Key Votes and Controversies Ahead

FREEPORT, IL — April 19, 2025

Freeport residents should prepare for a tense and revealing night at City Hall. The upcoming City Council meeting, scheduled for Monday, April 21 at 6:00 p.m., promises major votes on controversial issues—but also raises serious concerns about what won’t be addressed.

With final decisions expected on residency rules, gaming fees, and special service areas, the meeting agenda is packed. However, key oversight responsibilities and labor negotiations are conspicuously missing—leaving taxpayers wondering whether accountability is being sacrificed behind closed doors.

Final Votes on Residency Requirements, Wells, and Special Service Area

One of the most debated issues heading for a final vote is the proposed change to Freeport’s residency requirement for high-ranking city staff. Passed less than eight years ago but not enforced, the ordinance mandates senior officials live within city limits. Rather than enforce the rule, city staff now recommend changing it—sparking backlash from council members and residents who insist that ordinances must apply to all, not just the public.

Council will also vote on new regulations for wells and septic systems within city limits. Many are watching closely to see how far the city will go in regulating private systems—and what impact this could have on homeowners.

Adding to the evening’s tension will be the final decision on designating the Gladewood subdivision as a "Special Service Area" (SSA)—a move residents say benefits State’s Attorney Carl Larson, a vocal supporter of Mayor Jodi Miller’s recent re-election. Critics allege this is political payback, pointing out the timing and the specific location of the resurfacing project.

Tax and Fee Increases on the Horizon

Gaming machine fees are likely to double, with a 100% increase expected to pass Monday night. Small business owners and residents are frustrated, accusing the Miller administration of consistently raising taxes and fees on average citizens while ignoring enforcement loopholes that benefit the elite—leading to higher property taxes across Freeport.

Meanwhile, Family Dollar is requesting a special use permit to sell alcohol at 1601–1645 S. West Ave., sparking speculation about possible redevelopment plans in the area.

Political Maneuvering: Atkinson’s Removal and Wilkinson’s Future

Political drama is also on the agenda. Alderpersons Stacy and Monroe will call for an explanation regarding Mayor Miller’s removal of Planning Commission member—and political rival—Joshua Atkinson. Many view this as retaliation following Atkinson’s vocal opposition during the mayoral campaign.

Additionally, council will vote on whether to rescind the appointment of Dustin Wilkinson due to his ongoing legal troubles, which have raised red flags among both council members and the broader public.

Missing in Action: No City Manager Review, No Union Contract Update

While the agenda is packed, it’s what’s missing that is drawing growing outrage:

City Manager Rob Boyer’s annual performance review is nowhere to be found. Per his employment contract, the review must be completed by the last council meeting in April. This review is designed to hold the City Manager accountable and set direction for the upcoming year. Yet, for the eighth year in a row, it looks like Mayor Miller and the council plan to skip it—again. Residents and some alderpersons are questioning how leadership can be trusted to manage effectively without honoring basic contractual and procedural responsibilities.

Meanwhile, AFSCME union negotiations remain unresolved. City workers—essential to Freeport’s daily operations—could legally strike as soon as May 1st. Negotiations appear to have been deliberately delayed to avoid becoming an election issue, but now the city faces a crisis. Rumors suggest union demands could include a 25% pay raise, leaving residents concerned that Mayor Miller may raise taxes yet again—or repeat financial maneuvers that caused outrage four years ago.

Silence on Community and Economic Development Director Replacement

Adding to the confusion, no update has been provided regarding the replacement of Community and Economic Development Director Wayne Duckmann. A recruiting firm advertised before the election that a search would begin on April 1st, yet no job posting has appeared on the city's website, and no formal announcement has been made.

Has Duckmann resigned? Was the resignation contingent on the election results? Is the city avoiding filling the position due to mounting legal issues tied to his performance? Why have inquiries from council members been met with silence?

A City in the Dark

As Freeport faces crucial decisions about leadership, finance, and governance, Monday’s meeting will show whether transparency and accountability matter—or whether political convenience will remain the norm.