Winnebago County Board approves $2M in funding over 5 years for BMO Center projects

By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — The Winnebago County Board has decided to continue providing funding from its landfill host fees to support the BMO Center.

The board voted 12-7 Thursday night to provide $400,000 a year for five years, totaling $2 million, for capital improvement projects and infrastructure. The county’s approval is contingent upon the city of Rockford, which owns the building, continuing to provide at least $800,000 a year during that time.

The approval came after more than an hour of debate as board members discussed potential tweaks to the proposal and whether to send it back to the committee level for more robust review.

The county had previously provided $460,000 annually over 20 years to assist in the renovation and operating cost of the facility. That agreement started in 2007 and ends in 2026, when the new allocation approved Thursday would go into effect.

Supporters said the BMO, which has operated for 44 years, is an essential community asset and driver of economic activity with its multitude of concerts, events and as the home of the Rockford IceHogs. Opponents questioned whether it was the best use for the money and whether tax dollars should subsidize an entertainment venue.

The Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment authority, or RAVE, which runs the center, generated more than $3.5 million in gross wages in 2024 for about 350 employees, half of whom are full-time workers, according to the county.

“This arena is a cornerstone of our community, providing entertainment for residents and visitors alike while boosting downtown business,” County Board member John Sweeny said in a statement. “I worked closely with my colleagues to ensure they understood the value of using host fee funds for these critical capital improvements. Investing in the BMO Center today secures its longevity for future generations, ensuring it remains a top-tier facility and economic engine in our region.”

The money comes from the county’s host fee, which is collected from garbage haulers who dump at the Winnebago Landfill. That fund generates approximately $4 million a year.

The board’s resolution also includes a provision for ongoing oversight by a county representative to serve on RAVE’s capital projects and infrastructure working group.

“I want to commend the County Board for their thoughtful and strategic investment in the future of the BMO Center,” Joe Chiarelli, chairman of the Winnebago County Board, said in a statement. “Their careful consideration of this funding request reflects a shared commitment to fostering economic growth, job creation, and cultural enrichment within our community. The BMO Center plays a vital role in attracting major events like the upcoming AHL (All-Star Game) in the spring of 2026, which will further elevate the profile of our region. I want to extend my thanks to the board for continuing to support this important community asset.”

How they voted

In favor: Angela Fellars, Angie Goral, Valerie Hanserd, Joe Hoffman, Kevin McCarthy, Timothy Nabors, John Penney, Jaime Salgado, Christopher Scrol, John F. Sweeney, Ray Thompson, Christina Valdez

Against: Paul Arena, Aaron Booker, Jim Webster, Brad Lindmark, John Butitta, Dave Tassoni, Michael J. Thompson

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas