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WINNEBAGO WRAP-UP
AUGUST 2025 NEWSLETTER
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NOTE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
As we close out another summer, I want to take a moment to update you on the significant progress we've made advocating for our county's interests at the state and federal levels. While much of this work involves travel to Springfield, IL and Washington, D.C., I'm pleased to report that these efforts are delivering real results for our community. As Chair of our MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) and through my work as a board member with the National Association of Regional Councils, combined with direct engagement with our federal and state legislators, we're actively securing substantial funding that will directly improve our daily lives.
Our persistence has paid off in multiple ways. At the National Association of Regional Councils conference this past June, I participated in extensive discussions about how the federal government passes down transportation funds to the state of Illinois. Historically, Winnebago County has been lagging in receiving our fair share of federal transportation dollars. In July, I shared this message with our federal legislators and the Department of Transportation in Washington. The message was well received, and I believe we will achieve our goal of receiving 100% of our Surface Transportation Block Grant funding through our MPO. Because of the advocacy of the National Association of Regional Councils and our legislators, the Federal Department of Transportation is now open to amending their distribution method. This will ensure that future funding decisions for local roads and bridges will involve our local leadership who truly understand our infrastructure needs.
Community Funded Project allocations are moving forward. Senator Durbin has committed $600,000 toward completing our Baxter Road water system loop. Congressman LaHood has secured $1.2 million in funding to repair the Meridian Road Bridge. Senator Duckworth has approved $1,000,000 to help Winnebago County upgrade small community water systems. We've been encouraged by Congressman Sorenson to pursue an additional $3 million in funding to complete our police training facility. At the state level, we secured $750,000 for our Juvenile Detention Center and a remarkable $2 million for our land bank—funding that will eliminate blight through property acquisitions, demolitions, and rebuilding efforts. This represents a significant boost for our land bank, which has had success although it has been operating on a very tight budget since its inception in 2019.
These successes reflect what has been a focused approach around three basic priorities: economic development, public safety, and infrastructure improvements.
With so many capital improvements underway over the last few years, my thoughts are expanding beyond these basic priorities toward values that will truly shape the future of our county. First, investment in our employees through competitive wages, meaningful growth opportunities, and enhanced customer service is a priority—because retaining quality staff is essential for serving you effectively into the future. Second, by focusing on maintaining a positive cycle of investment and growth through strengthening our infrastructure and creating economic development initiatives, we will increase property values and quality of life for our residents. Third, and perhaps most critically, we're committed to investing in our youth through programming that extends beyond our juvenile justice system, working to disrupt negative cycles and create positive pathways for the next generation.
We've earned recognition as the "county of opportunity" among federal and state officials. This reputation opens doors for future funding because we've demonstrated we're serious about investing in our community and our people. Together, we're building a stronger, more prosperous future for everyone in Winnebago County.
Sincerely,
Joseph V. Chiarelli
Winnebago County Board Chairman
| | Ribbon Cut on Veteran Home | |
HOME FOR A HERO: Marshmallow's Hope announced the successful completion of Project 4114, a remarkable community initiative that transformed an abandoned county trustee property into a beautiful home for veteran Bradley Scoville.
What started as an abandoned tax-delinquent property, has become a symbol of hope, healing, and community support.
“As trustee of Winnebago County, I couldn't be prouder to see a formerly abandoned property become a beacon of hope,” said Chairman Joe Chiarelli, “This innovative approach to veteran housing shows what's possible when government, nonprofits, and community partners work together."
Project 4114 was created by Laura Kane and Marshmallow's Hope in memory of Zachary Burkholz and Caden Fritz - two young lives lost to suicide. This project represents our community's commitment to supporting veterans and raising awareness about mental health challenges.
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NEW BOARD MEMBER: Congratulations to Freddy De La Trinidad, Winnebago County’s newest board member sworn into office on June 26, 2025. As a U.S. History Teacher at Jefferson High School, Mr. De La Trinidad brings a strong record of public service, deep roots in community engagement, and a clear understanding of the needs and priorities of District 12 residents. His lived experience and steadfast commitment to equity and opportunity make him an ideal representative for this vibrant and diverse district.
We are confident that Mr. De La Trinidad will be a tireless advocate for working families, promote inclusive economic development, and champion public safety and quality-of-life initiatives that uplift every corner of District 12. We thank former Board member Jaime Salgado for his dedicated service and look forward to Mr. De La Trinidad continuing that legacy of impactful leadership.
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Deputy Andrew Shaner received special recognition at the September 4th County Board meeting for rescuing a man that jumped into the Rock River.
With great appreciation, Joseph V. Chiarelli, Chairman of the Winnebago County Board, recognized Deputy Andrew Shaner for his life-saving actions on July 15, 2025. Because of Deputy Shaner's dedication, bravery, and ability to act quickly during a stressful situation, a life was saved.
Deputy Shaner represents the very
best values of our community and serves as a great example of the standard of professionalism we strive to achieve. His life-saving actions are commended.
| | Emergency Prepareness Month | |
BE PREPARED - Emergencies and disasters can happen at any time – but there are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your home. Think about what you and the people in your home need to do to be prepared for the unexpected.
Having enough food, water and medicine can help you to stay safe and comfortable until help arrives. Your pets are like family, so it’s important you have a disaster plan for them. This includes knowing a safe place you can take them when disaster strikes, having your pet microchipped with up-to-date contact information and making a kit that includes items like food, water, leashes and any medication they take.
Emergencies can happen fast and volunteers can make a difference.
Join the Winnebago County Medical Reserve Corps – a volunteer group coordinated through the Winnebago County Health Department that helps organize volunteers with both medical and non-medical backgrounds to assist efforts that protect lives in the community.
| | Winnebago County Employment Opportunities | |
Join the Winnebago County Team! We're actively hiring for multiple positions across various departments. Enjoy excellent benefits, professional development opportunities, and the chance to serve your community. Whether you're starting your career or seeking advancement, we have opportunities for you. Apply today at
Employment Opportunities.
Current openings include law enforcement positions (Deputy Sheriff, Correction Officer, Detention Officer), healthcare roles (RN Team Leader, LPN, CNA, Public Health Nurse), administrative support staff, skilled trades (Painter, Maintenance Mechanic, Highway Maintainer), social services (Probation Officers, Peer Recovery Navigator), and specialized positions like Veterinary Director, GIS Specialist, Electrical Inspector and Court Technologies Developer.
Salaries range from $15.91 to $160,000 annually. Full-time, part-time, and seasonal opportunities available with competitive benefits.
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TWENTY-FOURTH ANNIVERSARY 9/11
Thursday, September 11th | Memorial Site - West State St. and Chestnut St. - Rockford, IL
Remembrance and wreath placement - floral wreath to be placed near the steel beams, followed by a moment of silence. Expect a 15 to 20 minute time commitment.
This gathering is always open to the public, elected officials, department heads and all first responders from the Winnebago County area.
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