Wilcox Hosts Successful Conversations Untapped Event in Cary
We had a great turnout last week as I kicked off my Conversations Untapped tour at Spirit Water in Cary. We discussed several issues, including public transit, the budget, property taxes, and more. Thanks to everyone who came out!
The tour continues this week on July 23 with an event in Antioch, so if you live in or around Antioch, I hope you’ll stop by for some casual conversation with your State Senator.
Other upcoming events include:
- July 23: Conversations Untapped, Rivalry Ale House, 945 Main Street, Antioch, IL, 5:30PM – 7:00PM
- August 16: Document Shredding Event, Office of State Rep. Steve Reick, 1072 Lake Avenue, Woodstock, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- August 21: Barks & Brews Pet Adoption Event, Kishwaukee Brewing, 1900 Dillard Court, Woodstock, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- August 28: Conversations Untapped, Harbor Viewing Company, 136 Cedar Avenue, Lake Villa, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- September 17: IPASS on Demand, Lake Villa District Library, 140 N. Munn Road, Lindenhurst, 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
- October 14: Senior Resource Fair, Grand Oaks Recreation Center, 1401 IL-176, Crystal Lake, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
New events are added regularly, so please visit the Events page of my website regularly to be kept up to date about events taking place near you.
Illinois Ranks Last for Financial Transparency
In a recently released report, Illinois was dead last in the country concerning financial transparency when compared to all 50 states. Researchers with Truth in Accounting, who put out the report, claim Illinois’ ranking can be highlighted by the state’s delay in publishing its fiscal year 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports. That report was meant to be published by June 30, 2024, but the Illinois Comptroller’s Office has only released an “interim” version.
The Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports are meant to be one of the most accurate ways to view the state’s financial outlook. While the 2023 report remains incomplete, the state’s 2022 report included a disclaimer of opinion, meaning auditors were unable to ensure the financial statements were free of material misstatements. This raises further questions about the state’s fiscal accountability.
This report is yet another reminder of Illinois Democrats’ inability to provide basic transparency to taxpayers. Timely and accurate financial reporting is essential for building trust with the public and for making sound budgetary decisions, and I believe Illinois will continue to struggle with credibility and fiscal stability until Illinois Democrats take financial responsibility seriously.
State Police Graduates Largest Class in 25 Years
The Illinois State Police (ISP) recently marked a major milestone as it graduated its largest cadet class in 25 years with the addition of 95 new troopers.
Cadet Class 150, representing both traditional cadets and lateral entries, completed rigorous training that combined classroom and physical instruction.
In addition to academy training, each trooper will now enter 14 weeks of field training under the guidance of experienced Field Training Officers before transitioning to solo patrol duties.
The 95 troopers reported for official duty on July 13th, joining all ten ISP Troop locations statewide.
For more information about becoming a state trooper, click here.
Still Time to Take Wilcox Summer Survey
I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to fill out my 2025 Summer Survey. I am still gathering input and suggestions about issues just approved and other topics that remain unresolved in Springfield. Your opinions are very valuable, so if you haven’t taken the survey yet, I hope you will take a few minutes to participate.
My 2025 Summer Survey offers constituents an opportunity to weigh in on a variety of topics, including the budget, the proposed $1.50 delivery tax and other proposed tax increases, illegal immigration, and more. The survey also provides space where you can offer suggestions on how we can work together to make Illinois the best it can be.
Click here to access the survey. Paper copies are available at my office in Woodstock.
Homelessness Rises by 116% as Cost-of-Living Soars in Illinois
The Illinois Shelter Alliance has released data showing that homelessness within the state has increased by 116% in the last year. Both urban and rural areas are feeling the burden, advocates say a common thread runs through the crisis: the high cost of living.
In just six years, the Governor has significantly expanded state spending to more than $55 billion, a nearly 40% increase. This represents the fastest and most dramatic growth in Illinois state spending in history.
Furthermore, while homelessness was increasing last year, Illinois Democrats prioritized funding for non-citizens, spending nearly a billion dollars on services and programs. Meanwhile, the state only allocated $290 million for housing and homelessness in last year’s budget.
While Chicago experienced issues from asylum-seeking people, working-class families across downstate Illinois are struggling to keep up with rising housing costs. The Illinois Shelter Alliance estimates that housing-related homelessness is up between 40 and 50 percent due to inflation, rent increases, and overall lack of affordability.
The state’s misplaced priorities have made life harder for families and communities across Illinois and that Democratic lawmakers should focus on addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing relief for those who need it most.