We have been seeing a lot of dangerous e-bike usage around town and we’ve also been receiving a lot of citizen complaints about them. People are concerned about children on e-bikes running stop signs and driving recklessly through neighborhoods. Some of these kids don't appear to even be paying attention to the stop signs, or, even worse, looking for oncoming traffic before entering or crossing an intersection.
Friends, the entire goal of this post is to prevent accidents before they happen. We do not want to see any children in our community needlessly struck while riding on them.
🚲 E-Bikes 🚲
To qualify as a low-speed electric bicycle under Illinois law, the bike must have:
☑️ Fully operable pedals
☑️ An electric motor of less than 750 watts
☑️ A maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (28 mph for Class 3)
Important reminders about operating e-bikes:
☑️ E-bikes CANNOT be ridden on public sidewalks.
☑️ You must be 16 or older to ride a Class 3 e-bike.
☑️ It is illegal to tamper with or modify the speed capability of an e-bike without a valid updated label.
☑️ E-bike riders must follow the same rules of the road that apply to traditional cyclists (including signaling, obeying stop signs, and lane usage).
☑️ No more than two e-bikes abreast on the roadway.
Also, E-bikes operating at night must have a front lamp and a rear reflector.
🚲 E-Dirt Bikes 🚲
Electric dirt bikes do NOT meet Illinois’ legal definition of a low-speed electric bicycle because they typically have motors exceeding 750 watts and can reach speeds higher than 28 mph.
Operating an electric dirt bike requires:
☑️ A valid driver’s license
☑️ Registration with the Illinois Secretary of State
☑️ Compliance with insurance requirements
Electric dirt bikes cannot be ridden on sidewalks and can only be driven on streets if the driver has a valid license, proper registration and insurance for the dirt bike.
And, regardless of the bike you’re on, please remember that you are required to stop for police when signaled to do so.
We hope this post prevents a child from being seriously hurt on an e-bike. Misuse of these bikes can pose serious risks to young riders and others. We strongly urge parents to do research prior to purchasing an e-bike for their children and remind their children about the rules of the road and what is/isn’t permitted e-bike usage. Anyone on an e-bike must abide by the same rules of the road as someone on a bicycle.
𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨…𝙠𝙞𝙙𝙨 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙣, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙮. 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙙𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠!
Here are a few links to applicable laws and resources:
📘 Illinois Law: https://ow.ly/FhUP50WkCq5 (scroll to the bottom of the page for Sec. 11-1517 – Low-speed electric bicycles)
📘 Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road: https://ow.ly/L57k50WkCnf
*thank you to Chatham, IL Police for putting this post together
Friends, the entire goal of this post is to prevent accidents before they happen. We do not want to see any children in our community needlessly struck while riding on them.
🚲 E-Bikes 🚲
To qualify as a low-speed electric bicycle under Illinois law, the bike must have:
☑️ Fully operable pedals
☑️ An electric motor of less than 750 watts
☑️ A maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (28 mph for Class 3)
Important reminders about operating e-bikes:
☑️ E-bikes CANNOT be ridden on public sidewalks.
☑️ You must be 16 or older to ride a Class 3 e-bike.
☑️ It is illegal to tamper with or modify the speed capability of an e-bike without a valid updated label.
☑️ E-bike riders must follow the same rules of the road that apply to traditional cyclists (including signaling, obeying stop signs, and lane usage).
☑️ No more than two e-bikes abreast on the roadway.
Also, E-bikes operating at night must have a front lamp and a rear reflector.
🚲 E-Dirt Bikes 🚲
Electric dirt bikes do NOT meet Illinois’ legal definition of a low-speed electric bicycle because they typically have motors exceeding 750 watts and can reach speeds higher than 28 mph.
Operating an electric dirt bike requires:
☑️ A valid driver’s license
☑️ Registration with the Illinois Secretary of State
☑️ Compliance with insurance requirements
Electric dirt bikes cannot be ridden on sidewalks and can only be driven on streets if the driver has a valid license, proper registration and insurance for the dirt bike.
And, regardless of the bike you’re on, please remember that you are required to stop for police when signaled to do so.
We hope this post prevents a child from being seriously hurt on an e-bike. Misuse of these bikes can pose serious risks to young riders and others. We strongly urge parents to do research prior to purchasing an e-bike for their children and remind their children about the rules of the road and what is/isn’t permitted e-bike usage. Anyone on an e-bike must abide by the same rules of the road as someone on a bicycle.
𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨…𝙠𝙞𝙙𝙨 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙣, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙮. 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙙𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠!
Here are a few links to applicable laws and resources:
📘 Illinois Law: https://ow.ly/FhUP50WkCq5 (scroll to the bottom of the page for Sec. 11-1517 – Low-speed electric bicycles)
📘 Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road: https://ow.ly/L57k50WkCnf
*thank you to Chatham, IL Police for putting this post together
Effective 10/20/2025 the burn ban has been lifted for the Village of Forsyth.
Join us for a Mobile DMV Event at Forsyth Public Library!
Saturday, November 8
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Appointments are REQUIRED for this event: Please contact FPL at 217-877-8174 to schedule an appointment today!
Representatives of the Secretary of State's office will be on hand to assist with renewing or correcting driver's licenses, converting existing standard driver’s licenses into REAL ID driver’s licenses, obtaining renewed or first time Standard or REAL state IDs, issuing free state IDs for seniors aged 65 or older, and purchasing license plate stickers. Attendees can also register to be an organ donor/tissue donor and register to vote while applying for a driver’s license or identification card. A list of acceptable documents required can be found at the library or online at www.ilsos.gov.
Saturday, November 8
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Appointments are REQUIRED for this event: Please contact FPL at 217-877-8174 to schedule an appointment today!
Representatives of the Secretary of State's office will be on hand to assist with renewing or correcting driver's licenses, converting existing standard driver’s licenses into REAL ID driver’s licenses, obtaining renewed or first time Standard or REAL state IDs, issuing free state IDs for seniors aged 65 or older, and purchasing license plate stickers. Attendees can also register to be an organ donor/tissue donor and register to vote while applying for a driver’s license or identification card. A list of acceptable documents required can be found at the library or online at www.ilsos.gov.
FLU VACCINE CLINIC
October 14th - 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
Forsyth Library Community Room
Please bring a photo ID and insurance card or relevant information and wear a short-sleeved shirt. For questions, call 217-423-6988 option 2
Who Can Get Vaccinated?
Available for all individuals 6 months and older
High Priority for:
Older adults (55+)
Pregnant individuals
People with chronic health conditions
Children
Why Get Vaccinated?
Protects against serious illness
Helps stop the spread in our community
Safe, quick, and effective
October 14th - 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
Forsyth Library Community Room
Please bring a photo ID and insurance card or relevant information and wear a short-sleeved shirt. For questions, call 217-423-6988 option 2
Who Can Get Vaccinated?
Available for all individuals 6 months and older
High Priority for:
Older adults (55+)
Pregnant individuals
People with chronic health conditions
Children
Why Get Vaccinated?
Protects against serious illness
Helps stop the spread in our community
Safe, quick, and effective
🚧 Road Work Alert – Please Use Caution! 🚧
Minor road construction will take place on the following dates:
➡️ Friday, October 10 – Smith Street
➡️ Saturday, October 11 – Elwood Street (in front of the Library)
Please use caution when driving in these areas and watch for workers and equipment. Thank you for your patience as we make these improvements!
Minor road construction will take place on the following dates:
➡️ Friday, October 10 – Smith Street
➡️ Saturday, October 11 – Elwood Street (in front of the Library)
Please use caution when driving in these areas and watch for workers and equipment. Thank you for your patience as we make these improvements!
The burn ban for Forsyth is back on effective 10/6/2025.
OPEN BURNING IS PROHIBITED FOR THE FOLLOWING:
• Residential and agricultural burning
• Burning of yard waste, brush, leaves, and other natural or combustible materials
This suspension will remain in effect until weather conditions improve and fire danger is significantly reduced.
ENFORCEMENT AND COST RECOVERY
Fire Protection Districts may bill property owners for the costs associated with responses to unauthorized burning incidents, as authorized by:
• Illinois Statute 70 ILCS 705/11f – Billing Formula
• Illinois Statute 70 ILCS 705/8.20 – Billing Justification
WHY THE BAN IS NECESSARY: After responding to numerous field fires over the weekend, local fire districts agree that reinstating the burn ban is critical for public safety.
Current weather patterns—dry conditions and low humidity—create dangerous fire conditions where even small or controlled burns can quickly become uncontrollable. Farm fields and vegetation are extremely dry, increasing the likelihood of fires spreading rapidly and threatening lives, homes, and farmland.
Macon County officials are closely monitoring conditions in coordination with the National Weather Service – Lincoln. The public will be notified of any changes or updates as conditions evolve.
Macon County Emergency Management Agency
282 E. Macon St. Decatur, Illinois 62523-1482
(217) 424-1327 Fax (217) 424-1329
FIRE SAFETY DURING HARVEST
Farmers are urged to exercise increased caution during harvest activities:
• Assign a fire watch during equipment use
• Keep fire extinguishers and discing equipment nearby
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if a fire starts—small fires can escalate rapidly
RESIDENTIAL SAFE ALTERNATIVES TO BURNING
Residents are strongly encouraged to:
• Mulch or compost yard waste
• Use local waste collection or disposal services
• Store debris safely until the burn suspension is lifted
OPEN BURNING IS PROHIBITED FOR THE FOLLOWING:
• Residential and agricultural burning
• Burning of yard waste, brush, leaves, and other natural or combustible materials
This suspension will remain in effect until weather conditions improve and fire danger is significantly reduced.
ENFORCEMENT AND COST RECOVERY
Fire Protection Districts may bill property owners for the costs associated with responses to unauthorized burning incidents, as authorized by:
• Illinois Statute 70 ILCS 705/11f – Billing Formula
• Illinois Statute 70 ILCS 705/8.20 – Billing Justification
WHY THE BAN IS NECESSARY: After responding to numerous field fires over the weekend, local fire districts agree that reinstating the burn ban is critical for public safety.
Current weather patterns—dry conditions and low humidity—create dangerous fire conditions where even small or controlled burns can quickly become uncontrollable. Farm fields and vegetation are extremely dry, increasing the likelihood of fires spreading rapidly and threatening lives, homes, and farmland.
Macon County officials are closely monitoring conditions in coordination with the National Weather Service – Lincoln. The public will be notified of any changes or updates as conditions evolve.
Macon County Emergency Management Agency
282 E. Macon St. Decatur, Illinois 62523-1482
(217) 424-1327 Fax (217) 424-1329
FIRE SAFETY DURING HARVEST
Farmers are urged to exercise increased caution during harvest activities:
• Assign a fire watch during equipment use
• Keep fire extinguishers and discing equipment nearby
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if a fire starts—small fires can escalate rapidly
RESIDENTIAL SAFE ALTERNATIVES TO BURNING
Residents are strongly encouraged to:
• Mulch or compost yard waste
• Use local waste collection or disposal services
• Store debris safely until the burn suspension is lifted
Are you signed up to receive the Village Vision, the official monthly newsletter of the Village of Forsyth and Forsyth Public Library? The October edition is packed FULL of important information about Village projects, planned construction, upcoming events and more.
Read the October edition here: https://5il.co/3qiwr
Want to ensure it ends up in your email inbox each month? Sign up here: https://www.forsyth-il.gov/page/newsletter-sign-up
Read the October edition here: https://5il.co/3qiwr
Want to ensure it ends up in your email inbox each month? Sign up here: https://www.forsyth-il.gov/page/newsletter-sign-up
Forsyth Village Hall will be closed to customers IN PERSON while we get our roof replaced:
Tuesday-September 30
Wednesday-October 1
If you need assistance, please call 217-877-9445
Tuesday-September 30
Wednesday-October 1
If you need assistance, please call 217-877-9445
The burn ban for Forsyth has been lifted effective 2:44 on Thursday, September 25.
Thank you
Thank you
The Village of Forsyth remains under a burn ban! Thank you
Our contractor, Feutz, said they plan to have their traffic control come in next Tuesday and put up the road closures on Hickory Point and E Weaver so they can begin road improvements. We have not heard how long they think the construction will take, but as soon as we do, we will let you know. Full detour signage will be included.
Halloween
October 31
Start anytime and go until 8:00
Please see the latest from Macon County.
We are anticipating Dunn Co to begin the bike path renovations next week. This project is expected to last 2-3 weeks. The project will go along Forsyth Parkway from Weaver Road to Illini Drive, and along W Forsyth Parkway from Park Place Court to the west side of Veterans Park. You will see that outlined in red on the picture.
Thursday- September 11- Public Meeting
5:30-7:30
What to expect:
*This is an open house-style event
*Come anytime between 5:30-7:30
*You can see the plans we have, ask questions, and give us input
*We will have a petition there that you can sign to show your support
5:30-7:30
What to expect:
*This is an open house-style event
*Come anytime between 5:30-7:30
*You can see the plans we have, ask questions, and give us input
*We will have a petition there that you can sign to show your support
Make sure to mark your calendar for this Thursday from 5:30-7:30!
Village Hall/Public Works will be closed for Labor Day-This also means no Public Works Limb Pick Up on Monday.
Forsyth Family Sports and Nature Park! Help us plan Phase 2!
Rudolph's Village Market
Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6
4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Forsyth Park
We can't wait to see you all during our THIRD year at Rudolph's Village Market! December 5/6 (4:00-8:00 each night)! Picture what every Hallmark movie has at least one scene of...an outdoor holiday market. We will have lots of lights and space for each unique vendor. The air will be filled with songs from local musicians and the smell of holiday cheer.
Does your organization want to volunteer, have a booth? Let Jill know at 217-877-9445
Vendors sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D49ABAD2DA2FB6-50787420-2024?fbclid=IwY2xjawMa6I1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFFeGxrNjZmM1FDYk5TZm42AR7ze-f7vPlA-XNxCqp9QsQZMARtTspZ7lLv2IPlVUZMb8QC9Px-iJoEtTKhQQ_aem_GD3NQSJWteKd_tKdejNHcw#/
Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6
4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Forsyth Park
We can't wait to see you all during our THIRD year at Rudolph's Village Market! December 5/6 (4:00-8:00 each night)! Picture what every Hallmark movie has at least one scene of...an outdoor holiday market. We will have lots of lights and space for each unique vendor. The air will be filled with songs from local musicians and the smell of holiday cheer.
Does your organization want to volunteer, have a booth? Let Jill know at 217-877-9445
Vendors sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D49ABAD2DA2FB6-50787420-2024?fbclid=IwY2xjawMa6I1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFFeGxrNjZmM1FDYk5TZm42AR7ze-f7vPlA-XNxCqp9QsQZMARtTspZ7lLv2IPlVUZMb8QC9Px-iJoEtTKhQQ_aem_GD3NQSJWteKd_tKdejNHcw#/
Farm Progress Show is here! Again this year, you can take the bus from the east side of the old Bergner's in the mall parking lot.
