City officials in Rochelle amended an ordinance last night reducing the late fees on bills for RMU customers. It was reduced from 5% to 3%.
City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh said he wanted to reduce that figure as late fees are for a customer to pay their bill on time.
He hopes to begin a program in the future in which the late fee money can be used to help residents pay their bills.
Fiegenschuh said that about 20% of customers in Rochelle had a late fee on their bill.
Rezoning proposals approved included 48 acres of land along 300 Steward Road, just east of the Love's Travel Stops and Country Stores, and the building at 501 West 6th Avenue.
The developer on the property along Steward Road can now have businesses in the future such as a gas station, restaurant, or even a hotel.
The 6th Avenue building currently has 6 businesses. They plan to renovate the building and have a new entrance off Lincoln Highway for downtown traffic.
An ordinance pertaining to street performances and a liquor license for Rosatis Pizza were approved by the council. After receiving a permit, individuals will be able to perform at the gazebo, the front lawn of the RMU office, and Page Park between 10am and 10pm.
The council also heard a presentation from Rochelle Energy LLC involving renewable energy in landfill gas. The proposal would extend the deal to August of 2027. At the present time, it ends in August of 2022. Wes Lawrence from Rochelle Energy LLC said they need to plan years ahead for their plant and can not wait until the agreement comes close to an end.
City officials met in executive session as the discussion included the sale price of property and a union contract. No action was made public following the closed portion of the meeting.
(Rochelle City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh)
