Rochelle Council Approves Bond Measures, New T-Hangar at Municipal Airport

ROCHELLE — The Rochelle City Council Monday held public hearings and approved bond measures to fund upgrades at the Technology Center and improvements at Rochelle Municipal Airport. The first measure allows the city to issue up to $1.5 million for electrical system upgrades at the Technology Center, where aging battery backups are nearing the end of their service life, with repayment through center revenues, federal grants, and other city funds. The second measure authorizes up to $3.5 million in bonds for airport projects, including a new eight-unit T-Hangar. The council subsequently awarded a $1,736,696.90 contract to Bruns Construction for the hangar and associated pavement work, funded by a 2026 general obligation bond, airport revenues, and grants totaling $1,204,737, including $720,000 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The hangar will provide additional aircraft storage, support increased fuel sales, and enhance federal and state funding based on airport operations, including concrete floors, bi-fold doors, electrical work, site preparation, grading, and an optional HMA access taxilane.