Public Meetings - Rockford, Illinois

The Finance and Personnel Committee of the Rockford City Council held a special meeting on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting began with a proclamation recognizing Girl Scout Week, followed by unanimous approval of two contracts for actuarial services and investment management services. Proclamation: Girl Scout Week - Mayor Thomas P. MacTemer proclaimed March 8–14, 2026, as Girl Scout Week in Rockford, honoring the 114th anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Girl Scouts from the Southeast Valley Service Unit were recognized for their contributions to civic engagement and leadership. Discussion Items 1. Award of RFP: Actuarial Services to Nyhart Company – The committee considered a contract for actuarial services. The contract is for one year with three one-year extensions, with a starting cost of $14,200 in year one, escalating to $15,400 in year four. Funding is from the Finance Department Operating Budget. 2. Award of RFP: Investment Management Services to PFM Asset Management – A contract for investment management services was considered. The estimated annual amount is $69,500, with a three-year term and two one-year extensions, with ability to terminate for convenience by either party. Alderman Toonberg commented that the fees are "absolutely spectacular" relative to the value gained. Alderman Beach asked whether the $69,500 fee remains constant for five years; staff clarified that fees are based on the amount invested and will increase as the portfolio grows, describing it as "a good problem to have." Key Outcomes - Both resolutions were approved unanimously (voice vote, no opposition recorded). - The proclamation honoring Girl Scout Week was issued. Note: No public comments were received during this meeting.

The Finance and Personnel Committee met on February 23, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall. The committee reviewed and approved multiple routine financial items, including vouchers, a property tax rebate program, fee waivers for new construction, and several contract awards. Two items were held for later consideration, and one resolution received a clarifying question from an alderman. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Vouchers (Item 1): Vouchers totaling $11,838,332.59 were approved without discussion. (26-00219) - Proposed 2026 IGA – Property Tax Rebate Program (Item 3): A three-year intergovernmental agreement with School District 205 to provide property tax rebates for newly-built residential construction was approved. (26-00210) - Award of Construction Engineering Agreement (Resolution 2): Awarded to Willett Hofmann and Associates, Inc. of Rockford, Illinois, in the amount of $244,868.68, funded by the 1% Infrastructure Sales Tax. Contract duration through November 30, 2026. (26-00213) - Homeless System Capacity Expansion Pilot Program Grant (Resolution 3): Acceptance of an $85,522 grant from IDHS Family & Community Services, with no cost match, for the period November 1, 2025 to October 31, 2026. (26-00216) - Weatherization Mechanical Services RFQ (Resolution 4): Award to Geostar Mechanical Inc. of Rockford in an estimated amount of $1,200,000 (unit pricing), with one optional one-year extension. Funding from DCEO, DOE, HHS, and State Supplemental. (26-00221) - Sale of Two Ford Explorers (Resolution 5): Sale of two vehicles to BMO Police for $7,000 each approved. (26-00217) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Resolution to Waive Fees for New Residential Construction on Vacant Land (Resolution 1): The proposed resolution would waive building plan review, building permit, building inspection, and water connection/service fees for new residential construction on vacant lots citywide. Alderman Tumberg asked a clarifying question regarding the scope of the waiver. Mr. Cagnoty confirmed it applies to vacant land and lots. The resolution was then approved unanimously. (26-00211) Key Outcomes - Approved Unanimously: All items under the Consent Calendar and Resolution 1 were approved by voice vote with no opposition. - Held Over: Two items were deferred without discussion: - Lien Reduction Request for 2213 Wentworth Avenue (Item 2, 26-00209) - Award of RFP for Actuarial Services (Resolution 6, 26-00224) - Award of RFP for Investment Management Services (Resolution 7, 26-00226) - Next Steps: The held items will be addressed at a future committee meeting. No other follow-up actions were specified.

The Code and Regulation Committee met at 5:30 PM on Monday, February 23, 2026, to consider four committee reports and six event resolution items. The committee approved most items, laid over one zoning case for 30 days, and debated the impact of liquor and video gaming terminals in a commercial district. Committee Reports - Item 1 – Plat No. 5 of Perryville Promenade Subdivision (26-00200): Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Item 2 – 2525 Auburn Street – Liquor and Gaming Terminal Approval (26-00201): The Liquor and Tobacco Advisory Board recommended approval for a Class L-50 liquor license for Gyro House & More, Inc. dba Gyro House, including five video gaming terminals. Discussion revealed the city has a cap of 600 terminals per its host agreement with Hard Rock; currently 579 are authorized, and this request adds five. Alderman Terina spoke in opposition, citing cumulative negative effects of adding liquor and gaming to a vulnerable community, and voted no. The motion passed 4-1 (roll call: Terina no, Prunty aye, Wilkins aye, Bell aye, Bonne aye). - Item 3 – 609 Kilburn Avenue – Solar Array and Fence Variations (26-00202): The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended denial. The Boys and Girls Club of Rockford requested the item not advance. Alderman Bell moved to lay over for 30 days to allow evaluation of concerns raised by staff and the ZBA regarding the ground-mount solar array and fence variations. Motion passed 4-1 (Terina aye, Prunty aye, Wilkins aye, Bell aye, Bonne no). - Item 4 – 73xx East Riverside Boulevard – Coffee Shop Special Use Permit (26-00203): The applicant amended the request at the ZBA to remove a previously proposed retail strip center, leaving only a stand-alone coffee shop with drive-thru and deviations for parking and landscaping (20-foot setbacks reduced to 10 feet on the front). Staff report initially recommended denial but was based on the pre-amendment plan. The committee approved unanimously by roll call (all ayes). Resolutions (Event Permits) All six resolutions were approved by voice vote without debate: - Item 1 – Irish Marching Society St. Patrick's Day Parade (26-00204): Saturday, March 14, noon–5 p.m., parade steps off at 3 p.m. Route: 7th Street and 5th Avenue to Prairie Street. - Item 2 – Spruce Up Day at the Veteran’s Roundabout (26-00205): May 9, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at North Main and Auburn Streets. - Item 3 – Rockford Area Pride Parade (26-00207): June 6, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m., parade steps off at noon. Route: East State Street and 6th Street to Wyman Street. - Item 4 – Lifescape Classic July 4th Run/Walk (26-00223): July 4, 6 a.m.–11 a.m. Start/finish at Riverview Ice House. - Item 5 – 4th of July Celebration (26-00212): July 4, 4 p.m.–10 p.m. Parade at 4:45 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Route: 7th Street and 2nd Avenue to State/Church Street. - Item 6 – One Table: An Open-Air Dining Experience (26-00214): August 29, 6 p.m.–10 p.m. on Water Street from Market Street to Lower Jefferson Street Bridge. Key Outcomes - Item 2 (liquor/gaming) approved 4-1; Alderman Terina dissenting. - Item 3 (solar/fence) laid over 30 days (4-1) to address concerns. - All other committee reports and resolutions approved unanimously. - Meeting adjourned after completing all agenda items.

Note: The transcript incorrectly states the meeting was on January 23, 2026; the official agenda and provided date confirm it was February 23, 2026. The meeting included two informational presentations, a committee report on funding for the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, and a resolution to begin a new TIF district. Public speakers addressed racial history, community concerns, and arts funding. Public Comments & Testimony - John Tack Brantley spoke about Black history and civil rights, criticizing the Booker Washington Center’s historical role and calling for programs to support suspended students at libraries and schools. - Denzel Winter recounted the Battle of Bamber Bridge (1943) to highlight ongoing racial discrimination, asserting that Black Americans deserve equal respect. - Prophet Yusuf delivered a religious message urging men to lead in prayer for peace and community safety, and offered birthday wishes to a staff member. - Stephen McMaster alleged Open Meetings Act violations, including a city council meeting start time of 5:30 PM instead of the required 6:00 PM, and reported that only 52 of 94 requested Open Meetings Act certifications were provided. He questioned the rules for public comment and called for an audit. - Stuart Johnson (founder, Rock and Roll Institute) strongly supported the Rockford Area Arts Council, describing it as the city’s cultural backbone and essential for youth development, mental health, and public safety. He highlighted the Arts Council’s $1.5 million federal grant and urged continued funding. Informational Presentation: GoRockford FY26 Q1 Quarterly Results John Grove (President/CEO) and Gino Eifert (Board Chair) reported on the first six months of the fiscal year (July–December 2025). Key points: - Featured national positive publicity (NBC Nightly News segment on Letters to Santa). - Hotel occupancy averaged 60% (70% for higher-tier hotels); record revenue of nearly $70 million (up 8% over 2024); 650,000 room nights (up 4%). - The AHL All-Star Classic drove 90% hotel occupancy and 28% weekly occupancy increase. - Announced Rockford will host the 2026 group stage and 2027 World Cup of Women’s Baseball. - Final round of Restaurant Relief Grants distributed $450,000 to 34 restaurants, for a total of $1.5 million refunded to local restaurants. - Ironman event scheduled for June 14, 2026 (second of three years, with possible extension). - America 250 celebration grants (up to $2,500) available for cultural events, and art/essay contests for students. Informational Presentation: Mayor’s Office of Domestic and Community Violence Prevention Jennifer Kopchaliapia and Deanna Hernandez provided updates. Key data from the Rockford Family Peace Center: - 57% of clients reported being strangled; 72% scored at high risk of death. - A medical response program at UW Health Emergency Department, launched September 2025, received 36 referrals but only 20 were reached (due to staffing gaps); all 20 connected to services, including housing. The youngest client was 16, the oldest 78; 11 had been strangled. - Training for Rockford Public Schools counselors on teen dating violence and strangulation is ongoing, with a new state law (26A) requiring domestic violence response. - The Human Trafficking Task Force has debriefed 10 cases (youngest victim age 12); school-based prevention programs (My Life, My Choice; NetSmarts) have reached 48 youth, and 12 exploitation disclosures were made. - The Community Healing Center now serves 81 youth across five sites, with 59 referrals to partners. 55% of youth showed improvement in hope scores; decision-making and conflict resolution improved by 7.6% and 4% respectively. - Sustainability concerns: current federal funding ends September 30, 2026; applying for state grants. Committee Report: 2026 Funding Agreement with Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) - A motion to approve $75,000 from the Redevelopment Fund was moved and seconded. - Discussion: Finance staff reported the Redevelopment Fund is projected to go $200,000 negative at year-end, but the budget includes this agreement and expects positive balance by 2028. Aldermen noted the GRCC’s new leadership, rebrand, and economic development roadmap; expressed support. Questions addressed site readiness, workforce data, and regional collaboration. The chamber indicated it is also seeking funding from Winnebago County and other municipalities. - Vote: All present voted in favor (roll call ayes; no tally recorded). Resolution: Public Hearing and Joint Review Board for South Rockford Industrial Tax Increment Financing District - A resolution to call a public hearing and convene a Joint Review Board for a new TIF district was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approved: $75,000 funding agreement with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (unanimous). - Approved: Resolution to initiate proceedings for the South Rockford Industrial TIF District (unanimous). - Next Steps: The funding agreement will go to the full City Council. The TIF resolution will lead to a public hearing and Joint Review Board meeting.

The Rockford City Council met on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting began with an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and a proclamation declaring February 2026 as Black History Month, presented by Mayor Thomas P. McNamara with remarks from NAACP President Wayne Turner and an employee resource group member. The council then proceeded through petitions, public speakers, committee reports, unfinished business, motions, resolutions, and new business. A major focus was a motion to reconsider an ordinance providing a $200,000 incentive from casino plan funds for a McDonald's development at 4103 West State Street, which ultimately failed after a 7–6 vote (short of the required 8 affirmative votes for an expenditure). Consent Calendar - Acceptance of the Journal: The journal of December 1, 2025, was accepted. - Proclamation: Unanimously approved recognizing February 2026 as Black History Month. - Committee Reports: - Planning and Development: Approved the Preliminary Conditional Set-Aside Letter for RockRiver I Apartments (HOME/CDBG funds) – 13-0 vote. - Code and Regulation: Approved Plat No. 2 of Puri West State Subdivision – 13-0 vote. - Finance and Personnel: Approved vouchers ($9,842,897.49) and lien waivers for three trustee properties ($4,634.25 total) – 13-0 votes. Item 3 (IGA with RPS 205) was laid over upon motion. - Appointments: Two appointments to the Community Relations Commission (Zsa Zsa Johnson and Shimere Shanklin) were laid over per Rule 18 until after March 4, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Prophet Yusef: Listed numerous local African American leaders and residents, emphasizing the talent and contributions of Black Rockfordians. - Paul Foss: Opposed the $200,000 incentive for McDonald's, arguing the funds should not go to the largest property developer and the largest corporation in the world. He noted 10 existing restaurants within a quarter-mile of the proposed site and stated the project does not alleviate food insecurity. - Lisa Jackson: Criticized comments made by city council members on social media regarding a senior center development, specifically calling out Ald. Hoffman's words as “deliberate, dismissive, degrading, dehumanizing.” She urged elected officials to be mindful of their public statements. - Tamika Brown: Acknowledged the potential economic benefits of the McDonald's project but stressed it does not solve food insecurity. She advocated instead for a mobile grocery market that accepts SNAP/WIC, provides fresh produce, and involves a community advisory board. She urged measurable goals and progress reporting. - Dennis Littlejohn: Opposed the McDonald's incentive, questioning why the city would subsidize a fast-food restaurant when children lack healthy options. He noted the barren West Street corridor and asked whether a grocery store could provide similar jobs and align with the mayor's health initiative. He spoke as a young civic-minded resident. Discussion Items - Reconsideration of McDonald's Development Incentive (Item 26-00180): A motion to reconsider ordinance 2026-24-O, which approved a $200,000 amendment to a development agreement with First Midwest Group/Machesney Investment LLC for a McDonald's at 4103 West State Street. The funding source was 2025 Casino Plan Funds/Economic Development High Risk Area. Extensive debate followed: - Ald. Thunberg: Expressed concern about setting a precedent for frequent reconsiderations; advised sticking with original votes after due diligence. - Ald. Meeks: Stated no constituents asked for the McDonald's subsidy; questioned why financial scrutiny was applied to the Arts Council but not to for-profit businesses. - Ald. Beach: Emphasized that the vote had consequences—the developer made commitments based on it. He argued the project brings sales tax, property tax, jobs, and economic development to a long-vacant corner. - Ald. Torina: Supported the layover to allow due diligence on the Flock Safety contract (separate item) but also queried whether the development would proceed without the incentive. - Ald. Bell: Supported the McDonald's as an economic anchor for the West Side, arguing it could spur further development. He stressed the city can address both economic development and food insecurity simultaneously, and noted the recent creation of a food insecurity task force. - Ald. Bonnie: Supported reconsideration, citing the staff recommendation for denial, public feedback, and the $200,000 investment's questionable value. He noted the council previously acted on public outcry in the Barbara Coleman case. - City Administrator Todd Cagnoni: Explained the procedural history—initial denial recommendation by committee, then a confusing vote, then approval 9-4 two weeks earlier. He clarified that a “yes” vote to reconsider would allow a new vote; a “no” would let the original approval stand. - Developer Brad Keys (First Midwest Group): Stated that after the council's initial 9-4 vote, he made commitments to McDonald's regarding easements and other requirements. Withdrawing the incentive could damage the city's reputation with developers and potentially kill the deal. He argued McDonald's brings traffic and retail synergy to the corridor, potentially attracting other development to the adjacent city-owned parcel. - Ald. Salgado: Disclosed no campaign contributions from the developer. He acknowledged the robust conversation and hoped for future development in his 11th ward as well. - Flock Safety Sole Source Contract (Item 1 under Motions & Resolutions): Laid over upon motion due to public concerns about data sharing and potential unlawful use of license plate readers. Ald. Torina supported the layover for due diligence. - Arts Council Funding Agreement (Shumway Building): Laid over after Ald. Thunberg motioned, citing recently received profit/loss statements and wanting further review. Key Outcomes - McDonald's Incentive Denied: The motion to reconsider passed 7–6 (yes: Thunberg, Frost, Wilkins, Hoffman, Grant, Beach, Bell; no: Logan, Torina, Fronty, Salgado, Meeks, Bonnie). On the subsequent vote on the ordinance itself, the tally was 7–6 in favor (same yes votes plus Logan? Wait, careful: actual roll call for the ordinance: Logan no, Thunberg yes, Frost yes, Torina no, Fronty no, Wilkins yes, Hoffman yes, Grant yes, Beach yes, Salgado no, Meeks no, Bell yes, Bonnie no — that's 7 yes, 6 no). Director Hammer advised that under the Illinois Municipal Code, eight affirmative votes are required for expenditure of funds; therefore the ordinance failed. Mayor McNamara confirmed the item is denied. - Flock Safety Contract Laid Over: Approved for further review; will return in a future meeting. - Arts Council Lease/Agreement Laid Over: To allow aldermen to review financial documents (profit/loss, balance sheet). - Finance Item 3 (IGA with RPS 205) Laid Over: No further details on timing. - New Business – RockRiver I Apartments: Ordinance approving the conditional set-aside letter was approved 13-0. - Head Start Staff Retention Incentives: Two ordinances (union and non-union) were approved after suspending Rule 9, allowing immediate passage. Both provide one-time non-recurring retention incentives using grant funds. - Closed Session: The council briefly convened into closed session to discuss collective negotiating matters, then returned to open session and adjourned.

The Rockford Community Relations Commission met on February 12, 2026, at 5:30 PM at City Hall. The meeting featured a discussion with Mayor Tom McNamara, an update from Public Works Director Scott Sanders, and continued work on the 2026 Action Plan. Key topics included the commission's role, affordable housing, the R3 grant, the Barbara Coleman redevelopment, regrow cannabis funds, lead service line replacement, snow removal, and communication protocols. Discussion with the Mayor - Mayor McNamara urged commissioners to drive the agenda based on community input rather than having him dictate priorities. He emphasized the need for the commission to advocate for issues they hear about, such as workforce development and housing. - Commissioner raised concerns about affordable housing, senior housing, the R3 grant amendment, and the Barbara Coleman project. The Mayor confirmed that housing items are in the city's housing plan, noted he was unaware of the R3 amendment but would review it, and announced a February 18 press conference regarding Barbara Coleman. He stated that the developer J. Jeffers remains committed and that a local contractor (Ringland Johnson) has been hired for Phase 1B. - Regarding regrow (cannabis tax funds), the Mayor said the funds are still available but city council lacks consensus on spending. He suggested a thoughtful communication from the commission to the Democratic Caucus would be welcome. He noted about 10 of 14 aldermen support regrow but have differing ideas. - The Mayor committed to quarterly meetings with commissioners (subject to Open Meetings Act limits) and to improving communication about new appointments and departures. He announced two new members: Jah Johnson and Shamir Love, expected to join in March. He also noted the commission needs Republican representation. Public Works Department Update – Director Scott Sanders - Director Sanders gave an overview of the Public Works Department (Engineering, Streets, Water). He highlighted: - Capital Improvement Plan: Large projects (e.g., 11th Street, Auburn Street) include multi-use paths; road diets prioritize safety over speed. - Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR): 4,100 replaced so far; 30,000 remain. New EPA mandate requires completion by 2036. Cost per replacement $10,000–$15,000. Current pace is 400–500/year, but must ramp to 3,000/year. Grant funding (principal forgiveness or low-interest) covers costs now, but future federal funding is uncertain. Residents must opt in, which is often a barrier. - Snow Removal: The post-Thanksgiving blizzard overwhelmed residential contractors (RSS). The city clears arterials and collectors with its own crews; residential plowing is subcontracted. Salt is applied by city crews. The contract will be re-bid in July 2025. Director acknowledged the need for better supervision of subcontractors and clearer communication about odd/even parking. - Sidewalk & ADA: The city has a three-year sidewalk replacement plan, prioritizes ADA ramp complaints, and has no 50/50 cost-share program for homeowners. - Pedestrian Safety: A pedestrian safety task force is developing an action plan; director urged commissioners to promote it. Unfinished Business – 2026 Action Plan - Staff presented a draft action calendar and implementation plan, building on the strategic planning session. The document includes monthly topics, speakers, action items, leads, and statuses. Commissioner requested that prior to each director update, the commission receive bullet points on key challenges and how the commission can help. They also asked to be added to the city's press release email list to stay informed. Staff will coordinate with the marketing director for regular CRC posts (not a standalone Facebook page for now). Commissioner Reports & Discussion - Commissioner reported attending a ward meeting and offered to share feedback. - Commissioner noted the ongoing snow sculpting competition at Sinnissippi Park and requested input on the new layout. - Commissioner shared concerns about the R3 grant amendment (pending in Springfield) and suggested the commission could draft a letter of recommendation on regrow fund use. - The commission discussed creating a point person or group to coordinate with the Democratic Caucus on regrow; a volunteer offered to collect individual commissioner thoughts. Key Outcomes - The Mayor will schedule quarterly meetings with commissioners (in subgroups or one-on-one as needed). - The commission will receive regular press release emails from the city. - Staff will provide briefings ahead of department head visits, including asking what the commission can do to help. - Two new commissioners (Jah Johnson and Shamir Love) will join in March 2026. - The commission will develop a letter or recommendation on regrow fund allocation, to be shared with the Democratic Caucus. - No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

The Community Relations Commission met on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 5:31 PM in City Hall. The meeting included a discussion with Mayor Thomas McNamara, a detailed update from Public Works Director Scott Sanders, and continued work on the 2026 Action Plan. Commissioners also addressed communication gaps, housing initiatives, snow removal, and the future of REGROW funding. Consent Calendar - Journal of Proceedings (January 8, 2026): Accepted unanimously by voice vote. (Commissioner Norma Borrero absent.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public speakers were registered. Discussion Items - Commission’s Discussion with the Mayor: Chairman Eric Brown presented the CRC’s 2026 strategic goals, emphasizing a shift from listening sessions to measurable action. He noted a “follow-up gap” where resident concerns shared with city staff often lack timely feedback. Mayor McNamara committed to instructing department heads to “close the loop” on Commission inquiries, proposed quarterly direct communication sessions, and expressed strong support for adding a youth member (voting or advisory). He clarified that recent REGROW funding did not advance due to a lack of council motion, and encouraged the Commission to submit written funding recommendations to the Democratic caucus. On housing, the Mayor discussed zoning reforms to move away from project-by-project approval, noting that building permits for one- and two-family homes have increased to over 100, but the city still needs approximately 6,000 to 9,200 new units. He also announced that Zsa Zsa Johnson and Shamir Shanklin are expected to join the Commission in March, and acknowledged the need for more balanced representation. - Public Works Department Update – Director Scott Sanders: Director Sanders provided an overview of the department’s three divisions (engineering, streets, water). Key points included: - Lead Service Lines: The city has replaced roughly 4,100 lines, with 30,000 remaining. The federal mandate requires replacement by 2036 (10 years). Sanders suggested a potential ordinance or MOU to require resident participation so entire blocks can be replaced efficiently. Current grant funding is only guaranteed through the end of 2026; if grants dry up, rate increases may be necessary. - Road Safety and “Road Diets”: The department is prioritizing multi-use paths and lane width reductions to move people safely rather than quickly. - Snow Plowing: Sanders explained odd/even parking rules are designed to clear at least one lane to the curb line. He admitted that while contractors have supervisory obligations, city staff often monitors routes directly. The city handles all salting; residential plowing is contracted out, and a typical 2-inch snowfall costs $300,000–$350,000. - Other: The city has a three-year rolling sidewalk replacement plan, with priority for ADA accessibility needs. The capital improvement plan over four years approaches half a billion dollars. - Continue Discussion of 2026 Action Plan: Michaela Harris presented the revised Action Plan and Implementation Plan, including specific “Initiative Leads” and a “Status” tracker for accountability. She discussed the social media strategy: following a meeting with the Marketing Director, the Commission will initially use the main City of Rockford social media pages to build a following before establishing a stand-alone page. The plan includes director updates, a workforce development round table (June), a biannual report, and a food security panel discussion (August). Commissioners requested that future department head presentations include a standard format with bullet points on what they need from the Commission and their biggest challenges. Key Outcomes - Votes: The Journal of Proceedings was accepted unanimously. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:39 PM. - Mayor’s Commitments: Improved communication (“closing the loop”), quarterly direct sessions with the Mayor, support for youth member, and written REGROW recommendations to the Democratic caucus. - Lead Service Lines: The city will attempt to replace 1,800 lines in 2026 (up from 400–500 annually) and 3,000 per year thereafter, pending grant funding. - Snow Removal: The odd/even parking protocol will be better communicated to residents. Contractor performance will be monitored more closely. - REGROW Funding: The Commission will draft a collaborative letter of recommendation to the Democratic caucus; Commissioner James McDowell volunteered to collect input. - Commissioner Reports: Commissioner McDowell noted the snow sculpting competition at Sinnissippi Park this week. The Commission discussed the best approach to the Democratic caucus regarding REGROW, leaning toward a letter of recommendation. - Next Steps: Commissioners will review the 2026 Action Plan and send feedback to Michaela Harris. The Commission will continue outreach to aldermen and explore a potential youth member ordinance.

Mayor McNamara called the special meeting to order at 6:22 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, at City Hall. The council considered a motion to reconsider a development agreement, approved a final subdivision plat for the former Rockford Memorial Hospital site, and laid over two commission appointments. Discussion Items - Motion to Reconsider Ordinance 2026-24-O (McDonald’s Development Agreement): Alderman Hoffman moved to reconsider the ordinance approving a $200,000 development agreement with First Midwest Group and McDonald’s for a location at 4103 West State Street. The ordinance had been approved on February 2, 2026. Alderman Bell seconded. Legal Director Angela Hammer confirmed the motion to reconsider will be placed on the February 17, 2026 regular City Council agenda for a vote, in compliance with the Open Meetings Act. - Final Plat of Mercy Health Rockton Campus Subdivision (26-00171): The developer requested to combine nine existing parcels into two lots to allow the sale of the former Rockford Memorial Hospital building. Alderman Bonne presented the committee report. Alderman Meeks expressed concern about the property having been sold for $1 and about potential building code violations, noting community unease. City Administrator Todd Cagnoni explained that Mercy Health transferred the property to a nonprofit without a subdivision plat, raising compliance issues with city codes and the Plat Act. He stated that advancing the plat with conditions puts the city in the strongest position, and that building code violations would be pursued separately. Alderman Frost asked for clarification, and Director Hammer confirmed the vote is strictly on the plat and not on the property’s viability or use. Alderman Bell requested more time to review, but Cagnoni noted the item had been under discussion since 2025 and a 60-day deadline required action. Legal Director Hammer added that if the plat were denied, the applicant could seek a court order to record it, but the recommended conditions protect the city’s interests. Key Outcomes - Motion to Reconsider: Placed on the February 17, 2026 City Council agenda for a vote. No action taken at this meeting. - Final Plat of Mercy Health Rockton Campus Subdivision: Adopted by a vote of 13 ayes (Durkee, Tuneberg, Frost, Torina, Prunty, Wilkins, Hoffman, Granath, Beach, Salgado, Meeks, Bell, Bonne) with Alderman Logemann absent. Enactment No. 2026-46-CR. - Appointments to Community Relations Commission: The appointments of Zsa Zsa Johnson (term expiring December 2026) and Shimere Shanklin (term expiring August 2028) were laid over until March 4, 2026, per Rule 18. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m. on a unanimous voice vote.

The Finance and Personnel Committee of the City of Rockford met on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall. The committee reviewed and approved several routine financial items, including vouchers, lien waivers, an intergovernmental agreement with Rockford Public School District 205, and a series of procurement contracts for equipment, vehicles, and services. All items were approved by voice vote without opposition. Committee Reports - Approval of Vouchers: Vouchers totaling $9,842,897.49 were approved. No questions or discussion. - Approval of Lien Waivers for Trustee Properties: Lien waivers totaling $4,634.25 for three properties (517 Knowlton Street, 3904 Preston Street, 3122 18th Street) were approved to facilitate transfer from the Winnebago County Trustee to bidders. No questions. - Intergovernmental Agreement with RPS 205 for Lincoln Middle School Access: The agreement covers vacation of a right-of-way, construction of revised access to Lincoln Middle School from Charles Street as part of the 11th Street Phase 2 project, and reimbursement by RPS 205. Alderman Meeks raised a question about the possibility of constructing a semicircular driveway in front of Lincoln Middle School to encourage use of the historic front entrance. Staff responded that the school district brought the current proposal, which aligns with city plans for 11th Street, and that a circular drive may be difficult due to road speeds and angles. Additionally, it was noted that the school has permanently locked the main entrance and now controls access through other doors. The agreement was approved. Resolutions All resolutions were approved by voice vote. Key discussion points: 1. Sidewalk Deicers/Ice Melt (Bagged Salt) – Warehouse Direct: Estimated $40,000 for one year with three one-year extensions. Alderman Meeks asked about the balance in the Property Fund Operating Budget and 2024 expenditures. The finance director was asked to provide the information later. Approved. 2. Ford OEM Automotive Parts and Supplies – Brad Manning Ford: Estimated $75,000 through December 31, 2026, with two annual extensions. No questions. Approved. 3. 2026 Light Duty City-Wide Vehicles – Enterprise Fleet Management: $701,269 for a 60-month term. Alderman Meeks inquired about the prior lease program that resulted in a profit; staff confirmed it was successful and this is the third round. Approved. 4. Loose Equipment and Supplies (Fire Dept.) – Air One Equipment: Estimated $300,000 for one year. No questions. Approved. 5. WPLS-190 Wheel Lifts – Gray Manufacturing Company: $60,673 one-time purchase funded by 2026 Gaming Tax Revenue. Alderman Meeks asked what a wheel lift is; the fire chief explained it is a large machine used to lift vehicles for maintenance in the city shop. Approved. 6. Communication Equipment – GenComm Inc.: $75,975.60 one-time purchase from Fire Department Capital Budget. No questions. Approved. 7. Demers MPX 170 Ford F-550 Ambulance – MacQueen Equipment: $423,555 one-time purchase funded by capital lease funds and Fire Department Capital Budget. Alderman Meeks asked if this was adding or replacing an ambulance; the chief confirmed it replaces an older unit, and old units are sold through government deals. Approved. 8. Engineering Agreement Supplement 1 (Land Acquisition) – 11th Street Corridor (IDOT Section) – Crawford, Murphy & Tilly: Supplemental amount $369,267, new total $1,198,370, through 2026, funded by 1% Infrastructure Sales Tax. No questions. Approved. 9. Engineering Agreement Supplement 2 (Land Acquisition) – 11th Street Corridor (City Section) – Crawford, Murphy & Tilly: Supplemental amount $242,789, new total $2,366,043, through 2026, funded by 1% Infrastructure Sales Tax. Alderman Sogado asked how many supplements are coming; staff said these are the only two for the 11th Street project. Approved. 10. Engineering Agreement Supplement 1 (Land Acquisition) – Auburn Street Improvements – Crawford, Murphy & Tilly: Supplemental amount $121,286, new total $1,006,661, funded by General Fund 2022 Surplus. Alderman Meeks asked whether the $121,286 is the maximum additional cost; staff confirmed it is the not-to-exceed supplement for land acquisition work (appraisals, negotiations, title work) across 15 parcels. Alderman Coonberg asked about eminent domain issues; staff noted that eminent domain is rare and typically handled by legal staff, recalling only two or three instances in 13 years. Approved. 11. Flock Safety License Plate Readers – Flock Group Inc.: $443,998.16 for one year with three one-year extensions, funded by an Organized Retail Crime Grant and Police Department Intel Unit budget. Alderman Meeks asked if this continues or adds to existing cameras; the chief confirmed it adds 27 additional license plate readers. Approved. 12. Towing and Storage Services (RFP) – Greater Rockford Auto Auction: No direct cost to the city; one-year contract with four one-year extensions. No questions. Approved. Key Outcomes - All 12 items on the agenda were approved unanimously by voice vote. - No public comments were received; all discussion came from committee members. - The committee directed staff to provide additional information on the Property Fund Operating Budget balance and 2024 expenditures to Alderman Meeks. - The meeting adjourned after approval of the final resolution.