SPRINGFIELD – A measure that would give Cook County taxpayers the ability to easily access public records was signed into law *insert date.*

State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) is the lead sponsor of the initiative.

“Hardworking taxpayers deserve to know how their money is being spent,” Hastings said. “I am proud to have partnered with my former Senate colleague and friend to strengthen government transparency in Cook County.”

Senate Bill 583 would include the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County under the Local Records Act, providing greater transparency to the public regarding how the clerk’s office uses its public funds. The Circuit Court Clerk’s Office is a non-judicial office of the judiciary and not a local government or public body currently subject to FOIA.

Additionally, the legislation requires all clerks of circuit courts to accept credit card payments over the internet for fines, penalties, court costs and other costs, providing convenience for a county’s citizens when paying fines and fees.

“As we move forward from the previous administration, it’s important to regain public trust in the clerk’s office by being more transparent, and this is one of the first steps we’re taking to do that,” said Iris Y. Martinez, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. “I’m thankful to my former colleague, Senator Hastings, for assisting our office to better serve the public.”

This measure is effective immediately.

PARK FOREST – State Senators Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort), Elgie Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), and Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) are inviting local minority contractors to participate in an informational discussion to learn how to conduct business with the Illinois Capital Development Board.

The virtual workshop will take place Thursday, Aug. 12 at 9 a.m.

“In order to foster a successful business climate and improve infrastructure conditions in our state, we need all hands on deck,” Hastings said. “This event is designed to give everyone a seat at the table. We need to work together to grow the state’s economy and provide residents with good paying jobs.”

At the workshop, the Capital Development Board will provide information to architecture, engineering and construction firms about the process of registering as a vendor, becoming prequalified to bid on CDB projects, and strategies for partnering to complete some of the $45 billion worth of projects statewide funded through the Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan.

“Sustainable development is the pathway to the future that we want for everyone,” said Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). “We have to ensure that we are providing a fair and inclusive environment to support diversity efforts in the construction industries. This way we develop a framework that generates economic growth for the entire state.”

“Championing minority-owned businesses is crucial to uplifting our communities,” Joyce said. “I encourage local contractors to take advantage of this informative workshop to ensure they have the tools and information they need so they don’t miss out on business with the Capital Development Board.”

The workshop is geared toward women contractors and contractors of color across the state to give these often underserved businesses support in the contracting process.

Registration is required to participate in the workshop. Interested contractors can sign up at https://www.illinoissenatedemocrats.com/ICDBtickets.

With questions or for additional information, contact Hastings’ office at 815-464-5431, Joyce’s office at 708-756-0882, or Sims’ office at 773-933-7715.

CHICAGO – A measure led by State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) that would expand access to utility bill assistance programs was signed into law Thursday.

“Adequately cooling a home during these unforgiving summer months can be incredibly burdensome for low-income families,” Hastings said. “Parts of our country have already experienced a historic heat wave this summer. Preparing for extreme weather and giving people the ability to stay safe in their homes has never been more important.”

Under Senate Bill 265 families under 60% of the Illinois median income level would be eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and Percentage of Income Payment Plan. Additionally, the legislation establishes a priority application period for households with children under age 6 and extends LIHEAP and PIPP availability to all eligible low-income residents.

The legislation also encourages the PIPP program to spend at least 80% of its available annual funding and double the 2020 program participation by 2024.

LIHEAP and PIPP offer bill payment assistance to low-income residential utility customers by helping eligible households pay for their gas and electric utility service. Both programs are administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs.

NEW LENOX – State Senators Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) and Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Leigh Park in New Lenox Thursday. 

"Leigh Park is the result of strong leadership and smart allocation of resources," Hastings said. "I am proud to live in a community that prioritizes our families, provides great spaces for our children to play, and that partners so effectively with organizations like the Lincoln Way Special Recreation Association."

This park benefited from a grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program, resulting in a state-of-the-art playground designed for maximum accessibility, in partnership with LWSRA park district partners from Frankfort, Frankfort Square, Manhattan, Mokena, New Lenox, Peotone, and Wilmington Island Park Districts and other local partners. 

“Leigh Park is a collaboration of grants, park district money and fundraising efforts over the past few years,” Joyce said. “This park will enable Will County residents to better enjoy time outside, providing a gathering place for people to come and talk and enjoy and walk and kids play.” 

Joyce and Hastings were joined by New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann, Will County Board Speaker Mimi Cowan, Will County Board member Tom Weigel, New Lenox park district commissioners and staff, as well as staff from the Lincoln Way Special Recreation Association. 

Residents are encouraged to visit Leigh Park located at 1900 Heather Glen Dr. in New Lenox.

Caption information for attached photo: State Senators Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) and Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort) attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for Leigh Park in New Lenox on Thursday, July 22, 2021.