In an effort to ensure Elgin is considered in the state’s budget, City officials along with a host of community partners are headed to Springfield on Thursday, Feb. 26 for “Elgin Day 2009.”
“Elgin will reintroduce itself to legislators, the governor’s office and state agency leaders to discuss issues of concern to our community along with possible solutions,” said Cherie Murphy, City of Elgin’s Marketing Officer and staff liaison for the initiative. “The event is modeled after a similar event held seven years ago.”
Nearly 100 Elgin officials and concerned citizens descended on the Capitol to raise awareness about the City back in 2002. That initiative helped the City secure a $5 million Illinois First Grant from the Governor’s office.
Members of this year’s “Elgin Day” delegation will again meet with various state legislators, government officials and other state agencies to discuss everything from educational funding and employment to healthcare and sustainability.
The day will begin with an open house breakfast for all legislators, where “Elgin Day” organizations will host displays and provide information. The remainder of the day will consist of meetings with state agency and legislative leaders and key Elgin stakeholders.
“Now that the stimulus package has been passed by Congress and it looks like the state will be considering a capital bill, it’s imperative that Elgin’s projects are in the forefront of consideration.” said Mayor Ed Schock. “It’s crucial that Elgin receives funding for roads and other infrastructure projects. This type of approach was proven to work in 2002 and we are confident that we can duplicate that success with Elgin Day 2009.”
Among the many organizations partnering with the City for this year’s event are: School District U-46, Elgin Community College, Kane County, Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the United Way of Elgin, the Elgin Community Network and the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. Other at-large community members will attend to show support and volunteer their time.
For more information on “Elgin Day 2009” go to the City website at www.cityofelgin.org and click on “Elgin Day” in the quick links section. That will take the user to a Facebook page where more information can be obtained. Registration is required on Facebook.