FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL MEEETING DEVOLVES INTO CHAOS
A routine meeting of the Freeport City Council Monday night ended abruptly after a heated dispute over parliamentary procedure escalated into shouting, removals from the council chambers and an early adjournment.
The meeting opened with proclamations recognizing Parkview Home's centennial, Freeport firefighters for years of service and local law enforcement officers for their work during a recent hostage situation.
Tensions rose during public comment, where five speakers opposed a proposal to provide retirement benefits to Police Chief Jacquelyn Frausto, citing her short tenure in Freeport and questioning her performance and transparency.
The meeting unraveled during a vote on the consent agenda when an alderman's attempt to raise a procedural concern led to a disagreement between Mayor Jodi Miller, members of the council and City Attorney Aaron Szeto over parliamentary rules.
The confrontation intensified, with Miller calling an alderwoman out of order and ordering her removal. Several audience members were also removed after disrupting the meeting. The council ultimately voted unanimously to adjourn before any remaining business could be considered.
After the meeting, Miller defended her actions, saying maintaining order is her responsibility.
MILLER: "It always comes back to roles. My role is chairing the meeting, maintaining Robert's Rules. Part of the rules of council is maintaining order and decorum. I know there's a lot of talk out there on Facebook saying that I'm trying to silence people's voices, and that's simply not true. Let your voice be heard, but do it in a way that's respectful and follows the rules and keeps order. It's Robert's Rules. I didn't write them, but it's my responsibility as chair to uphold them."
Asked how the council moves forward, Miller said:
MILLER: "I think we all have the same goal, and the goal is the betterment of Freeport. I know that my role in this is to maintain order. And, really, aldermen's role is to prepare themselves, come into a meeting prepared. My door is always open to any of the aldermen. My phone is always on to them. Let's have those discussions beforehand. But, you know, get your homework done. Let's be efficient."
The agenda items left unfinished Monday night are expected to be considered at the next City Council meeting on July 20. Freepod also requested comment from Alderwoman Rachel Simmons but had not received a response before deadline.
STEPHENSON COUNTY GETS DISASTER PROCLAMATION FROM STATE
Gov. JB Pritzker has issued a state disaster proclamation that includes Stephenson County following severe storms that struck northern Illinois this spring.
The proclamation covers storm damage from April 14 and April 17, making additional state resources available to support recovery efforts. It also allows eligible local governments to apply for up to $250,000 through Illinois' Community Development Block Grant Disaster Response program to help cover costs such as debris removal, cleanup and repairs to public infrastructure.
Illinois has already recorded 173 confirmed tornadoes this year — the highest total ever documented in the state by this point in the year. Pritzker says the proclamation is intended to help communities rebuild while state officials continue working with local governments to pursue additional recovery assistance where available.
TREE REMOVAL UNDERWAY WITH MIXED RESPONSE FROM COMMUNITY
The City of Freeport is responding to questions from residents after the recent removal of several trees along city streets.
Officials say the city is responsible for maintaining trees located in the public right-of-way — the area between the sidewalk and the street — and that trees posing safety hazards, including storm risks or conflicts with power lines, may be removed in coordination with ComEd.
The city says it understands many residents have emotional attachments to mature trees but says public safety must come first. Residents looking to replace trees on their own property can request free trees through the city's YIELD Program while supplies last by contacting the city's communications office.
On social media, reaction has been mixed. Some residents thanked the city for removing trees they considered dangerous, while others expressed disappointment over the loss of mature neighborhood trees and urged officials to increase replanting efforts and provide more notice before future removals.
City officials say they appreciate public feedback and remain committed to balancing neighborhood safety with preserving Freeport's urban tree canopy.
KRAPE PARK SOUTH ENTRANCE IMPROVEMENT UNDERWAY
If you're planning a trip to Krape Park this week, be prepared for a detour.
The Freeport Park District says the park's south entrance remains closed as construction gets underway on a major improvement project that began Monday.
The work is designed to improve traffic flow, expand access for emergency responders and school buses and create a safer entrance for one of the district's busiest parks. Visitors should use alternate routes while construction is underway.
Park officials say updates will be shared as the project progresses and thank the public for its patience.
Despite the closure, most park amenities remain open, including preparations for Saturday's Unplug Illinois event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring outdoor games, fishing, crafts and family activities.
NEW STUDY HIGHLIGHTS HCC'S ECONOMIC IMPACT ON REGION
Highland Community College continues to be a major economic engine for northwest Illinois.
A new independent study by Lightcast finds the Freeport-based college generated an estimated $89.9 million in economic impact during the 2023-24 fiscal year, supporting more than 1,350 jobs across the region. The report says one out of every 49 jobs in Highland's district is connected to the college and its students.
Researchers also found taxpayers receive about $1.10 in benefits for every public dollar invested, while students earn an average annual return of more than 14% on their education.
Highland officials say the study underscores the college's role in preparing a skilled workforce and strengthening the economy throughout northwest Illinois.
SRC EXPANDING SERVICES TO JO DAVIESS COUNTY THANKS TO FNWIL
Older adults in Jo Daviess County will soon have more opportunities to stay active and connected thanks to a new $14,000 Community Impact Grant from The Foundation for Northwest Illinois.
The funding will help the Senior Resource Center expand programs and transportation services, making it easier for seniors to attend book clubs, wellness workshops, art classes, educational programs and other community activities.
Executive Director Amanda Faivre says the project is designed to reduce social isolation while helping older adults remain independent, regardless of where they live.
The Senior Resource Center also announced that staff member Anna Bell received the Foundation's Rising Leader Award for her work supporting older adults throughout northwest Illinois.
The Senior Resource Center has served the region since 1973 and offers a wide range of programs for older adults and their caregivers.
UNITED WAY ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $250,000 IN LOCAL GRANTS
More than a quarter of a million dollars is heading to nonprofit organizations serving northwest Illinois.
United Way of Northwest Illinois has announced $257,800 in community impact grants for the 2026-27 funding year, supporting programs in Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll counties.
The grants will help agencies serving ALICE households — families who are working but still struggle to afford essentials such as housing, food, child care, transportation and health care.
United Way says this year's awards represent a 17% increase over last year, thanks to strong support from local donors, businesses and workplace campaigns.
Executive Director Connie Kraft says every donation helps strengthen the region's safety net and create opportunities for families across northwest Illinois.
CANYON CAMP CELEBRATES 90 YEARS
One of northwest Illinois' longest-running outdoor traditions is marking a major milestone this summer.
Canyon Camp, near Stockton, is celebrating its 90th anniversary as nearly 1,000 Scouts and adult leaders from across Illinois, Wisconsin and beyond take part in summer camp programs.
This year's theme, "Witness History," also recognizes America's 250th anniversary.
Operated by the Blackhawk Area Council of Scouting America, Canyon Camp has welcomed generations of young people since 1936, offering hiking, canoeing, swimming, camping and leadership development.
Recent improvements, supported by nearly half a million dollars in donations from the Friends of Canyon Camp, are helping preserve the camp for future generations.
The camp will also host a 90th Anniversary Friends and Alumni Reunion later this month.
SPECIAL INTERVIEW WITH CONGRESSMAN ERIC SORENSEN
Eric Sorensen has served as the congressman for Illinois' 17th District since 2023.
On July Fourth, he visited the Freeport office of the Stephenson County Democrats. Freepod host Alan Wenzel spoke with Sorensen about issues directly affecting residents of the district.
Here is part of that interview.
Eric, welcome. It's nice to have you with us.
Let me start with this question, Eric. Before your election to Congress, you worked for many years in local newsrooms. As you know, many communities in the district are facing what we're calling a news desert. It's harder and harder to find reliable, accurate sources for local news.
What is your take on the connection between local news and civic engagement?
Then I got to be the Eric on Channel 13.
But now to see that Channel 13 is being absorbed into WIFR means that the lights of that studio go out, which means that I will be the last Eric to do the weather at WREX.
Why that's so concerning is it means that differing views are going away, right? We need to make sure that we have diverse communication of the news.
We need to make sure that we have people holding elected leaders accountable. Because if that goes away, then we're going to have people misuse funds. We're going to have more of the Rita Crundwells of this world, right, if we don't have journalists.
So it really concerns me going forward, which is another reason why we need more broadcasts like this, where you're able to ask any question to any elected leader and demand answers. Then people have to show up to do it.
Sorensen: Right. And let's understand that people are working as hard as they can these days. They're doing everything right, trying to grasp the good life.
I answer the question when people say, "Why can't I grasp the good life?" You should be able to.
You shouldn't have to work three jobs in a day just to be able to afford child care. But when that happens, it means that these are people who aren't connected to the news because they don't have time.
They're trying to keep their heads above water.
And so if they're not connected, we need to make sure that the voices are being heard of the people holding those leaders accountable.
What steps might allow that bill to become law?
This is actually where I agree with Mike Johnson, the speaker of the House. Because we passed it on a bipartisan level in the House. It passed with more than 60 votes in the Senate.
It's sitting on Donald Trump's desk.
I had an affordable housing roundtable in the Quad Cities just a couple of weeks ago. Rents are out of control. People can't buy their first home.
And here in Stephenson County, people are forced to rent. We need to build up these communities and neighborhoods so people are able to have that first home and raise their kids and be proud to say, "I raise my kids in Freeport."
Sorensen: So, when you think about what it took, how did we get there? What discoveries needed to be made? I am in awe. I'm in awe thinking about what we're going to be able to tackle next. Are we going to be able to cure cancer? Are we going to be able to solve the climate crisis? What are the things we're going to be able to do to make sure that our kids and grandkids have a good life? And a lot of that boils down to American ingenuity, right? It's making sure that wherever a kid is growing up today, they will be connected to as much education as they want.
It doesn't matter what ZIP code you grew up in or what household or how much money your parents make. No, you should be able to learn because, you know, the first person who's going to set foot on the surface of Mars is already living today. But if that child today is not allowed to learn, is not connected to STEM education, then it just might mean that a Russian child or a Chinese child will be.
And I'm not saying they shouldn't innovate, too. But I want America to be first, right? And this is the thing that transcends politics. One side says "America First." We all believe in America first because this nation is wonderful. It is great. We don't need to make it great again because it is great today.
But it's great today because of our neighbors, because we believe in a hard day's work. And then, when we come home, we can celebrate.
Wenzel: It sounds like you're saying, Eric, we've done a really good job. Let's just keep at it. Let's just keep going.
Sorensen: Well, also ... it's life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that we need to think about, right? We need to make sure that you have a good life in this country. That liberty provides you with the opportunities of a nation. And then the pursuit of happiness means that, no matter what your neighbor looks like, no matter how your neighbor prays, no matter who your neighbor loves, we take care of one another.
We believe in the collective of all of us, of Americans. It's not just the wealthy who get ahead. No, it should be all of America getting ahead.
Wenzel: Eric, thanks so much for your time with us today, and thank you for taking some time on the nation's 250th birthday to give a message to us here in the 17th Congressional District. Best to you, and thanks again for your time with us.
Sorensen: Thank you, Alan, and happy Fourth.
U OF I EXTENSION PROGRAMS IN CARROLL COUNTY
Young people and adults in Carroll County have several opportunities to learn something new this July through the University of Illinois Extension.
On Monday, July 13, youth ages 10 to 14 can build a working Hydraulic Hand during a hands-on STEM workshop beginning at 1 p.m. at the Mount Carroll Public Library. Then, on Tuesday, July 14, the library will host Adult Mental Health First Aid training, helping participants recognize and respond to signs of mental health challenges.
Families can also register children ages 8 to 14 for the Junior Master Naturalist Camp, taking place July 13 and 15 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Andresen Nature Center in Fulton.
Registration is required for all programs through the University of Illinois Extension and can be completed at https://extension.illinois.edu/clw/events.
STEPHENSON COUNTY FAIR IS COMING SOON
The Stephenson County Fair returns to Freeport Tuesday, July 21, through Saturday, July 25, with five days of family entertainment, agriculture and community fun.
Gates will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., while vendors will welcome visitors from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The carnival midway will operate Tuesday through Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 9 p.m.
This year's fair marks the return of the rodeo on Wednesday night, followed by live music from Wildwood Country. Other grandstand attractions include the Carquest Auto Parts Tough Truck Challenge on Thursday, Friday Fair Music Fest and the always-popular Demolition Derby on Saturday. Visitors can also enjoy 4-H and livestock exhibits, carnival rides, fair food and activities for the whole family.
Daily admission is $10. Thursday admission is just $5, and children 7 and under are admitted free.
For tickets, the complete entertainment schedule and fair information, visit stephensoncountyfair.org.
You can also hear more about this year's fair by listening to this past week's Freepod interview. Freepod host Alan Wenzel spoke with Kate Boyer, executive manager of the fair, about returning favorites and new innovations for 2026. You can hear that interview on freepod.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
TUTTY BAKER WEEKEND FESTIVITIES
Downtown Freeport is getting ready for one of the biggest weekends of the summer as Tutty Baker Fest returns Friday through Sunday, July 10-12.
Organizers have released a packed schedule featuring live music on multiple stages, food trucks, family activities, shopping and entertainment throughout downtown. Festival organizers are also encouraging people to tag the friend they'll be bringing along on the event's Facebook page for a chance to win a free wristband.
Saturday's lineup includes the Tutty Baker Fest 5K beginning at 8 a.m., with proceeds benefiting Friends Forever Humane Society. Throughout the weekend, visitors can also enjoy a large maker and vendor market featuring local artisans and small businesses, along with plenty of food, drinks and activities for all ages.
Admission to Tutty Baker Fest is free, with some attractions requiring wristbands. The complete entertainment schedule, event map and festival information are available on the Tutty Baker Fest Facebook page and Linktree.
IN CLOSING …
Before signing off this week, a programming note for our listeners. Did you know you can read any of our scripts anytime on our website? Along with broadcasting our podcast each week, we also publish a print version of each weekly news episode on our website, freepod.org. The print version allows you to move at your own pace and absorb the news you've been missing.
And because of the nature of a podcast, you can also get the news whenever you want it. While we release these newscasts every Thursday at noon, they're available anytime. So, while we appreciate it if you think of Freepod as "appointment listening," the reality is that you can download our episodes and play them whenever you have time.
And it's not just our newscasts, either. Our interviews are available anytime, including this past week's interview. As we mentioned earlier, Freepod host Alan Wenzel spoke with Kate Boyer, executive manager of the Stephenson County Fair, about new changes and old favorites people can expect this year.
This coming Tuesday, Tim Connors will speak with Alex Laviolette and Dylan Shipley, the owners of Freeport Pretzel Company. Tim, Alex and Dylan will talk about the founding of the new bakery and their plans for what is, inevitably, a bright future. That interview will be available beginning at noon Tuesday, July 14, but you can listen anytime after that. You can find it, and all of our other interviews, on freepod.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
We'd like to thank our community liaisons and reporters for providing pivotal content for our program, our partners at WNIJ in DeKalb for helping share Freepod with a larger community, and the Media Studies Department at Highland Community College for producing this podcast.
As always, please like us on Facebook, subscribe on the podcast platform of your choice and share with your friends. If you'd like to make a tax-deductible contribution to support local news content, please visit freepod.org.
This has been Freepod. Thank you for listening.
Copy Edited by Eryn Lent