ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — On Monday, the Rockford City Council passed a balanced 2025 budget, which includes no increase in property taxes and a general fund of $226 million.
The city’s annual budget has not raised the property tax for eight years in a row.
According to officials, the budget includes an annual $2 million contribution to the Rockford Promise scholarship fund from casino revenue. The scholarship gives Rockford Public School students the opportunity to attend Northern Illinois University or Rockford University, tuition-free.
City leaders also touted the budget’s investment in technology to improve its services without hiring additional staff, and funds for increases in public safety.
“Under my administration, this is the eighth consecutive year we’ve passed a balanced budget without increasing property taxes for our residents,” said Mayor Tom McNamara. “With inflation hitting hard this year, we felt it was especially important to avoid raising property taxes. I’m proud that we continue to manage our resources responsibly while providing exceptional services to our community.”