Growth with no tax increase for Rock Island - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Growth with no tax increase for Rock Island

By: Jillian Wilson

jwilson@cbs4qc.com

A new Walmart, Fareway, and Jumer's Crossing is making 2013 the year for expansion in Rock Island.

"We all work together as a team. We work together very closely to ensure that we are going to offer the highest quality services at the lowest possible price," says Mayor Dennis Pauley, Rock Island.

And not raising taxes was a big priority for city council and the economic development team.

"There is not going to be any increases unless there absolutely has to be," says Pauley.

This year's budget is set for 162 million dollars.

The new Walmart alone is set to bring in a boost.

"That's going to bring in a 1.4 million dollar sales tax and that's really a great benefit to the city," says Pauley.

With three million more from Jumer's and Fareway, it's good news for residents.

"That's awesome. If you could have growth here and no new taxes, I think that would make anyone happy," says Paul Brian Reid, RI resident.

Residents say they're looking forward to the new projects.

"That area could certainly use some new growing businesses. I think it would do a great deal for the community," says Reid.

"It would be nice to see some new things with a lot of the space that is available," says Donald Slach, RI Resident.

The new Walmart is set to start this fall and the farewell this summer.