Building Accomplishments

I’m proud to be campaigning on real results—not aspirations. This list showcases just some of the major accomplishments achieved during my first term as your alderman, proving that meaningful progress is possible. Through securing critical investments, expanding community resources, and creating new opportunities, we’ve achieved impactful progress that strengthens both the 5th Ward and all of Rockford. As I continue to advocate for our community, I remain committed to working hard, passing ordinances that prioritize Rockford’s future, and driving meaningful, positive change for all residents.

Together, we’re building a new future for the 5th Ward and all of Rockford!

Economic & Community Development

Champion for the $400M+ transformation of the Barber Colman campus into Colman Yards, the largest redevelopment project in Rockford's history, setting the stage as a significant economic driver for South Rockford. This transformative initiative serves as a catalyst for further development and lays the groundwork for lasting change.

Supported the return of commuter rail service to Rockford, with roundtrips to Chicago starting in 2027 and a new train center in the S. Main corridor.

Approved two new market-rate apartment complexes at 700 S. Main St. and 301 S. Main St.

Introduced a property tax rebate program to incentivize new home construction in the City of Rockford.

Approved the build of the Think Big! women and minority entrepreneur accelerator, Rockford’s first-ever initiative supporting diverse entrepreneurship.

Approved funding for SWIFTT to promote economic and neighborhood development.

Maintained the tax levy with no increase in property taxes.

Neighborhood Revitalization & Infrastructure

Secured approval for Rockford's two largest capital improvement plans.

Approved the transformation of Davis Park, adding paths, boat docks, concessions, a stage, destination playground, and skatepark.

Approved the increase of funding for neighborhood street improvements.

Approved the resurfacing of 15th Ave. and Clifton Ave. streets.

Approved the Critical Home Repair Program to help residents with essential home improvements.

Approved a Tree Removal Program to help residents with tree removal costs.

Approved new garbage totes for improved collection efficiency and neighborhood standards.

Approved the Neighborhood Signage Program to beautify neighborhoods and enhance community identity.

Invested in capital improvement projects at the AARC Booker Washington Center.

Arts, Culture, & Community Engagement

Enhanced neighborhood aesthetics with new public art, murals, and city-wide wrapped electrical boxes.

Approved the Forward for Fun initiative, funding local events promoting community engagement and fun!

Provided funding for popular 5th Ward community events such as Booker Fest, South Main Mercado, Polish Fest, Vets Block Party, Back 2 School Bash, and Southside Scene.

Approved two honorary streets for prominent African American figures John Briggs and SFC Elbert Ray Jordan.

Public Safety & Social Justice

Approved the first ever Civilian Oversight Board to review citizen complaints and specific use-of-force incidents with the Rockford Police Department.

Approved the Regrow Grant Program, funded by the 3% cannabis sales tax, to support local organizations with programs aiding individuals impacted by the war on drugs.

Contributed to a 34% decrease in violent crime and a 29% reduction in property crime in Rockford.

Education & Youth Development

Facilitated 400 Rockford youth attending Northern Illinois University tuition-free through the Rockford Promise partnership.

Expanded Rockford Promise to include public and private school students at Rockford University.

Approved a workforce development initiative with LT Construction that trains at-risk youth in concrete work, connects them with skilled-trade careers, while improving sidewalk infrastructure.

Approved grant funding for the Community Life Center and Comprehensive Community Solutions providing flexible resources to support their missions and address community needs.

Parks & Recreation

Supported the Unity Pavilion at Levings Park, a new stage sponsored by Hard Rock Casino to host community entertainment events like Live at Levings, Domingos en el Parque, and more!

Collaborated with the Rockford Park District to create a resident-led task force for improvements at Blackhawk Park.

Approved major field improvements at the historic Beyer Stadium.

Supported major infrastructure improvements at Clarence Hicks Memorial Park.

Approved several major community festivals at both Blackhawk and Levings Park: Fiestas Patrias, Tacos & Miches, Mexican Fest, etc.

Health & Wellness

Facilitated the creation of the Community Canvas mural at 911 Michigan Ave., celebrating South Side pride and promoting Black and Brown health literacy awareness.

Major contributor for the Rockford Ready health literacy initiative, which connected residents to essential health resources, health education, COVID resources, and strengthened relationships between healthcare providers and residents.

Collaborated with Northwest Community Center and Molina Healthcare to launch Thrive Fest, a community health and wellness initiative.

Leadership & Volunteerism

Honored with the 2024 YWCA of Northern Illinois Community Leadership Award.

Served on the planning committee for Black Winter, a formal gala aimed at raising funds for scholarships that benefit African American youth endowed through the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

Chair of Codes and Regulations Committee since 2022 through mayoral appointment.

Member of the ComEd Community of the Future Advisory Council, contributing to significant sustainable and resilient community initiatives.

Ambassador for the Made for Rockford initiative spearheaded by Go Rockford, which welcomes and connects new residents.