ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford is a city of strong opinions and passionate people. Whether it’s about taxes, crime, or pasta sauce, Stateline residents aren’t shy about sharing their opinions on the streets or online.
Here are 10 topics that spark spirited debate across the Forest City.
1. Is crime out of control?
Rockford’s crime rate remains among the highest in Illinois, but violent crime has dropped for three straight years. Residents are split: some feel safe and credit community policing, while others worry about domestic violence and gang activity, which still account for a large share of incidents. The debate continues in neighborhood meetings, social media threads, and at times, in City Council Chambers.
2. Property taxes: Too high or just misunderstood?
A recent study rank