ROCHELLE — Two of Rochelle City Council’s newest members were sworn in Monday morning, along with councilman Dan McDermott, returning for a third term.

All three said their first priority as council members is getting a new city manager in place. Newly elected council member John Bearrows said working on the budget is another priority.

“I’d like to see us explore some areas…we’ve talked about TIF districts in the past,” Bearrows said. “I’d like to also see about an increase in housing in the area and to develop for people that work here to live here. It’s really important…and really just be fiscally responsible with the taxpayers’ money.”

Also new to council, Kate Shaw-Dickey reiterated the need to find a new city manager.

“It’s finding someone who has the right vision, has the right attitude, and to be willing to drive all of the things we want to do in this town and make it great again,” Shaw-Dickey said.

As of today, with her position on the council, Shaw-Dickey will no longer be a planning and zoning commissioner — a position she held for the last 7 years.

“Being on the planning and zoning commission was a great introduction to getting involved more in the city, and learning what the future of the city of Rochelle looks like and all of the different things going on,” Shaw-Dickey said of her experience as a planning and zoning commissioner.

Elected for his third term, councilman Dan McDermott said the balancing the budget is a priority for council.

“Budget balancing is one of my major concerns,” McDermott said. “I’d like to see us get back to a balanced budged and no more deficit spending.”

City Clerk Bruce McKinney officiated the swearing in ceremony.