Rock Island Today

The Village of Andalusia received a visit this week from Brandi McGuire, Republican candidate for the District 72 state House seat.

McGuire visited Community Baptist Church on its 49th anniversary and met with Pastor William Gluck.

“Our faith-based organizations are often the cornerstone of small and rural communities, and I think it is important that I hear their concerns,” McGuire said.

Founded in 1884, Andalusia is located in the Quad Cities region, in the heart of the Corn Belt, also known as the breadbasket of America. The Corn Belt extends across the Midwest, with the primary corn-growing areas in Illinois. Most Andalusian farms are still family-owned, but the population is aging, with most farmers over 50 years old.

“Growing up and living next to farms in Rock Island County, the view of cornfields next to my home reminded me that agriculture is a vital part of this district’s and our state’s economy," McGuire said.

Rural communities and small towns face many challenges, including job losses and out-migration to larger cities and other states. Unlike many other small communities, Andalusia is growing. It has a total population of 1,325 in 518 households as of July 1. The village's growth rate has slowed, from 1.9 percent between 2010 and 2015 to a projected five-year rate of 1.09 percent from 2015 to 2020. The average household income is $77,124, and the current unemployment rate is 6.3 percent.

Like many small towns in America, Andalusia relies on volunteers for ambulance and fire department services. In addition, the village eliminated the local police department in favor of contracting with the Rock Island County Sheriff's Department. The village maintains a substation for a full-time deputy's use.

The village, like other Illinois municipalities, is affected by the budget impasse in Springfield. The entire area is affected by flooding, usually in spring when the snow melts. Cities and villages located along the Mississippi River plan ahead. They know that there is no budget in Springfield to help pay for flood damage. Surrounded by protective dikes, the village has taken a proactive stance and recently ordered pumps from the state to prevent flooding in its downtown area.

“I am in Andalusia today to support their village event and to hear concerns of the voters in rural and small communities," McGuire said. “All too often, our small and rural communities get ignored by the urban establishment politicians -- I am here listening to their concerns."

McGuire's conservative views and campaign platform of reason, respect and responsibility fall in line with the small-town values of such towns as Andalusia. In her pledge to the constituents of District 72, McGuire vowed to provide the best community-assistance services and to be a passionate voice for seniors, children, the disabled and others whose voices are too often unheard. McGuire also pledged to reject any bills supporting pension plans or pay increases for legislators, as well as all tax increases.

"It is time for state government to reflect our community's values, to follow the law and treat every person with the respect and dignity they deserve."

McGuire faces Democrat Michael Halpin in the Nov. 8 general election.