ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - An important decision for the future of Rockford is just a month and a half away but before the vote on home rule, Rockford City Council passed new ordinances to limit the council's power.

The ordinances include:

-Any new property tax increase to be capped at a level for non-home rule communities.

-Any increase in sales or property taxes needs a super majority vote in council.

-Any tax increases would also require a public notice, hearings and a layover before a final vote.

The ordinances also require the city to not exceed the debt limitation compared to non-home rule communities. The council is also expected to bring to a vote another ordinance that would give voters the ability to recall elected officials.

The Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau joins the list of groups in support of home rule. That list also includes the Economic Development Council and Chamber of Commerce.

RACVB President and CEO John Groh said in a statement, "To attract visitors we need to have strong, vibrant neighborhoods; a safe community with an open and welcoming reputation; quality experiences and small businesses that thrive. We believe restoring home rule will put us on the path to creating a stronger community and a more appealing destination."

Several groups have also urged Rockford voters to say no to home rule on Mar. 20 Including Rockford Area Realtors, the Hotel and Motel Association as well as the Rockford Apartment Association who announced Tuesday it would vote against home rule.

RAA's Director of Legislative and Public Affairs Paul Arena said in a statement, "We appreciate the administration's proposal to enact ordinances to restrict the city's use of home rule power but the fact that these restrictions are necessary is evidence of the flawed nature of home rule power in Illinois."