ROCHELLE — At its meeting Monday, the Rochelle City Council unanimously approved a bid, possible change order allowance and the use of motor fuel tax (MFT) and Rebuild Illinois (RBI) funds for a Steward Road pavement improvement project.

The bid approved Monday was from Curran Contracting Company for $1.347 million, which was the low bid of three and approximately 13 percent lower than the engineer's estimate of cost. The project will include pavement improvements, shoulder upgrades and pavement striping of the existing roadway alignment. The project will run from the west side of the overpass to the Lee County line for 1.6 miles. The roadway has seen a 40 percent increase in truck traffic since 2009, City Engineer Sam Tesreau said.

The council gave approval for additional change order work to be negotiated not to exceed $172,000 to facilitate other improvements and upgrades to streets adjacent to the project if necessary. It is anticipated the construction project will be substantially complete by September 2024.

Bingham

The council recognized Human Resources Director Nancy Bingham upon her retirement from the City of Rochelle after nine years. Bingham's recognition was read by Jillian Condon, coordinator of the city's human resources department.

Over her years with the city, Bingham has helped to implement an employee wellness program and a Rochelle Area Community Foundation employee payroll deduction giving campaign.

"She'll be greatly missed, but we're all excited for her to be able to spend more time traveling and with her family," Condon said.

Bingham has a long history in public service, previously working in the Rochelle Elementary School District and at Kishwaukee College.

"I just enjoy helping people," Bingham said. "I've been very fortunate. I appreciate the opportunity to work here."

Energy

The council unanimously approved a resolution calling for an application to the state's Energy Efficiency Community Block Grant Program that will fund energy planning for up to $150,000. Creston and Hillcrest are also planned to be involved in the application due to being in Rochelle Municipal Utilities' service territory.

Blackhawk Hills Regional Council will administer the grant and work will be outsourced in a request for proposals process. Goals of the program include reduction in fossil fuel emissions to maximize benefits to local and regional communities, to improve energy efficiency in the transportation and building sectors, and to build a clean and equitable energy economy to prioritize disadvantaged communities and workforce opportunities.

Vehicles

The council unanimously approved a consignment agreement with Enterprise Fleet Management to sell three of its public works vehicles for a $400 service fee each. The city has had a vehicle leasing and replacement program with Enterprise Fleet Management since 2019. Proceeds from the sale of the three vehicles will be reinvested into the public works department’s leasing program to reduce the costs of current lease vehicles.