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CAT Tracks for March 12, 2010
A RAY OF HOPE |
With all the talk of looming, massive budget cuts, it's probably not a time for "holding one's breath", but maybe we can keep our fingers crossed...
From the Il State Democrats Website...
Alexander-Cairo port district bill passes committee
Written by Forby Staff
Forby pushes for job creation in Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Earlier today, State Senator Gary Forby (D-Benton) advanced a measure today through the Illinois Senate Local Government committee intended to create jobs and promote economic development throughout Southern Illinois.
The piece of legislation creates the Alexander-Cairo Port District in Alexander County. The creation of the port district will create new global outlets for regional commodities and natural resources, such as coal and other agricultural products.
"One of my main concerns right now is putting people in my district back to work," Senator Forby said. "The port district will need employees to operate and maintain the facilities. It will support jobs all over the region by increasing demand for our natural resources and make it easier to trade with and ship to other regions."
Senate Bill 575 is based on a measure, also sponsored by Senator Forby, that created the Massac-Metropolis Port District within Massac County. Currently, there are 18 port districts enacted and in operation across Illinois. The Alexander-Cairo Port District will have the authority to oversee the construction, operation, and maintenance of various port-related facilities. It also is granted the authority to construct, maintain, and operate an airport and to develop export trade companies.
A seven-member board will be appointed to oversee the district’s port operations. Of the seven members, four will be appointed by the governor, one by the Mayor of Cairo and two by the chairperson of the Alexander County Board with the advice and consent of the Alexander County Board. The Port District Board will also be able to issue some bonds and levy some taxes.
"It’s important that the board has a local perspective from Southern Illinois," Senator Forby said. "They know first hand how badly we need new jobs in our district. We must focus on job creation in Illinois so that we don’t lose jobs to other bordering states. Creating jobs will produce much-needed revenue for our state."
From the KFVS TV Channel 12...
Bill to create port district in Cairo, IL passes first hurdle
By Heartland News
CAIRO, IL (KFVS) - A bill that would create a new port district in southern Illinois passes its first hurdle.
The measure would create the Alexander-Cairo Port District. It passed Senate committee on Friday.
State Senator Gary Forby says if it's approved, the new district would create jobs in the area and promote economic development throughout southern Illinois.
The port district would have the authority to oversee the construction, operation, and maintenance of various port-related facilities.
It would also be able to construct, maintain, and operate an airport.
