Metro East Sun

Energy costs in Illinois have increased, leading to more financial strain for families and businesses. In response, Ameren Illinois has started the Supplemental Arrearage Reduction Program (SARP), a $10 million initiative aimed at helping income-qualified customers reduce their energy bills. Those who qualify for LIHEAP can receive up to $1,000 per year for each service connection—gas and electric—to pay down outstanding balances. Customers can access and apply for the program through their account dashboard.

Ameren Illinois also offers other assistance programs. More information about these options—including billing choices, energy efficiency measures, financial aid, and supply alternatives—is available at Find Your Path to Energy Savings.

State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt), who was elected in 2023 to represent Illinois' 114th House District after succeeding LaToya Greenwood (https://www.ilga.gov/house/Rep.asp?GA=103&MemberID=3216), has co-sponsored HB 4471. This legislation amends the Energy Assistance Act by removing the sunset provision on the Supplemental Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund, aiming to extend protections for residents struggling with high energy costs.

Schmidt has also co-sponsored SB76, which would expand nuclear power plants across the state.

Illinois currently ranks first in property tax rates nationally, surpassing New Jersey according to recent data from 2023. The state also has high income and sales taxes. "These high tax rates place an unfair burden on Illinois families who are already contending with the high cost of living. We need to do more to provide relief for our residents so they can thrive here in Illinois," Schmidt said.

In local news, Schmidt recognized Millstadt’s IGA as his “Business of the Month” for July. Owners Craig Norrenberns and TJ Norrenberns were presented with a certificate acknowledging their commitment to employees and engagement with local businesses. "Craig Norrenberns and TJ Norrenberns make a positive impact on the community of Millstadt through their dedication to go above and beyond for their employees and customers," said Schmidt. "Working together, they have the ability to use Christian-based beliefs and apply them to their work ethic which has helped build the success of the Millstadt IGA and the relationships they have created with other businesses."

Millstadt IGA employs over thirty union workers, supports local producers such as Woods Bakery, Eckert’s Peaches, Keller Farms, Wenneman Meat Co., Behrmann Meat & Processing, Prairie Farms Milk, Salsa Rose Products, Old Monroe Distilling, Millpond Brewing, and Smokin K’s. The store provides daily meals to the Millstadt Senior Center.

"It was a privilege to meet TJ Norrenberns and Craig Norrenberns and learn more about their business and I look forward to seeing their continued success," Schmidt continued. "IGA stores have been around for years, but this location is making a statement, and they have done tremendous work for the Millstadt community."

Schmidt encourages constituents of District 114 to nominate other local businesses for future recognition through his office or via RepSchmidt.com.

Schmidt currently serves on several committees: Ethics & Elections; Health Care Availability & Access; Health Care Licenses; Human Services; Mental Health & Addiction; Prescription Drug Affordability; Public Health; Special Issues.

Other items noted include congratulations extended by Schmidt to local student athletes—the Millstadt Track Champions—and an invitation alongside State Rep. David Friess for an open forum event scheduled August 12 in New Athens.

The release also marked National Back to School Month and Illinois Sweet Corn Appreciation Day.