DuPage County: First County in Illinois to Supply Open Public Records for its checking account and other financial records

Transparency In Government—without Freedom of Information Requests

County Auditor Bob Grogan is pledged to provide the citizens and taxpayers of DuPage County with timely and pertinent information regarding the operations of DuPage County Government. To that end, the Auditor has made the individual expenditures of County funds available for public viewing. The data is available for the current year, December 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009[the current month], as well as several prior fiscal years. [DuPage County budget is $480,600,000]

Click on the following to see for yourself:  http://www.dupageco.org/auditor/auditorReports/

Illinois Policy Institute - Who's Posting Expenditures Online in Illinois?

Here is a list of government organizations in Illinois which post all expenditures on line. You can click on the names in blue and review their numbers.  Belvidere School District 100, for most months post their checks on line as well. 

  (Updated on February 4th, 2008)

City of Bloomington
City
$164,363,931

Bloomington Public Schools D87
School District

Bond Co. Community Unit School D2

School District
$5,031,675

Bourbonnais Elementary School D53

School District
$19,781,080

Bradley Bourbonnais Community High School D3
School District
$20,283,502

Village of Brookfield
Village
$21,627,492

Cary Community Consolidated School District 26
School District
$32,316,392

Community Unit School District 300- Carpentersville
School District
N/A

Champaign Community Unit School D4
School District
$99,799,256

Coal City Community Unit School D1
School District
$23,883,528

City of DeKalb
City
$29,005,032

College of Dupage
School District
$23,233,156

Dupage County
County
$480,600,000

East Aurora Unit School D131
School District
N/A

City of Elmhurst*
City
$112,900,349

Elmhurst Park District
Park District
$17,446,673

Elmhurst School District 205

School District
$89,379,988

Geneva School District 304
School District
$743,745

Genoa-Kingston Community Unit School D424

School District
$11,989,000

Village of Golf
Village
$977,260

Harlem Unit District 122

School District
$67,689,041

Herscher Community Unit School District 2
School District
N/A

Highland Park D113
School District
$73,729,141

Huntley School District 158
School District
$72,564,192

Illinois Valley Community College
School District
$33,942,948

Kankakee Community College
School District
N/A

Mahomet-Seymour Community Unit School District 3

School District
$27,058,856

Mundelein Consolidated High School District 120
School District
$29,334,331

Naperville Park District
Park District
N/A

Niles Township Community High School D219

School District
N/A

City of Oak Forest
City
$14,045,940

Oak Grove School D68

School District
$12,882,080

Oak Park and River Forest High School D200
School District
$44,428,998

Oak Park Elementary District 97
School District
$61,132,644

Village of Olympia Fields
Village
N/A

Oswego Community Unit School D308
School District
N/A

City of Ottawa
City
$51,176,940

Ottawa Elementary District 141
School District
$22,200,000

Ottawa High School District 140
School District
$17,444,183

Palatine Community Consolidated D15

School District
N/A

Proviso Township High School D209
School District
$68,986,889

Reed Custer D225U
School District
$23,860,500

Village of Riverside*
Village
$15,849,849

Riverside-Brookfield High School District 208
School District
$20,336,647

Rock Island School D41

School District
N/A

Village of Rolling Meadows

Village
$51,263,159

Sherrard Community Unit School District 200
School District
$15,387,485

Spoon River Valley Community Unit School D4

School District
$3,992,834

Urbana Free Library
Library District
N/A

Valley View Community Unit School D365U

School District
$243,418,494

Waukegan Public School District 60

School District
$115,464,033

West Aurora D129
School District
$123,333,982

West Chicago CHSD 94
School District
N/A

Westmont Community Unit School D201

School District
$28,166,450

Wheatland Township
Township
N/A

Wheaton Community Unit School D200
School District
$213,690,094

Wheaton Park District
Park District
$30,435,159

Illinois Policy Institute - Who's Posting Expenditures Online in Illinois?

Kane appointment stirs controversy :: Beacon News :: Local News

Kane County’s Board also has issues regarding appointments by their county chairman.  Might there be a teaching moment here for Boone County?

Committee members [of a county board subcommittee] requested that language be added to the resolution saying that the Kane County Board should have the final say on whoever is appointed to the Board of Review.

Click on the following for more information:  Kane appointment stirs controversy :: Beacon News :: Local News

Scott to run for sixth term as sheriff | Daily Chronicle

Sheriff of DeKalb County pushes to end the $120,000 net income which Boone County receives for use of the jail in Belvidere.

If a revenue source could be found, Scott said, he would push for a new jail. The jail is constantly at capacity, he said, and the county spent $600,000 in 2008 to send prisoners to jails in surrounding counties.

Read the rest of the story by clicking on the following:  Scott to run for sixth term as sheriff | Daily Chronicle

Another disclaimer: The following is NOT from this Boone County Watchdog

The following comment was taken from the Rockford Register Star article:  http://www.rrstar.com/boone/x1564859914/County-Board-hopefuls-invited-to-discuss-vacancy

 

Boone_county_watch_dog

15 minutes ago

Report Abuse

Well! Here we go again! I think emmazamom needs to get THINK FIRST, then WRITE! First, The Chairman of County Board IS the leader and was voted in by a majority of County Board. Second, this seat we are talking about needs to be filled by a Republican and how can we be sure if Kathy Wards boy, Dana Lapier is even a Republican, since he tells people to support Democrats - he cant be trusted to vote on Republican values. The most important question I have to ask you, is WHY WOULD ANYONE choose to support Mr. Lapier, who when he had his opportunity to serve on the County Board, chose to MISS half of the meetings leaving the people with NO REPRESENTATION!!!!! Oh and last but not least, Teri Glass who cant even remember which side of bed she got up on said after the last vote that this is a Republican problem and she was going to stay out of it, is now right in the heart of things again. But I guess she cant make up her mind whether she is in or out I really find it hard to see how she can even vote on any issue when she cant make up her mind which is right.

Board hopefuls asked to discuss seat - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Well—what do you think will this solve the impasse? 

 

County Board member Terri Glass sent letters Wednesday to the eight candidates interested in assuming the vacant seat, inviting them to attend Monday’s Administrative and Legislative Committee agenda, a committee she chairs, to discuss the District 2 Republican board vacancy.
It was done to help alleviate a growing issue, she said.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Board hopefuls asked to discuss seat - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

The Belvidere Daily Republican. - Belvidere reviews city’s sobering financial figures

Just like the county—the City of Belvidere is facing a large deficit for the current fiscal year.   Both will be doing little to reduce the deficit until next year—Belvidere’s fiscal year ends April 30, 2010—Boone  County’s November 30, 2009. 

Nobody imagined the review would point to staggering gains; but the reality the city may face if the worst case scenario is realized – a $1.2 million deficit at year’s end on April 30, 2010 – was a lot for the aldermen to digest.

The memo showed the current year to date revenues for the major sources would be off an average of just over $13.5 percent. For example, the leading losing category is sales tax, which was projected to come in just under $900,000, but is coming in at just under $700,000, a drop off of more than 21 percent.

 

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  The Belvidere Daily Republican. - Belvidere reviews city’s sobering financial figures

Take a look at the following  for the actual report which was given to city council regarding the huge short fall.

Mayor Brereton’s 7-23-2009 Memo forecasts a $1,184,091 deficit

     Click to enlarge photocopy:

 

City of Belvidere: Financial Status

Cops not immune to economic downturns :: The Courier News :: Local News

 

hiring freeze on all city departments has been in effect since last year, when city officials eliminated 54 positions over the course of the next year in response to projected declines in revenue and increasing expenses.

The impact on the police department was a cut in more specialized departments, such as elimination of the DARE program and cuts in the Crime-Free Housing Unit so officers could be assigned to street patrol.

At the Police Training Institute in Champaign -- the state's biggest law enforcement academy -- enrollment went from 538 in the 2008 fiscal year to 296 the next year.

Cops not immune to economic downturns :: The Courier News :: Local News

Illinois home forelosures highest in Chicago area -- chicagotribune.com

 

Foreclosure activity was up 15 percent in the Rockford area and 40 percent in the metro area that includes Rock Island and Moline and Davenport, Iowa.
Increases are blamed on growing unemployment rather than risky mortgages.

Illinois home forelosures highest in Chicago area -- chicagotribune.com

A day of reckoning for Bush's 'torture' lawyers | csmonitor.com

 

Eric Holder must decide whether to pursue Bush administration lawyers and one sitting federal judge who set the legal stage for officially sanctioned torture and other degrading practices that violated fundamental principles of international law. As Mr. Holder wrestles with this decision, he must consider the gold standard set by his predecessor Robert Jackson at Nuremberg.

But Holder should recall the testimony of William Keitel, the ranking officer of the German Army: "I took the stand that a soldier has a right to have confidence in his state leadership, and accordingly he is obliged to do his duty and to obey." The Nuremberg tribunal sentenced Keitel to death by hanging.

A day of reckoning for Bush's 'torture' lawyers | csmonitor.com

Recession may be over, but its effects will linger -- chicagotribune.com

 

The Chicago and Cleveland regions both entered the current recession in the third quarter of 2007, well before much of the rest of the country. Both have been hit particularly hard. And neither area can expect to recover ahead of the nation as a whole.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Recession may be over, but its effects will linger -- chicagotribune.com

Business Journal | Business tough for area Hispanics

 

the seasonally adjusted national unemployment rate for Latinos and Hispanics last month was 12.2 percent, 2.7 percentage points higher than the national average.

The consequences of the recession have been far-reaching for suburban Hispanics, affecting businesses, consumer spending habits and residential housing.

Budget cuts have left many social service programs with a limited ability to help those families in need.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Business Journal | Business tough for area Hispanics

Northwest Herald | D-300 hears wind farm proposal

 

District 300 [Carpentersville –Hampshire]  is currently a member of an informal School Wind Consortium that also includes Keeneyville District 20 and Prospect Heights District 23. In that group, the districts work together to investigate opportunities and legislation to make a wind farm “legally and financially feasible” for them.

Under the proposal before the board, the trio would formalize their efforts by agreeing to an intergovernmental agreement. The districts would then work together to explore building a 10-turbine wind farm downstate. Any spending from the district would have to come back to the board for another vote.

The money – an estimated $2 million a year after six years – made from the wind farm would be used to offset the district’s energy costs. A private investor would have control of the farm for the first six years and benefit from certain tax incentives, a move that would remove any out-of-pocket costs for the district.

 

Northwest Herald | D-300 hears wind farm proposal

Boone County Taxpayers Association Addressees Unemployment in our Community

The Boone County Taxpayers Association (BCTA) is hosting an informational meeting for all of the unemployed and dislocated workers in Boone County. There is no cost for this program, and everyone is welcome to attend.
The BCTA meeting will be held on July 30, 2009 at Belvidere Township Hall, Fairgrounds Road, at 7 PM. The doors will open at 6:30 PM. Our speakers for the evening will be Sue Carmichael and members of her staff from the Rock Valley College Dislocated workers program. They will provide us with information on all of the existing workers assistance program that are available to our community and advise us on how to take advantage of them. We will also discuss stimulus programs and how they may help us. Local officials and other authorities regarding this subject are also invited to attend this meeting in order to generate ideas and positive discussion to give our unemployed the help they need. Please invite your friends and neighbors who may currently be unemployed and in need of this type of information.
We hope to see numerous members of the public join us on July 30, 2009, to learn about and to take advantage of these unemployed worker programs.
Please click on the link below to review the Rockford college dislocated workers program brochure for more information.
Click here: Rock Valley College Brochure
Sincerely, Diann Helnore,
Director, Boone County Taxpayer Association

 

Economists: Winnebago County wage hikes deceiving - - BusinessRockford.com

Winnebago County’s 3.1 percent wage increase topped the national average, which was 2.2 percent

That likely means the average wage got a bump because of cuts in the work force, not pay increases.

Joel Cowen, dean of health systems research at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, said he’d expect the average wage to decrease as the bureau releases new data.

“The fourth quarter is usually somewhat favorable,” he said. “When they get into 2009, I’d expect to see that get a bit lower.”

Click on the following for the rest of he story:  Economists: Winnebago County wage hikes deceiving - - BusinessRockford.com

Rockton to add clause favoring local bids - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

 

The clause will award a Rockton-based company the project if the bid is within 2 percent of the lowest bid.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Rockton to add clause favoring local bids - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Is 'Cash for Clunkers' for Chumps? - ABC News

 

when automobile dealers across the country began the certification process this morning, the federal computer system they logged into crashed due to the overwhelming demand, ABC Denver affiliate KMGH reported today.

Is 'Cash for Clunkers' for Chumps? - ABC News

States Where the Unemployed Are Giving Up - US News and World Report

 

higher unemployment rates and lousier job markets alone don't explain the high rates of discouragement.

Several things could nudge job seekers toward hopelessness: negative media coverage of the job market; unsuccessful job searches among friends and family; their own long-term unemployment

no openings matching their skill set within their geographical area, Krolik says. If workers own homes they can't sell, their ability to move for a new job is severely limited.

4.4 million job seekers nationwide out of work

for more than 27 weeks or more in June

States Where the Unemployed Are Giving Up - US News and World Report

Daily Herald | Aurora announces furlough days, wage freeze

 

cuts will apply to roughly 200 of the city's more than 1,100 employees, but Weisner said similar sacrifices will be required from all the city's unions to minimize layoffs and reduce the impact on city services.

Daily Herald | Aurora announces furlough days, wage freeze

Herald & Review | News: Lottery sales continue to climb during recession

 

Ticket sales were up a little more than 1 percent over the year before, for the fiscal year ending in June. That meant Illinoisans bought almost $2.1 billion worth of lottery tickets, setting a sales record.
Still, because of the timing of some payouts and other issues, profits for the state lottery were down nearly 5 percent last year. That means less money brought in for the state.

Herald & Review | News: Lottery sales continue to climb during recession

Metro jobless rate ties 25-year high - - BusinessRockford.com

More than 25,000 people were unemployed in Boone and Winnebago counties,

Metro jobless rate ties 25-year high - - BusinessRockford.com

AP IMPACT: Cash-strapped states raid 911 funds - Yahoo! News

A complete accounting of how 911 money is spent in all states is not available, partly because most of the money dispatch centers get is funneled to them by counties. The Federal Communications Commission has been collecting information from the states at the request of Congress, and is expected to report its findings soon.

In Wisconsin, a new 75-cent monthly fee was supposed to pay for ongoing 911 operations and improvements. When the state's deficit grew, the state decided to divert $100 million in the next two years to local governments to reduce pressure to raise property taxes.

AP IMPACT: Cash-strapped states raid 911 funds - Yahoo! News

Unemployment in Chicago area reaches 11.3 percent :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Business

worst jobless rate was reported in the Rockford area, at 14 percent.

Chicago metropolitan area continued to surge in June, reaching 11.3 percent

Unemployment in Chicago area reaches 11.3 percent :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Business

Anthony Dini’s Journal of the month’s happenings at County Board

This should in “no way” be considered an endorsement of Mr. Dini’s views.  I just believe that both sides should be presented.  I really wish someone for the “other six” also had a newsletter.

The following quotes are taken  from Anthony Dini’s July newsletter is available at:  http://02ce361.netsolhost.com/images/July_2009.pdf

Below are some notable quotes from Mr. Dini: 

Budget:  (I voted to NOT reopen
it). The board has a huge task ahead of us to focus on closing the gap
for the 2010 budget. The county is fortunate to have a “nest egg” of
extra money that has been collected in previous taxing years. This
money should be used now to assist during these difficult times, to
ensure no interruption of service to our residents.

The Failed Board Approval of Mr. Mace and Dr. O’Malley:  “For … the 6
voting against these appointments (WITH NO VALID ARGUMENT), put your
personal agendas aside, grow up, and do your job!”

 

Board of Health:  “The money paid for alcoholic beverages [by the Search Committee ] was reimbursed to the county by
one of the individuals, ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS.
Please note:
1. The incident in question is over – the money has been paid back.
2. This situation is NOT a violation of the county ethics code.
3. Members of the Board of Health are NOT employees of the county;
they are volunteers that bring a tremendous amount of resources and
knowledge to this board, in an effort to assist our county.”

Chrysler to boost cash-for-clunkers deal | Freep.com | Detroit Free Press

 

Chrysler will offer up to $4,500 cash or 0% financing for 72 months through GMAC Financial Services on most 2009 model vehicles. These incentives are valid through Aug. 31, 2009.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Chrysler to boost cash-for-clunkers deal | Freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Daily Herald | Workers sue Home Depot to get overtime

Three former employees - Gary Ottaviano of Far Northwest suburban Marengo, Jenny Macias of Far Southwest suburban Shorewood, and Cruz Plaza of Algonquin were all assistant store managers who Home Depot said were exempt from state overtime laws.

Home Depot's policy, according to the suit, was to fire assistant store managers if they worked less than 11 hours a day. The assistant store managers were also not paid overtime during their training period of two to eight weeks.

Though they were considered managers, the assistant store managers had no power to hire or fire employees, and had no input to staffing.

The suit estimates there are hundreds if not thousands of people who would qualify for the legal class as assistant store managers.

 

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Daily Herald | Workers sue Home Depot to get overtime

Sen. Burzynski to hold meeting for seniors - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

special senior citizen town hall meeting from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday at The Keen Age Center, 2141 Henry Luckow Lane.

Sen. Burzynski to hold meeting for seniors - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

In Manhattan, an Increase in Vacant Stores, With More to Come - NYTimes.com

 

Some of the more desirable shopping districts are littered with empty storefronts. For example, Fifth Avenue between 42nd Street and 49th Street, the stretch just south of Saks Fifth Avenue, has a vacancy rate of 15.3 percent

vacancy rates in Brooklyn and Queens, currently at 7 to 10 percent, will rise to 12 to 15 percent by year’s end. He said some neighborhoods have been ravaged by vacancy rates of 25 to 40 percent.

In Manhattan, an Increase in Vacant Stores, With More to Come - NYTimes.com

Small Boone foundation aims for big philanthropy - - BusinessRockford.com

“Over the next several decades, there will be a tremendous transfer of wealth. We’re establishing a vehicle (by) which people can accomplish philanthropic goals.”said Rob Funderburg

Other founders include longtime Belvidere auto dealer Jack Wolf, attorneys Kurt Tobin and Richard Van Evera, and former Alpine Bank executives Jim Cox and John Crone.

Small Boone foundation aims for big philanthropy - - BusinessRockford.com

Program seeks cash for local projects - - BusinessRockford.com

your input is needed before a 70-page application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration is submitted next week.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Program seeks cash for local projects - - BusinessRockford.com

Approve plan for audit of Federal Reserve

In the name of transparency and openness a full audit of the Federal Reserve should be available. 

 

Currently, there are bills in the House - HR1207 - and the Senate - S604 - that call for a full and complete audit of the Federal Reserve. The legislation would legally obligate the bank to tell Congress exactly how much money has been given out - in the trillions - to whom it has been given and on what terms.

This letter is a call to action for Dick Durbin to cosponsor S 604.

Click on the following for more of the story:   Approve plan for audit of Federal Reserve

BLOGS across Illinois talk of Representative Franks’ (Crystal Lake) $1.3 million for 2010 Run for Governor

Just so you know Helen Lindow is Jack’s aunt.

Jack Franks (D) “a player” for Gov? Check the D-2’s »

By mcpundit on Jul 18, 2009 in Illinois Governor | 2 Comments

What’s that old saying, “Perception, is  9/10th’s of reality?  Getting momentum for a race for Governor, is a lot about being perceived as being a “player”.  . . which means being able to raise lots of money.

Capital Fax calls Rep.  Jack Franks,  (D), who is considering a run for Illinois Governor, a “player”, because he has just reported raising a little over $1.3 million in the first 6 months; indicating just a part of that $1.3 million was a $150,000 loan to himself.

That seemed an impressive amount of money raised in 6 months.

However, if you look at the D-2’s; here’s where over $1 million of the $1.3 million came from.

$150,000  Loaned to himself

$250,000 Contributed to Jack Franks from his father

$450,000 Contributed to Jack Franks from his mother

$200,000 Contributed to Jack Franks from his wife

Makes one a bit curious to see what the relationship is to the other two contributors listed; Real Estate Broker Steven Kling, who contributed $100,000, and Helen Lindow, owner, Lindow’s Appliance, who contributed $50,000.

Rep. Jack Frank’s father, Herbert H. Franks, is a trial lawyer.  One might call him, “a player”.

Ah, perception

Retail thefts here soar as economy slumps :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Business

Chicago experienced a 9.6 percent increase in retail thefts in 2008 from 2007, to 11,289 incidents from 10,300, mirroring a national trend of increased shoplifting during a period of tough economic times

The economy didn't create more thieves. It's just that the market is flourishing for deals, including for goods that people in illicit activity sell for far below what a legitimate retailer would charge,"

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Retail thefts here soar as economy slumps :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Business

Budget deal not clear-cut on social services - Springfield, IL - The State Journal-Register

 

The budget, which Quinn signed Wednesday, promises cuts of 13 percent instead of 50 percent in grants to service providers. But that’s an average — he could end up giving some programs full funding and slashing others more deeply.

Budget deal not clear-cut on social services - Springfield, IL - The State Journal-Register

Lawyers picked for county budget fight :: Beacon News :: Local News

Wow—An elected county official suing the County Board—If Boone County had re-opened its budget do you think this would have happened here? 

Aurora-based law firm Mickey, Wilson, Renzi, Weiler & Andersson agreed to represent Circuit Clerk Deborah Seyller, as she considers a lawsuit against the County Board after it cut $248,200 from her budget in May.

Click on the following to read the rest of the story:  Lawyers picked for county budget fight :: Beacon News :: Local News

Ms. Seyller has a news release regarding her legal action.  Click on the PDF image on the Beacon article to read her statement. 

Northwest Herald | Marengo mulls 2nd business incentive

Karsten’s Service Center for expanding its auto shop business in town.

Karsten’s incentive deal included a four-year city sales tax rebate of 10 percent, plus a five-year tiered property tax abatement on net new assessments. If approved, the entertainment center would receive the same types of incentives but for three years each, as determined by program qualifications.

Northwest Herald | Marengo mulls 2nd business incentive

DeKalb County better for Amtrak than Boone County | Daily Chronicle

Letter to the editor from:  

Bonnie Hanson
Executive Director
Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce

The study found CN route operating cost $100,000 annually less expensive compared to the route through Belvidere

CN Route offers faster service, ridership was 39 percent higher than the Belvidere routing, and the CN route will be much easier to implement since negotiating and managing an operating agreement would be with only one railroad instead of multiple entities.

there has been no regional consensus to change from the most cost effective CN Route. There have been no open meetings or hearings those along the CN Route were made aware of regarding changing from the superior CN route.

Rockford will receive the same or better service from the CN route, and the Belvidere City limits are only about six miles from the Rockford east side station at Alpine planned on the CN routing

 

Read the complete letter by clicking on the following:  DeKalb County better for Amtrak than Boone County | Daily Chronicle

Daily Herald | Social-service groups waiting for details on future cuts

 

Social-service providers say that instead of a 50-percent cut in funding, they're looking at cuts in the 10 percent to 14 percent range.

And 14 percent is still a brutal cut, providers say. Right now, they have no idea what programs will fall victim to Quinn's knife.

Daily Herald | Social-service groups waiting for details on future cuts

Rockton awaits sewer-project guidance - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Trustees approved an agreement in February that will have Chemtool Inc. give the village $2 million to invest in the Chemtool Tax Increment Financing district’s infrastructure.The village will guarantee Chemtool Inc. owner James Athans at least half of the money, $1 million, to be returned over an unspecified length of time

So far Chemtool has hired about 30 Rockton area residents, he said.

Click on he following for the rest of the story:  Rockton awaits sewer-project guidance - Rockford, IL – Rocford Register Star

Illinois’s Unemployment Insurance Fund Goes Broke - ProPublica

 The roughly $34.7 million Illinois has borrowed so far pales in comparison to the unemployment insurance debt of states like neighboring Michigan, which has borrowed $2.2 billion so far.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Illinois’s Unemployment Insurance Fund Goes Broke - ProPublica

Northwest Herald | Social service agencies need state budget numbers

Social Services are closing.

The budget hastily approved Wednesday evening restores funding for social service agencies to 86 percent of last fiscal year

McHenry County Youth Service Bureau has laid off staff and shut down a program for delinquent children, Executive Director Sue Krause said. A second one that she intended to shut down is operating at six hours a week, thanks to current and former employees volunteering to run it without pay.

300 Pioneer Center clients who will lose his job unless state funding is restored

Northwest Herald | Social service agencies need state budget numbers

Genoa starts push for Amtrak service :: The Courier News :: Local News

Here are some of the facts from others involved in the train issue.

Geneo City Administrator Joe Misurelli said: “ An independent Amtrak study showed that the DeKalb County route is the best route,"

Misurelli added that while Belvidere officials say it would cost $60 million for the Amtrak line to run through Belvidere, the Amtrak study states it would cost $32 million for the line to run through Genoa.

"With the state in the shape that it's in, why spend $30 million more?" Misurelli questioned.

 

Click on the following to read the rest of the story:  Genoa starts push for Amtrak service :: The Courier News :: Local News

Record Drop in State Tax Revenues, Study Finds - NYTimes.com

That will force states — many of which are already raising taxes or fees, resorting to layoffs or furloughing employees — to come up with more ways to raise or save money

Record Drop in State Tax Revenues, Study Finds - NYTimes.com

Unemployment tops 10 percent in 15 states in June - Yahoo! News

14 states where unemployment topped 10 percent last month were: Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Tennessee

Unemployment tops 10 percent in 15 states in June - Yahoo! News

Automakers seek battery ties as cars go electric | Green Business | Reuters

 

Auto executives say that with fewer moving parts, easy-to-assemble electric cars may also lower the bar for entry into the cut-throat autos industry and make battery manufacturers the unlikely competitors for car giants

bad news for automakers whose expertise lies in the complex task of fitting together thousands of components into a safe and reliable vehicle

Some see the shift to electric cars turning the auto industry into something resembling the PC sector, where Intel Corp and Microsoft Corp, which supply key devices across PC brands, take the lion's share of the industry profit

Automakers seek battery ties as cars go electric | Green Business | Reuters

Democrats Cut Labor Provision Unions Sought - NYTimes.com

Signed card provision weakened—elections would have to be held within five or 10 days after 30 percent of workers signed cards favoring having a union

“Our goals,” the official said, “have always been letting employees have a real choice, having real penalties against employers who break the law in fighting unions, and having some form of binding arbitration to prevent employers from dragging their feet forever to prevent reaching a contract.”

Democrats Cut Labor Provision Unions Sought - NYTimes.com

State of Illinois Capital Plan—Who gets what.

 

The above appear in July 17, 2009 Rockford Register Star, page 4B.

Boone County sues to crimp gang activity - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

 

Courier to use the Illinois Street Gang Terrorism Omnibus Prevention Act

Courier’s office is also looking for the gang to pay more than $50,000 in damages to be paid to offset law enforcement costs of fighting gangs.

Once you serve them with the civil complaint, they have 30 days to respond,” Courier said. “If they don’t respond within 30 days, I could notice up a motion for default and have an order entered against them to allow me to get all of the items I’m seeking. If they do respond, I’ll notice up the case for status. If they do contest, they may request civil discovery and ultimately, the case will be set for trial."

Boone County sues to crimp gang activity - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Belvidere/Boone County BLOG

I wish all my readers to know that here is a new blog out there with at least one posting on it.  Note this blog does has ad’s to pay his way. 

Click on the following to see the new blog:  Belvidere/Boone County BLOG

Moody's puts Illinois bond ratings on watch for downgrade table} -- chicagotribune.com

 

Dow Jones) - Moody's Investors Service on Thursday put the state of Illinois's general-obligation bond ratings on review for possible downgrade, saying the state has long-term budgetary challenges

Moody's puts Illinois bond ratings on watch for downgrade table} -- chicagotribune.com

Boone County Board rejects chairman’s 2nd nominee - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Just to let everyone know—this posting on the Rockford Register Star Blog is not me.   BILL P. 

Boone_county_watch_dog

6 hours ago

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This childish game has gone on long enough. The residents of District 2 need representation. I see us only having 2 out of 4 right now with Cathy Ward out in left field some where. It is very evident that Cathy cant play well in sand box. She reminds me of children that cant have their way, so they take their toys and go home. We need good leadership during these tough times. Bob Wahlberg has put up 2 fine candidates that could do well representing us, but Cathy Ward and her band of little babies want it their way or they wont play well. What happened to the fact that this appointment is Bob Wahlbergs to make. Cathy- wake up and smell the coffee!
We, the residents, are tired of your childish ways. Maybe Pat Mattison and Kathy Hartwig should resign since they were also appointed for the same reason they ran and received the most votes during the previous election. So, if that philosophy isnt correct they should be gone as well!! Cathy, your time is coming and we the people will speak at the polls, and you can then sit in the bleachers in left field and watch as government moves on without you

Boone County Board rejects chairman’s 2nd nominee - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Northwest Herald | Port Barrington puts entire PoliceDept on leave

 

The village of Port Barrington put its entire police force on administrative leave Wednesday night after Police Chief Ronald Chan requested that the board provide health insurance to his full-time commander and work out some overtime payment issues.

Northwest Herald | Port Barrington puts entire PD on leave

Daley lays off more than 400 city workers after deadline passes | Clout Street - local political coverage

 

Mayor Richard Daley's administration today laid off more than 400 city workers after two unions did not agree to cost-cutting measures before a 5 p.m. deadline

Daley lays off more than 400 city workers after deadline passes | Clout Street - local political coverage

Daily Herald | Lawmakers call for tighter rules for red-light cameras

Cameras: State senator plans reform legislation next year

The original legislation allowing red-light cameras in the suburbs passed with no opposition in the House and a narrow victory margin in the Senate.

Daily Herald | Lawmakers call for tighter rules for red-light cameras

China’s Economy Regains Robust Pace of Growth - NYTimes.com

 

China’s economy grew by 7.9 percent in the second quarter of this year, the government said Thursday, a surprisingly strong showing given the world economic crisis.

In China, strong auto and housing sales, a soaring stock market and solid retail sales have helped renew confidence here.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  China’s Economy Regains Robust Pace of Growth - NYTimes.com

South Beloit mayor: ‘We will have a balanced budget’. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By Katie Backman RRSTAR.COM Posted Jul 15, 2009 @ 01:41 PM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOUTH BELOIT — .South Beloit leaders suggest postponing some fire and police equipment expenses to the next fiscal year in an attempt to narrow the $750,000 shortfall in the 2009-10 budget. The shortfall is a result of the city’s dipping sales-tax revenues for the past two years. Sales tax would normally generate $1.2 million but is expect this year to only generate $925,000. The city has about two months before the budget needs to be submitted to the state. Several commissioners suggested at Tuesday’s budget meeting removing the $25,000 for a new Police Department squad car. The squad car they want to replace still is functional and safe and it could be in the best interest of the city budget to wait a year, Commissioner Bob Stone said. Squad cars typically last three or four years and reach more than 100,000 miles. The oldest squad car is an early 2000 model. Elected officials also will review the Police Department budget of $72,100 overtime. For fiscal 2008-09, the department budgeted $70,000 of overtime and the actual expenditure was $62,413. The proposed cost of overtime can be cut, Mayor Randy Kirichkow said. The nature of the job requires overtime, but that amount is a high projection, he said. Police Chief Tom Fearn agrees, but says “creating a budget is like looking in a crystal ball, we try to project what might happen.” Police officers work 12-hour shifts, which is 80 hours per two weeks, he said. The city is having a budget shortfall and the department is willing to be flexible, Fearn said. Commissioners also are considering eliminating funding for new Fire Department extrication equipment, which costs about $28,960. Fire Chief Ken Morse said during a June meeting the department could benefit from new extrication equipment because its lighter and easier to manage. However, the existing equipment still is functional. Elected officials also suggested trimming the city’s portion of an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant. The city must show it has the funding to cover the OSLAD park project, but eventually the grant will reimburse about 50 percent of the project’s costs to the city. City leaders had allocated about $450,000 for the grant. Commissioner Pam Clifton suggested making payments for the grant instead of allocating the entire cost. City leaders lowered the grant allocation to $150,000. South Beloit might implement a $500 fee for video-poker machines. The city had 44 machines, but one gas station removed the games during remodeling. Now the city has 36 machines. The annual fee would generate about $18,000. Another possible fee increase would be an annual charge for residential garbage collection. The city pays about $266,000 for garbage collection and a $2 to $3 fee could generate about $75,000. Factoring in all of the proposed cuts and increases, the city’s shortfall is at about $250,214, Kirichkow said. He said the city could still remove all the grant funding, which would bring the shortfall to $100,214. “We will have a balanced budget,” Kirichkow said. “There are some areas that can be cut.” Staff writer Katie Backman can be reached at kbackman@rrstar.com or 815-987-1369. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Boone expects $800K shortfall over 2 years - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Today it’s more like $800,000 over two years,” he said of the shortfall Monday. “It’s going to be tough.”
Terrinoni estimates the county will have an operating deficit of at least $219,113 for the 2009, not including 2009 backpay checks that need to be issued for 2008 at a minimum of $200,000

 

 

Click on the following for more details of the story: 

Boone expects $800K shortfall over 2 years - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Android to reopen in Belvidere - - BusinessRockford.com

 

Michigan-based Android Industries is “tentatively scheduled” to reopen its Belvidere plant on July 27, according to a voice mail on the company’s telephone line.

Android to reopen in Belvidere - - BusinessRockford.com

Part-Time Patrols Not an Option By Rebecca Osterberg, Boone County Journal, July 10, 2009

Part-Time
Patrols
Not an Option
By Rebecca Osterberg
Finances were a large part of the discussion at the Boone
County’s Public Safety Committee meeting on Monday.
“We are holding back on quite a few things,” said
Boone County Administrator Ken Terrinoni. “The Sheriff’s
Department is at 57 percent [of budget expenditures and
revenue] for the past year. That includes the back pay that
was paid this year, so the sheriff is doing great.”
Terrinoni was commenting on Boone County Sheriff
Duane Wirth and his efforts to meet the county’s request to
keep a tight rein on the budget.
“I don’t know about how we’re trending, but we are
going to be behind with two deputies out for health/surgical
reasons,” said Lt. Phil Beu.
Boone County Board Representative Danny Anderson
(District 3) asked if the part-time deputies were being used
and if it helps with overtime.
“We have used them as much as we can,” Beu said.
Wirth explained that part of the problem with scheduling
part-time employees is a concern for liability. “They have
to work at least 16 hours a month,” said Wirth. “That is
something we have to do.”
Committee members also asked about the Sheriff’s
Patrol. Wirth noted that those officers are required to train,
riding alongside other deputies. “We have redone our rules
and regulations. We have also appointed an officer over the
patrols,” said Wirth.
County Board Representative Anthony Dini (District 2)
asked how long it takes to hire and work up a new deputy.
Wirth replied that it takes several months, including training.
Dini’s concern was that the department will be down by at
least three officers. “I just don’t want to be down 37 and
then 36 and then not have enough,” said Dini.
“Have you ever looked at more part-time people,” asked
Boone County Board Representative Cathy Ward (District
2).
“I have, but in doing that, I want to maintain the stability
of the Boone County Sheriff’s office,” said Wirth. “I have
never hired one. That was done before I came on. They are
a real asset. It is a liability issue.”
According to Lt. Beu, the union that represents deputies
indicated that they would not allow any more part-time
deputies to put on.
“Was it written in the contract that there wouldn’t be any
more part-time?” asked county board Representative Karl
Johnson (District 2), to which Beu responded, “No.”
“Then tough bananas,” said Johnson, and he added, “Not
to begrudge the full-time deputies, but if it’s a way to save
money.”
Beu expressed concern over hiring part-time deputies.
Those concerns included the resignation of full-timers the
county has paid to have trained and a perceived lack of
professionalism and certification of part-time employees.
“They have to have the same training as a full-time
deputy,” said Dini.
Ward was concerned about the suggestion that full-time
employees would quit if more part-time deputies were hired.
“I hope you’re not saying that all the full-time deputies
would do that,” said Ward.
Wirth noted his concerns. “They [part time deputies]
aren’t in the field as much, they don’t have the experience,”
Wirth said. “It’s kind of like having a part-time doctor or
a part-time nurse...you wouldn’t want them working on
you.”
“Point well taken,” said Johnson, “but we need to
consider ways to save for 2010. We need to look outside
the box and if that’s a way, let’s hope the union issues don’t
come to that.”
County board Chairman Bob Walberg (District 1) added
his concerns. “That’s the first step to breaking the union is
bringing in part-time people,” said Walberg. “I don’t know
if it’s a closed shop or an open shop, but you’re probably
lucky to have the two you have.”
Wirth noted that lawsuits in Boone County were low
compared with other municipalities. “We are already
starting to get complaints because we can’t put the overtime
out there,” said Wirth. “We have a lot of calls. We are
continually going. There are things to be doing that we
aren’t. We just don’t have the money. I’m not seeing abuse
of squads. I’m not seeing any other abuses. We are holding
off on training. We have a lot of new officers and they need
the training. I know we need to save money, but I’m telling
you that the liability, as a board, is on you. I’m doing the
best I can with what you give me.”

Daily Herald | Willow Creek Church joins Habitat in rehabbing houses

Habitat for Humanity is shifting its focus to rehabbing. In this housing market, rehabbing makes a lot of sense. It is not only good economic development but also good for the community.

Click on the following to read the rest of the story:  Daily Herald | Willow Creek Church joins Habitat in rehabbing houses

Northwest Herald | Marengo council to vote Monday on TIF district proposal

 

consultant to provide a tax increment financing district study, as well as the awarding of the city’s first business incentive since that program began last year.

Northwest Herald | Marengo council to vote Monday on TIF district proposal

Daley appeals to 3 hold-out unions to agree to cuts :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: City Hall

 

Struggling to close a threatened, $300 million year-end budget gap, City Hall sent out layoff notices last months to 1,504 city employees. But, 40 unions have since agreed to: take 24 unpaid furlough days through June 30, 2011; convert all city holidays -- nine for hourly employees and 12 for those with monthly salaries -- to unpaid days and substitute comp time for cash overtime.

warned the three holdout unions that layoffs would be confined to their 650 members if they refuse to cut the same deal by July 15.

Daley appeals to 3 hold-out unions to agree to cuts :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: City Hall

6,000 Criminals Could Be Released From Stateville Prison In Joliet, Illinois By Governor Pat Quinn - cbs2chicago.com

Director Michael Randle was mum on his plans for Stateville today, he did give union leaders a list of more than 500 layoffs effective by Sept. 30th.

The proposed prisoner release stems from plans to lay off more than 1,000 corrections workers at Stateville Prison and a half-dozen facilities downstate.

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  6,000 Criminals Could Be Released From Stateville Prison In Joliet, Illinois By Governor Pat Quinn - cbs2chicago.com

Daily Herald | Illinois casinos beat the odds with tighter slot machines

Illinois' nine casinos have managed to make 20 percent more cash from gamblers despite a 13 percent drop in visits between 2000 and 2007.

Many gambling addiction specialists worry the same technology that lures gamblers to tight video slots may also be more addictive.

moored riverboats are rolling out more and more slot machines designed for a better house advantage as declining foot traffic threatens profits.

Daily Herald | Illinois casinos beat the odds with tighter slot machines

Business Journal | Sears Centre in talks with Hoffman Estates

 

The 11,800-seat, multipurpose facility, which opened in 2006, is experiencing the same attendance declines affecting similar venues, but with one crucial difference – the Sears Centre has private owners

very substantial tax bill that really kicks butt and hurts.”

The original 2005 agreement allows the village to assume control of the arena should Ryan default on the loan.

Business Journal | Sears Centre in talks with Hoffman Estates

Northwest Herald | Crystal Lake passes stimulus package

 

…retailers that produce at least $10,000 in sales taxes could agree on a base sales tax figure with the city. Money brought in above that amount could be used to repay the business for public improvements, expansion, redevelopment and marketing

…Targeted Development Zones approved by the City Council along Route 14 and Route 31 are aimed at encouraging redevelopment along those corridors. Businesses within the zones would be allowed to waive half of their city review, permit and inspection fees for commercial improvements valued at more than $250,000.

…gift certificate incentives for back-to-school shopping of $300 and car purchases of more than $10,000. The gift certificates, worth up to $250, can be used at any retail outlet in Crystal Lake.

Northwest Herald | Crystal Lake passes stimulus package

Genoa puts brakes on Amtrak plan - - BusinessRockford.com

State transportation officials — who will make the ultimate call — say they’re no longer sure whether the route should go through Belvidere or Genoa.

regional consensus,” he said. “Does that mean that if one community in the mix objects, (IDOT is) going to unplug

Click on the following for the rest of the story:  Genoa puts brakes on Amtrak plan - - BusinessRockford.com

Anderson Gardens tops in North America - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

 

The overall quality of its construction and maintenance is what separates Anderson Japanese Gardens from the others

Anderson Gardens tops in North America - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star