Speaker Welch joins in on recent Stickney board meeting

From staff reports

The Stickney Village Board welcomed Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch to a recent board meeting for a special briefing on the state legislature’s local government priorities for the spring session.

Speaking from his Capitol office in Springfield via Zoom, Welch talked about key issues impacting municipalities, emphasizing fiscal stability, infrastructure support, and economic growth, particularly in suburban communities such as Stickney.

“Keeping a lid on property taxes is a top priority for me and the House Democrats,” Welch told the trustees and Stickney Mayor Jeff Walik.

“As a state representative who represents suburban communities, I understand the financial pressures facing families and businesses in the suburbs across Illinois, and I am committed to protecting critical funding streams like the Local Government Distributive Fund, which ensures municipalities like Stickney have the resources needed to thrive.”

Welch further underscored the importance of investing in local infrastructure, citing its potential to improve public safety, bolster local economies, and attract new businesses.  He also emphasized the legislature’s focus on politics that foster economic vibrancy in suburban communities, recognizing their vital role in the state’s overall prosperity.

“When small towns like Stickney prosper, all of Illinois prospers,” said Welch.

“I appreciate Mayor Walik’s invitation to address the Board and look forward to working together to create a brighter, stronger future for Stickney and all our state’s communities.”

Walik expressed gratitude to Welch.

“Speaker Welch’s personal and thoughtful briefing was invaluable for the board,” Walik said.

“His commitment to fiscal responsibility, infrastructure investment, and supporting suburban communities, because he represents suburbs like ours, is deeply encouraging, and we look forward to collaborating with him on these important issues in this legislative session.”