{Lee News Service}

Illinois lawmakers Thursday signed off on a plan that could result in Ford County's first assisted living facility.

Legislation sponsored by state Sen. Jason Barickman extends a tax increment financing district in Gibson City for an additional 12 years.

The measure, which earlier was approved in the House, was unanimously endorsed Thursday in the Senate. It now awaits action by Governor Pat Quinn.

The extension will allow the city to reinvest property tax income in infrastructure improvements or economic development. Plans call for a 50-bed assisted living center to be built northeast of Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Middle School.

Mayor Dan Dickey said "With much of our population aging, this is a vital project for Gibson City."

The legislation is Senate Bill 2071.

94.1 FM, WGFA