Rochelle local news summary

Fiegenschuh resigns as Rochelle city manager; council names interim leader, launches search

Board approves $66.2 million budget for fiscal year 2026

Ogle County Board Appoints June Jacobs as Interim HR Director Amidst Process Questions

Extension program connects students with local government

Renovations moving forward at historic courthouse

Funds approved for animal control and Veterans Assistance Commission remodel

Energy audits show 15 percent reduction in usage at county facilities

County splits vote on relaxed solar farm landscaping rules

Solar project on Oregon Trail Road near completion

Fiegenschuh resigns as Rochelle city manager; council names interim leader, launches search

ROCHELLE, Ill. — The city council voted unanimously Monday to accept the resignation of City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh, ending his eight-year tenure leading the city. Fiegenschuh, who called the decision to leave "very tough," told the council he intends to pursue a new challenge in his career. His resignation becomes effective in mid-January 2026. "Rochelle has been my home," Fiegenschuh said. The council accepted the resignation "with regret" following a motion by Councilor Kate Shaw-Dickey.

In related action, the council unanimously appointed Sam Tesreau as interim city manager, effective upon Fiegenschuh's departure. Tesreau will serve until a permanent replacement is hired. The council also authorized hiring Arndt Municipal Support Inc. to conduct the search for a new city manager, at a cost not to exceed $22,250.

In his farewell remarks, Fiegenschuh credited city staff with turning around the Rochelle Technology Center, which he said was once a candidate for elimination but has since become profitable.

Board approves $66 million budget for fiscal year 2026

OREGON, Ill. - The Ogle County Board voted to approve the fiscal year 2026 budget and appropriations, totaling $66 million. The measure includes a tax levy of $15 million. The budget passed following a motion by board member Rick Billeter.

Ogle County Board Appoints June Jacobs as Interim HR Director Amidst Process Questions

OREGON, Ill. — The Ogle County Board has approved the appointment of June Jacobs as the interim HR director, though the decision prompted questions from some members regarding the hiring process. Board member Susie Corbitt inquired if other candidates were considered for the role, noting that the position had not been publicly posted. Chairman Bruce Larson stated that due to budgetary constraints and the limited salary the county could offer, the position was not posted for outside applicants. Larson further clarified that an insurance stipend discussed during the appointment is specifically attached to the staff member handling health insurance duties.

Extension program connects students with local government

OREGON, Ill. - Jodi Baumgartner, the 4-H coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension in Ogle County, introduced the "Hometown Leaders Program." Baumgartner announced a partnership with local schools designed to educate students on the various aspects and functions of county government, aiming to increase civic engagement among local youth.

Renovations moving forward at historic courthouse

OREGON, Ill. - Officials reported that the roofing project at the historic courthouse is progressing and the basement renovation is now complete, pending insurance reimbursement. Additionally, the Ogle County Historical Society has proposed placing a time capsule at the site next summer to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the country.

Funds approved for animal control and Veterans Assistance Commission remodel

OREGON, Ill. - The board authorized a remodeling project for the offices of Animal Control and the Veterans Assistance Commission. Presented by board member Austin Griffin, the motion to approve the renovations passed as part of the county's long-range planning agenda.

Energy audits show 15 percent reduction in usage at county facilities

OREGON, Ill. - Dan Newkirk, director of energy solutions at Alpha Controls, presented data showing a 15 percent average reduction in energy use across three major county sites over the past six months. The evaluation covered the Judicial Center Annex, the Judicial Center and the Public Safety Complex. The report highlighted the financial effectiveness of recent energy reduction projects implemented by the county.

County splits vote on relaxed solar farm landscaping rules

OREGON, Ill. - In a 16-6 split vote, the board approved revisions to zoning ordinances that reduce vegetative screening requirements for solar energy facilities in low-population areas. The change allows for a single-tier vegetative screen, rather than two, if the facility is located where there are fewer than 10 homes within a quarter-mile radius. Board member Mudge voted against the measure, arguing that aesthetic rules should apply equally regardless of population density, while board member Reising contended the change encourages solar developments to move away from residential areas.

Solar project on Oregon Trail Road near completion

OREGON, Ill. — County officials reported that the USS Ducks Solar project on Oregon Trail Road is nearing operational status. Board members Don Griffin and Wayne Reising recently toured the facility, which features battery backups and independent HVAC and fire suppression systems. Griffin estimated the county would begin seeing discounts on utility bills generated by the facility within three to four months.

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