Over the next two weeks, both the Senate and the House will be back in Springfield for session. On Wednesday, the Governor will deliver his budget address. I will be listening closely and, like many families across our district, I hope to hear a plan that is responsible, protects taxpayers, and keeps our state moving in the right direction.
Topics below include:
- Sharing Love with Seniors Across the 53rd District
- Governor Pritzker to Deliver Budget Address Wednesday
- Senator Balkema Files Bill to Simplify Senior Property Tax Relief
- International Migrants Again Help Illinois Gain Population
- Grant and Funding Opportunities
Sharing Love with Seniors Across the 53rd District
For Valentine’s Day, I partnered with State Representative Jason Bunting and State Representative Dennis Tipsword to deliver more than 1,500 Valentine’s Day cards to seniors throughout our district, reminding them they are valued, appreciated, and never forgotten.
Valentine’s Day is about showing people they matter. It was a privilege to meet so many wonderful seniors, hear their stories, and see the smiles these cards brought to their faces. Our seniors built the communities we call home, and they deserve to feel appreciated not just on holidays, but every day.
Schools, churches, and residents from across the 53rd District answered the call to create heartfelt notes. What started as a simple gesture turned into a powerful reminder of how much our communities care. Representative Bunting, Representative Tipsword, and I enjoyed spending time with residents and staff while helping distribute the cards and sharing in the joy of the day.
Rep. Bunting commented, “I was truly moved by the number of people from our district, especially the students and school groups, who joined in sharing love and appreciation by making Valentines for our seniors. It was really great to see the joy these Valentines brought to them. Thank you to everyone who participated!”
Rep. Tipsword added, “It is always wonderful to connect with our seniors and let them know how much they mean to everyone in their local communities. We must never take opportunities like these for granted, and I am grateful to everyone who participated and took the time to send in these heartfelt cards.”
Thank you to everyone who helped make this effort so special for the seniors in our district. Your kindness truly made a difference.
Governor Pritzker to Deliver Budget Address Wednesday
This Wednesday, the Governor will present his annual budget proposal to a joint session of the General Assembly. This address lays out the administration’s spending priorities and gives legislators a starting point as we begin negotiations for the new fiscal year.
As I review the proposal, my focus will remain on the people I represent, working families, seniors, and taxpayers who expect responsible budgeting and honest priorities. At the same time, I hope the Governor highlights the economic opportunities Illinois has to offer. We have incredible potential to grow our state’s GDP by attracting and retaining both small and large businesses, creating good-paying jobs, and strengthening our local communities.
I will be listening for a plan that protects essential services, lives within our means, and leverages Illinois’ economic strengths to grow opportunities for families and businesses alike. I’ll keep you updated in the weeks ahead as we dig into the details and work toward a budget that is balanced, accountable, and focused on real results for our state.
Senator Balkema Files Bill to Simplify Senior Property Tax Relief
I’m proud to file Senate Bill 2701 to make life a little easier for our senior homeowners across Illinois. Right now, many seniors who qualify for the senior citizens homestead exemption have to reapply every year just to keep the property tax relief they’ve already earned. That annual application can be a burden, especially for those on fixed incomes or with limited mobility.
My bill would change that. Beginning with the 2026 tax year and going forward, once a homeowner has been approved for this exemption, they wouldn’t have to reapply each year in any county in Illinois to continue receiving it. This streamlines the process, reduces paperwork, and helps ensure seniors keep the tax break they’re entitled to without the hassle of annual red tape. This common-sense change simply lets seniors focus on what matters most, enjoying their homes and communities. I will keep you updated on this bill as it moves forward through the general assembly.
International Migrants Again Help Illinois Gain Population
Illinois’ population only grew by about 16,100 last year because 44,000 international migrants moved in, offsetting the fact that more than 40,000 Illinois residents chose to leave for other states (Source: IPI) . The strong trend of domestic out-migration shows Illinois is losing more of its own citizens than it attracts compared with most other states, ranking near the bottom nationally in keeping residents. If Illinois wants sustainable growth and a stronger workforce, we must address the underlying economic and policy factors, including high taxes and regulatory hurdles, that are pushing people and businesses away. Relying on international migration to mask our population losses isn’t a long-term solution. Instead, Illinois should focus on creating a more business-friendly, affordable environment to reverse the exodus and attract and retain residents.
Grant and Funding Opportunities
I want to share a couple of funding opportunities available for our communities and local partners.
Regional Site Readiness Program
Applications for the Planning and Capital Ready programs are being accepted on a rolling basis through March 31, 2026, or until funds are exhausted. A technical assistance webinar recording is available, and I strongly encourage those interested in the Planning NOFO, Round 2, to review it and begin preparing. Learn more here.
Local food infrastructure grants
The Illinois Department of Agriculture has announced new funding to support food processing, aggregation, and distribution. Collaborative projects can apply for $1,000 to $250,000, and individual projects for $1,000 to $75,000. Applications open February 18, 2026, on the Department’s website, where additional guidance is also available. Learn more here.
Have a great rest of your week! If you ever need anything, please reach out to my office! We are happy to help!
Senator Chris Balkema