Greetings!

As the General Assembly begins its spring legislative session, Illinois is confronting serious budget challenges. Lawmakers and the governor will need to close a significant budget shortfall that fiscal experts project to be at least $750 million.

I would like to invite you to join me as a participant in a Regional Budget Hearing in Northbrook on March 24th and to share your views about what the state's funding priorities should be. I will be co-hosting this hearing with State Representatives Julie Hamos of Evanston, Elaine Nekritz of Des Plaines, Kathy Ryg of Vernon Hills, and Eddie Washington of Waukegan.

The purpose of this hearing is to provide greater transparency to the state budget process, give local residents a voice and provide an understanding of how state budget decisions may impact our region. We intend to hear from social service providers, local governments, health care facilities, school districts, colleges, labor unions, business groups, and civic organizations as we prepare to craft this year's state budget.

The Regional Budget Hearing will be held Monday, March 24 at 3:00 p.m. at Northbrook Village Hall in the City Hall Chambers, located at 1225 Cedar Lane in Northbrook. It will likely run for many hours. Parking for the event will be available.

If you would like more information, would like to provide testimony, or to confirm your attendance, please call my constituent service office at (847) 433- 9100.

I look forward to seeing you on March 24. Thank you.