Into the Golden Years

Earlier this week I hosted a discussion with representatives from the Social Security Administration, Illinois Department on Aging, Bradley University, CEFCU, and OLLI at Bradley University so they could provide details about the unique resources available to those transitioning into retirement.

If there's a particular agency you'd like to hear from, feel free to skip ahead to:
1:00 - Megan Forristall with Social Security Administration on Medicare
12:00 - Kelly Dehlinger with the Department on Aging on the Senior Health Insurance Program
21:00 - Dr. Amit Sinha from Bradley University on estate planning and taxes in retirement
33:25 - Eric Pilat from CEFCU on refinancing mortgages and other ways to reduce debt
43:01 - Catheryn Lawless with OLLI at Bradley University on staying educated and active within the community.

Disclaimer from the Social Security Administration: Participation in this presentation does not constitute an endorsement by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or its employees of the organizations and information and products not provided by SSA.

Koehler announces $2 million to begin Court Street repairs

Peoria — Pekin will receive a $2 million grant for repairs to Court Street through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Fast-Track Public Infrastructure program, State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) announced Thursday.

“Anyone who lives in Pekin can tell you how important this project is for the community,” Koehler said. “Not only will Court Street, a main thoroughfare in Pekin, be revitalized, but we’re also bringing jobs into the community.”

The Fast-Track program was created by the state to provide emergency assistance for businesses and communities facing economic hardship during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Currently, DCEO has launched more than $300 million in emergency relief programs, with most of the funding available for businesses. 

Koehler fought to fund this project, among several others, while negotiating the landmark Rebuild Illinois infrastructure program and was able to secure $20 million in total for the City of Pekin for future projects.

“Thanks to a collaboration with local leaders, Pekin will reap the benefits of a $20 million investment in local road repairs and improvements to other vital infrastructure,” Koehler said. “I look forward to seeing the progress of these projects over the next several years.”

The Fast-Track program is funded through the Rebuild Illinois infrastructure plan. Eligible applicants were required to prove projects were located in an undeserved area, promoted economic development for minority-owned businesses and could start construction within 90 days after being awarded.

To see other Fast-Track award recipients, click here.

Koehler holds Energy Summit to discuss coal to solar transition in Illinois

CANTON – In response to recent coal plant closures around the state, State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) held an Energy Summit to discuss the future of energy policy in Illinois with Senate colleagues Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort), Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill) and stakeholders from Vistra Energy.

One proposal, which Koehler is sponsoring, would freeze property tax rates on coal, gas, and nuclear plants at pre-closure rates for a total of five years, ensuring local governments and school districts a consistent source of revenue in the short term. Additionally, it would provide an extra week of unemployment insurance benefits for those who are laid off from their job at a plant or mine.

“Taking care of local governments, school districts and individuals as we transition from coal to solar has to be our top priority,” Koehler said. “They are already facing intense challenges, and the lost revenue and higher taxes that would come without a tax freeze on the power plant property are the last things they should have to worry about.”

Another piece of legislation Koehler is supporting would see former coal plant sites transformed into renewable energy stations.

“Coal plant workers are confronting a difficult reality,” Koehler said. “Our region experienced a tremendous loss following the closing of the Duck Creek plant in Canton, but I am confident that by transitioning to renewable energy sources we can secure a viable economic future for our communities.”

These proposals will likely be a piece of a larger package of energy legislation that could be taken up as early as the fall veto session.

Koehler announces mentoring grant for Peoria, Pekin Public Libraries

PEORIA – The Peoria Public Library and the Pekin Public Library are the recipients of a mentoring grant from the Illinois secretary of state’s office, State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) announced Tuesday.

The grant was awarded through the Project Next Generation program, which is a mentoring program administered through Illinois public libraries. Mentors work with middle and high school students to help them develop skills needed to use technology and find success through project-based learning. Mentors also help with developing life skills, such as effective communication, goal setting and conflict resolution.

These libraries are two of 28 public libraries in the state to receive the grant. The grant money will be allocated as follows:

• Pekin Public Library: $26,917
• Peoria Public Library: $12,500

“I’m thrilled to see that Secretary White is demonstrating a commitment to the wellbeing of public libraries in our state,” Koehler said. “Well funded libraries are an invaluable resource for our communities. This grant will help provide students in Peoria and Pekin with the tools they need to be successful in the future.”

In all, the secretary of state awarded $559,358.00 in Project Next Generation grants statewide. The money is provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Grants are awarded to public libraries that serve low-income and underserved populations.