April 2024

Hello Neighbor!

April is one of my favorite months. Not only because it’s my birthday, but because Spring is in full swing. Nature is busy and so is the General Assembly!  The first week of April is a deadline week for getting bills out of committees.  I have several bills that passed out of committees and are now on second readings. There is a long way to go before any of them become law, but it’s exciting to see something that started out as an idea become a potential solution to an existing problem. Many of my bills come from the lived experiences of constituents. To me, that is the best legislation and one reason I love this job.

I welcomed my first “page for a day” in Springfield a few weeks ago. Camryn is a junior in high school and her enthusiasm was infectious! It was so much fun showing her around and seeing the process through her eyes. It is such a privilege to serve.

My office is busy as well! My office recently  participated in an Easter Egg hunt that the City of Elgin Police hosted. They didn’t just spread the eggs out, they dropped them from a helicopter! It was fun to see the kids get so excited as the roar of the helicopter signaled its approach. There were more than 2000 people in attendance! It was a sight to see.

We will be participating in events all over the district this summer! We offer many opportunities for constituents to meet and share concerns or ask questions. I hope to see you soon!

Sincerely,  Suzanne

DISTRICT OFFICE UPDATES

Springfield Page for a Day

What a fantastic time! I am so happy to have hosted Camryn from Jacobs High School as “Page For A Day” in Springfield! She was able to join me on the House floor, attend a committee meeting, tour the Capitol, and share in discussions with me and my colleagues. If you have a student interested in legislative policy or government, I’d love to host them in Springfield.  Reach out to my office for information.

Coffee & BINGO

Our first Coffee & BINGO was held Wednesday, March 27th at the Dundee Township Park District Adult Activities Center. What a fantastic time meeting constituents, calling BINGO and sharing resources.

Join me at our next Coffee & BINGO on April 24th at Senior Services Associates, Inc. 205 Fulton Street in Elgin.  Coffee begins at 11:00am with BINGO to follow.

Community Shred Event

Saturday, May 18th  9:00 am – Noon

Join our office, KCT Credit Union, Northern Kane County Chamber and the Village of Carpentersville for a secure document destruction event. This event is FREE to all constituents. There will be a two banker box limit for each participant and constituents will be served on a first come first served basis.  FISH Food Pantry will be on-site accepting donations of non-perishable items and toiletries.

Mobile DMV Event

I am excited to bring the Illinois Secretary of State’s
Mobile DMV to the district on June 6th.
The following services will be available:

*Driver’s License

*State ID Card

*Vehicle Registration Stickers

*Organ and Tissue Donor/Voter Registration

*REAL ID

(see the flier for documents needed and payment information)

CONSTITUENT SERVICES

Dundee Township Needs Assessment Released to Public Dundee Township

(March 25, 2024): Early in 2024, the Dundee Township Mental Health Board worked with the Center for Governmental Studies at Northern Illinois University to conduct a needs assessment for the Dundee Township community. With gratitude to the residents and stakeholders across the Township who participated in surveys and shared valuable information, the Dundee Township Mental Health Board is pleased to announce the needs assessment is now complete and can be viewed online at the Needs Assessment page on the Township’s website.

Autism Awareness Month

April is Autism Awareness month.  You never know the struggles one might be going through. Autism doesn’t end at 18, neither does the fight.  If you need assistance or have questions, contact Rockin the Spectrum at 224-538-9736 or rockinthespectrum@yahoo.com

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

SPRINGFIELD UPDATE

At the time of this writing, a few of my bills are on the 2nd reading in the legislative process. How they got there and where they will go from there . . .

First Reading:
During this stage, the bill’s title and number are read aloud, but there is no debate or voting on the bill itself.

Committee Consideration:
After the first reading the bill is assigned to a committee for further review. The committee reviews the bill, holds hearings, and may propose changes to the bill. Once a bill is passed through the committee it heads to a second reading.

Second Reading:
The bill is presented to the full legislative body and amendments can be offered and voted upon by the floor. Once the bill passes a second reading, it goes to a third reading.

Third Reading:
The bill is debated and voted on by the entire legislative body. If approved, it moves to the other house. If rejected, the bill does not proceed further.

Engrossment:
Once the bill passes the third reading, it is sent to the other house in the form passed by the first house (this version is called “engrossed”). The other chamber then follows a similar process of readings, debates, and votes.

Currently eight of my proposed bills are in their second reading: HB3286, HB3288, HB4090, HB4524, HB4807, HB5276, HB5354, HB5444.

Illinois Route 31 Bridge
Over US20 in Elgin to be Replaced

Below is a press release directly from the
Illinois Department of Transportation:

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that a project to replace the bridge carrying Illinois 31 (State Street) over U.S. 20 in Elgin will begin, weather permitting, Monday, April 1.

To complete the work, Illinois 31 will be reduced from two to one lane in both directions, between Dana Drive and Oak Street. U.S. 20 will also be reduced to one lane in each direction, between Grace Street and McLean Boulevard. Additionally, motorists should also expect various lane shifts on Illinois 31 and on U.S. 20 approaching the bridge, along with various overnight lane closures on U.S. 20 at the bridge during that time.

Access to local residences and businesses will be maintained throughout construction.

The $19 million project consists of replacing the existing bridge with a new wider structure, widening the existing interchange ramps, installing new LED lighting and modernize traffic signals and constructing new sidewalks with ADA-compliant ramps and curbs.

The project is anticipated to be completed in summer 2026.

AROUND THE TOWNS

Tour of Kane County Government Facilities

Thank you to Kane County Chairwoman Corinne Pierog for providing me with a valuable tour of Kane County’s government buildings and services. I met with various leaders and staff who are dedicated to serving our communities and improving the services offered by Kane County.

Kids In Need/Second Bridge
“The Bridge” Ribbon Cutting

Congratulations to Michelle, Alicia, and all the volunteers on their Ribbon Cutting and Open House for their new space The Bridge located at 4410 Route 176 in Crystal Lake. Thank you for all you do for families in need!

Coffee with a Cop – Elgin

What a great turnout at the “Elgin Coffee with a Cop” event at Starbucks in Elgin. We even sang happy birthday to a 10 year old who stopped in with her dad to say hello. A great way to spend a little time in the district before I head to Springfield.

Helicopter Easter Egg Drop

My office recently participated in the Elgin Police Easter Egg Hunt and it was such a great event!  They didn’t just spread the eggs out, they dropped them from a helicopter! It was fun to see the kids get so excited as the roar of the helicopter signaled its approach! It was a sight to see.

Exceptional Community Award

Congratulations to the Village of Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Staff as they have been honored with the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) Exceptional Community Award. The criteria for this prestigious award include being a Community Champion, Advocate and Promoter, and Dedicated Collaboration.  The Parks & Rec. Department excelled in all three areas!

RESOURCES

Experience Elgin Community College Interactive Open House

On April 10 from 6pm-8pm experience ECC and enjoy a tour of their campus, meet with caring and knowledgeable professors, explore academic programs, and gain insight from current students. Plus, learn more about admissions, financial aid, student support services, and getting involved on campus.

Senior Health & Wellness Fair

Mark you calendar. Prioritize your well-being. And we’ll see you at the Senior Health & Wellness Fair this spring!  This free community event welcomes older adults – from wellness warriors to those beginning a journey toward a healthier lifestyle and everyone in between – as well as those who love or provide care for older adults.  Stop by Rep Ness’ table and say hi!

Algonquin Area Public Library
District Seed Library

Just in time for spring planting, Algonquin Area Public Library, in cooperation with the University of Illinois Agricultural Extension, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Illinois Master Gardeners of McHenry County, is excited to offer the Seed Library that provides seeds to local gardeners free of charge!

Choose from over 130 varieties of vegetable, fruit, flower and herb seeds. You’ll find heirloom vegetables, such as the Oxheart and Mortgage Lifter tomatoes, Dixie Queen watermelons and White Icicle radishes. Favorites like pumpkins, mixed color carrots, and various types of green beans can turn this summer’s garden into a family project. Brighten your landscaping with colorful Painted Daisies, and the beautiful, exotic Passion Flower.  Add color to your home with classic cutting flowers like zinnia and sunflowers. Select annuals, which are planted each year, or perennials which return year after year.  Varieties limited, stock available on a first come first serve basis.

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE MONTH

Courtesy of Hoof Woof & Meow

Meet Dottie

Dottie is a sweet, adventurous pup that loves other dogs but is timid around people. Once Dottie warms up to you, she is very affectionate. Dottie is potty trained and crate trained. She spends about 4 hours a day in her crate, but at night, she likes to receive all the snuggles and sleep in bed with her foster parents. Dottie’s ideal home would be with another canine companion, a fenced yard and with an adopter to continue her socialization. Estimated birth date 7/08/2023

Meet Beau & Moose

Beau is a beautiful 2yr old light gray tabby with incredibly soft fur! He is very observant and will watch to determine if you are a friend, once you have gained his trust he will show you how much he craves attention. His favorite thing is a good face scratch and he will gently nudge you for attention. Beau is almost always found with his brother Moose and thus needs to be adopted as a pair.

Moose is a beautiful 2yr old gray and white cat with the softest fur! He can be a little shy, but he LOVES attention once you have gained his trust. His favorite thing is a good face scratch and he will gently nudge you for attention. Moose is almost always found with his brother Beau and thus needs to be adopted as a pair. Beau and his siblings (Moose and Black Pearl) have had quite the journey to becoming Hoof Woof Meow cats.

March 2024

Hello Neighbor!

This year I’m adopting the term “March Madness” to describe our weather! While it feels like Spring, I know it’s too soon to pull out the patio furniture and gardening tools. That’s ok because I am busy working on legislation that will help senior citizens afford their homes (HB3054), create more oversight for renters who get their water billed through property management companies (HB4090), ensure that vulnerable Illinoisians are protected from predatory caregivers who use marriage to exploit the people they care for (HB4444),  and end the yearly driving test requirement for drivers over 75 with good driving records (HB4431). I’m also working on legislation that would start to curb harmful plastics in our environment (HB4448), make meaningful changes to the Community and mental health act (HB4541),  and create a Career and Technical Education Task Force within the State Board of Education (HB4473).

My office continues to get constituent calls helping people navigate the red tape of State agencies, and we continue to be out in our Community! I had the best time handing out handmade Valentine’s Day cards to healthcare workers at Sherman Hospital! The Hospital Association has shared that this year every hospital in our region has experienced an increase of aggressive behaviors toward healthcare workers. Taking a little time to remind people that the work they do is recognized and appreciated, is a small way to help counter the challenging parts of the job. My office teamed up with Representative Moeller’s Office and it was a wonderful event!

See below for more news about our great district! I remain humbled and honored to be able to serve and I look forward to lots of debate and conversation as we work on tough issues this Spring session in Springfield. If you have any questions about bills, reach out to my office. I’d love to hear from you.

Sincerely,  Suzanne

DISTRICT OFFICE UPDATES

Intern Shout-Out

What do you do on a Friday night when you have Crystal Lake South High School students who work in your office part time and do theater at school?
Plan a team outing of course!

Governor Pritzker
Annual Budget Address

Building on five years of fiscal progress, Governor Pritzker’s sixth balanced budget proposal continues on the path of fiscal responsibility, introduces new investments in healthcare accessibility and equity, and builds on Illinois’ historic progress in education and economic development. Click on the link below to view my official statement on the budget address.

3rd Annual Healthcare for Heroes
Valentine Day Event

February 14th marked our 3rd Annual Healthcare Heroes Valentine Day Distribution to the fabulous healthcare workers in our community.  My staff and I, along with Representative Anna Moeller’s office, shared community created valentines with the staff at Advocate Sherman Hospital.  We are grateful for all the healthcare workers who are present at the most vulnerable moments for patients, often at the expense of time with their own family.  Sharing cards  and flowers is a small gesture to let them know that they are noticed and truly appreciated.

The creative and fun cards were created by: Patrons of the Fox River Valley Public Library, Boys & Girls Club of Dundee Township, Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA – McHenry County), Crystal Lake High School, Sunny Hill Elementary School in Barrington, and St. Edward’s Catholic Preparatory Academy in Elgin. And thank you to constituent Susan M. for her beautiful handmade cards.

This card, which was randomly selected, contained a riddle. “What did the lightbulb say to the other lightbulb on Valentine’s Day? I love you a watts!” The lightbulbs were shaped like hearts- the person I gave it to turned out to be the facilities manager! He deals with lightbulbs all day long!

One of my favorite cards showed a predator fish and it said “You’re a Catch!”
The nurse we gave it to loved it!

Shari D’Shazo, hospital President,  and her amazing team knew everyone who walked by us. Shari is a great leader.

It was so fun making people smile as they read the cards. The kids hand made cards are so creative- hearts in all sorts of shapes, and many messages of thanks for taking care of us.

Touring the Towns

Throughout the month of March I will be taking some time to visit and tour local organizations and businesses to learn more about services available to constituents.  I look forward to touring Gigi’s Playhouse (McHenry), Crystal Lake Park District, Encore Assisted Living, Clearbrook, Kane County Government Center and Carpentersville Public Works Facility.  Reach out to my office if you’d like to share your information on your organization or business!

Staff Birthday Celebrations

When you are celebrating three birthdays for three great staff members nothing says thank you better than flowers from a local business. Larkin Floral exceeded my expectations. Thank you Larkin Floral!

SPOTLIGHT ON THE DISTRICT

Coffee & BINGO

Our first Coffee & BINGO will be held Wednesday, March 27th at the Dundee Township Park District Adult Activities Center. Join me for coffee at 8:30 am and stay for BINGO beginning at 9:30 am.

CONSTITUENT SERVICES

Scholarship Opportunities

Dundee Township Rotary Club Scholarship Applications are now available.  We will be awarding scholarships on May 7, 2024. You must be a resident of Dundee Township or attend school in Dundee Township. There are three applications:  Dundee Township Academic, Dundee Township Vocational, and District 6440 Vocational. If you have any questions, please email DundeeRotaryScholarship@gmail.com

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

Springfield was very busy within the first two months of the session. Almost 6,000 bills have been filed in the House! The discussions regarding these bills and the Governor’s budget proposal have only begun. Below are highlights from two of the bills I have either introduced or co-sponsored for this legislative session. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to contact my office via email: info@repsnessil66.com.

HB4431
No Road Test for People Over 75

This bill will end the driving test requirement for people over the age of 75 to renew their license. There are many preconceived notions that older drivers cause more car crashes than any other age, however, according to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation, drivers over the age of 75 have been involved in the least amount of car crashes compared to any other age bracket. The younger the driver, the more likely they will be involved in or cause a car crash. Therefore, it would make sense to end the driving test requirement for drivers over the age of 75, as Illinois is the only state in the entire nation to require such thing. Ending the driving test for drivers over 75 contributes to a fairer and more respectful system for our elders and maintains their mobility and independence. There are more effective ways to determine whether a senior is fit to drive, through regular medical or vision assessments.

HB4473
CTE Task Force

This bill creates a Career and Technical Education Task Force within the State Board of Education. The goal of this task force is to examine how to involve more students in technical education, and to ensure meetings every three months among the task force board members. I support the expansion of Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for high school students. CTE programs offer invaluable hands-on experiences that equip students with practical skills and offer alternatives to traditional academic routes. By expanding CTE opportunities, we empower students to explore their passions and easily transition into the workforce or pursue higher education. This also contributes to building a more skilled and adaptable workforce, which also aligns with the evolving demands of our economy.

If you would like to know more about the additional bills I have submitted or
co-sponsored in the house, click the button below.

AROUND THE TOWNS

Pads of Elgin Stars Dance
Winter Harvest Gala

I attended the Elgin Pads Gala on Saturday, January 27th. Congratulations to Dancing Star winners, Tia & TK Aagesen! I was happy to support PADS of Elgin, Inc.

It is dancing for a great event!

Family Service Associates of Elgin Reception

Family Service Associates of Elgin (FSA) had a reception for Bernadette May  to thank her for her leadership and work advancing the mental health needs of children and families. I wish her the best in her next endeavor.  Join me in welcoming Janeth Barba as the new Executive Director. I look forward to working with FSA as they continue the important work they do.

Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital Tour

I had the opportunity to tour the Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital and see all that they have to offer to our community.

I was impressed by the state of the art facilities and the attention and care they give to their patients and the opportunities for growth that exist. Thank you Northwestern Medicine for inviting me to tour your hospital.

Clearbrook Breakfast

I was glad to see so many of my fellow legislators at the Clearbrook breakfast. We learned first hand the importance of ensuring that the workforce cares for individuals with disabilities and continues to advocate for those in our community.

In addition, you can find more of our office
visits and events by clicking the FB links.

NKCC Women in Business Luncheon

Our office had a great time attending the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce Wonen in Business Luncheon. Thank you to OTTO Engineering, Inc for a great tour of their facility!

McHenry County Council of Governments Annual Legislative Dinner

Crystal Lake did a great job hosting the McHenry County Council of Governments annual legislative dinner at Jude’s. I appreciated hearing directly from local leaders about the 2024 legislative and transportation priorities.

Crystal Lake State of the Community Luncheon

It was good to hear from the Crystal Lake Mayor and Lakewood Village President to learn all the great things happening in the community. As a resident of Crystal Lake I am happy with the leadership and focus on the future.

RESOURCES

DCEO and IMEC Launch “Made in Illinois” Grant Program to Boost Manufacturing

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is partnering with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) to create the Made in Illinois grant program. A total of $1 million in funding has been allocated to this program, which will provide up to $50,000 in matching grant funding to small and mid-sized Illinois manufacturers. Through the matching fund grants, Illinois manufacturers can meet growing market demands and expand their businesses.

To be eligible for the grants, companies must be operational in Illinois for over three years and employ between five and 250 people. This grant will be accepting applications through March 31st.

Illinois Department of Aging (IDOA)

Benefit Access Program

The Benefit Access Program offers two benefits for seniors and persons with disabilities:

·       A license plate fee Discount

·       Free rides on fixed- Route transit systems

Age Requirements:

• 65 years of age or older before January 1 of the current year; or

• You must be 65 years of age this year; or

• You must be 16 years of age or older before January 1 of the current year and qualify as disabled.

If you have already renewed your license plate sticker and paid full price, and are now part of the Benefit Access Program, you may be eligible to request a refund Call the Secretary of State’s Office at 800-252-8980 for more information.

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El Programa de Acceso a Beneficios ofrece dos beneficios a los adultos mayores y a las personas con discapacidades:

• UN DESCUENTO EN LA CUOTA DE LA MATRÍCULA

• VIAJES GRATIS EN SISTEMAS DE TRANSPORTE CON RECORRIDO FIJO

Requisitos relativos a la edad:

•Tener 65 años o más antes del 1 de enero del año actual.

•O bien, cumplir 65 años este año.

•O bien, tener 16 años o más antes del 1 de enero del año actual y reunir los requisitos relativos a la discapacidad.

Kane County Law Library

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE MONTH

Courtesy of Hoof Woof & Meow

Meet Stormy

Stormy is a seven-month-old Terrier Mix puppy with a vibrant personality. Stormy is a smart girl who quickly adapts to routines, loves giving kisses, and enjoys playing outside and snuggling on the couch.  Stormy thrives on routines, aiming to be a good girl in everything she does. Like any youngster, she could use some assistance with basic obedience, such as leash walking. Stormy is a social butterfly when it comes to other furry friends. Whether it’s playtime or a cozy nap with a fellow canine companion, she’s always up for four-legged fun. Stormy still has some puppy behavior, so she will need a family who understands and will continue to guide her on being a good canine citizen.

Meet Jasper

Jasper is a young adult kitty that loves attention and talking to his foster family. He’s a handsome young man that would benefit from a patient family who will let him get comfortable at his own pace. Once acclimated, Jasper has one of the loudest purrs you have ever heard. Jasper loves belly rubs and playing with the resident cat. Jasper is learning how to play with toys. He doesn’t like pup companionship, so no dogs in his forever home.