Meeting Summary and Briefs: Legislative Committee for February 3, 2026
Legislative Committee Meeting | February 3, 2026
The Will County Legislative Committee convened on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, to finalize its federal priorities and receive updates on state and national legislative activities. The committee unanimously approved the 2026 Federal Legislative Agenda and heard reports regarding the ongoing partial government shutdown in Washington.
Chair Denise Winfrey (District 6) led the meeting, which moved quickly through its agenda items.
News Briefs:
State Legislative Update:
Matt Murphy from Mac Strategies reported that the Illinois General Assembly has returned for its spring session, with a deadline for filing new bills set for this Friday, February 6. Murphy noted that while the current fiscal year budget appears balanced with a potential surplus, projections show a $2.2 billion deficit for the following year. The governor’s budget address is scheduled for February 18. Murphy also fielded questions regarding a potential senior property tax freeze and graduated income tax, clarifying that a graduated tax would require a constitutional amendment and voter referendum.
ISACo Tracked Bills:
Chair Winfrey directed committee members to review the list of bills tracked by the Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo). Vice-Chair Judy Ogalla (District 2) stated she would be highlighting specific bills relevant to Will County, such as one regarding permanent daylight saving time and another concerning senior property tax freezes, for the committee to take formal positions on in future meetings.
Federal Agenda Amendment:
The committee finalized the language for its 2026 Federal Agenda, specifically clarifying its stance on housing investment. Following a debate in previous meetings, the board agreed to language supporting HUD subsidies that encourage “institutional investors in affordable housing,” aiming to support development while avoiding the encouragement of predatory speculation. The agenda was approved unanimously.
Next Meeting:
The next meeting of the Legislative Committee is scheduled for March 3, 2026. The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:52 PM.
Latest News Stories
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Board Public Works & Transportation Committee for May 5, 2026
Will County Legislative Committee: Pushes Forward with Ban on Cryptocurrency Kiosks
Monee Elementary ‘Bike Bus’ Initiative Promotes Safe Routes and Healthy Habits
Will County Health Department Warns of Potential Federal Funding Cuts and Rising Healthcare Costs for FY2027
Highland Liquors Cleared for Video Gaming Expansion Following Zoning Approval
Rich Township Edges Crete-Monee in 10-9 Conference Thriller
Crete-Monee Offense Powers 18-3 Rout of Rich Township
Access Will County Dial-A-Ride Reports Massive Growth After Consolidating Paratransit Services
Crete-Monee School Board Advances $17 Million Abatement for Ongoing Capital Projects
Legislative Committee Advances Resolution Opposing Kidney Disease Treatment Delegation Act
Commission Approves Massive Lake Michigan Water Infrastructure Project for Troy Township
Committee: Capital Improvements Committee Weighs $300 Million Options for Downtown Joliet Campus
Rich Township Offense Powers Past Crete-Monee, 21-4
Crete-Monee Offense Powers 18-8 Victory Over Rich Township