Quantcast

Metro East Sun

Friday, April 26, 2024

Local Government News

Local Government

Illinois State Police Reminder: Slow Down and Move Over For Emergency Vehicles

The Illinois State Police suffered two Move Over Law-related crashes this week. In 2024, ISP has already suffered 14 Move Over Law-related crashes with six troopers injured.Our state’s Move Over Law, also known as “Scott’s Law,” requires all drivers to SLOW DOWN and MOVE OVER when approaching an emergency vehicle, or any vehicle with its emergency or hazard lights activated."We can all do our part to protect first responders, road workers, and our fellow motorists by following this life-saving law."

By Metro East Sun | Apr 25, 2024

Local Government

Rep. Schmidt Advocates for Education Reform

State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Cahokia Heights) is advocating for education reform and enhanced opportunities for students across Illinois. With a focus on improving education outcomes and ensuring access to quality learning experiences, Rep. Schmidt has co-sponsored several important bills that would bring about positive change in the education system."Education is the cornerstone of our society, and it is crucial that we continually strive to improve and innovate within our education system," said Rep. Schmidt. He added, "By advocating for these education...

By Metro East Sun | Apr 25, 2024

Latest News

Medium david harris 2

Local Government

Fairview Heights responsible for 47th-highest sales tax revenue in Illinois during January

By Metro East Sun | Apr 24, 2024

Fairview Heights residents paid $1.8 million in sales taxes, the 47th highest total paid per municipality in January.

Medium qliahkwrcrgxxz1rxam6lzftalcw

Local Government

Schmidt’s Spotlight: Legislative Updates and Community Engagement

By Metro East Sun | Apr 24, 2024

Representative Kevin Schmidt shared, "I’m pleased to share that eight of my cosponsored bills successfully passed the House and are moving on to the Senate."Schmidt invites the community to engage with him at the "Coffee and Conversation" event, emphasizing the importance of direct feedback from residents.Regarding the passage of HB 4350, the Child Abuse Notice Act, Schmidt stated, "This legislation...aims to raise awareness about child abuse and provide essential resources for reporting such incidents."Schmidt highlighted his commitment to supporting women and...

Medium q1nxfa7050txpw33p45kq02jusxa

Local Government

Administrative Professionals Day: A Time to Appreciate Their Hard Work

By Metro East Sun | Apr 24, 2024

On April 24, 2024, Administrative Professionals Day is being celebrated to honor the dedication and hard work of the individuals who play a crucial role in keeping offices functioning smoothly.In recognition of this important day, a heartfelt message was shared, "Thank you to all administrative professionals." This simple yet powerful expression of gratitude acknowledges the valuable contributions made by administrative professionals in various workplaces.Furthermore, special appreciation was extended to two individuals, Tina and Emma, with a message that read, "Thanks...

Medium c2ftcg8bmwldrbkpgp9ca5k634kj

Local Government

Illinois Secretary Of State Eases Online Notarization Process

By Metro East Sun | Apr 24, 2024

Illinois Secretary Of State Simplifies Online NotarizationApr 24 2024Illinoisans can now get documents notarized online via video chat through the state’s new E-Notary system. The Secretary of State’s office has curated a list of acceptable online notary services.The state's initiative aims to streamline the process and provide convenience for residents needing notarization services. The online platform allows individuals to securely notarize their documents from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for in-person visits to notary offices.With the...

Medium qliahkwrcrgxxz1rxam6lzftalcw

Local Government

Rep. Schmidt Donates Pay Raise to Mascoutah Food Pantry

By Metro East Sun | Apr 23, 2024

State Representative Kevin Schmidt has made a generous pledge to give away his legislative pay raise to support local community outreach efforts. This month, he chose to donate to the Mascoutah Food Pantry. In a statement, Schmidt expressed his commitment by saying, “Today I made my monthly food donation to the Mascoutah Food pantry. I donate the amount of my salary increase in the form of food to different local food pantries. I voted no for that salary increase, so I put my money where my mouth is.”Schmidt's dedication to helping those in need is evident as he...

Medium qliahkwrcrgxxz1rxam6lzftalcw

Local Government

Rep. Schmidt Legislation Supports Women and Families

By Metro East Sun | Apr 23, 2024

Springfield, IL – State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Cahokia Heights) has co-sponsored several important pieces of legislation aimed at supporting the well-being of women and families across Illinois. These bills, recently passed by the House and moving to the Senate, address crucial issues such as healthcare access, caregiver support, and the protection of pregnant women."Supporting the well-being of women and families is essential for the strength and resilience of our communities," emphasized Rep. Schmidt. "I am committed to advocating for policies that uplift and...

Medium qliahkwrcrgxxz1rxam6lzftalcw

Local Government

Attention Employers! Join Rep. Schmidt for a Free Jobs Fair

By Metro East Sun | Apr 22, 2024

Rep. Schmidt is inviting employers to a free jobs fair in East St. Louis on Friday, August 23rd. The event aims to connect businesses with qualified job-seekers to meet their employment needs. The fair will be held at the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus Multipurpose Room, Building D, located at 601 James Thompson Blvd.Employers interested in participating are encouraged to act quickly as space is limited. They can secure their spot by contacting Julie at 815-464-9908 or via email at jlmceinc@aol.com.

Medium j6mb23q1j17s4mjrxkembpz3lphu

Local Government

Sen. Harriss Takes Part in Community Shred Event and Clean Up Day

By Metro East Sun | Apr 22, 2024

State Senator Erica Harriss recently collaborated with the City of Wood River and the Wood River Police Department to host the Community Shred Event and Clean Up Day. The event welcomed over 200 carloads, with Senator Harriss expressing her gratitude to the participants, "I want to thank everyone who came out and supported our great event." She also attributed the successful turnout to the season, stating, "Thanks to the warmer weather and the start of the spring cleaning season, we had another great turnout."Attendees at this year's event had the opportunity to utilize a...

Medium qliahkwrcrgxxz1rxam6lzftalcw

Local Government

Happy Earth Day!

By Metro East Sun | Apr 22, 2024

On April 22, 2024, the world celebrates Earth Day with a strong message of environmental awareness and action. The day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.In a statement, an unknown individual expressed, "Happy Earth Day! Today is a great reminder that we need to do the work to keep our planet healthy." The sentiment underscores the collective responsibility we all share in safeguarding the environment.Encouraging active participation, the same source highlighted, "You can get involved by recycling, cleaning up...

Medium c2ftcg8bmwldrbkpgp9ca5k634kj

Local Government

Rep. Charlie Meier Sees Sponsored Bills Pass House with Unanimous Support

By Metro East Sun | Apr 22, 2024

Representative Charlie Meier had a successful week on the House Floor as two of his sponsored bills passed with unanimous support before the 3rd Reading deadline. Meier spoke on House Bill 4179, aimed at helping rural areas secure adequate funding for ambulance services. "House Bill 4179 was brought to me because of all the problems we’re starting to have in rural Illinois," said Rep. Meier, highlighting the challenges faced by rural communities in receiving sufficient ambulance service funding.Meier explained that HB4179 complements HB1470 passed in the previous session,...

Medium david harris 4

Local Government

O'Fallon residents rank 63rd in total sales taxes paid in Illinois for January

By Metro East Sun | Apr 19, 2024

O'Fallon residents paid $1.5 million in sales taxes, ranking 63rd in total sales taxes paid per municipality in January.

Medium j6mb23q1j17s4mjrxkembpz3lphu

Local Government

State Senator Erica Harriss Passes Legislation to Increase Transparency Regarding Property Taxes

By Metro East Sun | Apr 19, 2024

State Senator Erica Harriss has passed bipartisan legislation to increase transparency for local units of government proposing changes to their tax levy. The legislation, Senate Bill 3567, focuses on amending the Truth in Taxation law in the Property Tax Code to enhance public disclosure requirements."I came to Springfield with taxes at the forefront of my mind," stated Senator Harriss, emphasizing the importance of transparency in tax-related matters. She highlighted the purpose of the bill, stating, "This bill is about increasing transparency by making these notices...

Medium qliahkwrcrgxxz1rxam6lzftalcw

Local Government

State Rep. Schmidt Invites Constituents for Coffee and Conversation at Billie’s Pastries

By Metro East Sun | Apr 18, 2024

East St. Louis, IL – State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-East St. Louis) has announced an upcoming event titled “Coffee and Conversation with Rep. Schmidt,” scheduled to take place at Billie’s Pastries in East St. Louis on Thursday, April 25th. The event aims to provide constituents with a unique opportunity to engage with Rep. Schmidt in a relaxed and casual setting."As your representative, it is crucial for me to hear directly from you about the issues that matter most to our community," expressed Rep. Schmidt. He further emphasized the value of such gatherings by...

Medium c2ftcg8bmwldrbkpgp9ca5k634kj

Local Government

Murray Parents Association Advocates for Developmental Disability Services in Springfield

By Metro East Sun | Apr 18, 2024

The Murray Parents Association recently visited Springfield to advocate for services for individuals with developmental disabilities. During their trip, the MPA engaged with legislators to discuss the importance of state-operated developmental centers, specifically focusing on the Warren G. Murray Center.In a statement, an undisclosed source expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you to the Murray Parents Association for your impact on the lives of Illinoisans with developmental disabilities." The association's dedication to supporting this community was evident throughout...

Medium c2ftcg8bmwldrbkpgp9ca5k634kj

Local Government

National Lineman Appreciation Day Recognizes the Dedication of Power Workers

By Metro East Sun | Apr 18, 2024

On April 18, 2024, National Lineman Appreciation Day is celebrated across the nation to recognize the dedication and hard work of those who ensure that electricity continues to flow smoothly to homes and businesses. This day serves as a reminder of the essential role linemen play in maintaining our daily lives."National Lineman Appreciation Day honors the hard work done by the men and women who keep the power on for all Americans," stated a spokesperson for the event. It is a day to acknowledge the often challenging and dangerous conditions in which linemen work...

Medium q1nxfa7050txpw33p45kq02jusxa

Local Government

National Lineman Appreciation Day Celebrates the Hard Work of Linemen

By Metro East Sun | Apr 18, 2024

On April 18, 2024, National Lineman Appreciation Day is observed to honor the dedication and hard work of the men and women who play a crucial role in keeping the power on for all Americans."Thank You Linemen For All You Do!" This simple yet powerful message resonates with the sentiment expressed by many towards these unsung heroes who work tirelessly to ensure that electricity is available to households, businesses, and essential services."Linemen work around the clock, often in dangerous conditions, to keep our communities running." The selfless commitment of linemen...

Medium q1nxfa7050txpw33p45kq02jusxa

Local Government

Rep. Elik’s Bill To Help Address Teacher Shortages Passes House Unanimously

By Metro East Sun | Apr 18, 2024

SPRINGFIELD, IL – House Bill 4662, sponsored by State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton), unanimously passed the House this week. The bill extends the sunset of an existing program that allows retired teachers to return to the classroom without negatively impacting their pension or benefits."This important bill will help school districts address teacher shortage issues that are currently happening in the industry," expressed State Representative Amy Elik. "I am thankful to my colleagues for recognizing the need for extending this deadline and for unanimously approving this...

Medium david harris 1

Local Government

Madison County collects $235,694 in County Sales Tax in January

By Metro East Sun | Apr 17, 2024

In January, Madison County saw an increase in County Sales Tax collection compared to the previous month.