On the morning of September 25, the Freeport Police Department was quickly on scene following reported shootings in the vicinity of the 900 South Carroll Avenue. A horrifying incident that resulted in three people falling victim to the reckless gunplay. Mayor Jodi Miller, clearly distressed by the unnecessary bloodshed in her community, expressed her frustration. She stated, ‘Such incidents are a blow to our communal harmony, we want our residents to feel secure, not scared.’
City Manager Rob Boyer lent his voice to the Mayor’s heartfelt sentiment. He stressed that their city’s safety has always been a top priority for the police force. He encouraged community participation in crime prevention, emphasizing that active citizen engagement is crucial for ensuring peace and safety throughout the city. If residents happen to witness any criminal activity, they should feel safe enough to report these activities to both the Freeport Police Department or the Stateline Area Crime Stoppers.
Meanwhile, FREEPOD is in the process of helping voters inform themselves about the local candidates running in the forthcoming November elections. Primary questions presented for response from the candidates are regarding their priorities if elected, their treatment of vital matters, how they intend to approach these challenges, and what voters should know about them that may not be common knowledge. Responses from the contenders are currently awaited, with the assurance they will be publicly shared when received.
In other news, the first layer of pavement on Adams Avenue is near completion, with details about its final paving to be announced imminently. Several other city projects on State Avenue, South Chicago Avenue, and West Iroquois Street are nearing their completion within the week. Future reconstruction for 2024 includes a plethora of city streets such as Oak Avenue, Coates Street, Dirck Drive, and more.
The Freeport Art Museum Block 62 project, aimed at revitalizing the former Kunz Brothers Building, is continuing steadily. This 100-year-old edifice situated at 22 East Exchange stands in Freeport’s downtown area. Having been constructed in 1924 by Fredrick Smith, a well-known businessman, the building remains a bastion of our rich architectural heritage.
The refurbishment initiative for this historic building carries a goal of $3.3 million, of which $1.6 million has been successfully raised. This funding has facilitated the completion of the first phase, which involved the demolition and removal of all hoists and lifts previously employed for automobile repairs. The next phase is well into progress, featuring the installation of UV glass windows, masonry work, and new lintel construction.
The renovation initiative aims not only to preserve many original architectural elements but also to create functional and creative spaces within the building. The exciting blueprint for the over-14,000-square-foot building includes designated areas for exhibitions, an administrative space, a classroom, and storage. One fascinating element included in the plans is the installation of operational glass garage doors – a nod to the building’s original purpose.
Over the past few years, Stephenson County may have caught your attention with its remarkable number of solar arrays – in commercial buildings, residential houses, and even farmlands! As of 2023, the county ranks fourth in the state of Illinois for online kilowatt capacity, trailing only behind Coles County, Cook County, and Clark County.
The projections shine even brighter for Stephenson County when considering future plans. Upon completion of its planned facilities, the county is set to follow only behind Cook County in total kilowatt capacity. The worldwide acceptance and growth of solar photovoltaic capacity has been remarkable, with solar power growing its share in global electricity output from under six percent to nearly quadrupling since 2018.
The Climate Equity Jobs Act passed in 2021 positions Illinois uniquely in the race towards renewable energy. The goal is bold but achievable – 40% renewable energy production by 2030 and 50% by 2040. This commitment firmly places Illinois among the nation’s pioneers in adopting green energy policy, with Stephenson County as one of its major contributors.
In October, a month dedicated to Domestic Violence Awareness, an organization known as VOICES in Stephenson County is organizing a community presentation called ‘DV 101’. This event, scheduled at the Freeport Public Library from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on October 8th, is aimed at offering resources and information for survivors of domestic or sexual violence as well as their circles of support.
Also, hosted by VOICES, an event titled ‘In Their Shoes’ is set to happen on October 16th at the library. This event, running from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m., provides participants with an immersive experience, allowing them to navigate decision-making scenarios familiar to survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Lastly, don’t miss the Oakdale Fall Festival and Autumn Leaf Run on October 5th, happening from noon to 4:00 p.m. At this fun-filled event at Oakdale Nature Preserve Park, expect a handful of enjoyable activities like wagon rides, guided nature walks, live music, and plenty more. Also, make sure to mark your calendars for the Homecoming Week for Freeport, with the parade scheduled for the afternoon of October 9th!