Rock Island Today

Republican Dr. Rodney Simmer — who has civil service experience as well as a professional background — recently publicized his candidacy for supervisor of South Rock Island Township via a local GOP organization’s Facebook page.

“With roots embedded deep in his community, Rodney is a lifetime resident and proud to be raising his family in Rock Island,” the South Rock Island Township Republicans group said via Facebook as it published its recent endorsement of Simmer. “He is a team player who works across political aisles to make the best decisions for all township residents.”

Simmer -- who has served for six years on the Rock Island County board as well as participated on the boards of numerous local organizations committed to improving schools, county government and wildlife -- was previously the jurisdiction’s forestry commissioner.

A chiropractor with two professional degrees, Simmer has operated his own practice in South Rock Island Township for the past 22 years. 

The GOP group collectively pledged “leadership with accountability, commitment and integrity” to its constituents in an update late last month, expressing pride in their slate of candidates — headed by Simmer — and listing contenders for trustee positions.

The jurisdiction summarized the responsibilities of the township supervisor job as akin to a CEO position, emphasizing executive, administrative and fiscal leadership.

“The supervisor for South Rock Island Township will treat all people with the respect, dignity and compassion they deserve,” according to the township on its government website.

The municipality listed its priorities as making appropriate use of taxpayer dollars; providing resources for residents; and promoting civic, community and inter-agency cooperation for the benefit of all residents.