ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford’s Finance and Personnel Committee has approved the city’s proposed 2026 budget on Monday, touting no increase in property taxes for the 13th consecutive year and a $2 million reduction in the General Fund.
“No budget is perfect. However, I think we can all agree that property taxes are already too high, which is why I am advocating not to increase them,” said Mayor Tom McNamara. “Our City has seen tremendous momentum – gaining national attention and renewed local pride – which reinforces our goal of making Rockford a place where residents and businesses can thrive. While tough decisions aren’t always popular, they are necessary to keep us on track and be responsible stewards of our finances.”
The $556 million budget maintains funding for: Rockford Promise, which offers tuition-free college for local students; the Lead Service Line Replacement program, which replaces lead water lines at no cost to homeowners; the Critical Home Repair Program and Tree Removal Program, to assist low-income residents; and Free Bus Rides for veterans, students, and adult learners…