The rotunda of the State Capitol Building.
Municipal representatives take time for a group photo outside IDOT headquarters.
The major discussion topics included:
- protecting municipal revenues and maintaining the local government share of the state income tax
- pension reform (the pension fairness coalition platform)
- support for red light camera enforcement and city support for responsible reform measures that protect the use of this valuable enforcement tool
- protecting municipal control of water supply
We were able to meet with Senator John Millner, Representative Randy Ramey, and Representative Tim Schmitz, all who represent St. Charles. Mayor DeWitte also spoke briefly with Senator Chris Lauzen from Aurora. In addition, we met with Senate President John Cullerton, Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno, Senator Bill Brady, and Senator Dan Rutherford. From the House of Representatives, we met with Representative Barbara Flynn Currie and also talked briefly with Representative Carol Sente.
Mayor DeWitte talks to Senators Radogno and Rutherford regarding the challenges facing municipalities and the need to maintain the local government share of income tax.
Senator Christine Radogno and Senator Dan Rutherford respond to municipal concerns.
Representative Barbara Flynn Currie discusses the state budget.
Senator Bill Brady responds to questions from municipal leaders.
Senate President John Cullerton talks about the state's capital program.
St. Charles also discussed the continued need for transportation improvements in the area, including the reconstruction and widening of East Main Street in St. Charles and the construction of the Red Gate Bridge project.
Mayor DeWitte listens to Secretary of Transportation Gary Hannig discuss IDOT's plans for 2010.
Overall, it was a valuable trip. We made our positions known and engaged in productive dialogue with many state government officials. However, it is clear that there are competing priorities and that the State of Illinois has tremendous challenges that will require a great deal of work on the part of Governor Quinn and the General Assembly. I hope that they can work collaboratively to solve problems and work for the benefit of all citizens, especially those in St. Charles.