I just happened to hear one of the Rockford Aldermen (actually a alderwoman) being interviewed on
WNTA radio this morning regarding the budget crisis. I wish all reading this could have heard the discussion of mandated contributions to retirement programs, prevailing wage guidelines effecting their bidding process and costing them much more than necessary, loss of part of the state payments as well as the late payments, etc. It was a
litany of woes for the city and she indicated it would really hit the fan in 2011. They have started the budgeting process early because of the dire straits they see coming as well as the current problems with the need to close two fire stations in an effort to help the deficit. Many of the problems are those we have been pointing out for some time. Incorporation doesn't just mean an inflow of funds. There are many strings and pitfalls as we are all seeing.
We, on the other hand, are coming in under budget, adding free ammenities, have cash in the bank, no debt, added sheriff's patrols, our own private lake and beaches, and an association operating well. Think about it folks, which would you prefer? For myself it is a no brainer.
Ken Dillenburg