Mr. Rydell's comments were presented to Rockford City Council on December 12th 2005.
Thank you for allowing me some time to present my thoughts on Rockford and my support for the issue of “Home Rule.” Just a few words about myself. I was born and raised in this community. I attended Nelson School, Lincoln Junior High, and graduated from East High School.
After graduating from Augustana College in Rock Island, I came back to Rockford to work in our family business. I have been the CEO Of Bergstrom Inc. for the past 19 years. Today Bergstrom employs approximately 425 people in two locations in Rockford.
As you very well know, Rockford must be competitive with other communities if we are to be successful.
I believe this can best be done if we can make our decisions locally, rather than have them made elsewhere.
I believe our locally elected officials are much more knowledgeable about the needs and desires of our community, and all the issues that must be addressed.
While others in a distant location elsewhere might have good intentions, issues can become complex and need to be made by those who have a thorough understanding of the whole subject before a decision is made, which sometimes might mean quickly.
As all of you know, Rockford has lost over 12, 000 jobs over the past few years. The city needs to attract new businesses to provide additional employment.
I must also add, however, that in addition to job losses, has come lower financial support for many worthy and much needed community services. I know you are familiar with this.
Importantly, at the same time jobs were lost, many community organizations lost corporate financial support when headquarters moved elsewhere, or the companies closed their doors. I feel this is an area of concern as Rockford has been fortunate through the decades for substantial corporate financial support.
Whether it is a school issue, a crime issue, or a decision on how to best attract a new business that is giving consideration about locating in Rockford, I feel our locally elected officials should be the ones making the decisions. Since all of you are elected by the people of Rockford, I would have to assume that those who elected you have confidence in your ability to make the best decisions..
I would encourage you to put the “Home Rule” decision on the ballot for next March, and let the voters of Rockford decide.