Public Meetings - Rockford, Illinois

The Code & Regulation Committee met on May 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM at City Hall, Rockford, IL. The meeting was called to order by Alderman Mark Bonne. Three aldermen were present (Wilkins, Bonne, Bell), two absent (Torina, Prunty). The committee considered two items: approval of a final plat for the Kebby Subdivision and a special use permit with variation for a McDonald's restaurant at 1869 North Perryville Road. Both items were approved unanimously with amended conditions on the second item. Committee Reports 1. Final Plat of Kebby Subdivision - The developer requested creation of a three-lot plat to lease a lot to a solar farm (Lot 2) and create a commercial lot (Lot 3) at the intersection of Kilburn Avenue and North Central Avenue. There was no discussion. The committee approved the final plat unanimously (3-0). Motion by Ald. Bell, seconded by Ald. Wilkins. 2. 1869 North Perryville Road (McDonald's) - The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval for a special use permit for a fast-food restaurant with a drive-thru and a variation to allow a trash enclosure within the front yard setback in a C-2 Limited Commercial district. The committee discussed an amendment offered by Ald. Wilkins to modify condition number 3 regarding signage: "Proposed signage must meet current sign code and the design must match the larger promenade sign." The amendment was carried 3-0. Ald. Frost thanked the developer for revising the plan to relocate the dumpster enclosure from the southwest corner to the southeast corner of the property, following a failed motion at a previous meeting. The committee then approved the special use permit and variation as amended unanimously (3-0). Motion by Ald. Bell, seconded by Ald. Bonne. The Legal Director shall prepare the appropriate ordinance. Key Outcomes - Final Plat of Kebby Subdivision approved unanimously. - Special Use Permit and Variation for McDonald's at 1869 North Perryville Road approved unanimously with amended signage condition. - Meeting adjourned at 6:05 PM.

The Finance & Personnel Committee met on December 8, 2025, at 5:30 PM in City Hall, Rockford, Illinois. The committee reviewed the quarterly investment report, approved vouchers totaling $9,438,471.96, and passed a memorandum of understanding for the Rockford Complete Streets Revitalization Project. All resolutions on the agenda were approved unanimously. Information Only: Quarterly Investment Report - Presented by Ms. Hagar for the quarter ending September 30, 2025. - Core account total return: 1.24% for the quarter, 4.09% rolling 12-month. - Short-term account: 1.14% quarterly, 4.15% annually. - MFT account: 1.18% quarterly, 4.38% annually. - All investments comply with the city's investment policy. - Alderman questioned administrative costs. Staff later clarified that PFM fees are approximately $80,000 annually, consisting of 10 basis points (0.10%) on the first $25 million, 8 basis points on the next $25 million, and 7 basis points on the next $50 million. Returns are reported before administrative costs. Committee Reports - Approval of vouchers in the amount of $9,438,471.96: Motion carried unanimously. - Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Rockford, State of Illinois, and Rockford Mass Transit District for the Rockford Complete Streets Revitalization Project (Supplement 1): Approved unanimously. Alderman Logan noted the funding split is approximately 53% city, 47% state, with the state handling administrative functions for the grant. Resolutions - Resolution A: Appropriation of Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds for 2026 General Maintenance under the Illinois Highway Code in the amount of $7,703,328.04. Approved unanimously. - Resolution B: Approval of the 2025 Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Grant Award from the Department of Justice in the amount of $33,600 with a required cost match of $33,600. Grant term is two years from award date. Funds will replace vests expiring within two years. Alderman Logan asked about vest count; staff estimated approximately 105 vests. Approved unanimously. - Resolution C: Change Order for Communication Equipment to GenComm Inc., Madison, Wisconsin. Original amount $2,991,170.40; change order $187,388.46; amended amount $3,178,558.86. Covers additional work due to difficulties securing VHF frequencies for the new Simulcast Public Safety Communication System, including dual-band mobile radios for improved in-building coverage and interoperability. Funded by Fire Department Operating Budget. Approved unanimously. - Resolution D: Award of Bid for Emergency and Vacant Property Board-ups (Bid No. 725-CD-090) to A&A Lawn Care, CMM & Associates, LDR Cleaning, Marbros Co., and Servpro, all of Rockford, IL. Estimated annual contract amount $60,000 based on unit pricing. One-year contract with four possible one-year extension options; CPI adjustments considered at renewal only. Funded by Construction Services Budget. Approved unanimously. - Resolution E: Contract Renewal for Third Party Administrator for medical/hospital benefits for the City of Rockford Health Insurance Plan with BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois at $59.35 per employee per month. Estimated annual administration cost after rebates: $667,560. One-year contract. Funded by Health Insurance Fund. Approved unanimously. - Resolution F: Contract Renewal for Third Party Administrator for dental benefits with BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois at $3.50 per employee per month. Estimated annual cost: $52,500 based on average 1,255 employees. One-year contract. Staff noted the city is now self-funded for dental; the $3.50 is the Blue Cross administration fee. No increase from prior year. Approved unanimously. - Resolution G: Contract Renewal for employer-paid group term life insurance with Metropolitan Life Insurance at $0.08 per $1,000 of life insurance and $0.25 per $1,000 of AD&D coverage. Estimated annual premium: $80,823. One-year contract, funded by Health Insurance Fund. Approved unanimously. - Resolution H: Approval and Acceptance of Administration of Children and Families, Office of Head Start Annual Continuation of Head Start/Early Head Start Services Grant Award in the amount of $8,793,903 with a required cost match of $2,198,476. Grant term April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2028; continuation period April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027. Funds provide comprehensive school readiness, family engagement, and health services to 714 low-income children and families in Winnebago County, including pregnant women and children birth to five years. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All agenda items passed unanimously. - The committee received the quarterly investment report with discussion on fees. - No public comments were made. - Meeting adjourned after the final vote.

The Rockford City Council met on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 5:37 p.m. in Council Chambers. Mayor McNamara presided with 13 aldermen present (Mark Bonne absent). The meeting included three proclamations, public comments from five residents, consideration of numerous committee reports, new ordinances, and a lengthy list of motions and resolutions. Key actions included laying over a controversial housing development at 515 South Alpine Road, amending a Zoning Board denial for a variation at 3207 North Main Street, and defeating a solar array project for the Boys and Girls Club. The council approved over $15 million in construction and engineering contracts, accepted several state grants for homelessness and violence prevention, and approved reappointment of seven municipal department directors. Consent Calendar - Journal of Proceedings for March 2, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Proclamations declaring May 5, 2026 as "Cinco de Mayo", May 11–17, 2026 as "National Salvation Army Week", and May 2026 as "Mental Health Awareness Month": Accepted without objection. - Vouchers in the amount of $9,022,558.28: Approved 13-0. - Committee Reports (many items approved with no discussion or only scattered no votes): - Planning & Development: Amendments to AP-90 Program Specific Requirements and FY 2025 Budget Amendments (both 13-0). - Code & Regulation (items 1, 2, 4, 6-17): Mostly unanimous; Alderman Beach voted no on several liquor/tobacco items; Alderman Torina voted no on tobacco sales at 818 6th St. and 2645 20th St. Specific roll calls are in the official minutes. - Finance & Personnel: All 13 resolutions (bids, grants, engineering agreements) passed 13-0, except the Community Convener Grant (Abstain: Neal). Public Comments & Testimony - Steven McMaster urged the council to clarify and follow the city’s public comment rules (Rules 21-23), noting inconsistencies in enforcement. - Rena Folowell spoke in opposition to a proposed data center, asking the council to “choose people over profit” and protect community health and environmental integrity. She also requested a self-evaluation of council practices and raised concerns about Flock cameras. - John Tac Brantley expressed gratitude to organizations supporting a trip to the Illinois pyramids for local youth, and urged unity in the community. - Mark McGowan (Larson Avenue resident) opposed the 515 South Alpine Road development, citing traffic congestion, safety hazards from blind spots, and the inability of Larson Avenue to handle 32 additional vehicles. - Dave White (neighborhood resident) echoed McGowan’s concerns, arguing that the property should remain R-1 residential and that approving the multifamily rezoning would set a poor precedent. Discussion Items - Variation at 3207 North Main Street (Item B3): The Code & Regulation Committee originally recommended sustaining the Zoning Board’s denial for a reduced side-yard setback. Alderman Meeks moved to amend to approve, noting the improvement to the business and no neighbor complaints. The amendment was approved by voice vote (all aye, Bonne absent). The committee report as amended then passed 13-0. - Planned Unit Development at 515 South Alpine Road (Item B5): The council considered a PUD with initially four 4-unit and two 8-unit buildings. The applicant amended to six 4-unit buildings (removing 8 units). After public comments and traffic concerns, Alderman Beach moved to lay over, seconded by Bell. The item was laid over without a vote. - Boys and Girls Club Solar Array (Unfinished Business, Item 26-00313): The committee recommended sustaining the ZBA denial for a ground-mount solar array and fencing variation at 609 Kilburn Avenue. Alderman Bell advocated for approval, citing potential savings of over $40,000/year for the club. The committee report was adopted 8-5 (Ayes: Durkee, Logemann, Frost, Torina, Prunty, Neal, Hoffman, Granath; Nays: Tuneberg, Beach, Salgado, Meeks, Bell). - Officers Reports: Aldermen announced upcoming ward meetings (Torina, Salgado), community clean-ups (Granath, Meeks, Tuneberg, Wilkins), the Rockford Promise program (Prunty, Mayor McNamara), and the Fire Explorer Cadet training (Bell). Key Outcomes - Appointments: Reappointment of seven department directors (Carrie Hagerty, Shurice Hunter, Anqunette Parham, Todd Hughes, Angela Hammer, Scott Sanders, Sarah Leys) approved 12-0 (Torina absent). All other appointments and reappointments (Fire Pension Board, Historic Preservation, Library Board, etc.) were laid over per Rule 18. - Bid Awards: - Demolition Group 36: $39,700 to Northern Illinois Service. - City Wide Street Repairs Group 3: $3,494,396.19 to Rock Road Companies. - Madison Street Corridor Phase 2: $9,750,755.36 to N-Trak Group. - Coronado Decorative Plaster Repairs: $596,048 to Evergreen Architectural Arts. - Architectural Design for Fire Stations: $192,950 to Larson & Darby. - Engineering Agreements: - Madison Street Improvements Phase 2: $719,000 to Fehr Graham. - Winnebago Street Bridge Rehabilitation Phase 2: $333,693 to H.R. Green. - Motor Fuel Tax appropriation: $500,000. - Grants Accepted: - IDHS Emergency Solutions Grant: $25,000 (100% match required). - IDHS Rapid Rehousing Grant: $374,169 (no match). - IDHS Shelter Diversion Grant: $113,534 (no match). - IDHS Homeless Prevention Grant: $1,110,414 (no match). - IDHS Community Convener Grant: $188,000 (two parts, no match). - New Ordinances: All 16 ordinances under Code & Regulation (excluding the laid-over item) were adopted with votes as recorded in the minutes (generally 13-0 or with a few no votes). Notably, the ordinance for 515 South Alpine Road was held out. - Meeting Adjourned at 7:19 p.m.

The Code and Regulation Committee met on Monday, April 27, 2026, with a 20-item agenda covering traffic restrictions, subdivision plats, zoning variances, special use permits, liquor and tobacco licenses, and a proposed resolution on data center development. The meeting included votes on zoning board recommendations, layovers, and a motion to table the data center resolution. Consent Calendar - Item 1: No parking restriction on North Court Street (paratransit excepted) – approved unanimously. - Item 2: Final plat of Bell School Crossing Subdivision – approved unanimously. - Item 4: Variation denial for side yard setback at 3207 North Main Street (supporting ZBA denial) – approved unanimously. - Item 5: Zoning map amendment to I3 at 3321 Integrity Drive – approved unanimously. - Item 7: Rear yard setback variation at 1320 21st Avenue – approved unanimously. - Item 8: Special use permit for working farm and education center at Lincoln Park Boulevard – approved unanimously. - Item 9: Zoning map amendment to C4 at South Madison Street – approved unanimously. - Item 11: Tobacco sale approval at 2975 North Perryville Road – approved unanimously. - Item 13: Liquor and tobacco approval at 3523 Auburn Street – approved unanimously. - Item 14: Beer and wine approval at 4225 Charles Street – approved unanimously. - Item 15: Liquor license modification at 2842/28XX 11th Street and 2845 Kinsey Street – approved unanimously. - Item 16: Liquor by the drink approval at 6565 Lexus Drive – approved unanimously. - Item 17: Tobacco sale approval at 2645 20th Street – approved (one no vote recorded). - Item 18: Liquor by the drink approval at 901 West Riverside Boulevard – approved unanimously. - Item 19: Liquor by the drink with outdoor seating at 6275 East State Street – approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 3 (2530, 2710, and 2720 South Main Street): A proposed planned unit development for an RV and fifth wheel only community in an R1 zone. Alderwoman Torina, in whose ward the property resides, moved to lay over the item due to concerns raised at the ZBA hearing and to conduct further due diligence. Alderwoman Wilkins noted that a voluntary relocation assistance program document from the property owner's attorney was distributed to aldermen. The motion to lay over carried. - Item 6 (515 South Alpine Road): A proposed planned unit development for multifamily (four 4-unit and two 8-unit buildings) in an R1 zone. ZBA recommended denial (4-2 vote). Alderman Beach suggested exploring compromise and moving to lay over. Alderwoman Torina spoke in favor of denial, defending neighbor concerns and criticizing the ZBA chair for "NIMBY shaming." City staff (Mr. Capaville) explained the site is a good infill opportunity for missing middle housing and consistent with future land use plans. The committee first voted on the motion to approve the ZBA recommendation: motion failed (2 ayes, 3 nays). Then a motion to reverse the ZBA recommendation was made and seconded; that motion passed (2 ayes, 1 nay), reversing the recommendation and approving the development. The ordinance will require a two-thirds majority (10 votes) at city council. - Item 10 (818 6th Street): Liquor and tobacco license for a gas station (ownership change). Alderwoman Torina voted no, stating the location is in a highly vulnerable area. Alderman Bell (11th ward) asked about prior police call issues; staff noted a midnight closing condition had reduced calls. The ward alderman supported the license, citing efforts to improve the business. Roll call vote passed. - Item 12 (2914 West State Street): Liquor and tobacco license (ownership change). Alderman Bell (13th ward) noted the area is a food desert and moved to lay over to discuss a condition requiring the owner to provide fresh produce. Alderwoman Torina opposed the layover, suggesting it could be done at council. Alderman Beach expressed frustration about inconsistent layover treatment. Roll call on layover: motion carried, so item 12 is laid over. - Item 19 (Data Center Resolution): A proposed resolution to establish minimum standards and community benefits for data centers, introduced by Alderman Bell. City Administrator Cagnoni explained legal issues: as a non-home rule community, the city cannot impose community benefits agreements; changes to zoning and building codes require public hearings; existing annexation agreements (2008-2011) for the 1,100-acre site near the airport are still active and may limit new regulations. Legal Director noted statutory limitations. Alderwoman Wilkins moved to table the resolution and direct staff to develop an alternate legally compliant resolution. After debate, the committee voted 4-1 to table and direct staff. Key Outcomes - Item 3: Laid over for further due diligence. - Item 6: ZBA recommendation denied; committee reversed ZBA and approved the development (requires 10/14 council votes at council). - Item 10: Approved. - Item 12: Laid over to negotiate fresh food access condition. - Item 19: Tabled; staff directed to draft a legally compliant resolution on data center standards. - All consent calendar items were approved as listed.

The Finance and Personnel Committee met on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall to review the March 2026 financial report, approve a batch of vouchers, and act on 13 resolutions. All items were approved unanimously. Financial Discussion – March 2026 (Information Only) Finance Director Harry presented year-to-date revenue and expenditure highlights. Key points included: - Use tax was $53,000 over budget year-to-date. - Income tax exceeded budget by 12% (approximately $450,000). - Personal Property Replacement Tax (PPRT) underperformed by $922,000, despite a significant budget reduction for 2026. Director Harry noted that disbursements are uneven and performance may improve later in the year. - CAP sales tax first disbursement was 16.5% over budget. - Redevelopment fund overall 4% under budget, driven by shortfalls in package liquor and hotel/motel taxes; casino revenue was 6% overestimated year-to-date. Alderman Solgado asked for clarification on the PPRT shortfall. Director Harry explained that the budget had already been reduced based on state and IML projections, but the reductions may not have been sufficient; monitoring will continue. Alderman Toonenberg noted that utility tax appeared to have a large increase and requested further details, which the Director agreed to provide to the City Council. Alderman Toong (or a different speaker) observed that Rockford Fire Department overtime was 24% over budget, while Police Department overtime was 14% under budget. Director Harry attributed the PD savings to successful hiring efforts reducing overtime exposure. Alderman Toonenberg also noted that hotel/motel and package liquor taxes were down double digits, but restaurant taxes were up. Consent Calendar - Approval of Vouchers totaling $9,022,558.28 – approved unanimously. Resolutions – All Unanimously Approved 1. Demolition Group 36 – Award to Northern Illinois Service, Rockford ($39,700) for properties at 1151 N. Main St. and 2818 Horton St. (Community Development General Fund / IHDA Strong Communities Grant). 2. City Wide Street Repairs Group No. 3 (2026) – Award to Rock Road Companies ($3,494,396.19) through August 28, 2026 (1% Infrastructure Sales Tax). 3. Madison Street Corridor Improvements (Phase 2) – Award to N-Trak Group, Loves Park ($9,750,755.36) through October 31, 2027 (1% Infrastructure Sales Tax, WRIA, DCEO, FRSA funds). Alderman Logan confirmed the two-year timeline covers the 2026 and 2027 construction seasons. 4. Engineering Agreement: Madison Street Improvements (Phase 2) – Award to Fehr Graham, Rockford ($719,000) through October 31, 2027 (1% Infrastructure Sales Tax, WRIA). 5. Engineering Agreement: Winnebago St. over Kent Creek & Railroad Bridge Rehabilitation (Phase 2) – Award to H.R. Green, McHenry ($333,693) through June 2027 (Motor Fuel Tax). 6. MFT Appropriation – $500,000 for the Winnebago Street bridge project (Illinois Highway Code). 7. IDHS Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) – $25,000 (100% cost match) for street outreach, HMIS data entry, and administration (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). 8. IDHS Rapid Rehousing (RRH) Grant – $374,169 (no match) for landlord/housing services and payroll (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). Alderman Hoffman asked how this program works; Community Services staff explained it complements HUD-funded rapid rehousing and is a recurring grant, while hotel placements may be possible under other grant streams. 9. IDHS Shelter Diversion Grant – $113,534 (no match) for landlord/housing stabilization services and payroll (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). 10. IDHS Homeless Prevention Grant – $1,110,414 (no match) for client rent, utilities, budget education, staff training, and administration (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). 11. IDHS Community Convener Grant – $188,000 (no match) in two parts: $47,000 (April 1 – June 30, 2026) and $141,000 (July 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027) for violence prevention coordination and outreach (Reimagine Public Safety Act). 12. Architectural Design of Fire Stations 2, 4, 5, 9, 10; Fire HQ; and Fire Academy – Award to Larson & Darby, Rockford ($192,950) for a two‑year contract (Fire Station 10 Reallocation Funds from 2022 surplus). 13. Coronado Decorative Plaster Repairs – Award to Evergreen Architectural Arts, Oak Park ($596,048) through December 31, 2027 (Redevelopment Fund). Key Outcomes - The committee received the March 2026 financial update with no formal action required. - All 13 resolutions and the voucher batch (totaling $9,022,558.28) were approved unanimously. - Staff will provide additional information on the utility tax increase to the full City Council. - The meeting adjourned without opposition.

The Planning and Development Committee of the Rockford City Council met on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 5:39 PM in City Hall. The meeting included two proclamations, five public speakers addressing various issues, and unanimous approval of two committee reports. The meeting adjourned at 6:04 PM. Proclamations - World Migratory Bird Day (May 9, 2026): Mayor McNamara read a proclamation recognizing May 9, 2026 as World Migratory Bird Day. Jennifer Grota accepted and highlighted public events including a bird song album release on May 8th and Rockton Pelican Fest on May 16th. - Motorcycle Awareness Month (May 2026): Mayor McNamara proclaimed May 2026 as Motorcycle Awareness Month. Representatives from ABATE of Illinois, including Susie Jones and Mike Brush, spoke about safety and a parade on May 2nd kicking off the month. Public Comments & Testimony 1. Kelly Lewis (Davis Junction) spoke about a proposed resolution by Alderman Bell regarding a data center project (Monarch Energy). She stated the current draft needs work but is a step forward. She criticized city and county officials for planning behind closed doors since January 2025, citing FOIA documents that contradicted public statements. She urged community involvement in the next draft. 2. Peggy Cain (St. Charles), a property owner on Friday Road, expressed frustration over transparency. She noted FOIA requests revealed over 100 emails involving more than 30 organizations coordinating meetings between Monarch Energy and officials, with zero emails discussing public consultation. She specifically read an email from Scott Sanders (Rockford water official) offering to vacate part of Friday Road. She questioned when the project became real and why the public was not informed earlier. 3. Amanda Becker (Rockford), president of the Rockford Historical Preservation Commission and an Auburn High School history teacher, spoke in opposition to the demolition of the Briggs Mansion. She announced a new community organization planning to designate at least ten new local landmarks over the summer. She called for an inventory of historic residential districts and a 120-day demolition moratorium for buildings pre-1900. She thanked the council for funding historic preservation projects like Coleman Yards and the Coronado Theater. 4. Prophet Yusuf (Rockford) quoted scripture and spoke about economic plans to address homelessness, poverty, and unemployment in the Black community. He proposed a self-funded treasure model from contributions to invest in housing, business, schools, daycare, hospitals, and second chances for felons. 5. Denzil Wynter (Rockford) expressed frustration with the city’s handling of safety in his neighborhood, mentioning the death of his child hit by a vehicle on a sidewalk (ruled a drug/gang incident) and the location of registered sex offenders in his area. He asked for equal protection as other sides of the city. Committee Reports (Voting Items) 1. Approval of Amendment to AP-90 Program Specific Requirements / All Current and Prior Year Annual Action Plans (26-00466): A motion to approve was made by Alderwoman Hoffman, seconded by Alderman Salgado. There was no discussion. The motion passed unanimously 3-0 by voice vote. 2. Approval of Amendments to FY 2025 – Addition of Projects and Budget Amendments (26-00470): A motion to approve was made by Alderwoman Hoffman, seconded by Alderman Salgado. There was no discussion. The motion passed unanimously 3-0 by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Both agenda items (amendments to AP-90 program requirements and FY2025 budget amendments) were approved unanimously by the committee (3-0). - No other formal decisions were made; proclamations and public comments were informational. - A disruption occurred after public speaking when a member of the public attempted to continue speaking; the chair directed security to escort him out after declining further comments.

The Rockford City Council met on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 5:30 PM in council chambers. The meeting included three proclamations, public testimony from five speakers, approval of numerous committee reports, motions, resolutions, and ordinances. All roll call votes had 13 aldermen present. Proclamations - Donate Life Month (April 2026): Mayor Thomas P. McNamara proclaimed April 2026 as Donate Life Month. Joy Beach shared that her son’s organ donation saved six lives, gave sight to one person, and resulted in over 166 tissue recipients in 22 states and three countries. Angela Rockwell donated her daughter Taylor’s organs after a car accident, benefiting three women. Stacey, a burn survivor, credited tissue donation for saving her life and noted that her father’s donations saved five other burn survivors. Speakers urged residents to register as donors. - Child Abuse & Neglect Awareness Month (April 2026): The mayor proclaimed April 2026 as Child Abuse & Neglect Awareness Month. Shannon Krueger, Director of MERIT at UIC, spoke about partnerships with Kerry Lynn Center, Rockford Police, and Fire Department. The proclamation cited that in 2025, the Illinois DCFS received over 227,000 calls involving more than 78,000 child victims, with 22,000 investigations in Northern Illinois and 157 reported deaths (five with active DCFS cases). - Keith Country Day School Scholastic Bowl State Champions: The council recognized the Keith Country Day School quiz bowl team for winning the 2026 IHSA Scholastic Bowl State Championship. Coach Kristen Burns thanked the community for support. The mayor presented challenge coins to students. Public Comments & Testimony - Steven McMaster: Criticized the council for inconsistent enforcement of its own rules, citing multiple rule violations during the meeting. He displayed visual aids and signs exceeding size limits to highlight selective enforcement. He demanded clarity on which rules are enforced and when. His three-minute time expired; legal director cited Rule 21 to end his remarks. - Katrina Baker: Opposed the proposed data center development, citing concerns over high electricity consumption (with rates already rising), water usage (risk of PFAS contamination), noise pollution from backup diesel generators, and limited long-term job creation. She warned of property value decreases and described the AI market as a potential bubble. She urged the council to place a moratorium on such projects and to adopt Alderman Bell’s proposed safeguards. - Denzil Wynter: Defended children who sell water for personal purchases, stating it is not a crime. He reported that adults are threatening to take the children’s money and said he would patrol neighborhoods to protect them. - Prophet Yusuf: Spoke on leadership example, drawing from the biblical figure Nehemiah. He encouraged council members to lead by integrity. He also wished his brother Robert a happy 97th birthday. - John Tac Brantley: Requested city assistance to fund a bus ($4,574) for 54 youth to visit the Cahokia Mounds and other sites. He emphasized providing positive experiences for low-income youth. Discussion Items - Committee Reports: - Code and Regulation: Item one (special use permit for ground-mount solar array and fence variations at 609 Kilburn Avenue for Boys & Girls Club) was laid over on a motion by Alderman Frost. Item two (Plat No. 7 of Walmart Subdivision at 72xx Walton Street) passed 13-0. Item three (amending Code of Ordinances Chapter 26, Article 1 – Restoration of Brick Paved Street) passed 11-2. - Finance and Personnel: All three items passed 13-0: vouchers for $13,153,758.62; release of liens totaling $20,293.23 on properties at 3617 Preston Street and 2916 Custer Avenue; and an intergovernmental agreement with Rockford Township for $25,000 in emergency rental assistance. - Motions and Resolutions: - Code and Regulation: Seven items approved 13-0, including event permits (Rockford City Market May 15–Aug 28, Pride Alley Parade June 6, South Main Mercado June 7, Ironman Rockford 70.3 June 14, Vet’s Rock the Block June 20, National Night Out Aug 4) and a $40,000 settlement for John Johnson v. City of Rockford (Winnebago County Case 2024-LA-316) after suspending Rule 9. - Finance and Personnel: All 16 items approved 13-0, including awards for city-wide street repairs ($787,762.60 to N-Trak Group), water division concrete patching ($450,000 to DPI Construction), Well No. 46 water treatment facility ($23,490,127.77 to Scandroli Construction), 2026 light duty vehicles ($1,132,928 to Anderson Rock River Ford), backhoe loader ($305,401 to Westside Tractor Sales), 2026 light duty vehicle for HHS ($31,918 to Enterprise Fleet Management), heavy-duty fleet ($1,543,248 to Lakeside International), Microsoft Office Suite and security ($487,597.27 to CDW Government), work management and CRM software ($54,717.40 to SHI International), engineering for Well No. 46 ($1,840,000 to Strand Associates), Corbin Street bridge replacement ($163,740 to H.R. Green), supplemental MFT appropriations for Corbin Street ($200,000) and 8th Avenue over Keith Creek bridge ($250,000), engineering supplements for 8th Avenue bridge ($190,772 and $22,243 to IMEG Corp.), and Region 1 Planning Council FY-2026 funding ($91,308.49). - New Business Ordinances: - Code and Regulation: Ordinance amending brick paved street restoration passed 11-2. - Finance and Personnel: Two ordinances passed 13-0: release of liens ($20,293.23) and IGA for emergency rental assistance ($25,000). Key Outcomes - Item 1 from Code and Regulation Committee (solar array and fence variations) was laid over for later consideration. - The council voted to suspend Rule 9 to allow immediate consideration of the $40,000 legal settlement. - All other items on the agenda were approved, with most votes unanimous (13-0) except for the brick-paved street amendment (11-2) and the identical ordinance (11-2). - The planned closed session for labor negotiation was canceled as unnecessary. - The meeting adjourned after all business was completed.

The Finance and Personnel Committee of the City of Rockford met on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall. The meeting was chaired by the committee chair and included roll call, approval of a consent-style committee report, and consideration of 17 resolutions involving contracts, agreements, and fund appropriations. All items were approved unanimously, with minimal discussion. One notable discrepancy exists between the agenda and the transcript regarding the funding source for Item 16. Consent Calendar - Approval of Vouchers (Item 1): Vouchers in the amount of $13,153,758.62 were approved unanimously. - Release of Liens (Item 2): Liens totaling $20,293.23 were released to facilitate the sale of Winnebago County Trustee properties at 3617 Preston Street and 2916 Custer Avenue. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Items 8 & 9 – Well No. 46 Water Treatment Facility: During the consideration of the award of bid for construction (Item 8, $23,490,127.77 to Scandroli Construction) and the engineering agreement (Item 9, $1,840,000 to Strand Associates), Alderman Beach asked why the two items were separate. Staff explained that the construction bid covered the physical construction activities, while the engineering agreement covered design and construction inspection—a separate scope of work. Both items were approved unanimously. - Item 4 – Light Duty Vehicle Lease: When considering the joint purchase contract for a 2026 light duty vehicle from Enterprise Fleet Management ($31,918), an alderman asked why Items 4 and 5 were separate. Staff responded that Item 4 is a lease through Enterprise, while Item 5 is an outright purchase from Anderson Rock River Ford. Approved unanimously. - All other resolutions (Items 3, 5–7, 10–15) were moved and approved without further discussion. Key Outcomes - All 17 agenda items were approved unanimously by voice vote, with no recorded opposition. - Item 16 – Microsoft Office Suite and Security Applications: Awarded to CDW Government in the amount of $487,597.27. The agenda lists the funding source as the Information Technology and Integration Budget, but the transcript states the funding sources are “the community and economic development and the legal department operating budgets.” This discrepancy is noted. - Item 17 – Work Management and CRM Software: Listed on the agenda for award to SHI International Corp. ($54,717.40) but not discussed in the transcript. It is unclear whether the item was considered or omitted from the recording. This discrepancy is noted. - Funding sources for approved items included the 1% Infrastructure Sales Tax, Water Division Capital Lease Fund, General Fund, IEPA State Revolving Fund, Motor Fuel Tax Funds, Federal Local Bridge Formula Program, and various departmental operating budgets. All contracts and agreements were advanced to the full City Council for final approval.

The Code and Regulation Committee met on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, and consideration of zoning items, a plat, an ordinance amendment, and six special event resolutions. Key votes included the denial of a solar project for the Boys and Girls Club and approval of an ordinance amending brick street restoration. Proclamations - Mayor Thomas P. McMahon proclaimed April 2026 as National Therapy Dog Month and April 17 as 17th Circuit Therapy Dog Day. Bruce, a therapy dog team coordinator, thanked the city and noted the teams serve 25 Rockford public schools and multiple county facilities. - The mayor proclaimed April 12–18 as National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. A dispatcher reported that Rockford's 911 center handles approximately 104,000 emergency calls and 140,000 non-emergency calls annually. - The mayor proclaimed April 11–18 as Week of the Young Child. Christina Albers of the Rockford Region Collaborative invited the community to a free celebration on Saturday, April 18, from 8 AM to noon. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew Petrocelli announced his independent campaign for Winnebago County Clerk, criticizing the current incumbent for running unopposed and for outsourcing voter data to a private company in Iowa. He emphasized his grassroots, self-funded campaign. - John Tech Brantley discussed Native American mounds in Illinois, including a pyramid taller than the Empire State Building, and announced plans for a bus trip to visit these sites. He mentioned support from local churches and community members. - Prophet Yusuf spoke about the child abuse epidemic in the United States, stating that over 1,990 American children die each year from intentional injuries by caretakers. He called for more specialists to investigate child deaths. - Two registered speakers (Matthew Wilder and Mylamiks) were not present. Discussion Items 1. 609 Kilburn Avenue – Solar Array and Fence Variations - The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended denial of a special use permit for a ground-mounted solar array in the parking lot, a variation to allow a chain-link fence in the front yard, and a variation to increase fence height from 4 to 6 feet, all in an R-2 Two-Family Residential Zoning District. The applicant was Greenlink Solar Solutions for the Boys and Girls Club of Rockford. - Alderman Bell (sponsor) spoke in support, stating the project would save the Boys and Girls Club about $40,000 per year and provide workforce opportunities through the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA) program, employing graduates from Zion West Enterprise. - Alderwoman Wilkins expressed concern about placing solar panels on pavement and the appearance of a chain-link fence in the front yard. She indicated she would factor that into her full council vote. - Alderwoman Meeks questioned whether a different fence material or higher height could be used. Legal clarified that height could only be reduced from the advertised 6 feet, but material could be changed. - The committee voted on a motion to sustain the Zoning Board of Appeals' recommendation for denial. The motion passed 3-2 (Ayes: Alderwoman Trina, Alderman Franti, Alderman Wilkins; Noes: Alderman Bell). Because the motion to sustain denial passed, the project is denied at the committee level. (A no vote would have supported the project.) 2. Plat No. 7 of Walmart Subdivision – 72xx Walton Street - Approved unanimously by voice vote. 3. Ordinance Amending Chapter 26 – Restoration of Brick Paved Streets (Strike Green Street) - Initially held out by Alderwoman Trina, who later withdrew her motion to lay over. After discussion, the item was approved on a roll call vote 3-2 (Ayes: Alderman Franti, Alderman? The transcript shows Alderwoman Trina and Alderman Wilkins voting no; Aldermen Bell and Franti voting yes, plus one other yes. The chair declared three ayes, two nays. The item carried.) Resolutions – Special Event Permits All six event permits were approved, with the following details: - Rockford City Market (Fridays, May 15 – August 28, 4:00-8:30 PM, Water Street) – Approved. - Pride Alley Parade (June 6, noon-8 PM, multiple downtown lots) – Approved. - South Main Mercado (June 7, noon-7 PM, South Main Street) – Approved on a roll call vote 3-2 (Alderwoman Trina and Alderman Wilkins opposed). - Ironman Rockford 70.3 (June 14, 4 AM-5 PM, Rock River and surrounding areas) – Approved. Alderman Bell thanked Go Rockford for working with him to address traffic concerns that previously prevented residents from attending church in the 13th ward. - Vet’s Rock the Block (June 20, noon-6 PM, American Legion Post 340) – Approved. - National Night Out (August 4, 5:30-8:30 PM, City Market Pavilion) – Approved. Key Outcomes - The 609 Kilburn Avenue solar project (special use permit and fence variations) was denied by the committee on a 3-2 vote. - The Walmart subdivision plat was approved unanimously. - The ordinance amending Chapter 26 regarding restoration of brick paved streets (striking Green Street) was approved on a 3-2 roll call vote. - All six special event permits were approved; South Main Mercado passed 3-2. - The meeting adjourned.