Rockford Council Reviews Park Updates, Miller Subdivision And Upcoming Community Events

Rockford Village Council met June 2nd, with Mayor Ron Searight encouraging residents to take pride in the community and help care for village property.

Searight said Shanes Park is in full use for the summer, with ball games, volleyball, pickleball, graduation parties, weddings and the splash pad. He reminded residents to enjoy the park, but also to clean up after themselves and avoid damaging village property.

The mayor also thanked residents who maintain their homes and properties, saying that work reflects well on the entire village. He also encouraged more people to volunteer with local organizations, including the American Legion, Lions Club, Rockford EMS and Rockford Fire Department.

Village Administrator Aaron Temple reported that the final lot in the Miller subdivision has been sold, with another single family home expected to be built this year. Water and sewer main installation for those lots is expected to begin next week.

Temple also said the pavilion by the pond should be completed by the end of the week. The village has also submitted a grant for a capital improvement project at Shanes Park. If awarded, the project would include new pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts and a walking path near the new shelter house and pond.

Temple also reported that the HSI solar project is moving forward. The village has received final agreement paperwork and preliminary prints to review, with hopes of having the project completed by the end of the year.

Council approved paying bills totaling $122,786.21, along with monthly financial reports, supplemental appropriations and additional purchase orders.

Council also heard the first reading of Ordinance 02 2026, which would adopt, approve and ratify an ordinance from 1960 that was passed but never recorded.

Under old business, Searight addressed vandalism at the park that occurred on June 1st, saying those responsible will be prosecuted.

Upcoming events in Rockford include the Van Wert Community Band at Shanes Park Pavilion on June 12th, Maker’s Market at Shanes Park on June 14th, the Rockford Lions Club Car Show and Cruise In on June 19th, and Rockford Community Garage Sales on June 19th and 20th.