SPRINGFIELD – The governor’s plan to invest more in career and technical education is welcome news for students and families in the northwest suburbs, State Senator Ann Gillespie said today.

“I am encouraged by the governor’s pledge to invest $5 million in career and technical education. I’m excited about the possibilities, particularly as we look to shore up the Illinois economy, stop the outmigration of suburban students to other states and put more people to work in good-paying jobs right here at home,” Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) said.

Gillespie’s remarks came after the governor delivered his first budget address to the Illinois General Assembly in Springfield.

She noted the governor’s overall plans to increase the state’s investment in education: $375 million more for public schools, increased funding for early childhood education, more money for college MAP grants and a greater investment in universities and community colleges.

“The key to fueling Illinois’ economic rebirth is to invest in education from cradle to career. I’m glad the governor shares this priority,” Gillespie said. “Now it’s time for us all to get down to business, learn from past failures and figure out how to make some of these ideas a reality.”

SPRINGFIELD – Low-wage workers in the northwest suburbs could better support themselves and their families under a minimum wage increase that’s making its way through the Illinois General Assembly.

If approved and signed by the governor, it would be the first minimum wage increase in Illinois in a decade.

“I believe Springfield should work for working families, and we can start by investing in people who work the hardest but earn the least,” said State Senator Ann Gillespie, an Arlington Heights Democrat and a longtime proponent of a $15 minimum wage. “A significant increase in the minimum wage is long overdue in Illinois, and I am pleased to support this effort on behalf of working people.”

Read more: Gillespie continues her fight for $15 minimum wage

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – Area residents are invited to get acquainted with two of their state lawmakers during an open house Saturday in Arlington Heights.

State Sen. Ann Gillespie and State Rep. Mark Walker, both of Arlington Heights, will host the open house at their district office, 120 W. Eastman St., Suite 207. The event will begin at noon and end at 4 p.m.

Residents will be able to speak with the lawmakers about local needs and priorities for the spring legislative session, meet district office staff and enjoy refreshments.

For more information, call 847-749-1880.

School district eligible for $1.3M property tax relief grant

SPRINGFIELD – Palatine-area homeowners and small businesses will see decreases in their property tax bills under a new state grant program that offers relief to school districts in high-taxed areas.

The Property Tax Relief Grant was included in the historic school funding reform law that has already provided millions of dollars in new state funds to school districts that need it the most. Schools in the 27th Senate District have received nearly $1.2 million in additional state funding in the new formula’s first two years on the books.

Township High School District 211 in Palatine is eligible for a $1.3 million grant under the program, the Illinois State Board of Education announced Tuesday.

“Suburban homeowners are desperate for relief from property taxes, and this grant will help with that,” said State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Offering property tax relief while maintaining great suburban schools will ensure continued investment in our communities and in our students.”

To receive the state grant, eligible school districts must submit an abatement resolution to their county clerks by March 30. The State Board of Education will then distribute the grants once receiving all abatement certificates.

More information on the Property Tax Relief Grant and a listing of each eligible school district can be found at www.ISBE.net/proptaxrelief.