Stadelman critical of latest casino delay
State Senator Steve Stadelman released the following statement on the state gaming board’s decision today to delay the Rockford Casino license:
“Frankly, I’m disappointed by the gaming board’s decision to delay their license decision another six months, I was hoping to see construction begin sooner rather than later,” Stadelman said. “As the Senator representing Rockford, I will work with the mayor and all other parties involved to do everything I can to make sure there isn’t another six-month delay. I’m tired of seeing dollars that could be spent in Illinois to help pay for our schools, roads and other improvements being spent in Iowa and Wisconsin.”
Rockford's application proposes a $310 million Hard Rock International casino on the grounds of the former Clock Tower Resort on East State Street at the Interstate 90 interchange. Under an agreement with the City, Hard Rock would pay $7 million annually in gaming taxes and fees.
Local small businesses receive more than $1 million in state pandemic relief
Forty Rockford-area small businesses will receive more than $1 million in the second round of Business Interruption Grants, State Senator Steve Stadelman announced this week.
During the first round of BIG awards through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Rockford area received nearly $2 million to help small businesses meet payroll and cover rent, utilities, equipment and other costs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of my community,” Stadelman said. “They need this grant money to endure, and I’m happy the state continues to prioritize communities like Rockford in these hard times.”
Stadelman emphasized that BIG applications are still being accepted, and the latest round of awards are being concentrated outside of the Chicago area including Rockford. Heavily distresses industries like movie theatres, performing arts venues, concert arenas, indoor recreation, amusement parks and event spaces at banquet halls and hotels are scheduled to receive a total of $60 million statewide, while $70 million has been set aside for disproportionately impacted communities that have been the most economically distressed and vulnerable to COVID-19.
“The first round of these grants are supporting dozens of businesses in my community,” Stadelman said. “This round is ensuring additional businesses are given the resources they need to navigate through the pandemic as winter approaches.”
A list of grant recipients can be found here. To apply for assistance, visit the DCEO website.
Stadelman urges local pursuit of state broadband grants
State Senator Steve Stadelman is encouraging Rockford-area leaders to apply for millions of dollars in state grants to expand broadband in underserved communities.
A recently-announced, second round of applications for Connect Illinois is open through the end of February 2021. Internet service providers, nonprofits and local government can receive up to $5 million in matching funds for projects that expand broadband service.
"COVID-19 underscores the importance of quality broadband access," Stadelman said. "People depend on virtual services like e-learning and telehealth, and we all need and want to stay connected to family and friends."
Stadelman noted that a new exemption in the second round of Connect Illinois allows a reduced non-state match for economically to keep distressed communities competitive when applying for critical infrastructure dollars. Connect Illinois projects must meet the minority business participation requirements of the state's Business Enterprise Program.
For more information, visit Connect Illinois online.