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.

Deer Firearm and Muzzleloader Hunting Information

The 3rd lottery application period is now open for Illinoisans who wish to deer hunt this fall. Applications close August 21, 2020.

Illinois residents and nonresidents can apply and find more information by visiting: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/Pages/DeerFirearmMuzzleloader.aspx

Koehler remembers civil rights leader Rev. C.T. Vivian

PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler issued the following statement Friday after news of the death of Peoria civil rights icon C.T. Vivian:

“Rev. C.T. Vivian was a pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement and gave pride to all Peorians because of his Peoria roots. I met him years ago when he spoke in Peoria and came away in awe of his dedication and insight on where we need to be headed as a nation. I thank God for the life of this dedicated man. We need to continue his memory to help inspire future generations.”

C.T. Vivian was a civil rights activist whom Martin Luther King Jr. once described as “the greatest preacher to ever live.” Vivian’s career began in Peoria, where he was hired to work for the Carver Community Center. While at Carver Community Center, Vivian participated in his first civil rights sit-in, where he successfully integrated Barton’s Cafeteria.