on your account. 

See this year's recycle collection schedule below; scroll down to download/print at home.

As of today, our new website is live and in service for the residents of Bushnell!

Thank you for your patience as we continue to refine and update this to best meet your needs.

Questions and feedback may be sent to Lisa Webb at lisawebb.bcc@gmail.com.

And don't forget to sign up for our free email newsletters!

​The VFW Post 1422 Auxiliary is decorating a Christmas Tree this year in honor of our veterans. You can sponsor a veteran by purchasing an ornament; red and blue ornaments will feature the veteran's name and branch of service. Honor a veteran near or far, who is with us today, or living in our hearts.
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To sponsor:

• Send $5.00 per ornament to:
  Donna Coates
  542 N. Rile St.
  Bushnell, IL 61422
  -or-
  Take it to the VFW
• Include the name and branch of service of your veteran with your payment, or text the information to 309-313-4278
  
  

The tree will be displayed beginning at our Veteran's Day/Appreciation Thanksgiving Dinner on November 11th, and through the month of December.

** The Auxillary is in search of military boots to borrow and display around the bottom of our tree. If you have a pair that you would let us borrow, please reach out using the contact information listed above.  

Come enjoy an annual favorite! The parade begins at 6pm this year followed by holiday themed events in our historic downtown area. Bundle up and enjoy a great start to the season!

Given the recent interest in how the railroad affects navigability through our town, our Council connected with BNSF and explained the situation. BNSF has said that they are committed to solving the issue of prolonged blockages and provided a solution for us. 

If you notice a prolonged blockage (a stopped train blocking multiple crossings through town simultaneously), please contact City Hall or your Ward's alderperson(s) and they can report it directly to BNSF.

Please note that it is still important to consider the points discussed in our earlier messaging about this matter.

The City of Bushnell is and always has been proud of our partnership and history with the railroads that pass through our town. Bushnell's very founding was the result of the railways, after all.  

City officials are, however, aware of concerns surrounding trains that block one or more crossings for lengths of time; the list of implications can be long, and can sometimes result in more than simple inconveniences.

It's important for residents to understand three things when it comes to these railroad dilemmas:

1. The railways are federally owned; states and municipalities can contact the railways and voice their concerns, but ultimately, have little to no power to influence their operations.
2. Residents should be aware of these potential blockages and make a point to understand where all possible crossings are so they can navigate in the safest and most efficient way possible (and communicate this to children traveling to and from school independently).
3. Residents can always call the 1-800 number marked on the operating box at the crossing in question if there is a concern. BNSF requires the crossing number as well as the engine number (clearly marked on the very first train car in line) to process a report.
   

The relationship between community and the railway should be symbiotic; many of our residents' livelihoods depend on the railroad. It's important to be respectful in your communication, and to utilize the most efficient channels when communicating. Social media is a place where individuals can air grievances, but only rarely do such statements result in real action. Let's be action-oriented community members and proactively represent the City of Bushnell.

The Bushnell Recreation and Cultural Center (Rec Center) located at 300 Miller Street has seen a recent facelift! The City has furnished the kitchen with new appliances, and the entire space has enjoyed a fresh coat of paint.

It's bright, clean, and updated enough to host your next event.

Check out membership and rental details on our Living in Bushnell page, and some of our in-progress pictures below.