Monday, December 30, 2013
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Winnebago, Boone awarded thousands to divert non-violent offenders from prison - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Adult Redeploy Illinois program, which is administered by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, provides financial incentives to judicial circuits or counties to expand their diversion programs. The 17th Judicial Circuit Court (Boone County) was awarded $150,000, and the Winnebago County Circuit Court was awarded $646,775.The money is part of a nearly $7 million state initiative to improve public safety in a way that's less costly to taxpayers. The programs offer criminals intense supervision and services, like cognitive behavioral and trauma-informed therapy.Jurisdictions that have been awarded money must agree to reduce by 25 percent the number of commitments to the Illinois Department of Corrections from a target population of non-violent, prison-bound offenders.
Electric cars may hold solution for power storage - latimes.com#axzz2osrVUV6J#axzz2osrVUV6J
By Evan Halper
December 29, 2013, 5:00 a.m.
The idea is that utilities would pay vehicle owners to store electricity in the batteries of electric vehicles when the power grid has a surplus and drain electricity back out of them when demand rises.
The plan takes advantage of a key fact about cars: They spend most of their time parked. The technology makes idle vehicles a source of storage for utilities and cash for car owners.
The "Cash Back Car" is how the concept is described by Jon Wellinghoff, the recently retired chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. "It provides another incentive for people to buy electric cars," he said.
The technology could solve a potentially serious problem. The power grid, a massive tangle of power plants, transformers and thousands of miles of wire, needs to maintain a steady and balanced flow of power. Sudden surges threaten crashes that can cause blackouts. That makes the stop-and-go nature of energy from the wind and sun a constant source of worry.
Most Americans don't know incandescent light bulb phase-out
The government began phasing out 100- and 75-watt light bulbs in 2012 and 2013 respectively. The elimination of 60- and 40-watt bulbs will have a much greater impact on U.S. consumers because they are the two most popular bulbs on the market, according to the electronics industry research firm IMS Research.
Lights out?
With a major shift on the horizon, some Americans are doing their best to take stock of the situation. It's still perfectly legal to buy incandescent light bulbs as long as supplies last — companies just can't import or manufacture any new ones. Osram Sylvania's survey found that 30 percent of those who are aware of the phase-out are planning to stockpile the leftover light bulbs.
Read more about this issue: Most Americans don't know incandescent light bulb phase-out
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Winnebago, Boone jobless rates heading wrong direction as 2013 ends - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
- Alex Gary:
There was just one bright spot in the monthly unemployment snapshot. The city of Belvidere's jobless rate fell from 11.5 percent in November 2012 to 11.2 percent. Otherwise:n The city of Rockford's rate was 12.8 percent, up from 11.8 percent in November 2012.n The Winnebago County rate was 11.1 percent, up from 10.4 percent.n Boone County's rate increased from 9.7 percent to 10.4 percent.
Click on the following for all of the article: Winnebago, Boone jobless rates heading wrong direction as 2013 ends - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Friday, December 27, 2013
Quad Cities officials seek Boeing factory bid - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
The (Moline) Dispatch reports the Bi-State Regional Commission sent a letter to the two states' governors asking them to promote a regional bid for the multibillion dollar assembly plant.The letter was signed by community leaders in Moline, Rock Island, East Moline and Rock Island County in Illinois along with Iowa officials from Davenport, Bettendorf and Scott County.Davenport Mayor Bill Gluba admits the bid's a "long shot."Illinois is one of 22 states vying for the factory. A Boeing spokesman says the Chicago-based aerospace company is narrowing the list of potential location. A final section is expected in early 2014.
The Quad-Cities officially threw its hat into the ring Monday for a new Boeing manufacturing plant that would provide 8,500 jobs.
The Bi-State Regional Commission sent a letter Monday to Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn and Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad asking them to join together to, "submit, at least, a letter indicating a bi-state effort is possible, with a fully detailed proposal to follow."
The letter was signed by Davenport Mayor Bill Gluba, Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher, Rock Island Mayor Dennis Pauley, Moline Mayor Scott Raes, East Moline Mayor John Thodos, Rock Island County Board Chairman Phil Banaszek, and Scott County Board Chairman Larry Minard.
Mayor Gluba came up with the idea for the letter, which he said was written by city administrator Craig Malin ….
"Our bi-state region brings the home state of Boeing headquarters (Illinois) and an AAA bond rated state (Iowa) jointly to the competition. In addition, a principal supplier of Boeing, Alcoa, is added to the mix, along with a regional workforce with cutting edge skills and a long history of world class manufacturing."
Read more of the QC-online article by clicking on the the following: http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=664440
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Without Unemployment Extension, Which States Would Be Hit Hardest? - Real Time Economics - WSJ
By
Unemployed Americans will likely see jobless benefits shrink next year, a casualty of Washington’s budget battles and a slowly improving economy.
About 1.37 million people nationwide received emergency unemployment compensation at the end of November. That program, which provides an average of $300 a week in benefits to unemployed people once they exhaust their state benefits, is set to expire Dec. 28.
Read the entire article by clicking on the following: Without Unemployment Extension, Which States Would Be Hit Hardest? - Real Time Economics - WSJ
Wind Power Developers Race Clock to Secure Subsidy - NYTimes.com
Under the current rules, a lapse in the credit will not have much immediate effect, since many projects are now in the early stages of development.
However, executives said, developers are unlikely to start any projects without a credit in place because they cannot compete with power generation from other sources like cheap natural gas. And with prospects for a redesign of the whole tax code looking dim at the moment, clean-energy advocates are calling for yet another extension of the subsidy.
Referring to the credit, Kevin A. Lynch, managing director of external affairs at Iberdrola Renewables, which develops and operates green energy projects, said: “In the near term, projects that do not have the P.T.C. attached to them are probably difficult to justify economically for buyers to purchase, and therefore for us to build.”
He added that with the credit, “Wind has clearly become a very competitive generation source, and I do have to say we’re pretty confident that the president and the Congress will see their way to extending the credit.” …
many of them are also taking potentially expensive gambles. This year’s renewal does not require projects to go into production until the end of 2016, but they must either be in continuous construction or have spent at least 5 percent of the total costs this year. Project costs can top $100 million.
Companies are frantically reordering their usual processes, with some ordering turbines without permits to build or starting construction while still negotiating power contracts, said Michael Garland, chief executive of Pattern Energy, a developer of wind farms that went public this year.
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Letter: The hazardous effects of wind turbine development - Opinion - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
In response to the letter from Jack Darin of the Sierra Club (My View: Wind energy a boon for Boone County), ...
Posted Dec. 24, 2013 @ 12:00 pm
In response to the letter from Jack Darin of the Sierra Club (My View: Wind energy a boon for Boone County), I just have to say that he is obviously not facing the prospect of living within an industrial wind turbine development. He touts the economic and environmental benefits of wind energy that is deployed 100 miles away, but I live here! The regulations being considered will modernize Boone County ordinances to protect residents from financial and physical harm.I don't recall the Sierra Club presenting any evidence against the regulatory changes during two years of public hearings. Regulation changes like having setback distances from resident properties that take into account the ever growing heights of modern turbine towers are reasonable. These are not "barricades to block new business", they are protective regulations as Sierra Club should well understand.Our outdated regulations subject residents to hazards from modern wind turbines that reach heights over 500 feet. Hazards include ice throws during winter, falling parts when a turbine catches fire and blade throws. Sorry, but tax revenue and jobs don't protect me from these hazards. No, I don't think Darin needs to be concerned about these things living a hundred miles away in a Chicago suburb, but I live here.— Gary Fanson, Capron
Posted Dec. 24, 2013 @ 11:00 am
In response to Jack Darin's Wind Energy Article (My View: Wind energy a boon for Boone County): I think most people agree that alternative energy is important, but development must be done responsibly.
Unfortunately, it seems some are willing to disregard responsibility to ensure that this project moves forward, regardless of the proven safety risks and negative impacts of improper setbacks.
Is the proposed text amendment unreasonable in its purpose (to offer protection), or is this about a lack of siting potentials? Please look at Vermilion County, IL (California Ridge Project), where turbine failures have recently occurred and testimony from impacted residents comes out weekly. Even the local Superintendent acknowledges the impacts on his students! (California Ridge is roughly half as populated as the project area in Boone County).
Embracing responsibility ensures a safer future for our families, property value and tax base protection, a community where residents want to investment in their homes, which in turn employs locals (carpenters, architects, engineers, etc…) and a benchmark for other communities.
Responsibility cannot be argued, but it can be ignored. This isn't about "blocking" wind, it's about implementing setbacks that prevent the proven negative impacts associated with large-scale industrial wind in our community. Please help promote responsibility!
— Peter Ferretti, Harvard
From: http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131224/OPINION/131229832/0/SEARCH
Sunday, December 22, 2013
One-third of Boone County Board votes "no confidence" in - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader
See the video. Click on the following: http://www.wrex.com/story/24258179/2013/12/19/one-third-of-boone-county-board-votes-no-confidence-in-chairman?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=9650220
BOONE COUNTY (WREX) -
A third of Boone County Board members have no confidence in their leader, Chairman Bob Walberg. They showed that in a rare board vote Wednesday night.
Chairman Walberg wouldn't comment on the vote, but he and other board members say this is something you don't see often in Boone County. The 12 elected representatives took up a "no confidence" vote. The motion failed, 8 to 4, meaning the majority of board members support Walberg's leadership. District 2 board member Cathy Ward is one of the four against. She says she has concerns about the chairman's actions regarding the veteran's administration and wind farms in Boone County, but also, his committee appointments. As the only female board member, she'd like to see more women helping make county decisions.
"He didn't seem to want to listen to us at times about this and sometimes he didn't contact all of us about any of the major issues, so we're hoping that this will be kind of a wake-up call and say 'We are all elected the same way.'" -Ward says.
District 1 board member Denny Ellingson is behind Walberg. He believes the vote was a political game, a move to get people excited.
"He's done everything according to policies and guidelines. He's doing everything we expect him to do in the matter of running a respected, responsible government. He's doing the things he has to do to make that happen." -Ellingson says.
Here's a breakdown of the vote. The eight board members supporting the chairman are Bob Walberg, Denny Ellingson, Brad Fidder, Karl Johnson, Paul Larson, Ron Wait, Craig Schultz and Chris Berner. The four who voted "no confidence" are Cathy Ward, Bill Pysson, Ken Freeman and Marion Thornberry.
One-third of Boone County Board votes "no confidence" in - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader
Saturday, December 21, 2013
RRStar: Letter to Editor/Guest Opinion: Sierra Club
My View: Wind energy a boon for Boone County
-Posted Dec. 21, 2013 @ 1:00 pmBoone County is blessed with some of our state's best resources. The rich soil yields the crops that feed our families and neighbors while bolstering Illinois' powerful agricultural economy. Now Boone County has a chance to harvest another critical resource in increasing demand - its enormous wind energy potential.Wind is a clean, safe energy option that is already playing an important role in strengthening Illinois' public health and economic vitality. Since 2007, clean energy has saved Illinois consumers $177 million in wholesale power prices and created almost 20,000 Illinois jobs, according to studies by the Illinois Power Agency and Illinois State University. At the same time, renewable energy has helped Illinois citizens enjoy cleaner air and water.In 2011 alone, renewable energy eliminated an estimated 5 million tons of air pollution. Wind offers us a clean and safe alternative to coal, gas and nuclear power. Reliance on dirty and dangerous fossil fuels degrades Illinois' future, but investing in clean energy creates opportunity and advantage.The pollution eliminated by moving to renewable energy greatly benefits not only our economy, but also our public health and wildlife. Wildlife protections and siting requirements by state and federal government agencies help wind farms be developed so that Illinoisans do not have to choose between protecting wildlife and building a clean energy economy.The boom in wind energy in Illinois is being led by our rural counties. Just ask residents in Henry County, where local wind energy development means that schools are expanding and modernizing, clean energy jobs are growing and local businesses are benefitting from the increased workforce and tourism. This September, Henry County received its first $1.1 million property tax check from the Bishop Hill wind farm.Illinois counties have opened the door to clean energy and huge economic potential through safe, common-sense zoning requirements for wind farms. Boone County now has similar opportunities.The Rockford Register Star recently reported that a new wind farm could bring in between $1 million and $2 million in tax revenues to Boone County each year. However, Boone won't see these benefits if it approves overly restrictive regulations that are intended to be roadblocks to clean energy investment. Current proposals before the Boone County Board are far more restrictive than regulations in Wisconsin and most other Illinois counties, and would lock out wind energy for years to come.Fortunately, a strong group of leaders on the board sees through these attempts to block renewable energy and sees all the benefits that clean energy offers future generations.In the past few months, Sierra Club has joined Boone County residents and more than a dozen local businesses that see wind power as an important local economic development opportunity and a potential leap forward for Illinois' clean energy economy. We've heard from local residents who want jobs and clean air and who want Boone County to be a leader in the transition to a healthier future. We have gathered hundreds of petition signatures from local residents, small businesses and faith leaders, and voiced support for clean energy to county board representatives.Soon Boone County faces a major choice. Some would erect barricades to block new businesses, but we are heartened by all the residents we've met who are proud that Boone County can be a spark toward a clean energy economy. We applaud county leaders who know that welcoming renewable energy is the right choice for today and tomorrow.If you agree, we invite you to join us and your neighbors in the fight for a stronger economy, a cleaner environment and a brighter future for Boone County and all of Illinois.Jack Darin is Sierra Club Illinois Chapter director
http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131221/OPINION/131229963/?tag=2
Friday, December 20, 2013
Farewell to Belvidere Township’s Assessor
Tuesday, December 31st will be my last day in office as
Belvidere Township Assessor. It has been a great
experience, and I am very proud of everything I was able
to accomplish.
If you can, please stop by my office on Monday,
December 30th between 9 AM - 2 PM for a last
farewell and enjoy some light refreshments along with my
best wishes to you for the Christmas holiday and coming
New Year!
Diann Helnore - Belvidere Township Assessor
Boone County to vote on wind energy Jan. 15 - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
County Board members have not been exempt from the hostility.A letter sent from unnamed "Concerned & Fed-up Residents of Boone County" to board members in December warned them that members will be held personally and legally responsible if they vote in favor of putting a wind farm in a rural setting."If any of the board members in favor of these projects are under the delusion that their life as (they) know it will not be personally affected, they are dead WRONG. A futile legal battle will be fought to the bitter end," the letter stated.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
The Government Is Quietly Giving Way More Housing Aid to Rich People Than Poor People - Yahoo Finance
The federal government gave out about $60 billion in housing benefits to renters in 2012. It gave out more than three times that much to homeowners. Low-income households receive the vast majority of that rental aid, but the opposite is true of aid to homeowners. That flows primarily to high-income households.
View gallery
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
This comes at a time when renters are struggling to keep pace with rising housing costs . Fifty percent of renters now spend more than 30% of their income on housing. This has forced renters to cut back on other household necessities or live in inadequate units.
Renters are more likely to face a severe cost burden (defined as spending at least 50% of income on housing) than homeowners are. This is a result of rising median gross rent and falling media income over the past 15 years.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
These businesses want the largest declines in property assessments in Winnebago and Boone counties - Blogs - Rockford Register Star
Boone County
1. Northwest Bank of Rockford wants to lower the value of 65 lots in Deer Hills subdivision in Belvidere from $3.3 million to $520,000.
2. Inland American/Belvidere Atlas LLC, which was set up by the massive Inland American real estate investment trust, wants to lower its Americold Logistics warehouse at 6765 Imron Drive, Belvidere, from $10.4 million to $8.6 million.
3. The Green Giant Co. wants its General Mills plant's value decreased from $5.3 million to $3.7 million.
This is a major issue for everyone in the Rock River Valley. The way the tax system is set up if these large property owners are granted these decreases it will RAISE the taxes on the surrounding property owners.
Taxing bodies set their levies — or how much money they want from property owners. The assessment creates the pie. When one property owner lowers his portion of the pie through a property assessment appeal the portion of the pie increases for the other property owners who pay to those taxing bodies
Letter to Editor: The effects of wind energy production tax credit ending - Opinion - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Posted Dec. 17, 2013 @ 1:00 pm
Every time that subsidies for wind energy have ceased, the industry went into a tailspin. The industry had a near-miss this year because the wind energy production tax credit almost died.The PTC may die at the end of this year. If it does, any project in Boone County will not receive the subsidy. Wind energy receives a subsidy that is worth approximately 88 times as much as conventional sources receive. To quote someone else: "no form of fossil generation has a production-related subsidy. Rather, tax credits granted fossil fuels are akin to those available to any industry involved in mining and mineral extraction. The generation side does not receive any subsidy."The current setback in Boone County is 1,000 feet from primary structures. That is wholly inadequate compared to increasingly larger setbacks in Illinois counties that already have wind turbines. Last year, Bureau County rejected more wind turbines. The company that proposed those wind turbines is the same company that wants to site wind turbines in Boone County.Wisconsin State Senator Frank Lasee recently testified that new wind turbine heights may exceed 700 feet. A Wisconsin resident testified that one company switched out shorter with taller wind turbines to get around the setback.— Aaron Funfsinn, Durand
No confidence vote on Boone County chairman fails - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
BELVIDERE - An effort to discredit the leader of the Boone County Board failed Wednesday with the majority of board members saying they approve of Chairman Bob Walberg's leadership.Members Bill Pysson, Cathy Ward, Marion Thornberry and Kenny Freeman attempted to convince the board to deliver a vote of no confidence, arguing that Walberg chooses not to disclose information about individuals applying for board appointments, avoids placing women in leadership roles and changes board members' committee assignments to further his personal agenda. The measure failed 4-8.Walberg, who has chaired the board for six years, said county code gives the chairman two jobs: run the meetings and appoint individuals to committee assignments. He said he places people where he believes they will best help the county."(I'm) embarrassed for the board that our members would jump to this tactic when there are so many other ways to solve these issues," Walberg said.Even if the majority of the board had delivered a vote of no confidence, it would not have had a direct impact on Walberg's chairmanship, which ends Dec. 1, 2014. Boone County State's Attorney Michelle Courier said the gesture does not have a legal effect.Board member Brad Fidder, who is not seeking re-election, said he encourages others who are unhappy with Walberg's decisions to speak with the chairman one-on-one."This is nonsense. We need to be past this. We have much more important things to do beyond this," Fidder said.Jennifer Wheeler
Click on the following and make a comment to RRStar’s readers: No confidence vote on Boone County chairman fails - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Monday, December 16, 2013
Letter: Wind farms give Belvidere an opportunity to make an impact - Opinion - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Posted Dec. 16, 2013 @ 11:00 am
The Register Star recently published an article entitled "Boone County's delayed wind talks cost stakeholders time, money." In the article, Jennifer Wheeler correctly points out that the upcoming County Board vote will "either clear the way for a wind farm or almost certainly stop the idea dead in its tracks."
Indeed, the proposed zoning that will be up for a vote could not only stop the presently proposed wind farm, but would effectively close Boone County as a whole to any future wind farm development. Thus, much is at stake in this decision. As a long time resident of Boone County, I think it is a shame that the County Board would consider such a backwards looking ordinance.
Wind power is a clean, safe, and sustainable development opportunity for the county and the nation. The proposed development would bring green jobs to the area as well as desperately needed property tax revenue to our schools. As Wheeler wrote, it could bring between one and two million dollars annually to Boone County. Moreover, unlike coal, gas, oil and nuclear power, it is not going to cause adverse health effects like asthma and cancer.
We need to guard against misinformation on this subject. There are no proven negative health effect from wind power. Environmental studies are required to minimize or eliminate harm to wildlife. I urge the Boone County Board to vote against the proposed ordinance which would impose crippling setback requirements on wind farms.
— David F. Black, Belvidere
Read more: http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131216/OPINION/131219589/0/SEARCH#ixzz2nhlhSVqV
Posted Dec. 16, 2013 @ 12:00 pm
In response to Jennifer Wheeler's article "Boone County's delayed wind talks cost stakeholders time, money." I am new to Belvidere and Boone County, but not new to the issue of renewable sources of energy. What I see as the primary issue is breaking the stronghold that big oil and big utility companies (nuclear power) have over the tax holders.Enough is known about coal and other fossil fuels in relation to public health like asthma and cancer. The disaster at Fukashima Japan is just beginning to be known and its health impact will be felt in the west as it has been in Japan. As a father of four grown children I want a world free of pollution and free of multinational corporations dictating a price for energy.Wind and other renewables give the citizens of Boone County an opportunity to locally have an impact on possibly setting a price for their energy. As a registered voter in Belvidere my vote will hinge on the elected official who will make it easier for wind farms to be installed with the least amount of zoning regulations.— Robert James-Pechacek, Belvidere
Friday, December 13, 2013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
The Belvidere Daily Republican Featured News
Canine comforters return from tornado area
Dec. 12, 2013
By Troy A. Bruzewski
Editor
BELVIDERE – A pair of dogs from Belvidere comprise an emergency response unit of their own.
Bekah and Kye – two dogs housed at Emmanuel Lutheran Church – are back home after playing the role of “comfort dogs” in the tornado-ravaged areas of southern Illinois, including Washington. The dogs are part of Lutheran Church Charities – an organization with over 70 dogs it sends nationwide to respond to areas affected by tragedy. Libby Robertson is a dog handler for the cause and is one of the chauffeurs who bring them to their desired locations.
“The dogs fill a void,” she said. “A traumatized person finds it easier to talk to someone about their situation with a dog in the room and maybe even vent to the dog. The best thing about the dogs is that you can tell them anything and they won’t tell anyone.”
The dogs are taken to locations for the benefit of children and adults and the charity has been providing pups from coast-to-coast. Dogs from the charity have not only been to southern Illinois on multiple occasions, but they’ve also been called to: Newtown, Conn.; Oklahoma, California and Texas. Robertson said in some instances, the dogs are permanently housed in the city they visit, as with the Newtown shootings that occurred nearly one year ago today.
“The dogs sent to Newtown, spent so much time out there after the shootings,” she said. “Two dogs were placed out there permanently. They were very important for Newtown – comforting the kids and encouraging them to talk about what they’re feeling.”
Robertson said the dispatched handlers and dogs, team with the local Lutheran church in the area and setup shop.
“Quite often when we respond to a disaster, we work out of a Lutheran church and there you can see how the dogs work, first hand,” she said.
Void of an event out-of-town, the dogs are still playing their role in Belvidere.
“The dogs may be called from the church or the school to have kids read to them, to encourage reading or to help a student with discipline problems, open up to what’s going on,” she said.
Sometimes, there are personal disasters in the area that the dogs are called to.
“We recently got a phone call about a dishwasher fire and both the dogs went there,” she said. “The pastor asked if we’d go there and comfort the kids who were affected,” she said. “Just to offer comfort in a difficult time.”
Kinzinger files for re-election to 3rd term in Congress
Dec. 12, 2013
By Bob Balgemann
Reporter
U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., has formally filed his nominating petition to seek a third, two-year term in Congress and he will kickoff his campaign in Poplar Grove, Saturday.
Two other legislators representing Boone County, state Reps. Bob Pritchard, R-Sycamore, and Joe Sosnowski, R-Rockford, previously announced they would be running again. State Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Rockford, has two years remaining in his current term.
Kinzinger submitted petitions signed by 2,378 registered voters in the 16th congressional district, three times the required number.
Kinzinger first was elected in 2010. Redistricting two years later put him in the same district with longtime U.S. Rep. Donald Manzullo, also a Republican, and the two met in the 2012 primary election. While Boone County and surrounding area backed Manzullo, Kinzinger rode a wave of support from the southern portion of the district to win. He then defeated a Democratic opponent in the general election.
The primary election is in March 2014, with the general election in November.
After being elected he opened an office in Belvidere City Hall.
Kinzinger currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
At 35, he is one of the youngest members of Congress and has been named one of Time Magazine's 40 under 40 "rising stars in American poltiics.
He continues to serve as a pilot in the Illinois National Guard and has received the Valley Forge Cross for Heroism Air Force Airman's medal for saving a woman's life and subduing her attacker. He also was selected the Southeastern American Red Cross' Hero of the Year and has been awarded the Air Medal six times for service in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
He will begin his campaign for re-election at the Vintage Wings and Wheels’ Christmas party.
No public health problems found at animal control building
Dec. 12, 2013
By Bob Balgemann
Reporter
BELVIDERE - A Boone County Health Department official has inspected the county animal control services building off Appleton Road and found no public health problems.
Bill Hatfield, director of environmental services, said there were some issues with cleanliness but nothing serious enough to condemn the building because of being a danger to people.
He made that report Dec. 5 to the health and human services committee, a standing committee of the county board.
In that report Hatfield stated he found rodent droppings in the dogfood storage room and some puddling of water on the concrete walkway in the pen area after washing occurred.
"No public health violations were found, which would warrant action by the health department on behalf of the public," he stated.
Committee and county board member Marion Thornberry wanted such an inspection to see if the building should be condemned. Hatfield stated he and Thornberry met Nov. 5, with the inspection being conducted Nov. 7.
For a building to be condemned, it would have to be considered a "serious hazard to health," according to provisions of the county code. The building would have to be so damaged, dilapidated, unsanitary, unsafe or vermin infested "that it creates a serious hazard to the health or safety of the occupants or the public," the provision states.
Reasons to condemn
Condemnation also could occur if the building lacks illumination, ventilation or sanitation that are "adequate to protect the health or safety of the occupants or the public."
Finally, the building could be in such a condition that it is dangerous to the health and safety of the occupants or the public.
At the committee meeting Thornberry asked about "things crawling around in the office?" Hatfield replied they were not considered a public health issue.
"What about water quality?" Thornberry asked, referring to the fact employees drink bottled water.
Hatfield answered that water samples were taken and found to be satisfactory.
"If they choose not to drink it, that's their choice," he said.
Committee member Bill Pysson asked when the last water quality test occurred.
"2005, maybe," Hatfield said.
"I think it should be done again," Pysson said.
Animal control staff turned to the need for a new building with supervisor Roger Tresemer saying it wasn't worth doing any more improvements.
"One of my biggest issues is no isolation room," he added. "It's time to build a new building."
"We have outgrown our space," programs coordinator Jacqui Mitzelfelt chipped in.
Committee Chairman Paul Larson said the county is addressing all of that in a new building. He said he didn't see anyone putting up any roadblocks - at least none that he was aware of.
More discussion of both issues is planned for the January committee meeting.
Open house held for expansion of museum, research center
Dec. 11, 2013
By Bob Balgemann
Reporter
BELVIDERE - A dream that was 20 years in the making has become reality with the grand opening for expansion of the Boone County Historical Museum.
A large crowd turned out in chilly weather Friday to join county museum district officials and others for the ribbon cutting ceremony.
This is a 6,000-square-foot addition that connects the museum and adjacent research center, and includes new display space, offices and storage.
The museum opened in 1968. With an eye toward the future the district board purchased buildings along Pleasant Street and tore them down to create open space directly north of the museum. In 2007, the district purchased a bank building next door for use as a research center.
Now those buildings have been joined in a $1.4-million project.
There was significant community support for the expansion, with $500,000 in donations. The district then secured a $950,000 loan to pay the balance.
The museum has a vast collection of artifacts arranged in exhibits that focus on time periods and significant individuals from Boone County's past. There is a complete pioneer log cabin, a walkway down a village street of bygone days and a handful of vehicles
At the research center there are books, newspapers, videos, slides, microfilm, photographs and maps to help a person find out more about the county and its history. There are files on area businesses, industry, agriculture, arts and entertainment, prominent people, crimes, government, events, wars, organizations, military, people, architecture and more.
This larger facility is part of a historically significant area of downtown Belvidere.
A recent addition is the working letter press museum on Locust Avenue. Also last year two portions of the business district were named to the National Register of Historic Places. Five buildings in or around the business core, including one designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, also are on the National Register.
And nearby is the 23-home West Hurlbut Avenue Historic District.
Former Mayor Fred Brereton put together a committee to include the historic element as part of a plan to revitalize the downtown. That effort is continuing under the current mayor, Mike Chamberlain.
Check recent features by clicking on the following: rvpnews | Belvidere Daily Republican
Boone County Board may vote no confidence in Chairman Bob Walberg - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
BELVIDERE — The Boone County Board may deliver a vote of no confidence in Chairman Bob Walberg at its board meeting Wednesday night, according to an email received by the Register Star on Thursday.Some members have voiced concerns over Walberg’s appointment process, committee assignments and overall leadership style in the past year.The vote is more symbolic than binding. Boone County State’s Attorney Michelle Courier said it has no legal effect.Walberg, who has chaired the board for six years, said he tries to place people where they will be the most beneficial to the County Board.“Many years ago I learned the strengths we feel we have are not (always) what others see in us,” he said.Jennifer Wheeler: 815-987-1354; jwheeler@rrstar.com; @jenmwheeler
BoCo Expo is just 50 days away
The Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce is providing you with
a sales and marketing opportunity.
Saturday, February 1, 2014 from 9:00 am-3:00 pm
BoCo Expo
(Boone County Exposition)
Community Building Complex of Boone County
111 W. 1st Street, Belvidere, Illinois
- This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business, products and services
- Use as an employment recruitment venue to enhance your workforce
- A valuable “Test Market” or “Straw Poll” for growth potential
- On-Site demonstration and sampling of products
Each space will consist of a 10‘x 7’ area, a draped 8’ high back wall and 3’ high side dividers to separate exhibitors. Each booth will be furnished with (1) 8’ x 30” skirted table and a 7” x 40” Identification Sign.
Exhibitor Fee per display space:
Chamber Member $ 175.00, Non-Chamber Member $ 250.00
Space is limited; please submit application and check to reserve your booth.
Set-up will be 1:00-6:00 pm on Friday, January 31st.
BoCo Expo will be promoted, advertised and with free admission to the public.
|
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
NEW GRANT TO HELP TRAIN WORKERS FOR JOBS IN MANUFACTURING
NEW GRANT TO HELP TRAIN WORKERS FOR JOBS IN MANUFACTURINGThe Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance, in partnership with the City of Rockford, has been awarded a $1.2 million dollar grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to provide
accelerated training in manufacturing tailored to the specific needs of area employers.
The Accelerated Training for Illinois Manufacturing (ATIM) grant covers four counties in northern Illinois, Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson and DeKalb Counties, integrating classroom/lab-based and work-based training for 133 participants.
“Manufacturing companies in the northern Illinois region need trained workers as soon as possible,” said Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey. “This program will allow participants to build on the skills they already have to get into the workforce more quickly.”
The grant will target several high-demand areas in manufacturing, including:
- Mechanical Engineering Technicians
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic
- Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
- Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- A & P Mechanics
- Assemblers
“Training providers and employers were involved in the application process for this grant,” added Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance Chairman Paul Callighan. “The program will include bridge programs, work experience assignments and internships, as well as on-the-job training contracts.”
According to Illinois DCEO, the three key elements of the program include:
- responding directly to regional demand to fill current manufacturing vacancies and near-term projected job postings through unprecedented levels of employer involvement;
- providing industry-recognized skill training and education along with On-the-Job Training opportunities so employers know trainees are ready for work on day one; and
- better integrating services from multiple programs to get people trained rapidly in the skills employers want and to provide the opportunity to land good paying jobs.
Partners involved in the program include economic development and industry organizations, local community colleges, community-based organizations and numerous employers.
Applications to participate in this program are being accepted on-line. There is a link to the application available at The Workforce Connection website at www.theworkforceconnection.org
Manufacturing employers interested in participating in the program should contact Pamela Fettes at The Workforce Connection. pfettes@theworkforceconnection.org
Media contact: John Strandin, Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance 815-395-6688
jstrandin@theworkforceconnection.org
rvpnews | BDR Public Meetings
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11
City/County Coordinating Committee meets 6:30 p.m., County Board Room.
MONDAY, DEC. 16
Belvidere Community Unit School District #100 meets 6 p.m., District Central office.
Belvidere City Council meets 7 p.m., City Council Chambers.
North Boone Board of Education meets 6:30 p.m., 6248 North Boone School Road, Poplar Grove.
TUESDAY, DEC. 17
Belvidere Township Board meets 5 p.m., Township Board Room.
Belvidere-Boone County Regional Planning Commission meeting CANCELLED.
Boone County Regional Planning Commission meeting CANCELLED.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18
Boone County Board meets 6:45 p.m., County Board Room.
Boone County Conservation District Board meets 5 p.m., BCCD office.
Boone County Historical Museum District Board meets 4 p.m., 311 Whitney Blvd., Belvidere.
THURSDAY, DEC. 19
Community Building Complex Committee meets 5 p.m., Community Building Meeting Room.
MONDAY, DEC. 23
Village of Poplar Grove Administration Committee meets 6:30 p.m., Poplar Grove Village Hall.
MONDAY, DEC. 30
Boone County Board of Health meets at noon, County Health Dept.
Click on the following to check for updates: rvpnews | BDR Public Meetings
U of I Extension Boone County office to close for the holidays - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
By RRSTAR.COM STAFF REPORTS
Posted Dec. 11, 2013 @ 12:00 pmBELVIDERE — The University of Illinois Extension Boone County office, 205 Cadillac Court, Unit 3, will be closed for the holidays from Dec. 23 through Jan. 1.The office will reopen on Jan. 2 with regular office hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.For information: 815-544-3710.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Boone County risks $20K to generate thousands in new income for jail - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
If the average daily federal prisoner count remains at 18, the new rate would generate an additional $92,000 in revenue annually, boosting the county’s total revenue from federal prisoner housing to $519,000.“We have so many revenues that never recovered from the recession. This is a way to get nontraditional revenue in the system,” County Administrator Ken Terrinoni said.The Boone County Board agreed Nov. 20 to pay Summerill $40,000 to negotiate a deal — $20,000 up front and an additional $20,000 once both the U.S. Marshals Service and County Board agree to a contract. The deal was contingent upon favorable experiences from past clients, which Terrinoni said Monday were positive.County officials were willing to risk the initial $20,000 during a lean budget year. The County Board passed a balanced budget Nov. 20 but leaders were prevented from purchasing new squad cars and hiring an additional public defender.
Read the entire article by clicking on the following: Boone County risks $20K to generate thousands in new income for jail - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Monday, December 9, 2013
Belvidere Daily Republican: Boone County Health Department Meeting for December
Dec. 9, 2013
By Bob Balgemann
Reporter
Flexibility sought on health department hiring
BELVIDERE - The Boone County Board of Health wants to be better informed about happenings in the health department.
Department administrator Cynthia Frank doesn't mind that, but she doesn't want her hands to be tied when trying to fill existing vacancies.
That conflict brought debate during the board's Dec. 2 meeting. Member Allen Sisson told Frank she had not provided sufficient details when nine employees were slated to receive pay raises from 13.9 to 55.7 percent.
Frank disagreed.
"You were given the information,” she said. “Maybe I didn't go into enough detail."
The wish for more information prompted the board to meet privately in October, to review its decision of the previous month to approve those increases. In addition, the board was criticized by some county board members for allowing the raises.
Sisson wanted to be sure that didn't happen again.
With that in mind, the health board's finance committee recommended approval of four motions during its Nov. 19 meeting, three of which applied directly to its being better informed.
Two of the four motions brought discussion at the Dec. 2 board meeting.
Most of the debate centered on wanting information associated with the hiring process, though lingering unhappiness with the large salary increases was voiced
Sisson said the pay raise incident was "a classic case of bait and switch. The board was the scapegoat; the board knew about it after the fact. You (Frank) did not tell us the complete story. Shame on you."
But Bill Hatfield, director of environmental health, said some of the board's comments were "completely inaccurate." He said all of the information concerning the pay increases was presented at a finance committee meeting. It was in committee members' packets.
"The question is whether the board of health wants to run (health department) operations?" he asked. "Cindy should be able to replace people as long as the budget is not affected."
Still, Sisson insisted, "I want to know what's happening with existing staff."
Board member Kathleen Taylor said members had to know how the money was spent in a department they oversee.
"I don't appreciate being knocked by the county board all the time," she said. "We just want to know what's going on.”
A motion was passed, 9-0, stating that while the board would not be directly involved in the hiring process it would be informed beforehand when a position is being filled and how much that person is going to be paid.
Capital expenditures
Minimal debate accompanied the motion stating all capital expenditures must be approved by the board.
Frank questioned what would happen should there be an emergency, such as the air conditioning system going out?
Sisson said the intent was for the full board to know what's happening so there is no miscommunication. If an emergency arises, he said the full board should meet to consider it.
But Frank said it's not always possible to get a quorum.
And Hatfield said contacting board members by telephone would run afoul of the Open Meetings Act. He once again questioned board involvement with the day-to-day operation of the health department. The administrator, while communicating with the board chairman, handles emergencies.
"Otherwise, board of health officers need to be here every day," he said.
An amendment to the original motion, allowing the administrator to handle emergencies while communicating with the board chairman, was approved 9-0. Then the original motion passed, 9-0.
No discussion accompanied the other two motions.
One was to present the full board with a balanced budget, which was done. The other stated all salary increases must be approved by the full board with all of the details having been presented. Both passed, 9-0.
Click on the following to see the latest BDR stories: rvpnews | Belvidere Daily Republican
Friday, December 6, 2013
Belvidere Daily Republican
New business signs, seals and delivers
December 05, 2013
BEVIDERE – A new business venture in Belvidere arrived just in time for the holidays.
Wayne and Martha Carpenter have opened Pack It-Ship It-Print It at 900 Belvidere Rd., to fill the void left by the departed UPS Store. Within a month of UPS heading out of town, the Carpenter’s store opened its doors, Aug. 27.
Wayne Carpenter said the venture was developed to provide services to people and businesses in the Belvidere area, giving them an option other than traveling a longer distance to ship packages.
“We created the name and opened so that the residents of Belvidere, Poplar Grove, Marengo, Kingston and Garden Prairie would not have to drive to Rockford or Huntley for their shipping needs,” he said. “And it’s a location to do copies, faxing, laminating and packaging supplies.”
The Carpenters are leasing the space on Belvidere Road and are relying on previous experience in the customer service industry to guide the business. Wayne is a former director of hospitality services in the commercial cleaning industry, specializing in housekeeping services for hotels and resorts.
“We transferred numerous times to run and rebuild regions to include Los Angeles, New York, Nashville and Madison (Wis.) after starting in the Schaumburg office,” he said. “All with a strong emphasis on customer service.”
Martha – a native of Medellin, Colombia – provides a valuable asset, giving the business a bilingual feature, allowing the location to cater to different nationalities and help avoid miscommunications in an industry of exact addresses. She spent many years in the banking industry, working primarily from Crystal Lake. The couple said she will continue to operate their commercial cleaning operation.
The Carpenters say the location can provide services for UPS, FedEx Ground and FedEx Express and to entice locals to ship their holiday packages through the Belvidere location, they’re offering an incentive. From now through Dec. 21, customers can register for a $100 Wal-Mart gift card.
The store also is offering other holiday-related items, such as Christmas cards and gift boxes.
“We want our new business to be a 100 percent convenience for everyone in Boone County and the surrounding areas,” he said.
Appeal denied for accused killer
December 05, 2013
BELVIDERE – The first-degree murder charge of a Capron man will stand after the Illinois Supreme Court ruled on the appeal.
Aaron Null was convicted in December 2010, of murdering his wife, Brynn Null. The crime occurred on Nov. 17, 2002, when Brynn disappeared and her body was never found. According to Illinois State Police, Brynn was last seen alive with her husband, on Nov. 16, 2002. The ISP investigation discovered a “significant amount of forensic evidence” that included blood stains in the couple’s bedroom. Police say a large blood stain was found on the couple’s bed, which they say was “soaked into the inner mattress” of the bed.
In addition, ISP said they found blood splatter on the bedroom walls and ceiling, then later determined the splatter originated from the mattress. A bloody towel was apparently discovered in the trunk of Aaron Null’s vehicle. ISP said DNA tests revealed the blood found on the mattress, walls, ceiling and towel belonged to Brynn Null.
According to the Boone County State’s Attorney office, evidence was also presented that Aaron Null physically attacked his wife on at least eight prior occasions and that she sought help during the attacks.
Aaron Null was convicted and sentenced to 50 years in prison, of which he has served three.
For the current Belvidere Daily Republican articles: rvpnews | Belvidere Daily Republican
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Jobless rate down in Winnebago, Boone counties — but so is the number of workers - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
The unemployment rate for Boone and Winnebago counties fell in September and October to 10.5 percent, according to data released today by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.The jobless rates in September and October of 2012 were 10.7 and 10.6 percent respectively. So the jobless rates this year were down year over year for the 39th and 40th time in the past 41 months.Despite that positive trend, Thursday’s data release left little to cheer about. According to state estimates, in October there were just 144,468 people working in the Rock River Valley compared with 150,294 in October 2012.The number of people actively looking for work declined from 17,837 last October to 16,983 this year. So the drop in jobless rate is from people dropping out of the work force for reasons ranging from Baby Boomers retiring, unemployed workers abandoning the job search or moving to areas where the economic recovery is stronger.
Election 2014: Surge in last-minute candidate filings - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Boone CountySheriff: Phil Beu and Dave Ernest, RepublicansTreasurer: Curt Newport, RepublicanClerk and Recorder: Mary Steurer, RepublicanCounty BoardDistrict 1: Republicans Sherry Giesecke and Raymond Larson; Democrat Bill PyssonDistrict 2: Republicans Jeffrey Carlisle, Ron Wait, Karl Johnson, Mark SandersonDistrict 3: Republicans Sherry Branson, Marion Thornberry and Brad Stark filed for the four-year term, Chris Berner and Kenny Freeman filed for the two-year term.by Jennifer Wheeler:
Election 2014: Surge in last-minute candidate filings - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Belvidere Daily Republican New Features
![[image%255B4%255D.png]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGjWT-82ET9u4nLcK0hgtcoDSeq9CuBti2CxvHcCDNQZNzLRn1bIffzhvRZUgCfSkXrxdPAOlOjMzCl7IJB8f97MtlMV3NYLE-Rli5aLSsmpFUH0Wi5oHIVP1AhU7YaZ5spAR8bA6RexC/s1600/image%25255B4%25255D.png)
Hometown Christmas Schedule Dec. 6-7
Dec. 4, 2013
FRIDAY, DEC. 6
Belvidere’s Hometown Christmas, 6-9 p.m., downtown Belvidere
6 p.m. – Belvidere Central and South Middle Schools sing carols
6:15 p.m. – Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree by Mayor Chamberlain at Boone County Historical Museum.
6:30 p.m. – Washington Academy Choir to sing at S. State St. and Logan Ave.
Santa Claus and Children’s Fun Fair with games and prizes at Apollo Activity Center.
Live nativity and complimentary refreshments at Dairy-Ripple.
Salvation Army carolers throughout downtown.
Complimentary horse drawn wagon rides.
522 S. State St. – Belvidere High School Jazz Band “Garbage Can Band”
Fire Station hosts children’s craft project, hot chocolate.
Check for winning Hometown Christmas Button numbers at PNC Bank, popcorn, “Christmas Story” performed by Belvidere Dance Club.
Community Building Complex activities:
Vote for your favorite Christmas tree at the Community Building. Area businesses and organizations decorate trees for voting. Trees and gifts are then given to needy families of the community.
6 p.m. – Belvidere High School Choraliers
6:40 p.m. – Zion Lutheran Church Choir
7:20 p.m. – Belvidere North High School Choir
8:10 p.m. – Rockford French Horn Club
Business Vendors, Arts and Crafts Marketplace on lower level.
Boone County Historical Museum grand re-opening to the public following the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, approximately 6 p.m.
“Thank a Vet for Christmas USO Christmas Party,” 6-9 p.m., 521 S. State St., Belvidere. Live band with 20, 30s, 40s music, complimentary refreshments.
Holiday Lights Display 2013, Belvidere Park, Lincoln Ave. Drive or walk through the holiday lights displayed by local businesses and organizations. See more information at http://www.belviderepark.org or phone 815-547-9557.
SATURDAY, DEC. 7
Hometown Christmas Parade with Santa, through downtown Belvidere. Starts 10 a.m. at Madison and State Streets and proceeds to Community Building, 111 W. 1st St. for the Children’s Christmas Party and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Vote for your favorite Christmas tree at the Community Building. Area businesses and organizations decorate trees for voting. Trees and gifts are then given to needy families of the community.
Hometown Christmas Craft Show and Holiday Sale hosted by Big Thunder Grange, 9a.m.-4 p.m., Grange Hall at Boone County Fairgrounds. For vendor or craft information, call Sharyn 815-765-1145 or email bcfqueenpageant@msn.com. Proceeds used for Big Thunder Grange community service projects.
Boone County Conservation District free Holiday Walk, 6-8 p.m. See how Christmas was celebrated in the past: luminary lit pathway, authentic log cabins, popcorn popped over open fire. Held at Roger Gustafson Nature Center Festival Grounds, 603 Appleton Road, Belvidere.
http://www.stjohnsuccbelvidere.org. Telephone: 815-222-8790
“A Christmas Music Celebration,” free program at St. John’s United Church of Christ, 401 N. Main St., Belvidere, 2 p.m. Refreshments follow program.
Holiday Lights Display 2013, Belvidere Park, Lincoln Ave. Drive or walk through the holiday lights displayed by local businesses and organizations. See more information at http://www.belviderepark.org or phone 815-547-9557.
Suspect turns himself in to BPD
Dec. 4, 2013
By Troy A. Bruzewski
Editor
BELVIDERE – The fourth suspect wanted in connection to a gang-related homicide Saturday, turned himself in to Belvidere Police and faces a first-degree murder charge.
Anthony M. Perez, 19, of Belvidere, is being held on $10,000,000 bond after allegedly being involved with a gang-related shooting, which occurred around 12:25 a.m., Saturday, at the 2100 block of Lakeshore Drive.
BPD responded to the call and found an 18-year-old victim, later identified as Giovanni Galicia of Belvidere, deceased from a gunshot wound and inside a vehicle. He was shot multiple times and police issued a description of a potential getaway vehicle.
Shortly after, Boone County Sheriff’s officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle matching the issued description. The vehicle failed to stop and a chase ensued into Winnebago County, where four suspects fled the vehicle and allegedly attempted to elude officers. Three individuals were taken into custody, near Spring Creek and Perryville roads in Rockford. A fourth suspect – believed to be Perez – escaped.
Ricardo Figueroa, 22, of Belvidere and Cheyanne Patton, 20, of Belvidere, were detained. The third suspect was taken to a Rockford hospital where he was listed in stable condition, for injuries not released by police. Figueroa is charged with unlawful use of a weapon by a street gang member and was held on $200,000 bond. Patton was detained on unrelated warrants from Kane and DeKalb counties.
BPD said the investigation is ongoing and has not ruled-out the possibility of additional suspects being sought.
Read the recent News Features of the Belvidere Republican by clicking on the following: rvpnews | Belvidere Daily Republican
Boone chairman changes committee appointments - Blogs - Rockford Register Star
By Jennifer Wheeler
Some Boone County Board members said they were caught off guard by their committee reassignments.
Officials learned their new committee appointments through an email sent by Chairman Bob Walberg on Thanksgiving Day. He said he typically sends emails out on Fridays but because of other commitments, he delivered the message a day early.
The chairmen of the finance, roads and capital improvements, administrative and legislative, and city-county coordinating committees changed through the appointments, effective Dec. 1.
Walberg said the reassignments were needed because of scheduling conflicts. He added that it helps to have fresh blood on committees and allow newer board members the chance to lead a committee.
County Board members called me, though, saying that they did not know the changes were happening until they received the email
Boone County’s delayed wind talks cost stakeholders time, money - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL
….Marshall Newhouse, who previously chaired the county’s Planning, Zoning and Building Committee, said his family has spent 30 to 50 hours a week gathering input from residents. Since July, they have worked with other families to collect more than 1,300 signatures from Boone County residents and property owners who disapprove of Mainstream’s plan and favor larger setback distances.Since Mainstream began the project in August 2009, the company has spent more than $1 million educating the public on wind energy and land acquisition, Vince Green, development project manager said. He said the level of incivility in Boone County is making it difficult though.Residents say they have been followed home after meetings. Others refuse to attend in fear of harassment that will come from voicing their opinion…..
Now that the public comment portion of the hearing finished Nov. 26, the ZBA will discuss the zoning text amendment amongst themselves before taking recommendations to the County Board as early as January.
Read more: http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131204/NEWS/131209825?tag=2#ixzz2mXCtcFNC
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
The Belvidere Daily Republican Featured News
Filing for March 2014 primary election is under way
Nov. 28, 2014
By Bob Balgemann
BELVIDERE - Six Boone County Board members drew two-year terms during the re-organizational process that followed the November 2012 election.
That means District 1 board members Brad Fidder and Bill Pysson; District 2 board members Karl Johnson and Ron Wait; and District 3 board members Kenny Freeman and Marion Thornberry will be expiring in 2014.
In addition Chris Berner, appointed earlier this year to replace District 3 board member Mike Schultz, who resigned, also has to run next year.
Candidates began filing their nominating paperwork on Monday, Nov. 25. They may continue to do so through Tuesday, Dec. 2.
Five of the seven county board members - Pysson, Johnson, Wait, Thornberry and Berner - said they would be seeking their party's nomination in the March 2014 primary election. Fidder and Freeman were undecided going into filing week.
All are Republicans except Pysson, who is a Democrat. The only other Democrat on the 12-member board, Craig Schultz in District 3, drew a four-year term.
The general election will be in November, during which the state also will elect a governor.
County Clerk Mary Steurer said there will be other opportunities for people to run for the county board.
Democrats and Republicans may caucus following the primary election and select candidates to run in November. Independent candidates also may file after the primary.
In addition, a number of appointments will be in the offing during 2014.
Among them are all the members of the Capron Rescue Squad District Board of Trustees. Included are the board president, Owen Costanza, vice president Martha Suhr, secretary Bob Sager, treasurer Neeley Erickson and member Mike Petersen. All but Sager are relatively new members of the board.
In addition, terms of county board of health members Wait, Dr. Anthony D'Souza and Dan Lendman, DVM, will be up for reappointment. Wait, who's also on the county board, was appointed two years ago as a voting member of the health board and to serve as the county board's liaison to the health department.
And the terms of one member of each of the five fire districts will be expiring.
County board Chairman Bob Walberg will make the appointments, with concurrence from the county board.
No school board members, village trustees, village presidents or city of Belvidere aldermen are up for election next year.
Caledonia celebrates arrival of new warning siren
Nov. 28, 2014
By Bob Balgemann
CALEDONIA - Three years ago a late-season tornado swept through this northern Boone County village, destroying several homes, electric poles and large storage bins.
As Village President Rod Fritz put it, "By the grace of God no one was injured."
Contrast that with the tornado that struck the city of Belvidere April 21, 1967, killing 24 people, 17 of them children.
Resident Alice Van Brocklin knows all about both storms.
Her 13 1/2-year-old sister was one of the 17 children, seven of them from Caledonia, who died in the 1967 storm. Her home and barn on Caledonia Road were destroyed by the November 2010 tornado.
"Better not be a third one," she said during a special celebration held Saturday (Nov. 23) at the North Boone Fire District 3 station in Caledonia. Purpose of the get-together was to celebrate the arrival, and erection, of a new storm warning siren next to the station.
Van Brocklin's house was the first one hit by the 2910 tornado. And she was the first one to appear before the Caledonia Village Board, saying there was a need for a tornado siren.
"There wasn't much warning" ahead of the 2010 strike, Fritz said.
Van Brocklin didn't stop with one visit. She kept coming back and Fritz remembered her being told time after time that the village was working on it.
She started a fund
Not happy with the lack of progress, she established a siren fund and made what the village president said was a generous donation.
"She gave the village board a kick in the butt," he said. "That was needed to get us going."
And so a warning siren has been erected. It got its first live test the morning of Nov. 17, when the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for northern Boone County.
That day 68 tornadoes were reported at various locations around Illinois, with six deaths and 37 injuries. North Boone Fire District 3 sent a trailer full of supplies to downstate Washington, one of the hardest-hit communities in the state.
"We appreciate Alice and all she's done," Fritz said. A standing ovation followed.
Van Brocklin didn't have much to say. She just hoped that when people hear the siren in the future that they will never become complacent and just continue going about their business.
Fritz put in a pitch for the fund-raising drive, which is ongoing. "We're $5,000 short of our $20,000 goal," he said, holding a rectangular sign with the names of donors to this point.
That sign will be attached to the tower holding the siren and he said another sign can be made, with more names.
The sign contains Alice Van Brocklin's name along with Gordon and Doris Nelson, Randy and Sandra Stockwell, Caledonia Township, Caledonia Congregational Church, Village Attorney Tom Green and Fire District 3.
The township building, across the street from the fire station, was destroyed by the tornado but the fire district building wasn't touched. It has been rebuilt, as has Van Brocklin's home.
Read the recent News Features of the Belvidere Republican by clicking on the following: rvpnews | Belvidere Daily Republican
Monday, December 2, 2013
AGENDA BELVIDERE TOWNSHIP, December 3, 2013 5oo PM
AGENDA
BELVIDERE TOWNSHIP
REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWNSHIP BOARD
8200 Fairgrounds Road
December 3, 2013 – 5:00 P.M.
I. Call to Order/Roll Call
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Public Input
IV. Discussion and potential action on approval of Prior Meeting’s Minutes
V. Discussion and potential action on Transfers
VI. Reports
a. Supervisor’s Report
b. Highway Commissioner’s Report
c. Assessor’s Report
d. Clerk’s Report
e. Trustee’s Report
VII. Unfinished Business – Discussion and Potential Action May Occur on the following items:
- Discussion and Potential Action of Adoption of Tax Levy
VIII. Legal
a.
b.
IX. New Business
- Discussion of Walking Path/Bike Path on Newburg Road
X. Discussion and Potential Action on Treasurer’s Report and Approval of Bills
XI. Closed Session
XII. Adjournment
Next Meeting: December 17, 2013 @ 5:00 P.M.
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)