Nine properties. $30,000 in TIF funds. And a decision that could shape who benefits from public investment in downtown Freeport.

As the Historic Preservation Committee reviews this year’s façade grant applications, a closer look reveals more than just plans for brickwork and storefront improvements. Among the applicants are out-of-town property owners, a tax-exempt organization that does not contribute to the system, and familiar local names seeking multiple awards.

Funded through the Downtown TIF District—where tax dollars are redirected away from schools and essential services—the program raises a larger question: when public money is on the table, who is it really working for?

Three new positions. Three votes. Minimal discussion.
As Freeport continues to lose population, businesses, and stability, City Hall is moving in the opposite direction—expanding government, shifting funds, and increasing costs. The question is no longer what the City is doing… but why it keeps moving this way.

Three new positions. Three votes. Minimal discussion.
As Freeport continues to lose population, businesses, and stability, City Hall is moving in the opposite direction—expanding government, shifting funds, and increasing costs. The question is no longer what the City is doing… but why it keeps moving this way.

Freeport residents were told a 1% tax increase would fix the roads and fund future projects. Now, with no discussion and no public review, the City has approved a $1 million withdrawal from reserves to do the same work taxpayers already paid for. The question is no longer whether the roads will be fixed—but why the money isn’t there.

Freeport has approved its first cannabis dispensary following a split council vote and mayoral tie-breaker. While city leaders highlighted projected revenue, questions remain about long-term development strategy, the Chicago-based operator, and what this decision means for Freeport’s future growth.

Freeport’s Historic Preservation Ordinance establishes how properties are designated, regulated, and reviewed once deemed historically significant. While designed to protect the city’s architectural heritage, the ordinance also introduces a formal approval process that directly affects how property owners can modify or redevelop their buildings.

House Bill 1020 would require Illinois regulators to disclose potential job losses when making utility rate decisions. The proposal focuses on transparency, raising questions about how economic impacts are measured and presented to the public.

Nearly one year after concerns were first raised, the City of Freeport is once again approaching the deadline to complete the City Manager’s annual performance evaluation—with no indication it will be done.

Under the terms of the City Manager’s contract, a formal evaluation must be conducted each year on or before the final City Council meeting in April. In 2026, that deadline falls on April 20.