Moving Kane County Forward
Climate Action Plan
Kane County passed a “Climate Action Plan” on June 11, 2024. It is a plan to move forward to protect the citizens of Kane from the effects of climate change and to put in place suggestions for how citizens and businesses can participate. This was advanced from the Energy / Environment committee, which I sit on, to the full board. It passed 13-9.
Protecting Our Trees
After discovering a year ago that Kane County had no tree ordinance to protect “Witness” oaks that were being cut down to build a super warehouse, we have been working on a “Tree Ordinance” for the county’s homeowners, as well as developers.
This is a work in progress as we try to find a solution that will be fair to everyone. Kane County previous had a 38% Oak canopy, but it is now that has been reduced to only 4% coverage.
Reducing Light Pollution
The Kane County Forest Preserve is launching a new initiative to reduce light pollution to safeguard our wildlife habitats, migrating birds, and insects that are attracted by light sources.
They are following the directives of Dark Sky International.
Gun Safety
The Illinois Dept of Public Health has granted Kane County Health Department with a grant to purchase and distribute gun locks and safeties through community based organizations.
There will be educational sessions on safe practices as well.
This will be at no cost to county residents.
Economic Development Summit
I was in Chicago on June 20-21, 2024 for an Economic Development Summit. Fellow Kane County Board members Mavis Bates, and Anita Lewis also attended. We learned that the economy of Illinois ranks 5th out of the U.S. states, and 18th in the world. Under the leadership of Governor, and good business man, J.B. Pritzker, we are in good shape for the future economic development here in Illinois.
Kane County, with the help from ARPA, American Rescue Plan Money, has entered into an Economic Development plan with Chicago and the collar counties. GCEP, or the Greater Chicago Economic Plan will benefit our region with this collaboration.
Cooling Centers
There are Cooling centers in Elgin at Gail Borden Library, Monday-Thurday 9am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday Noon-5pm.
The Rachow Branch also has cooling centers from Monday-Thursday 9am-8pm, Friday – Saturday 9am-5pm, and Sunday Noon-5pm.
Elgin Senior services hours are Monday-Friday 8am-4pm.
