NW Illinois News

City of Rock Falls City Council met Sept. 2.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

Regular meeting minutes of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Rock Falls

The regular meeting of the Mayor and City Council of Rock Falls, Illinois was called to order at 5:30 p.m. on September 2, 2025, in the Council Chambers by Mayor Rod Kleckler.

City Clerk Pam Martinez called the roll following the pledge of allegiance. A quorum was present including Mayor Kleckler, Aldermen McKanna, Wangelin, Byrd, Doane, Dowd, Stahr, Arduini, and Sobottka. In addition, Attorney Matt Cole and City Administrator Robbin Blackert were present.

Audience request:

None

Community Affairs: Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce, Sam Kersey, President/CEO Sam Kersey gave an update on upcoming events the Rock Falls Chamber is hosting.

Consent Agenda:

Consent Agenda items 1-3 were read aloud by City Clerk Pam Martinez.

1. Approval of minutes from the August 19, 2025, City Council Meeting

2. Approval of bills as presented.

3. Forward the Petition Requesting Rezoning of Real Estate from Angel Mendoza for property 1119 10th Avenue, Rock Falls, IL (PIN 11-33-127-011, 11-33-127- 012, 11-33-129-001) to the Planning Zoning Commission

A motion was made by Alderwoman Sobottka to approve the Consent Agenda and second by Alderwoman McKanna.

Vote 8 aye, motion carried.

City Administrator:

None

City Attorney:

None

City Departments:

Dave Miller, Superintendent Street Department, gave an update on the Chip & Seal. The week of September 15, 2025, the department will be out sweeping up all of the chip that did not stay down.

Deputy Chief Sommers gave information about the 5K for the joint departments happening on October 18, 2025, at Centennial Park. More information can be found on their Facebook page. ‘Run for the Badge’

Chief David Pilgrim informed City Council of his retirement effective September 30, 2025. Chief Pilgrim gave a heartfelt thank you speech to City Council members and thanked the Administration for allowing him to serve the citizens of Rock Falls for 24 years. He also stated that there are three new recruits entering the Police Academy at Sauk Valley College and two officers have just finished field training and are able to be on their own.

Alderman Reports / Committee Chairman Requests

Alderman thanked Chief Pilgrim for his service of 24 years to the citizens of Rock Falls.

Mayor’s Report:

Fiesta Day Parade, September 20, 2025. Leaving the Fire Station at 12:15p.m., parade starts at 1:00 p.m.

Homecoming Parade, September 25, 2025. Tentatively, meet at the Fire Station at 4:30p.m.

Alderwoman Sobottka stated that the OLPS Committee meeting will be moved to Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.

A motion was made by Alderwoman Sobottka to adjourn and second by Alderwoman Arduini. Vote via voice, all approved (5:43 p.m.)

https://rockfalls61071.net/wp-content/uploads/09-02-2025-City-Council-Meeting-Minutes.pdf