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Rochelle Council promotes software conversations and sidewalk and street projects
Published on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 11:24 am
The Rochelle City Council used its July meeting to address a wide range of city issues, including negotiations on new municipal software, updates on water and sewer projects, street issues, sidewalk construction and the future use of the old Excelsior Gym.
Mayor Wayne McGuinty asked council members for permission to negotiate with Edmonds Gov Tech for an integrated software system that would replace the city’s current collection of separate programs. McGuinty said the existing setup required multiple systems to communicate with each other and resulted in costly support needs.
The proposed software would include modules for finance, payroll, property taxes and utility billing. McGuinty said the initial cost is $29,950, with annual subscription and hosting fees of about $12,700 after the first year. He said the support is included, unlike the city’s current agreement, which calls for additional payments for the support.
McGuinty said he wanted approval before contacting the company about a possible monthly payment plan of about $2,500. The council approved a motion allowing it to begin negotiations.
Public Works Director Michael Gaines also updated the council on infrastructure issues in the city. Gaines said there were 34 utility interruptions recorded for the month, which a number of officials said was fewer than previous months, and there were only a few accounts outstanding. Gaines reported that five homes still need to be connected to the new sewer line. He said recent rain and water intrusion had caused water to rise from an old manhole on Lee Street, where crews had been pumping water into the new service line as a temporary measure. Officials said the old pipes and shafts are expected to be decommissioned once the remaining homes are converted.
The council also discussed reports of limbs being disposed of in a landfill. McGuinty suggested installing a chain or cable with a visible marker and “No Dumping” sign to prevent unauthorized access while allowing access to the property owner, EMC and city workers.
Another problem was heavy truck traffic. Gaines said semi-trucks have damaged Gin House Street between Highway 280 and Second Avenue, while council members noted the road is not designed for that level of use. Officials discussed enforcing the city’s truck ban ordinance and limiting truck traffic to appropriate routes while still accommodating the needs of local businesses.
McGuinty said a portion of Second Avenue is expected to be included in a future LMIG resurfacing project, so it’s important to consider truck traffic before laying new asphalt.
On King Avenue, Gaines said work has begun straightening driveways and clearing ditches. Officials said the area is known to retain water for several days after rainfall and that the work is intended to improve drainage.
https://cordeledispatch.com/2026/07/07/rochelle-council-advances-software-talks-sidewalk-and-street-projects/?utm_sourceu003dsiteu0026utm_mediumu003dorganicu0026utm_campaignu003drecirculation
