Council Expands Zoning for Fitness Centers, but Overlooks Bigger Picture
FREEPORT, IL – August 21, 2025
At the August 18, 2025 City Council meeting, Ordinance 2025-48 passed. The amendment to Freeport’s zoning code now allows physical culture and health services (such as gyms and fitness studios) as permitted uses in B1-1 and B1-2 business districts, including much of downtown.
Previously, these businesses were only allowed in B2-1 zones, requiring special zoning approvals elsewhere. Now, under the newly passed ordinance, gyms can set up shop in nearly every commercial area of Freeport — no special permissions needed.
The change was presented by newly contracted Wayne Duckmann, whose consulting agreement with the city — paying up to $90/hour — was quietly signed 3 weeks before council approval and vote. Duckmann cited an “uptick” in zoning amendment applications as justification for expanding gym access.
Well-Intended, But Uncoordinated
On the surface, this may seem like a step toward revitalization. Encouraging businesses to fill empty storefronts and reduce bureaucratic hurdles is generally a good thing. However, this ordinance seems disconnected from the broader strategy that both the Miller administration and the Greater Freeport Partnership have repeatedly promoted: turning downtown Freeport into a thriving mixed-use district filled with residents, retail, and walkable community spaces.
The Parking Problem No One Addressed
Downtown Freeport depends heavily on limited street parking. With fitness studios often generating high turnover traffic throughout the day, street spaces can quickly become overwhelmed. That leaves little room for patrons of nearby retail, dining, and service-based businesses — the very businesses already fighting to stay afloat.
And what happens to the city’s stated goal of filling upper-floor units with young professionals and small families? If every available space is taken up by gym-goers, where will these future residents park their vehicles? Without a cohesive parking plan, this ordinance may end up undermining downtown housing altogether.
A Pattern of Short-Sighted Planning
This is the challenge with Freeport’s current leadership. While doing something may be better than doing nothing, doing something without fully thinking it through can set us back further. Ordinance 2025-48 is another example of the city acting fast to look active — but without evaluating the long-term tradeoffs.
Freeport needs revitalization. But that revitalization must be deliberate, community-driven, and strategically aligned. Right now, we’re patching potholes with policy — not building a sustainable vision for the future.
A Better Way Forward
The community deserves policies that consider residents, businesses, and the future together — not in isolation. We encourage the City Council to re-engage with business owners, local planners, and residents before making additional sweeping changes. Strategic growth requires more than good intentions — it requires coordination.
This ordinance may open doors — but it could just as easily close them on other vital goals.
