The City of Rock Island is seeking the views of Rock Island residents on the proposed 2011-2012 General Fund budget. City departments have prepared options to help close a $1.1 million gap in the budget for next year. In addition to the series of public meetings being held, citizens can now register their opinions on the options online at www.rigov.org.

The online survey asks citizens to agree, disagree, or no opinion on each of the 37 options. At the end of the survey, citizens can provide any additional comments or suggestions.

Options being considered range from keeping City vehicles longer before they are replaced to eliminating a police officer with the Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG). The options also include an increase in the property tax rate and parking fees and fines.

City Manager John Phillips noted, "Not all of the options will be needed to eliminate the difference between the projected revenue and expenses for next year, but it is clear that difficult choices will need to be made by the Mayor and City Council."

City staff has been working on budget planning since September and closed the budget gap from $2.4 million to the $1.1 million level. Three positions have been eliminated and budget cuts have been made in training, supplies, and services. Phillips noted that most local governments are facing challenging times due to decreasing revenues and increasing costs.

Responses from citizens will be shared and reviewed by the Mayor and City Council over the next 60 days. The budget is scheduled for adoption in March 2011 and the City's fiscal year begins on April 1, 2011.

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The City of Rock Island will be seeking the views of Rock Island residents on the proposed 2011-2012 General Fund budget. City departments have prepared options to help close a
$1.1 million gap in the budget for next year.

Options being considered range from keeping City vehicles longer before they are replaced to eliminating a police officer with the Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG). The options also include an increase in the property tax rate and parking fees and fines. These and other suggestions are included in a report that will be presented at each of four public meetings (attached). The meeting schedule is noted below:

Thursday, December 9 at 9 a.m. at the Establishment Theater/Comedy Sportz, 220 19th St.
Thursday, December 9 at 6 p.m.  at the Establishment Theater/Comedy Sportz, 220 19th St.
Tuesday, December 14 at 3 p.m. in the Community Room, Downtown Library, 401 19th St.
Tuesday, December 14 at 6 p.m. in the Community Room, Downtown Library, 401 19th St.

City Manager John Phillips said that those attending the meetings will have the chance to indicate their preference for the actions that should be taken to balance the City's General Fund budget. "Not all of these actions will be needed to eliminate the difference between the projected revenue and expenses for next year, but it is clear that difficult choices will need to be made by the Mayor and City Council."
With the rise of mobile apps for iPhones and Androids, one local business has figured out a way to reach their customers with just a tap of their phone. The Hungry Hobo has launched a new mobile app allowing customers to place their orders in advance for dine-in or carry-out, find the closest Hobo location, and get exclusive offers.

On average, Android and iPhone users spend 70-80 minutes per day using apps (source: AdMob Mobile Metric May 2010). The Hungry Hobo is one of the first locally-owned business in the Quad Cities to launch a dedicated mobile app. The mobile app is free to download; customers can search the Apple or Android app stores to find The Hungry Hobo application, or just go to www.hungryhobo.com to download.

Hungry Hobo's mobile app features:
• Full Hobo menu
• Ability to order from the full menu at your favorite location
• Opportunity to reorder your favorite items, in just seconds, from your personal order history
• Receive special deals available exclusively for mobile customers
• Hours of operation
• Locate us on a map and quickly find the closest location to you, wherever you are
• Call a location with one touch dialing

"In today's competitive marketplace, we're always looking for ways to become easier to find or harder to resist." said Pryce T. Boeye, President and CEO of The Hungry Hobo. "In this case, Upstream brought us an idea that will do both of things for the rapidly growing number of iPhone and Android users."

The mobile app was developed in partnership with UpStream, a full-service marketing agency. Ted Thoms, CEO commented, "We are always trying to bring ideas to clients to build their brands and their business. UpStream is excited to enter the Quad Cities market with The Hungry Hobo on this new and impactful tool."

With the rise of mobile apps for iPhones and Androids, one local business has figured out a way to reach their customers with just a tap of their phone. The Hungry Hobo has launched a new mobile app allowing customers to place their orders in advance for dine-in or carry-out, find the closest Hobo location, and get exclusive offers.

On average, Android and iPhone users spend 70-80 minutes per day using apps (source: AdMob Mobile Metric May 2010). The Hungry Hobo is one of the first locally-owned business in the Quad Cities to launch a dedicated mobile app. The mobile app is free to download; customers can search the Apple or Android app stores to find The Hungry Hobo application, or just go to www.hungryhobo.com to download.

Hungry Hobo's mobile app features:
• Full Hobo menu
• Ability to order from the full menu at your favorite location
• Opportunity to reorder your favorite items, in just seconds, from your personal order history
• Receive special deals available exclusively for mobile customers
• Hours of operation
• Locate us on a map and quickly find the closest location to you, wherever you are
• Call a location with one touch dialing

"In today's competitive marketplace, we're always looking for ways to become easier to find or harder to resist." said Pryce T. Boeye, President and CEO of The Hungry Hobo. "In this case, Upstream brought us an idea that will do both of things for the rapidly growing number of iPhone and Android users."

The mobile app was developed in partnership with UpStream, a full-service marketing agency. Ted Thoms, CEO commented, "We are always trying to bring ideas to clients to build their brands and their business. UpStream is excited to enter the Quad Cities market with The Hungry Hobo on this new and impactful tool."

The City of Rock Island announced the results of the annual strategic planning session conducted on September 18 & 19, 2010. The Mayor and City Council reviewed and agreed on a vision statement, goals, and policy and management agendas for the coming year.

"We have completed another successful strategic planning session for the City. Each year we review past achievements and determine what we should focus on for the coming years," stated Mayor Dennis Pauley. City Manager John Phillips noted that he will be sharing the City Council priorities with the City's management staff. "These targets give the staff clear direction as we begin budgeting and planning for next year."

Vision 2025

Rock Island is a growing city with beautiful riverfronts, a vibrant downtown and livable neighborhoods. Rock Island respects diversity and history. Our citizens have quality homes and places for enjoyment and fun. Rock Island is a proud community.

Goals 2015

§ Quality services, financially sound city
§ Grow the economy
§ More new housing opportunities, upgraded and well-maintained older homes
§ More and better retail
§ Great neighborhoods
§ Improve riverfronts and downtown

Action Agenda 2010-11

Top Priority

1. Budget: Make decisions on the property tax rates, service levels and adopt a balanced budget after seeking community input.
2. Economic Development Strategic Plan: Develop action steps related to the strategic plan and review and approve the plan.
3. Campustown: Work with business owners and Augustana College to develop a plan to increase business activity in the neighborhood of 30th Street and 14th Avenue.
4. Safer Community Task Force: Implement the recommendations of the Safer Community Task Force.
5. Casino Area Development: Take actions to support future development in the area near the Jumer's Casino and Hotel and the southwest area.
6. Liquor License Modifications: Consider changes in liquor licenses for license holders with the 3 a.m. extended hours option.

High Priority

1. Negotiations and Compensation Policy: Obtain collective bargaining agreements for all units for agreements expiring 2010 and 2011.
2. Mill Creek: Review options and develop a plan to address the flooding and environmental risks associated with the decision by the Corps of Engineers to cease the clean-out of Mill Creek South Slough.
3. Economic Development Position: Develop a position description and funding source for a new City position that would work to support the retention and
growth of small businesses.
4. Rental Housing Inspections: Maintain staffing and funding and implement an incentive to encourage landlord training.
5. Street Improvements Comprehensive Plan: Develop comprehensive plan to do street improvements in concert with available funding.
6. Market Rate Rental Property: Review market and determine potential for development of a market rate rental complex.

Management Agenda 2010-11

Top Priority

1. Management Succession Planning: Plan for and implement as needed, the replacement of retiring management staff.
2. New Police Headquarters: Begin preliminary planning for the future construction of a modern police facility.
3. First Army Strategy: Implement a strategy to encourage civilians and uniformed personnel moving to the Quad Cities to consider Rock Island as home.
4. Problem Properties: Identify the worst and chronic violators of nuisance ordinances and develop a plan to focus enforcement to obtain compliance.
5. Transient Boat Dock: Apply for funding for a transient boat dock at Schwiebert Riverfront Park.

High Priority

1. Emergency Communications System: Seek funding for an 800 MHz radio system.
2. Casino Area Development: Obtain approvals for interchange modifications at IL 92 and I-280.
3. Highway 92 Corridor: Seek federal and state funding for the IL 92 corridor project.

City Manager John Phillips announced his plans today to retire from the position of City Manager in October 2011. Phillips has served as Rock Island City Manager since 1987. He worked for the City of Rockford, Illinois prior to coming to Rock Island, and served five years as City Administrator there.

"By the time I retire next year, I will have served as a City Manager or Administrator for almost 30 years, with 38 years in local government service. I think it is time for someone else to step into the position," stated Phillips.

He continued, "I have had a very rewarding career in local government and Rock Island has been a great city in which to work. It has been an honor to work for the citizens of Rock Island with dedicated elected officials and staff."

Phillips said he informed the Mayor and City Council of his intentions at the annual goal setting session so that the Council could have a chance to consider this as they establish their plans for the coming year. He said that the early notice will provide ample time for the Mayor and Council to select a replacement.

Phillips said that he plans to remain in Rock Island but hasn't made any future plans. He would like to stay involved in the community and may consider other employment if the right opportunity presents itself.

"John Phillips is the best city manager in the business," said Mayor Dennis Pauley. "He has done an excellent job of managing the numerous departments and finances of the City. John has set a high standard and has put Rock Island in an enviable position for the future."

"We appreciate the advance notice from John. The process for selecting the next city manager is an important topic we will be considering," continued Pauley.

Background

John Phillips graduated from Loras College in Dubuque, IA with a BA in political science. He received a Master of Arts in public affairs from Northern Illinois University.

During his time in Rock Island some of the City's accomplishments Phillips led include :

  • Restoring and maintaining the City's financial condition.
  • Supporting a strong economic development effort
  • Recruiting and retaining a quality staff team
  • Maintaining high standards for ethical and professional local government.

Some projects in which Phillips played an important role include :

  • Jumer's Casino
  • Whitewater Junction
  • Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center (RIFAC)
  • Centennial Bridge transfer to the State of Illinois
  • Schwiebert Riverfront Park
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Center renovation and expansion

Phillips has served on several boards of directors in the community:

  • Illinois Quad City Chamber of Commerce
  • Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging
  • United Way of the Quad Cities

He currently serves on the following boards of directors:

  • Quad City Civic Center Authority
  • Development Association of Rock Island

At the state level, Phillips has been active with the Illinois Municipal League and Illinois City / County Management Association:

  • Past President of the Illinois City / County Management Association (ILCMA)
  • Chair of the ILCMA committee on professional conduct
  • Past Chair and current member of the Illinois Municipal League's municipal manager's committee

Over the years Phillips has received several awards:

  • Citizen of the Year for the City of Rock island
  • Outstanding Manager of the Year from the ILCMA Assistants' Group
  • Special Service Award from ILCMA

Mandus Group / Spirit Partners plans to expand in Rock Island. On August 23, Rock Island City Council will vote on an agreement between the City and Mandus Group / Spirit Partners that will help foster a significant expansion by the company at their 2408 4th Avenue location in the city. The project involves two phases that in total could result in close to $4 million in new investment and 60 jobs.

The first phase involves construction of a 7,500 square foot addition to support assembly of mobile military vehicle maintenance units by Mandus Group and their associated company Spirit Partners. In support of the project the City will sell property it owns to the east and west to the company's current facility for $1. The property to the east is a vacant lot. The property to the west is the site of a former fuel station/auto repair business. The site is currently undergoing an environmental clean-up through support from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Development plans call for the lot to be redeveloped as a landscaped parking lot to help support the anticipated increase in employment at Mandus Group / Spirit Partners. Additional City support during the first phase will be through City programs such as: Commercial / Industrial Revolving Loan Fund, Bi-State Revolving Loan Fund, Enterprise Zone, Sustainable Improvements Loan Fund, and the Façade Improvement Program.

Sam Kupresin, President of Mandus Group / Spirit Partners stated, "We are very excited to be expanding our business in Rock Island, due in part to the location of the Rock Island Arsenal, which is important to our business of dealing with military equipment. Working with the City of Rock Island was pleasant and enjoyable because the staff was supportive in helping us. The City's pro-business attitude, especially in helping a small business grow, is appreciated."

Mayor Dennis Pauley said "This project offers many positives for our community. It supports the growth of a small business in Rock Island, complements other investment in this neighborhood, adds much needed jobs to the economy and leverages significant private investment. Since locating in Rock Island in 2007, the City has worked to support the growth of Mandus Group / Spirit Partners and we are pleased that the company will continue its investment Rock Island."

A second phase of the project involves acquisition of the property at 2435 5th Avenue. This is an approximate 26,000 square foot building which currently houses the Rock Island Register Company. Mandus Group / Spirit Partners plan to renovate the building for their use as well as for use by tenant businesses. City support for phase two includes a $50,000 loan and $83,600 in façade improvement funds to support installation on new widows and tuck pointing of the exterior brick surface. In addition, the City will reconstruct 25th Street between 4th and 5th Avenue and cover one-half the cost to replace sidewalks on 4th Avenue and 24th Street. It is expected this work will take place over the next five years as the company's primary focus will be on constructing the new building.

The City of Rock Island reduced fuel consumption by 8%, or by 17,460 gallons, from Fiscal Year 08-09 to Fiscal Year 09-10. At an average of $2 per gallon, this equates to an estimated $35,000 in savings.

"I'm proud of the City staff and want to thank them for this achievement. Reducing fuel costs was an important way for us to save money, as well as help the environment," stated City Manager John Phillips.

In the third quarter of 2008, Mr. Phillips issued a challenge in the City employee newsletter. "It is my goal to reduce fuel consumption by 10%. With the cooperation and support of all our employees who drive City vehicles, I am confident this can be accomplished." The newsletter went on to address many ideas from the Green Team on how to reduce fuel consumption from planning trips, accelerating and decelerating smoothly, and not allowing idling for gas engines unless needed for other uses.

Mr. Phillips notes, "I knew that reducing fuel consumption by 10% would be a hard goal to achieve, and may be unattainable. I set my sights high and am pleased with the results."

In 2008, the City purchased a fleet of 24 hybrid vehicles (21 Honda Civics and 3 Ford Escapes). These vehicles, along with a concerted effort from all City departments, helped reduce fuel consumption.

Fuel consumption:

  • 08-09 - 220,305 gallons used

  • 09-10 - 202,845 gallons used

Miles traveled:

  • 08-09 - 1,667,367 miles

  • 09-10 - 1,578,933 miles

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Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is pleased to announce that seven community gardens will receive a total of $4,250 in assistance through the new Rock Island Community Garden Program. The program allows neighborhood organizations to lease vacant parcels of land for purposes of creating and maintaining a community garden space.

Community gardens are pieces of land that are gardened by a group of people, many times from the same neighborhood. Funding for the community gardens will help neighborhood groups establish a new garden or maintain an existing garden. Funds will be used for soil, fencing, water, plants, rain barrels, and other items to make their gardens more beautiful and functional.

The Rauch Family Foundation donated $3,000 towards the effort, Modern Woodmen of America donated $750, and GROWTH contributed $500.

Following are the community gardens:

  • Broadway Victory Garden: Broadway Victory Garden will make 18 plots available and also have an area for children at their garden located at 800 20th Street. The Victory Garden was the pilot community garden developed in partnership with GROWTH. Broadway will use their $1,000 grant to purchase dirt to establish the garden and additional items to support the creation of the garden.
  • Christ Church Cathedral has leased 1419 5th Street and will work with Karen refugees living in the neighborhood to plant Asian vegetables. The $750 grant will help establish this new garden.
  • Community Caring Conference:  The CCC garden is located at 1501-1503 8th Avenue. Ten plots will be available and participants will come from the West End Neighborhood Association. The $500 grant will help establish this new garden including purchasing a rain barrel, fencing, picnic table, and shed.
  • Greenbush Neighborhood: Greenbush Neighbors will offer garden plots at a new community garden located at 2800 7th Avenue. The $500 grant will help establish this new garden.
  • Old Chicago Community Organic Garden Association: This garden is located at 1116-1124 4th Avenue. Twelve plots are available and organic gardening will be practiced. The $500 grant will be used to purchase gardening tools and fencing.
  • Rock Island County Area Project: RICAP has a lot at 935 29th Avenue and offers the garden plots at no cost to gardeners. Twenty-five garden plots are available to residents of South Rock Island Township. The $500 grant will help purchase fencing for the garden.
  • St. Joseph the Worker House: Two to three plots are available at 1920 and 1924 9th Avenue. The garden serves and provides food for the homeless women and children living as a part of the Worker House Transitional Living program. The $500 grant will be used to purchase rain barrels, garden tools, plants, and mulch.

Community gardens have many benefits for communities including:

  • returning unused or vacant parcels of land into thriving gardens with purpose and beauty
  • improved quality of life for participants tending to the garden and receiving the garden's harvest
  • a catalyst for community development
  • stimulates social interaction and encourages self-reliance
  • beautifies communities
  • produces nutritious food
  • reduces family food budgets
  • conserves resources
  • creates opportunity for recreation, exercise, therapy, and education
  • preserves green space
  • provides opportunities for intergenerational and cross-cultural connections are a way for people to come together
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Every two years, the Community Marketing program of Renaissance Rock Island conducts a telephone survey to determine statistically valid perceptions about Rock Island. Personal Marketing Research, Inc. (PMR) was contracted to administer the survey in the fourth quarter of 2009. The sample for the study was comprised of 800 respondents, allowing for an overall margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points at 95% level of confidence. 400 Rock Island residents and 400 non-residents were questioned.

The 34-page executive summary can be downloaded at this link  http://www.liveri.com/index.php/business/community-profile/community-survey

Overwhelmingly, Rock Island residents believe that Rock Island is a good place to live (91%). The majority of residents have a positive view of Rock Island (65%) and non-residents have a neutral perception (56%).

When rating City services and the School District, residents gave more positive answers than in 2007. Residents feel that the amount of property taxes paid for City services (46%) and School District services (48%) is appropriate. All City services were rated above average by residents. Residents think the schools are better or much better than five years ago (36%).

Respondents state that Rock Island has the best downtown (39%). This has changed dramatically since 1990 when respondents thought Rock Island had the worst downtown. People go downtown for entertainment, dining, and bars and this has remained consistent since 1990.

Residents and non-residents agree with the Rock Solid, Rock Island brand statements - now five years old: Rock Island is a welcoming environment, a place that supports entrepreneurial spirit, and a place that celebrates a diverse environment. Rock Island offers a wide variety of residential housing options, has innovative public and private schools, offers a complete set of recreational and leisure activities, provides outstanding city and governmental services and is a regional leader in downtown development.

Respondents feel that Rock Island is safe (76% stated very safe or safe), and more residents stated so (87% stated very safe or safe). Residents feel safe in their neighborhoods (84% stated very safe or safe). Respondents feel that Rock Island properties are well kept (63%), with residents feeling more so (71%). Respondents feel downtown Rock Island is safe (49% stated very safe or safe), while more residents felt safe (54% stated very safe or safe).

Perceptions of Rock Island have improved since 1990, due to continual improvements in the city. However, just as stated in the conclusions of the 1990 market research, work will need to continue.

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