September is nearly gone, and October, along with the beautiful colors of fall, is knocking at the door. Once again, it has been a very busy month here in the City of Rochelle. At our regular City Council meetings in September, we recognized several important proclamations, including Chamber of Commerce Week, September 14–18; Constitution Week, September 17–23; and Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15–October 15. We also recognized Fire Prevention Week, Public Power Week and Domestic Violence Awareness Week. Each of these observances brings attention to causes and organizations that are extremely important to our community.
The Council also approved several items this month, including needed repairs at the Water and Water Reclamation Department related to Well 12, as well as improvements at the wastewater treatment plant. These are the types of projects that often go unnoticed unless something goes wrong in our own homes. My hat is off to Adam and his entire Water and Water Reclamation crew for their diligent and dedicated work keeping our systems operating properly and meeting the requirements of the EPA. Another change approved this month involved our ordinance regarding food trucks. The Council eliminated the permit fees for food trucks operating in the City. The Community Action Network (CAN) will still be able to sponsor its annual Christmas shopping spree through its food truck event, with all proceeds going toward that important program. Thank you to CAN for everything you do to help children in our community. Two construction projects are also well underway. The next phase of the Fire Training Facility is approximately 90 percent complete and looks fantastic. An open house will be held at the facility on Sunday, October 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The partnership between the City of Rochelle and the Ogle-Lee Fire Protection District has proven to be a great one, providing many benefits to our citizens and our emergency responders. Construction is also underway on a new T-hangar at the Rochelle Municipal Airport. I believe our airport is a tremendous asset—not only for local aviation enthusiasts, but also for the private and corporate aircraft that come in and out of Rochelle. It provides an important service and adds another dimension to our community. During September, I also had the opportunity to visit with residents at Hawthorn/Liberty Village and the Hub City Senior Center to keep them informed about what is happening throughout Rochelle. Keeping our residents informed is extremely important. Speaking of keeping people informed, September 20 marked 60 years of service for SuperHits 93.5, formerly WRHL. My hat is off to Gary Peterson and his entire staff at SuperHits 93.5 and the Coyote for six decades of keeping our community informed and connected. They not only provide local news and information, but also work closely with area businesses to help them market their services and products. Thank you for all you do, and here’s hoping for another 60 years!
As you most likely know by now and or have heard, I will not be seeking re-election as Mayor in April of 2027. I have been blessed to work alongside some amazing people over the past 10 years, and I have gained much knowledge along the way. As I look ahead to the time following my term, I want to spend more time with my wife and my family and enjoy the next chapter of life. But let me be very clear: my decision not to seek another term does not mean my work here is finished. I remain fully committed to serving the citizens of Rochelle with the same energy, dedication and passion—and making those hard decisions—through my final day in office when the new mayor is seated. There is still important work to do, and I intend to see it through. I also have every confidence that Rochelle’s best days are still ahead. We are a resilient community filled with caring people who come together when it matters most. I know that spirit will continue long after my term has ended. To everyone who has supported me, challenged me, encouraged me and placed your confidence in me throughout these past ten years of public service, I thank you. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve this community that I love. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime.
As I close this month’s article, I found a quote that I believe is very fitting following my announcement that I will not seek another term as mayor:
“When you have the privilege of serving your community, you realize that the greatest reward isn’t the position—it’s the people you meet, the friendships you make, and the difference you can make along the way.”
Thank you, Rochelle.
Mayor John Bearrows