Recently, Rockford City Council approved our 2026 annual budget.
Initially, our anticipated deficit was more than $9 million, largely driven by statewide decreases in PPRT revenues and state-mandated pension payments that increased by $5 million. Through careful planning and internal cost-saving measures, our team reduced the deficit to $3.6 million and presented council with several options, including use of the Cannabis Surplus fund, reducing the number of police officers, property tax increases, and additional fees on vacant properties.
After thorough review and discussion, we passed a balanced budget that funds programs and opportunities for all, without increasing property taxes or cutting services…