Chamber applauds Rock Island Mayor Harris for visionary State of the City address
The Quad Cities Chamber applauds Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris for a thoughtful and forward‑looking State of the City address that reflected both deep pride in the community and a clear commitment to its future. The Mayor’s continued dedication to Rock Island was evident throughout the address, particularly in the emphasis on honoring the city’s rich history while confidently embracing the opportunities ahead.
Mayor Harris touched upon several important topics in his address that align with the QC Chamber's Local Legislative Agenda and the featured priorities of supporting the vibrancy of downtowns by improving perceived public safety and homelessness and reducing the housing deficit by supporting the development of housing at all price points.
Highlights include:
- Budgeting responsibly and transparently, keeping in mind the burden local taxpayers already bear
- Deploying available resources to develop and grow the community
- Thinking proactively about housing needs and improving Rock Island’s public perception
- Recognizing Rock Island’s anchor institutions and planning for growth around them
- Forming coalitions of residents for inclusion in municipal planning processes
The Chamber appreciated the recognition of the many residents, businesses, institutions and community partners who contribute to Rock Island’s vitality, alongside the honest acknowledgement that more work remains to ensure they are fully supported. We look forward to continuing to support policies and projects that foster economic growth, opportunity and shared prosperity for Rock Island and the entire Quad Cities region.
