ROCHELLE – In a State of the City address delivered yesterday, Mayor John Bearrows and City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh highlighted the city’s recent progress and outlined upcoming plans. They credited Rochelle’s growth to strong leadership from the City Council, dedicated city staff, and their own collaborative efforts. With a balanced budget of $133 million, the city’s financial health remains robust, driven in large part by its electric utility. The mayor and city manager emphasized ongoing economic development initiatives, particularly in business retention and industrial and residential expansion, along with major infrastructure projects like the transload yard expansion and key road improvements. Fiegenschuh said that the city employees are invested in the well being of those in Rochelle.
“I’m very proud of our employees this last year,” he said. “Our employees out of their paychecks pledged over close to $37,000 to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation. These are dollars that we use through our direct payroll program that goes to the foundation. We are their single largest donor. So I’m very proud of that. And it just shows another reason why our employees are great people and they give back to our community.”
Downtown Rochelle is undergoing a major revitalization, with projects like the Facade Improvement Program, which helps small businesses enhance their buildings. The Eastern Gateway Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district was also introduced to attract new development to the city’s entrance. Additionally, the city is working to boost its event offerings, such as the recent steam engine exhibition that attracted over 60,000 visitors. The Hiring Expo, launched during the pandemic, continues to provide job opportunities for local residents, with plans to involve high school students this year. Investments in public safety were also discussed, with new funding for the fire department, including a $950,000 grant for additional staff, and continued growth of the police department.
The address also touched on ongoing infrastructure and technology improvements. Rochelle has made significant investments in its electric utility, fiber network, and water and wastewater facilities, including the construction of a $6 million iron removal plant funded through grants. Other major projects include the repaving of Stewart Road, street upgrades, and improvements to sidewalks and drainage systems. The city is also enhancing its cybersecurity and streamlining communication across departments. Mayor Bearrows and City Manager Fiegenschuh stressed that Rochelle’s future success depends on continued collaboration between the local government, city staff, and external partners, all while focusing on improving infrastructure, community development, and residents’ quality of life.
You can watch the entire event on Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQpXW07zuQ8
