State of the City Address

An Update on the City of Rock Island

Mayor Mike Thoms gave the annual State of the City Address at the City Council meeting on January 9, 2023. 

Topics included:

  • 2022 was a successful year for the City due in part to its strong community partners and investment in progress. The City continues to forge a path forward that uses these partnerships to improve our economy, spur new development, grow our population and invest in long-term growth.
  • The City allocated $26.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that will support capital improvement projects, roads, public safety, local businesses, nonprofits and more.
  • 13 new businesses opened up in Rock Island in 2022 and the private sector invested $65 million toward business expansion.
  • The Community and Economic Development Department facilitated $5.8 million of financial assistance to businesses. 
  • We were able to maintain a balanced budget in 2022 and head into 2023 with 90 days of reserves totaling $9.9 million and a surplus of $1.8 million over reserves. 
  • Property taxes have been kept flat while the EAV increased.

 

  • A Special Service Area (SSA) was established with the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce to further development and growth of the downtown. 
  • Rock Island Public Library partnered with the YMCA on a $9.9 million renovation project of the former Tri-City Jewish Center that will house the Watts-Midtown Library branch.
  • 40 owner-occupied housing rehabilitation projects were completed in 2022 and a $300,000 grant was secured from the Illinois Housing Development Authority for addition rehab projects in 2023.
  • A five-year $20 million Capital Improvement Plan was approved that includes $3.5 million in street and road improvements.
  • The City grew its partnerships with Augustana College, the Rock Island-Milan School District, DARI, and others. 
  • The City maintained its A+ bond rating with a stable outlook.
  • This Town Rocks! 
 View the slide show presentation