In an era where energy challenges are increasingly pressing, the role of public power has never been more significant. For residents of Rochelle, RMU exemplifies the benefits of a public power system, highlighting the advantages that come with local governance, community engagement, and reliability.

At the heart of public power is local control. Rochelle Municipal Utilities is governed by our elected city council who prioritize the needs of the community and local economic development first. This structure ensures that decisions regarding rates, services, and infrastructure reflect the interests of Rochelle residents rather than distant shareholders. With RMU, residents have a direct line of communication to their utility provider, fostering a sense of accountability and transparency that often eludes larger, investor-owned utilities.

Public power can have a profound impact on local economies as well. RMU provides reliable and competitively-priced electricity and water services, which help attract businesses to Rochelle.  Lower utility costs enable local companies to operate more efficiently, contributing to job creation and economic growth. Furthermore, profits generated by RMU are reinvested back into the community, funding infrastructure improvements and essential services that benefit all residents.

Further, RMU provides reliable service, particularly during emergencies. Public power systems like RMU can respond more swiftly to outages and disruptions, ensuring that residents are supported during challenging times. The local knowledge and commitment of our staff allow for tailored responses to community needs, enhancing the overall resilience of Rochelle’s energy infrastructure.

Finally, public power fosters strong community engagement.  RMU encourages residents to participate in discussions about energy usage and conservation, along with promoting awareness and involvement in energy-saving initiatives. Educational programs, workshops, and outreach efforts help residents understand their energy consumption and explore ways to reduce costs while contributing to a more sustainable community.

The importance of public power, as demonstrated by Rochelle Municipal Utilities is more important today than ever.  Our utility offers local control, economic advantages, reliable service, and opportunities for community engagement. As Rochelle navigates the complexities of the modern energy landscape, RMU will remain a vital asset, ensuring that the needs of residents are met while promoting a sustainable and prosperous future for all. By supporting public power, the Rochelle community can continue to thrive, exemplifying the potential of local utilities in today’s world.

“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” -John C. Maxwell

“It is better to lead from behind and put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger.  Then people will appreciate your leadership.” -Nelson Mandela

Jeffrey A. Fiegenschuh, MPA, ICMA-CM, is the city manager of the City of Rochelle.