Glen Carbon approved for establishment of STAR Bond District, NOVA District Designation
By Tribune Staff • Following Governor JB Pritzker’s signing of the Statewide Innovation Development and Economy (STAR Bond) Act, the Village of Glen Carbon formally notified the State of Illinois of its intent to pursue the establishment of a STAR Bond District. The designation expands the Village’s economic development toolkit and creates opportunities to thoughtfully evaluate destination-oriented projects that could enhance community amenities, attract visitors, create jobs, and support long-term economic growth.
On May 26, 2026, Mayor Bob Marcus was notified by Governor JB Pritzker that the Village of Glen Carbon’s application to establish both a STAR Bond District and NOVA District designation had been approved. This STAR Bond District for Glen Carbon is believed to be the first in the state under the new legislation.
As part of the review process, the State of Illinois evaluated the Village’s application to establish the STAR Bond District before submitting the plan application to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR), and the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB). The reviewing agencies determined that the application met the statutory requirements necessary to qualify as a NOVA district and recommended approval to the Governor’s Office.
STAR bonds are a state-authorized economic development tool that allows eligible tourism and entertainment projects to be funded through new sales tax revenue generated within a defined project area. STAR bonds do not increase existing taxes or utilize current Village revenues.
The approval granted by the State is limited solely to the establishment of the STAR Bond District and NOVA designation and does not constitute approval of any individual project identified within the plan application. Any future STAR bond project proposals will undergo a separate review and approval process administered by the reviewing agencies, with timelines and additional details to be communicated at a later date.
Mayor Bob Marcus expressed his appreciation to the State of Illinois for its thorough review of the Village’s application.
“I would like to thank Governor Pritzker and the State agencies involved in reviewing Glen Carbon’s application for their diligence and comprehensive review throughout this process,” said Marcus. “The approval of the STAR Bond District and NOVA designation provides our community with an important economic development tool as we plan for future opportunities. We appreciate the partnership of the Governor’s Office and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and their confidence in the Village’s vision for the future.”
Erika Heil, Director of Community Development, also noted that any proposal would be evaluated carefully and transparently moving forward.
“This process allows the Village to strategically evaluate opportunities and ensure they align with Glen Carbon’s long-term planning goals and community priorities,” said Heil. “Public input and accountability will remain central throughout every stage of review.”
The STAR Bond District designation positions Glen Carbon to proactively plan for future growth while maintaining transparency and local control. While no project has been approved through this action, the Village is now better situated to consider high-quality development opportunities that could positively shape the community for years to come.
