A letter sent to City Council on 3/24/2025
Council Members,
It is my belief that the recent layoffs of five city employees reflect more of a spending issue than a true budget shortfall. While financial responsibility is important, it’s concerning to see valued employees let go while adding other positions, paying contract employees, and giving out raises above just a COLA. I encourage you to take a closer look at these financial decisions being made by the City Manager and consider their impact on city operations and employee morale. City employees deserve a secure workplace, the current environment that is being created will drive turnover, slow down recruitment, and put further stress on employees.
Secondly, I fully support the city’s efforts to bring Epic Medical to our community, this is an incredible opportunity for Pekin. Attracting a global manufacturer to invest here not only strengthens our local economy but also brings high-quality jobs and long-term tax revenue that will benefit residents for years to come. The fact that this project requires no city-funded incentives while still delivering significant economic growth is the kind of strategic deal we should be making as a city. With 100+ jobs on the horizon and a major investment in our Riverway Business Park, this is exactly the kind of responsible development that will help Pekin thrive.
Thirdly, I believe that allowing residents to install ground-mounted solar arrays under the current guidelines is a positive step for Pekin’s future. Solar energy provides homeowners with a cost-effective and sustainable way to reduce their reliance on traditional utilities while contributing to a greener community. The existing regulations already ensure proper placement and integration with primary structures, maintaining neighborhood aesthetics and safety. If the council chooses to revisit this issue, I encourage a balanced approach that supports renewable energy adoption while addressing any specific concerns. Restrictive changes could discourage investment in solar technology and place Pekin behind other communities that are embracing clean energy solutions.
Thank you for your time and consideration of these important issues,
Christopher Hogue