Coloma Township Board Rejects Proposed 9.9% Property Tax Levy

The Coloma Township Board faced a setback on September 10 when a proposed 9.9% property tax levy was rejected in a 2-3 vote. The board members were divided over the necessity of increasing taxes to bolster the township’s financial reserves. This decision comes as officials are also considering the future of the township’s operations, including the potential relocation to a new building.

Concerns about the current township building, located at 1200 Prophetstown Road in Rock Falls, have been raised by a number of officials. Kristine Dobbs, the current supervisor, noted that the building has significant issues, including a low legal occupancy limit and various structural problems. Additionally, it fails to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Not all board members support the idea of purchasing a new facility. Becky Williamson, a trustee, expressed strong opposition during the meeting, stating, “We do not need a new building. I am totally against [that idea].” Williamson highlighted the township’s financial difficulties, particularly in light of the recent resignation of former supervisor Sindy Sotelo and nearly the entire board, which left the township facing a deficit.

In March, the township took a $75,000 loan from the road and bridge fund to cover payroll and operational expenses. At the September meeting, Dobbs announced the successful repayment of that loan, which was made possible through the sale of the former U.S. Bank building, purchased for $250,000 in February 2023. The township eventually sold the bank property for $528,000 on August 19.

The sale allowed the township to settle its debts, leaving them with $266,138 in available funds. Following the sale, the township received a full refund for property taxes and late fees that were incorrectly assessed on the bank building, according to Robin Brands, Whiteside County Supervisor of Assessments.

Williamson cautioned against repeating past mistakes, emphasizing the need for the township to regain public trust. “I do not want to go through this misery again,” she remarked. While acknowledging the current building’s flaws, she believes that the available funds should be used for necessary renovations instead of investing in a new property.

The township’s operational challenges extend beyond financial matters. The existing building has limited parking, which has been a persistent issue, often leaving spaces filled by township officials. Additionally, the building’s occupancy limit is set at a maximum of 13 people, which complicates service delivery and compliance with the Open Meetings Act during board meetings.

In light of these challenges, the board has considered alternative meeting locations, such as the Rock Falls Public Library, but has since returned to holding meetings at the Prophetstown Road facility. The next township meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. on October 8, where board members will reconsider maintaining the current 4.99% property tax levy.

As discussions continue, the future of Coloma Township remains uncertain, with leaders weighing the benefits of financial stability against the needs of their constituents.