Hi everyone! I hope you had a great week. As we continue into September, I want to share a few updates from across the 53rd District and around Illinois.
This week’s topics include:
- Explore the New Illinois Data Hub
- IDFPR Licensing Goes Online
- New DCFS Audit Raises Serious Concerns
- Engaging Town Hall in Chillicothe
- Illinois Ranks Near the Bottom for Private-Sector Job Growth
- Investing in Streator’s Water Infrastructure
- Honoring Pontiac’s First Responders
- Illinois Needs More Housing
- Upcoming Events
Explore the New Illinois Data Hub
I’m excited to highlight a new resource available through my website. If you click “Data Hub” on SenatorBalkema.com, you’ll be taken directly to our new Illinois Data Hub, where we break down important issues using clear, easy-to-understand data.
The Data Hub covers topics including energy costs, property taxes, pensions, public safety, education, the Illinois economy, agriculture and state audits. Each presentation uses publicly available data and provides sources so you can see where the numbers come from.
I want this to be a resource for residents to better understand the issues affecting their families, communities and our state. Take a look at the Data Hub and explore the numbers for yourself.
IDFPR Licensing Goes Online
I want to highlight an update from IDFPR as the state continues rolling out its new online licensing system, CORE. 131 professions are now available through CORE for new applications, with renewals also available for those who originally applied through the system.
For Illinois residents, this means a simpler, more convenient way to apply for and manage professional licenses online, including from a mobile device. IDFPR will continue moving more professions and services into CORE in the coming phases.
A list of professions currently available through CORE, along with additional information and application instructions, can be found at idfpr.illinois.gov/core.
New DCFS Audit Raises Serious Concerns
I’m deeply concerned by the findings in a new follow-up audit of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). The Auditor General found that, despite years of warnings, the agency continues to struggle with basic safeguards meant to protect vulnerable children.
In the cases reviewed, DCFS could only provide 70 of 399 required Home Safety Checklists, or just 18%. Auditors also found missing documentation for required physical, vision, hearing and dental care, along with cases where children waited nearly a year and a half for recommended mental health services.
Staffing is another major concern, with the Permanency Division reporting a 27% vacancy rate and a 28% vacancy rate among needed supervisors.
Children in state care deserve better. I believe the administration must take these findings seriously, address these ongoing failures and make sure DCFS is providing the oversight and protection Illinois families expect.
Engaging Town Hall in Chillicothe
Thank you to everyone who joined State Senator Li Arellano, Jr. and me for a town hall in Chillicothe. It was great to hear directly from residents, answer questions, and have an open conversation about the issues that matter most to our communities. Hearing from the people we represent is one of the most important parts of serving in the Illinois Senate.
I appreciate everyone who took the time to attend and share their thoughts with us. We’ll continue bringing your concerns back to Springfield and working to make Illinois a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
Illinois Ranks Near the Bottom for Private-Sector Job Growth
I’m concerned by the latest data showing Illinois among the bottom five states for private-sector job growth since Gov. Pritzker took office. According to the Illinois Policy Institute, private-sector employment in Illinois has grown by less than 0.1% during that time.
Private-sector jobs are critical to giving Illinois families more opportunities and supporting local businesses and communities. When our state continues to lag behind the rest of the country, we need to take a serious look at what is holding our economy back.
Illinois should be leading the way in creating jobs, attracting businesses and growing our economy, not falling behind. Read more here
Investing in Streator’s Water Infrastructure
I recently had the opportunity to tour the Illinois American Water treatment plant in Streator and see firsthand the investments being made to keep our communities’ drinking water safe and reliable. The company has invested $26.5 million over the past five years in the Streator Water Treatment Plant and distribution system, which serves roughly 7,600 customers.
The upgrades include a $4.1 million ultraviolet treatment system and $3.7 million in improvements to aging water filters. I appreciate the work being done to modernize our infrastructure and make sure residents have access to safe, reliable water for years to come.
Honoring Pontiac’s First Responders
I recently had the opportunity to present a plaque to the Pontiac Fire Department and Pontiac Police Department in recognition of their service to the community. Our first responders put themselves on the line every day to keep residents safe, and I’m grateful for the dedication and commitment they show to Pontiac and the surrounding area.
It’s always an honor to recognize those who serve our communities and thank them for the important work they do.
Illinois Needs More Housing
I’m concerned about Illinois’ growing housing shortage and what it means for families trying to find an affordable place to live. Illinois currently faces a shortage of about 142,000 homes, so we need to find ways to make housing safer, higher quality and more affordable to build.
We’re looking at several ways to bring down unnecessary construction costs, including updating outdated plumbing fixture requirements, exploring mortgage assistance programs and evaluating energy requirements for new homes. If we want more affordable housing, we need to make it less expensive to build while making sure homeowners get the quality and safety they deserve. Read more here.
Upcoming Events
I have a few upcoming events I wanted to share, and I’d love to see you at one of them if you’re able to make it out!
Tuesday, September 15 | 6 to 7 p.m.
Virtual event
Learn about FAFSA, Illinois financial aid, eligibility requirements and other resources for paying for college.
RSVP required: Email Michaelene at MOldenettel@sgop.ilga.gov.
Wednesday, September 30 | Noon to 5 p.m.
El Paso City Hall
Join Representative Dennis Tipsword and me to help support local patients in need.
Appointments: Schedule a donation or call ImpactLife at 800-747-5401.
Have a great rest of your week! If you ever need anything, please reach out to my office! We are happy to help! See locations and contacts below.
Yours truly,
Senator Chris Balkema