Gillis looking to 2025 with great expectations
By Barb Pert Templeton
So, 2024 was a busy year for those who plot out the direction for things in the City of Algonac and it looks like 2025 won’t be any different.
After Mayor Rocky Gillis was given the nod to remain in the city’s top spot following a vote of the current city council in November, he was pleased to retain the title for another term.
Algonac Mayor Rocky Gillis is looking forward to an exciting year of new projects coming to life in the city including a community center and city pool.
Blue Water Healthy Living caught up with Mayor Gillis via email to pose a few questions about how 2024 went and what’s on the horizon in 2025.
Here’s the Q and A:
Blue Water Healthy Living: How would you characterize the past year in terms of city business in Algonac? Algonac Mayor Rocky Gillis: 2024 has been an exhilarating year for Algonac. We’ve secured funding for two transformational projects that will shape our community’s future. The Algonac Community Center is going to be the heart of the town, and the new Community Swimming Pool at Lions Field is going to be the perfect spot for fun, relaxation, and fitness for families and residents of all ages. These projects represent a new chapter for Algonac.
BWHL: What do you see as the biggest accomplishments in Algonac in 2024? Gillis: We’ve made leaps and bounds this year. Not only are we investing in crucial infrastructure, such as lining our sewer pipes to prevent infiltration, but the crown jewel is the transformation of the old Algonac Elementary into a state-of-the-art community center. Our contractor estimates that building this facility from scratch would cost $10-12 million, but we’ve managed to achieve it for a fraction of that, around $200,000. And let’s not forget the groundbreaking of our community swimming pool—a dream coming true after being closed for four years. This is the kind of progress that gets everyone excited.
BWHL: Is there anything that didn’t make that list that you wish would have? Gillis: The boardwalk, Algonac’s star attraction, is still in need of major repairs. It’s a project close to my heart, and while we’re constantly seeking grants and funding, we haven’t been able to make the headway I’d like. But rest assured, we’re not giving up—we’ll find a way to restore it to its full glory.
BWHL: What are the top three projects you see on the city’s agenda for 2025? Gillis: 2025 is going to be just as thrilling as this year. We’re pushing forward with infrastructure upgrades, especially sewer lining and road improvements. We’ll be celebrating the grand openings of both the Community Swimming Pool and the Algonac Community Center—two major milestones that will enrich the lives of our residents.
BWHL: What’s the formula for seeing those projects through to completion? Gillis: We’re well on our way. We’ve already awarded contracts for both the pool and community center, and we’ll keep our foot on the gas by pursuing grant funding. Our $288,000 equipment grant for a heat pump system at the community center is just one example of how we’re leveraging resources to get the job done.
BWHL: How do you feel things are going with the city council these days? Gillis: The dynamic on the new city council is fantastic. We have a range of viewpoints, but the respect we show each other and the collective drive to push Algonac forward is inspiring. I can honestly say that we’re all excited about what 2025 has in store for our city.
BWHL: Do you feel the city is moving in the right direction heading into 2025? Gillis: Absolutely. Algonac is charging forward into 2025 with some incredible momentum. We’re seeing new small businesses springing up, which is always a fantastic sign. The area’s very first Dollar General Market has arrived, and we’re about to welcome a hometown pharmacy—something that strengthens our local fabric. Our laundromat has a new owner who’s committed to upgrading the facility, which is another win for our residents. Algonac is evolving and making strides forward. Sure, there’s still work to be done, but we’re more than ready to tackle it together.
BWHL: As Mayor, what do you feel is your biggest responsibility to the residents you represent? Gillis: My biggest responsibility is to be Algonac’s ultimate advocate. I’m here to be our community’s loudest cheerleader and its strongest voice. That means I need to be open to everyone’s thoughts and concerns, not just the ones I personally align with. I represent all of Algonac, and it’s my job to make sure every resident feels heard, valued, and represented.
