Cybercriminals generally hack utilities for one reason: money. They also are deliberately targeting specific businesses, especially those that are civilian but support military installations.
CHICAGO - A former White House cybersecurity expert is warning of potential cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. And in Illinois, security analysts are heeding his message on the dangers.
As former acting principal deputy national cyber director, Jake Braun, executive director at the Harris School of Public Policy's Cyber Policy Initiative at the University of Chicago, said that during his time in the Biden White House, he dealt with escalating cyber threats from China and other nation-states - often targeting utilities.
"They are very deliberately targeting specific water utilities, specific energy operators and so on - that are civilian but support military installations," he said, "so that if we go to war, they've kind of seeded the battlefield, so to speak, with malware."
Of the approximately 50,000 water utilities throughout the United States, Braun said only a few hundred support military operations - and many of the rest are unprotected. Braun noted that he is working with the National Rural Water Association to recruit cybersecurity volunteers to help support local water utilities.
Cybercriminals generally hack utilities for one reason: money. Braun said ransom demands in exchange for the thieves releasing their hold on systems is rising. These schemes start primarily in Russia and other Eastern European countries, but nations such as China are also willing to infiltrate and weaken critical infrastructure.
Braun pointed to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund improvements to these systems.
"And many water utilities aren't even requesting the funds," he said. "So the funds are there, they're available, and water utilities often don't even know they can request the funds for that. And that is true for many other critical infrastructure."
Braun said some water utilities are in such rural areas that they struggle to find cybersecurity experts. He lauded volunteer programs such as the University of Chicago's Project Franklin to fill the gap.
Among the targets of cybersecurity attacks in Illinois 2024 were the Secretary of State's office, three colleges, and three hospitals.
Price hike due to lack of energy supply comes alongside rocky transition to renewable power. “We cannot allow these power-hungry facilities to drive up costs for consumers who are already struggling to pay their bills,” says Gina Ramirez.
Photo: Hans Isaacson/Unsplash
Downstate Ameren Illinois says customers can expect an 18% to 22% increase in their monthly bill, or about $45 per month depending on usage. Long-term underlying issues affecting the rising costs could lead to even higher prices or rolling blackouts.by Andrew Adams
Capitol News Illinois
SPRINGFIELD - Customers around Illinois will see significantly higher prices on their electric bills next month.
The average residential customer of northern Illinois’ Commonwealth Edison will pay about $10.60 per month more this summer, according to a company statement. Downstate Ameren Illinois says customers can expect an 18% to 22% increase in their monthly bill, or about $45 per month depending on usage. Prices will likely decrease in October once winter electric rates go into effect.
Increasing energy prices are causing alarm among some consumer advocates and state policymakers, who worry that the long-term problems underlying the rising costs could lead to even higher prices or rolling blackouts.
Clara Summers, who advocates for consumer-friendly energy policy on behalf of the nonprofit Citizens Utility Board, said the ComEd price increases were for two reasons: increasing demand from data centers and large manufacturing as well as procedural issues slowing down new renewable projects.
CUB officials said the issues underlying Ameren’s increase were similar, while noting that both were due in part to the way grid regulators structure pricing.
The price hikes are a major undercurrent of escalating tensions over a package of energy reforms making its way through Springfield as lawmakers race toward their scheduled May 31 adjournment.
Extreme weather events are “likely” to cause shortfalls in energy reserves.
“We’re trying to keep prices low while combating climate change,” Jen Walling, head of the Illinois Environmental Council, told Capitol News Illinois. The IEC has been heavily involved in advocating for parts of the bill.
In December, federal officials at the North American Electric Reliability Corporation — the nonprofit oversight agency for grid operators — designated the grid for central and southern Illinois as “high risk” for not having enough electricity to meet demand on hot days in the summer and cold days in the winter over the next five years. The grid that stretches from central Canada to the Mississippi river delta is the only power grid in the nation to have that designation, with much of its risk stemming from power plants closing.
Illinois’ northern grid, which includes parts of 13 states and Washington, D.C. from Illinois to the east coast, faces “elevated” risk. That means extreme weather events are “likely” to cause shortfalls in energy reserves.
The increased demand stems from data centers, increasing adoption of electric heat pumps and the rise of electric vehicles, according to NERC.
David Braun, an executive at the energy technology company Intelligent Generation, said demand on the electric grid is the highest it’s been in the 30 years he’s worked in the energy sector.
“We haven’t seen this in a long time,” Braun told Capitol News Illinois. “So, it’s catching planners by surprise, and it takes a long time to build power plants.”
Shrinking supply
That demand, according to NERC’s December report, is coming at the same time supply is going down — increasing pressure on the grid.
Downstate Illinois’ grid might run out of energy reserves as soon as 2034...
Around the country, fossil fuel plants are closing as states move to limit their greenhouse gas emissions. While Illinois exports energy overall, plant closures elsewhere in the country can affect the price of energy, raising prices for Illinoisans. Grid operators nationwide, meanwhile, face yearslong red tape-induced backlogs on new renewables.
Downstate Illinois’ grid might run out of energy reserves as soon as 2034, per NERC. Northern Illinois’ grid has more reserves but will face decreased levels throughout the next decade. If nothing is done to either reduce demand or increase supply, this means prices could continue to increase or blackouts could become necessary to stabilize the grid.
To address these issues, lawmakers in Springfield are weighing sweeping energy legislation. The bill’s proponents say its provisions to incentivize new developments are the only way to prevent serious problems without walking back the state’s climate goals.
Republican critics contend that the main reason for the legislation is to fix problems with the 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. Gov. JB Pritzker’s marquee climate policy, they say, is a major cause of the supply shortfalls because it requires fossil fuel-burning power plants to shut down by 2045.
Others say provisions aimed at reducing data centers’ energy demands on the grid will hurt businesses in the state.
Lawmakers and advocacy groups are currently reviewing draft language for the bill, which has not been made public. Even with complex procedural maneuvering to avoid long-passed deadlines, lawmakers face a tight turnaround to reach an agreement before the legislative session ends.
The process could have become more complicated, some suggest, after the U.S. House passed a wide-ranging bill early Thursday that could drastically alter federal energy incentives if it becomes law.
Higher prices
Bills for customers of private electric utilities — most notably ComEd and Ameren — will go up in June.
The increase was determined at two recent capacity auctions, which are how grid operators set energy prices for years into the future. High prices at these auctions can indicate low supply relative to demand.
Consumer watchdogs at CUB estimate that the policy cut the increase for ComEd customers by about 17%.
PJM Interconnection, the grid operator for northern Illinois, saw a roughly eight-fold jump in its most recent capacity auction compared to the year prior. Downstate’s energy grid, Midcontinent Independent System Operator, or MISO, saw more than a 20-fold year-over-year price jump at its capacity auction in April.
Representatives of the state’s two largest electric utilities stressed that these increases occurred beyond their purview.
“ComEd does not profit from this increase, was not part of the auction, does not supply capacity, and does not retain any proceeds of the capacity charge payments,” ComEd spokesperson John Schoen said in a statement.
An Ameren spokesperson echoed the sentiment, noting that the state requires utilities to pass this type of cost to customers “dollar-for-dollar, without markup.”
The price is lower for ComEd customers than it could have been due to a provision in CEJA, which credits customers when energy generated by nuclear power plants is above a certain level. Consumer watchdogs at CUB estimate that the policy cut the increase for ComEd customers by about 17%. Customers in the Ameren area, which has much less nuclear power, are not eligible for the credit.
Other energy providers
While millions of Illinoisans get their power from ComEd and Ameren, some get their electricity through other means, including alternate retail suppliers, municipal utilities and electric cooperatives. Many of these energy suppliers are not affected directly by the capacity auctions.
Municipal customers in towns like Naperville, St. Charles and Rantoul are largely insulated from the spike, according to Staci Wilson, the head of government affairs for the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency. The IMEA is a private entity that provides electricity to 32 of the 42 municipal electric systems in the state.
IMEA sometimes participates in capacity auctions. But Wilson said the agency tends to secure energy through other means, such as having ownership stakes directly in power plants.
“IMEA member municipalities have rates that are currently lower than private utilities and our ownership model continues to gain value as we transition to a carbon-free future in an affordable and reliable manner,” Wilson said.
But other municipal utility officials, including those at Springfield’s City Water, Light and Power, are less optimistic about future prices.
“Regulations are forcing plant retirement a little too soon,” CWLP spokesperson Amber Sabin said. “And the grid operators that are here, they have resources that they can't connect to the grid. They're waiting, or they don't get financing or ever developed. They have supply chain issues, workforce issues, right? There's a cost to all of that.”
CWLP didn’t participate in the recent MISO auction, although it could have. The utility shut down several coal-fired generators over the past five years but continues to operate one coal-fired power plant on the southeast side of Springfield. That plant will need to shut down permanently at some point in the next two decades under state law.
“In the future, all the costs are going to go up,” Sabin said. “We do expect that capacity auction prices will affect our customers.”
That echoes what some state officials expect as well. Sen. Bill Cunningham, D-Chicago, has worked on energy legislation for years and said that there is “nothing we can do” to reduce prices for this summer as capacity auctions have concluded, but he said lawmakers should do what they can to address the root causes of the spike.
“We think this is going to be the new normal,” Cunningham said.
Legislative moves
Negotiations over energy reforms in Springfield have included lawmakers, the governor’s office, and interest groups including environmentalists, organized labor and business associations. The process is sparking heated debate.
Over the past week, a draft of legislation began circulating among lawmakers and advocates, many of whom discussed portions of the bill with Capitol News Illinois.
“I don’t think, by any stretch, you’ll see a bill the size and scope that CEJA was, that we passed four years ago — certainly won’t see that,” Cunningham, who was involved in the negotiations, said.
Potential provisions deal with incentives for renewable power, energy efficiency regulations, nuclear power, data centers and more.
We cannot allow these power-hungry facilities to drive up costs for consumers who are already struggling to pay their bills.
Environmental groups clashed with business and labor this week over a provision meant to lower the energy burden brought by data centers. That proposal would require large energy consumers to build their own energy generation through renewable sources like wind or solar power or pay the state to do so.
The pitch sparked fierce pushback from business and labor groups, which sent a collective letter to Pritzker, urging him to oppose the specific provision. The letter was co-signed by groups including the AFL-CIO, Climate Jobs Illinois, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Constellation Energy — the last of which operates all the state’s commercial nuclear power plants.
The proposal is being pushed by environmentalists, who say they want more accountability from data centers and other large consumers.
“We cannot allow these power-hungry facilities to drive up costs for consumers who are already struggling to pay their bills,” Gina Ramirez, director of Midwest environmental health at the National Resources Defense Council, said at a Wednesday rally.
Other issues are less controversial, largely because they’ve been negotiated for months.
Cunningham, a prominent player in the passage of CEJA, has his own proposal in the current draft: incentives for the energy storage industry. The current draft of that provision closely parallels recommendations made by the Illinois Commerce Commission. That agency was directed by a bill passed earlier this year to study how to handle energy storage projects.
While legislative Republicans have largely been shut out of negotiations over the bill, some of their ideas are being considered.
Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, put out a pitch to ease the pressure on electric demand earlier this year by expanding nuclear energy. She was the architect of a bill two years ago that eased the state’s moratorium on new nuclear power plants, lifting it for next-generation, small generators.
This year, Rezin introduced a bill that would eliminate the remaining state restrictions on new nuclear power plants. Language similar to Rezin’s was included in draft legislation circulated this week.
Rezin, who leads several energy-related groups of lawmakers as part of her involvement at the National Conference of State Legislatures, said all states are facing similar issues around electricity.
“All energy buildout will take years because of the regulatory process,” Rezin said. “That's why it's important now. The state of Illinois needs to send positive messages to companies that are looking to invest in technology — whether it's nuclear or any other kind of energy producing plant — that we are open for business.”
The feds’ ‘big, beautiful bill’
Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday morning passed a bill containing many domestic policy priorities of President Donald Trump that many fear could upend state energy policy.
The bill contains provisions rolling back several clean energy tax incentives. Several key solar company stock prices fell sharply Thursday morning in response, including NextEra Energy, FirstSolar and Enphase Energy among others.
Photo: American Public Power Association/Upsplash
The solar industry has been a key part of Illinois’ renewable energy plans and efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Lesley McCain, the head of the Illinois Solar Energy & Storage Association, said that the bill could “cause solar energy companies of all sizes to cancel projects, and many will be forced to shut their doors.”
Environmentalists were quick to criticize the federal bill, which still requires negotiation and an eventual vote in the U.S. Senate before it can become law.
“It strips funding for climate programs, guts clean energy manufacturing, kills good union jobs, drives energy prices up, and abandons farmers and small business owners,” Walling said in a statement.
Illinois Republicans, meanwhile, expressed optimism that some of the bill’s provisions could help the fossil fuel sector in the state.
“If the federal government is going to help us to, you know, power up coal, power up gas — we want all energy,” Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, said at a news conference. “We want solar, we want wind, we want nuke, we want coal. We want all of it.”
Rep. Ryan Spain, R-Peoria, noted that the federal bill should not “be used as an excuse to rush forward” on the energy legislation under consideration in Springfield.
AI is everywhere. Data centers produce massive noise pollution and use huge amounts of water. Renewable energy is cheaper than fossil fuels. So why are AI giants choosing coal and gas over wind and solar?
AI is everywhere. But its powerful computing comes with a big cost to our planet, our neighborhoods, and our wallets.
AI servers are so power hungry that utilities are keeping coal-fired power plants that were slated for closure running to meet the needs of massive servers. And in the South alone, there are plans for 20 gigawatts of new natural-gas power plants over the next 15 years — enough to power millions of homes — just to feed AI’s energy needs.
Photo: Markus Spiske/Unsplash
AI server farms are massive energy users and the driving source of residential utility price increases. How far are we away from humans becoming the power source for data centers like in the movie The Matrix?
Multi-billion dollar companies like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Meta that previously committed to 100 percent renewable energy are going back to the Jurassic Age, using fossil fuels like coal and natural gas to meet their insatiable energy needs. Even nuclear power plants are being reactivated to meet the needs of power-hungry servers.
At a time when we need all corporations to reduce their climate footprint, carbon emissions from major tech companies in 2023 have skyrocketed to 150 percent of average 2020 values.
AI data centers also produce massive noise pollution and use huge amounts of water. Residents near data centers report that the sound keeps them awake at night and their taps are running dry.
AI’s demand for power is also raising electric rates for customers nationwide.
Many of us live in communities that either have or will have a data center, and we’re already feeling the effects. This is certainly true in Illinois, which has one of the highest numbers of data centers in the country. Many of these plants further burden communities already struggling with a lack of economic investment, access to basic resources, and exposure to high levels of pollution.
To add insult to injury, amid stagnant wages and increasing costs for food, housing, utilities, and consumer goods, AI’s demand for power is also raising electric rates for customers nationwide. To meet the soaring demand for energy that AI data servers demand, utilities need to build new infrastructure, the cost of which is being passed onto all customers.
Photo: Geoffrey Moffett/Unsplash
Prescient Data Centres in Coleraine, Northern Ireland. Ireland has 134 data centers, operated by 28 providers, with the largest, a 326,803 sqft facility, run by Google.
A recent Carnegie Mellon study found that AI data centers could increase electric rates by 25 percent in Northern Virginia by 2030. And NPR recently reported that AI data centers were a key driver in electric rates increasing twice as fast as the cost of living nationwide — at a time when one in six households are struggling to pay their energy bills.
All of these impacts are only projected to grow. AI already consumes enough electricity to power 7 million American homes. By 2028, that could jump to the amount of power needed for 22 percent of all US households.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
AI could be powered by renewable energy that is non-polluting and works to reduce energy costs for us all. The leading AI companies, who have made significant climate pledges, must lead the way.
They must ensure that communities have a real voice in how and where AI data centers are built ...
Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Meta have all made promises to the communities they serve to tackle climate and pollution. They all have climate pledges. And they have made significant investments in renewable energy in the past.
Those investments make sense, since renewables are the most affordable form of electricity. These companies have the know-how and the wealth to power AI with wind, solar, and batteries — which makes it all the more puzzling that they’re relying on fossil fuels to power the future.
If these corporate giants are to be good neighbors, they first need to be open and honest about the scope and scale of the problem and the solutions needed.
As these companies invest billions in technology for AI, they must re-up investments in renewables to power our future and protect our communities. They must ensure that communities have a real voice in how and where AI data centers are built — and that our communities aren’t sacrificed in the name of profits.
Dan Howells is the Climate Campaigns Director at Green America. Todd Larsen is Green America’s Executive Co-Director. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org.
TAGGED: AI energy consumption impact, Big Tech climate pledges, data centers water and noise pollution, renewable energy for AI servers, AI and rising electricity bills
If your outgo is more than your income then your upkeep will be your downfall. A sure way to disable yourself financially is to spend more than your income.
If your income is $2500 a month then you can’t spend $3500 a month and come out ahead.
An old friend used to say, “You can’t borrow yourself rich.”
We have “wants” and “needs.” Needs must always outweigh wants. We need food and shelter, transportation and basic utilities to survive.
A person with a small income has severe financial pressure and must live on a strict budget. The person who has a lot of income still must determine a budget. The principal is the same for the person who has more income. Your outgo must not exceed your income. If you are earning $9,000 a month but spending $10,0000 you are going to end up in financial trouble.
With a very low income even the very basic needs become a luxury. Keeping the house warm or cool is a luxury. Buying good or healthy groceries are difficult. Buying gasoline to go to work is expensive. If you have access to a credit card, the pressure is great to put basic living needs on the card but the exorbitant fees and interest of credit card companies begin to quickly intensify your financial burden.
Your choices are few when it comes to good household budgeting.
Let’s look at a lean budget. Let’s say your income is $2,000 a month. You can afford the following: $500 a month in rent, $250 a month in utilities, $250 a month for a used car payment and $150 a month for gasoline. This gives you $850 a month to buy food on and buy basic auto insurance. You will have to go through your state medical insurance program and apply for free state health insurance because you can’t afford to buy health insurance.
You also have to figure out how to make more money. You have to work hard where you are and do good so you can get a better paying job. Or, you must gain additional income through a second job. With surging inflation facing our country this makes these numbers an intense strain. Consider living as close to your job as possible to save on transportation costs.
If your income is $5,000, $10,000 a month or more. Your strategy is easier. Your main goal must be to not buy a house or a car that stretches your income to the max. You don’t need the stress. Budget so you can afford to take a vacation or have a play day. Life is short!
Enjoy it along the way. How you budget and spend your money can make you financially unstable or you can live with a feeling of financial security.
Dr. Glenn Mollette is a syndicated American columnist and author of American Issues, Every American Has An Opinion and ten other books. He is read in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization.
This article is the sole opinions of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of The Sentinel. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.
Ameren Illinois, which has about 800,000 downstate customers, requested an increase that translates to between $8 to $10 higher monthly bills for a typical residential customer.
by Andrew Adams Capitol News Illinois
SPRINGFIELD - Natural gas customers in the Chicago suburbs and downstate Illinois are likely to see an increase in their monthly bills next year, but it's up to state regulators to decide how big a hike, if any, to approve.
Nicor Gas, which serves 2.3 million customers in northern and western Illinois, requested the largest gas rate plan in state history — roughly equivalent to $7.50 per month for the average residential customer. Ameren Illinois, which has about 800,000 downstate customers, requested an increase that translates to between $8 to $10 higher monthly bills for a typical residential customer.
Regulators at the Illinois Commerce Commission are expected to announce a decision as to whether to approve or alter the hikes in November. The new rates would go into effect at the start of 2026.
In the meantime, consumer watchdogs and environmental advocates are railing against both utilities for their requests, which they argue should be slashed drastically.
Critiques from consumer groups
The Citizens Utility Board, a consumer watchdog group, filed written testimony this month in both cases arguing that the requests should be cut — Nicor's by about 36% and Ameren's by about 42%. Other groups, like the Illinois attorney general’s office, the Environmental Defense Fund and others argued for additional cuts in their own filings.
Abe Scarr, director of the consumer advocacy group Illinois PIRG, said the companies are requesting “long-term commitments” in paying for gas system infrastructure, despite the potential for decreasing demand for fossil fuels.
For Ameren, much of the contention comes from the company’s plan to upgrade its natural gas system.
“The more expensive their infrastructure investments, the more opportunity they have to profit,” Scarr said.
Because utility profits are regulated by agencies like the ICC, there is a financial incentive to invest in infrastructure so that more funds can be “recovered” from customers — a portion of which then go to shareholders.
That rate of return is one of the things being litigated in these rate cases. Both companies requested a bump in their allowed “return on equity,” which translates to the amount paid to shareholders. In recent years, the ICC has consistently rejected utilities’ requests for higher return rates, although they have approved some modest increases.
“You’re asking us to predict what those shares are worth next year? Next month is gonna be hard,” CUB’s general counsel Eric DeBellis said.
DeBellis said the companies overstepped in other areas of their requests as well, including costs associated with rate cases and post-employment benefits as well as an accounting irregularity worth millions of dollars that Ameren has already admitted was erroneous.
He noted that Nicor included tens of millions of dollars of projects that were rejected by the ICC in the company’s rate request two years ago, a move that DeBellis called “galling.”
Environmentalists question future of gas
The companies drew criticism from some environmentalists, who argued in testimony this month that investing in natural gas infrastructure as the state — and country — move away from fossil fuels could leave customers on the hook for the bill for decades.
Curt Stokes, a senior attorney at the Environmental Defense Fund, said he's concerned that gas companies are building out new gas infrastructure in a way that “locks us in and keeps us hooked on fossil fuels for our energy needs.”
For Ameren, much of the contention comes from the company’s plan to upgrade its natural gas system, a plan that company officials say is required by federal safety rules. But critics point out that Ameren frequently chooses to totally replace pipes — the most expensive and most profitable option — instead of cheaper alternatives like testing them for safety.
But Ameren officials defend the choice as being the only option to ensure compliance with federal rules.
They certainly have not demonstrated, and there’s lots of — lots of — reasons to be skeptical, that there’s any environmental benefit.
“The investments we have proposed in our reliability plan will enable us to meet strict federal pipeline safety requirements, reduce leaks, and provide reliable and affordable natural gas service for our residential and business customers,” Brad Kloeppel, Ameren’s senior director of gas operations, said in a statement. “We evaluate all methods available for each segment of pipe subject to compliance based on cost and operational feasibility."
Meanwhile, advocates have criticized Nicor’s efforts at lessening greenhouse gas emissions.
The utility requested to make permanent a pilot program called “TotalGreen,” a voluntary effort that allows customers to pay to offset their carbon footprint through a mix of “renewable natural gas” and investments in methane capture and forest conservation.
“They certainly have not demonstrated, and there’s lots of — lots of — reasons to be skeptical, that there’s any environmental benefit,” Scarr said.
The EDF, Illinois PIRG and the Environmental Law and Policy Center argued in a joint filing that the “TotalGreen” program fails to live up to the state’s clean energy goals.
Among other reasons, the groups’ testimony said it costs more than $2,400 per person and has only offset the equivalent of 0.0031% of the company’s yearly carbon footprint.
Jennifer Golz, a Nicor spokesperson, said the program “supports the state’s broader environmental objectives on the path to a sustainable future.”
“Nicor Gas supports our parent company, Southern Company Gas, in its goal to achieve net zero direct greenhouse gas emissions from its operations by 2050,” Golz said in an email. “We also support reducing emissions across the natural gas value chain, from gas production to transmission to end uses.”
TotalGreen is one of several projects outlined in the two rate cases which use “renewable natural gas,” a term for methane that is captured from landfills, wastewater treatment plants and farms that would have otherwise been released into the atmosphere.
Stokes said there were “too many open questions” about renewable natural gas programs for the EDF to support the initiatives, but he was optimistic about some of the companies’ other proposals.
“There are good signs in these cases that Nicor and Ameren are looking to be more innovative,” Stokes said.
He pointed specifically to Nicor’s energy efficiency programs and a proposal for a pilot program at Ameren which would allow communities to transition from natural gas to electric all at once as pipes need to be replaced or retired.
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
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SNS - You've got your letter of acceptance in hand for graduate school at the university of your choice or a new job in college town. Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure in higher education in the coming spring semester or next August?
Moving to a college town is more than just a change of address. Regardless if you are an incoming freshman, transfer student, or graduate student pursuing an advanced degree, moving to a new environment can be a transformative experience. Below is a comprehensive checklist for making that big move to campus and ensuring a seamless transition. This guide was developed with you in mind to help navigate the often-overlooked aspects of college-town life.
Researching the college
Embarking on your college journey begins with a crucial step in our checklist for moving to a college town: thorough research. Picture yourself going on an exciting expedition. Arm yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Explore the campus layout virtually. Trace your footsteps from lecture halls to coffee shops, workout facilities and your college team's stadium.
Next, check out the academic world. What courses resonate with your passions and aspirations? Seek out professors who inspire you and research their work.
The student union is a great place on campus to meet new people and find organizations that fits your intersts.
PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
Finally, explore student organizations and clubs, discovering where your interests align. On campus, there is a niche for everyone, from debate societies to club sports teams to cultural clubs. Here, you will make new friends, too, some for life. Overall, your college experience is as unique as you are, and this knowledge empowers you to find the perfect fit.
Finding suitable housing
From on-campus dorms to off-campus apartments or rental houses, there's a match for your preferences and budget. Consider proximity to classes, amenities, and transportation. Do you prefer the convenience of walking to campus, or are you open to a short commute? Think about roommates, too,
whether you're sharing with friends or going room with a complete stranger. Clear communication and shared expectations make for harmonious cohabitation whether it is your BFF from high school or some you just met.
Budgeting as part of the checklist for moving to a college town
Budgeting is the compass that will guide your financial journey as you prepare to move to a college town. Begin by creating a comprehensive and detailed budget that covers all your expenses. Factor in your rent or housing costs, utilities like electricity, water, internet, groceries, transportation, and personal expenses. Don't forget about textbooks, school supplies, and any course-related expenses. Allocate funds for entertainment and leisure activities, too — because, face it, having fun is important.
Track your spending using apps or spreadsheets to monitor every dollar in and out of your accounts. That helps you stay on top of your finances, preventing calling mom or dad for extra cash when those nasty surprises occassionaly pop up. Consider setting up a separate savings account for emergencies or unexpected costs at a local bank. It's your safety net if things don't go according to plan. Be disciplined and realistic about your budget. Adapt and adjust as you go along, making necessary tweaks to ensure your financial well-being.
Planning the move to college town
The first thing you will want to do is create a detailed checklist that outlines every step, from researching housing options to packing essentials. Be proactive and start early to avoid last-minute stress. In addition, consider hiring professional movers, like Beltway Movers Maryland states that this will help your transition go super smooth. It is smart to label your boxes for easy unpacking. Notify your current and future utility providers, if necessary, about your relocation and ensure you have all the necessary services in your new place before arrival.
At the same time, purge unnecessary items during the packing process. It's a great opportunity to declutter and streamline your belongings. Prepare an essentials box with items you will need right away upon arrival. Include toiletries, clothes, important documents, and any daily necessities.
Contact potential roommates or neighbors to introduce yourself and establish a connection before moving in. Keep important documents (like your lease, ID, and financial records) organized and easily accessible during the move.
Public transit is a student's best friend in many college towns like on the campus of the University of Illinois. The MTD system provides transportation throughout the twin city community.
PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
Getting around town and campus
Finding housing and transportation before you move is a key part of the checklist for moving to a college town. Will you rely on your car, or is public transportation more your style? Consider the cost, parking availability, and environmental impact.
If you're considering biking, explore bike-friendly routes and invest in a sturdy lock. It's a fantastic way to stay fit and eco-conscious while getting around.
Public transit is a student's best friend in many college towns: research bus and subway routes, schedules, and passes. Most colleges offer student discounts that can lighten your financial load.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, provide flexibility without the commitment of owning a car. They are perfect for occasional trips or late-night study sessions. Walking is eco-friendly and a great way to discover hidden gems around your campus.
Check out the weather
Start by checking the average temperatures in your college town throughout the year. Will you deal with chilly winters, scorching summers, or mild, temperate weather? Also, rainfall patterns matter. Are you moving to a place with frequent downpours or a more arid climate? Knowing this will help you prepare with the right clothing and gear.
Also, consider the local terrain. Does your college town experience heavy snowfall, and do you need to prepare for icy sidewalks and roads? Or will you need sunscreen for those sunny days? Keep an eye on the area's weather trends and extreme events. Is it prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, or wildfires? Understanding these risks will also help you prepare and stay safe.
Weather apps and local news sources are invaluable for real-time updates. Knowing what to expect means you're always ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. So, grab your raincoat or sunscreen and embark on your academic journey in style, come rain or shine.
From researching the college's culture to budgeting wisely, every step of this checklist for moving to a college town contributes to a successful relocation. In your college town, you'll find an academic community and a dynamic environment waiting to be explored. Every experience is a stepping stone toward a bright and promising future, from the classrooms to the local hangouts.
So, embrace this exciting chapter with enthusiasm and confidence. You're equipped with knowledge and insight to make informed choices, ensuring your college experience is fulfilling and rewarding.
Buying almost anything today is expensive because of the current supply and demand. Prices are too high on everything. Inflation is going through the roof.
Speaking of a roof, everyone needs one over their heads. A place to live is a common need and growing dilemma.
An elderly friend says she has had other elderly friends ask if they could move in with her? Her response is always, "I don’t want anyone else living with me," and she seems very happy.
Having to move in with family or a friend is less than ideal and is usually a strain on all involved. Sometimes it happens. Typically, the shortest possible tenure of the residency is better for all.
Renting is popular. Millions are renting apartments and houses. The average rent in the U.S. is $784 per month. Thirty-five percent of Americans rent. They pay just a little less than homeowners each year for their rent, maintenance costs, and renters insurance which averages $9,477.
Renting seems like a good plan because you shouldn’t have to worry about maintenance. Remember, everybody is short staffed these days and you may wait a while before someone shows up to fix your leaky toilet. Renters routinely complain about having to beg the property owner to do maintenance. Rent is not a secure way to live. Rent costs usually increase. The owners want to make more money.
Senior citizens rent apartments not far from where I live. They started out paying $550 for an apartment that included all the utilities. Most of them were thrilled. A lady who lives there now says they have increased the rent to $850 and she expects another increase this year. She moved out of her house that was paid for to live the so called "carefree" senior apartment life. It’s not turning out to be carefree.
Apartment owners set the rules. They might not allow pets or even children. You won’t be able to play your radio loud and there will be limitations on what you can do to the rental property. Plus, an apartment owner can decide they want to use your apartment for something or someone else and ask you to leave. This might be improbable, but it’s possible and who needs this kind of life insecurity?
Buying a house is expensive and this may not be for you today. New three-bedroom houses are selling for over $400,000 in a nearby Indiana neighborhood. Down the street a neighbor put his house up for sale asking $250,000 and there was a bidding war from others who wanted the property. The sellers reported they made much more than their asking price.
You don’t have to pay a king’s ransom for a house. Years ago, I bought a four-bedroom house for $80,000 with no money down on a land contract. The interest rate was 10 percent but it was mine and when I sold it, I made $10,000 on the deal.
A modest house on a small piece of dirt can become your castle. You can work on it along the way. Overhaul the bathrooms, the kitchen and do some painting. You can redo the floors but all in your time and on your schedule. You just need a place where you can stay warm, dry, and rest. Owning your own house is not cheap. Paying for it, maintenance and property taxes all have to be considered, but at least it’s yours. If you want, you can have a pet, kids, or loud music. You can sleep in peace.
If you are renting, you are not alone. Most of us have rented at one time or another. I lived in an apartment for over four years. You do what works for you at this time in your life.
Dr. Glenn Mollette is a syndicated American columnist and author of Grandpa's Store, American Issues, and ten other books. He is read in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization.
This article is the sole opinions of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of The Sentinel. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.
To save money on your heating bill remember to close your fireplace damper if you’re not going to be using it and consider investing in a glass screen that lets heat radiate but prevents warm air from getting vented out the chimney
Photo: Pavel Danilyuk/PEXELS
NAPSI — Now is the time for New York residents to make sure their homes are as energy efficient as possible when storms and cold temperatures hit and in the rare event of a power outage.
Here are some simple steps you can take to help keep monthly power bills down:
Short-term actions
Schedule an annual maintenance appointment for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump. They should be checked, cleaned, and repaired annually. This will:
•Improve efficiency
•Find small problems before they become big problems
•Extend the life of your furnace
Bleed radiators. Letting out air that gets trapped in your heating system will heat your home more effectively and reduce energy bills. If you hear pipes banging or gurgling, it’s a sign your system needs to be bled.
Service chimneys. Also, close your fireplace damper if you’re not going to be using it and consider investing in a glass screen that lets heat radiate but prevents warm air from getting vented out the chimney.
Weatherstrip doors and windows. A removable door draft stopper can make a big difference.
Make sure air vents aren’t blocked. If furniture or curtains block your vents, the furnace works harder than it should to warm the house, driving fuel costs up. If you really like the position of furniture covering a vent, consider a low-cost vent extender.
Conserve & Manage Energy Use
Keep the thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit while you’re awake, and lower when you’re asleep or away.
Add insulation to walls and pipes. This is a very inexpensive way to reduce your energy bill. Focus on your attic because heat rises, and this will keep heat in your living spaces. Also pay attention to electrical outlets, anywhere utilities enter the house, pipes (to prevent freezing and bursting), and appliances such as water heaters.
Adjust ceiling fans. Run fans clockwise in winter to push rising warm air down, potentially enabling you to lower the thermostat. In the summer, run fans counterclockwise to create windchill.
Unplug unused electronics. Also, consider switching to LED light bulbs, which are more energy efficient. Putting lights on a timer is both easy and cost-efficient.
Put rugs on hardwood floors. This provides a layer of insulation and can warm up a room — both literally and figuratively.
Open the curtains during the day and close them at night. Letting the sun in — even the weaker sunlight of winter — can help naturally warm a room, while drawing shades and drapes at night helps keep heat in and prevents drafts.
Thinking long-term
Get a professional energy audit. The auditor will ask about your bills and check your home to make sure it’s properly sealed.
If you’re income eligible, this audit could be free — along with additional discounted or no-cost services such as insulation and air sealing upgrades, new appliances and heating or cooling systems and more. Find out more at https://www.nationalgridus.com/NY-Home/Bill-Help/Energy-Savings-Programs.
Consider zoned heating. Target heating and cooling to where it’s needed.
Switch to a smart thermostat. A programmable thermostat lets you fine tune when your furnace runs, letting you pre-set it at a lower temperature while you sleep or are away and have it turn up just before you come home.
Just in case
Big storms happen, as do power outages.
National Grid is working to reduce power outages, which involves everything from the simple (trimming trees around lines) to the complex (installing smart meters and technology that automatically locates and isolates outages and restores service as quickly as possible). To make sure you and your family are prepared if the power does go out, do the following:
Keep a gallon of water per person per day in an easily accessible, air-tight container
Have three days of non-perishable food on hand (including for your pets)
Put together a first aid kit
Make sure batteries work in flashlights, lanterns, radios etc.
Keep matches, candles, flashlights, etc., where you can find them easily
Fully charge phones
Have extra medication at the ready
Fill your bathtub with water (for toilet flushing)
Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings, keep doors closed as much as possible
Gas up the car
If you have a generator, make sure it’s at least 20 feet away from the outside wall of your home. Never operate it in an enclosed space, employ GFI protection, and use the proper cord.
To learn more about the services and advice National Grid offers customers related to safety, reliability, affordability, and storm and power outage preparation, visit www.nationalgridus.com.
One problem with all Americans making a minimum of $15 an hour is that some business owners don’t make $15 an hour.
Hundreds of thousands of small business owners struggle every day to keep the lights on and the doors of their business open. The only way they can afford help is with people who are willing to work for a low wage. This is tough for all. In most cases the business owner would like to pay more and the employee needs to make more.
You can’t economically survive on $290 a week. Apartment rent can easily be $500 to $3,000 a month depending on where you live. Add utilities, cell phone, transportation and you can forget eating much if any. The reality is that minimum wage workers can barely survive. They end up applying for public assistance, standing in food bank lines and eventually face deteriorating health and often homelessness. You cannot care for yourself on $7.25 an hour. Living out of your car or in a tent is not the American dream.
It is time for a federal minimum wage increase. Eleven to $12 an hour would be a push for many small business owners but we all need to push and try to get there together. Eventually everything goes up in price but it’s some relief for millions of Americans in the short-term. Even $12 an hour is only $480 a week, but if you are surviving on $290 per week it would have to seem like winning the lottery. However, consider the impact this will have on a mom and pop business that has five employees and suddenly the payroll has just jumped by almost $1000 more per month. It will be tough. A $15 minimum wage means $600 a week or more than doubling everyone’s pay. How many businesses in America can just flip the switch and double everyone’s pay?
If you are the employee you are desperate for higher wages. If you are the employer you worry about how you will pay the higher wage.
The Congressional budget office reported the higher $15 minimum wage would lift 900,000 out of poverty. On the other hand, the same CBO reported 1.4 million would lose their jobs by 2025.
The only place in America who currently has a $15 minimum wage is Washington, D.C. If you have ever gone out to eat in D.C. then you know $15 an hour is not enough in that town. Washington state is $13.69. California is $14. New York is $12.50. West Virginia is $8.75. Kentucky is $7.25. Indiana is $7.25. Texas is $7.25. Florida will be $10 soon. Utah is $7.25.
The bottom line for us all is do not settle for any minimum wage forever. Work hard for a promotion or move to a better paying job. Minimum means a starting job rate. It doesn’t have to mean your maximum pay rate forever.
Dr. Glenn Mollette is a syndicated American columnist and author of American Issues, Every American Has An Opinion and ten other books. He is read in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization.
This article is the sole opinions of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of The Sentinel. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.
SNS - Welcome to your next big adventure! If you're reading this, chances are you've just sold your old home, landed a new job, or moving to a new home in Urbana. Moving can be a whirlwind of emotions and tasks. This guide is your one-stop resource for planning a stress-free move in the Midwest. Before packing boxes, let's take a moment to get to know your new hometown. Understanding where you're moving is crucial in making your transition smooth and stress-free.
Understanding Urbana, IL: A Quick Primer
The Heart of Urbana
Urbana, IL, might not be the largest town on the map, but it's rich in culture, charm, and community spirit. Known for our friendly residents and various picturesque neighborhoods, Urbana offers a welcoming college-town atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home in a heartbeat. Walking through its peaceful neighborhoods or hanging out downtown, you'll sense a warm, small-town vibe. Surrounding Illinois’ flagship university, there is always something to do in Urbana and the surrounding communities.
The University of Illinois welcomes students from all over the world to pursue a higher education. The Urbana community is rich in culture and provides a comfortable environment to live, learn, and grow.
Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
Weather
In Urbana, you'll experience all four seasons. On many days throughout the year, you can feel the crispness of fall, the warmth of summer a day, and the chill of winter in the same 24-hour period. Summers are warm and perfect for outdoor activities, while winters bring a crisp chill, ideal for cozy evenings indoors. Spring and autumn are particularly delightful, with nature putting on a show of bright, vibrant colors. You will need to bring a variety of clothing – from light summer wear to warm winter coats.
Community and Lifestyle
Life in Urbana is about community and simplicity. It's a place where neighbors know each other, and local events bring people from all walks of life together. You'll find various local businesses, from restaurants featuring international cuisine to trendy establishments for lovers of music and performing arts that add to the city’s unique character. Plus, with parks, an indoor aquatic center, and plenty of recreational activities, it's a great place for families and individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle. An active tennis community, Urbana, and its sister city Champaign host over 100 tennis courts, most free of charge.
Vocalists Elena Negruta and Ingrid Kammin preform a classical piece at the The CATsNAP Benefit Concert on a Sunday afternoon at the Rose Bowl Tavern in March. The popular music venue hosts live shows, summer festivals, and a summer outdoors concert series in Urbana.
Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks
Getting Around
One of the perks of living in a smaller city is the ease of getting around. Traffic is rarely an issue; most places are just short distances away by bicycle, car, or 24-hour public bus transportation. Whether you need to run errands or want to explore, navigating Urbana is straightforward and hassle-free. Except when special events are in town, a usual commute from home to the office is 15 minutes or less.
Starting Your Moving Plan: What You Need to Know
The key to a stress-free move is all in the planning. Let's break down the essential steps to get you moving smoothly.
Setting Your Timeline
Timing is everything. Ideally, start planning your move at least two months in advance. That gives you ample time to sort things out without feeling rushed. Create a checklist of tasks with deadlines to keep you on track. Remember, the earlier you start, the smoother it will go.
Budgeting Your Move
Moving costs can add up, so setting a budget is crucial. Consider all expenses – from packing supplies to moving services. Shop for quotes and compare prices to find deals that fit your budget. Don't forget to set aside a little extra for unexpected costs – it's always better to be prepared.
Choosing the Right Moving Company
If you're moving to Illinois from another state, finding reliable interstate movers in Illinois is a big step. Look for companies with good reviews and a solid track record. Ask for detailed quotes and clarify all services included. Ensure they're licensed and insured – this gives you peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe.
Preparing for Moving Day
Now that you've sorted your timeline, budget, and movers, it's time to think about moving day. Confirm dates and times with your movers and list last-minute tasks. That could include defrosting the fridge, arranging pet care, or setting aside essentials for the first day in your new home. To make your move even more stress-free, hire a cleaning service to put the finishing touches on your old apartment or home.
Plan a Stress-Free Move: Packing Tips
Packing might seem daunting, but it can be surprisingly manageable with the right strategy. Here’s how to pack smartly and efficiently for your stress-free move.
Decluttering: Less Is More
Before you start filling boxes, it's time to declutter. Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Consider hosting a yard sale for items in good condition - it's a great way to lighten your load and earn extra cash for your move. After all, the less you have to pack, the easier your move will be.
Gathering Packing Supplies
You'll need sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling. Don't forget about specialty containers for dishes or wardrobe boxes for clothes. You can often find free boxes at local stores or purchase them from moving companies.
Smart Packing Strategies
Start packing non-essential items first, like out-of-season clothing and books. Pack room by room, keeping similar items together. Use towels or bedding to wrap fragile items. That not only saves space but also provides extra protection. Heavier items go in smaller boxes, while lighter items can go in larger ones, making lifting easier.
Labeling Is Key
Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. That will be a huge time-saver when unpacking in your new home. Consider using different colored markers or stickers for each room to make identifying boxes easier.
Navigating the Big Day:
Smoothly Transitioning to Your New Home
The big day has arrived! It's time to move. Feeling a mix of excitement and nerves is normal, but with a bit of preparation, you can make this day go smoothly.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Final Checklist for Moving Day:
Double-check that everything is packed and labeled.
Ensure important documents (like IDs, moving company contracts, and new home documents) are easily accessible
Verify that you've packed a separate essentials bag (toiletries, change of clothes, snacks, etc.).
Start the day with a good breakfast – it will be a long day.
Keep hydrated and take short breaks when needed.
Stay in communication with your movers, making sure everyone knows the plan.
Before moving day, arrange for utilities (water, gas, electricity) to be connected to your new home.
If possible, set up your internet service in advance – it’s one less thing to worry about.
Arriving at Your New Home
Do a quick inspection of the new place before unloading.
Direct the movers or helpers to the correct rooms with your boxes.
Check off items from your inventory list as they are brought in.
However, even with the best planning, minor hiccups can happen. The key is to stay calm and flexible.
Settling Into Your New Urbana Home
You've made it. The boxes are in, and the new chapter is set to begin. Settling into your new home is more than just unpacking – it's about creating a space that feels truly yours. Here's how to make that transition as smooth as possible.
Rather than haphazardly opening boxes, tackle one room at a time. Start with the essentials, such as your bedroom and kitchen.
Photo:HiveBoxx/Unsplash
Unpacking With Purpose
Start by unpacking the essentials – the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Having these functional spaces set up first brings a sense of normalcy. Take your time to arrange your belongings thoughtfully. That isn't a race. It's an opportunity to shape your new living space to reflect your style and needs.
Meeting Your New Neighbors
Introducing yourself to your neighbors is a great way to feel at home. They can be invaluable sources of local knowledge and friendship. Generally, a simple 'hello' or a small gesture like sharing homemade cookies over tea or coffee can go a long way in building a network to have your back when a weather disaster strikes or need someone to collect your mail while on vacation. Want to know the best place to bank locally or which doctor to see, ask a neighbor.
Exploring Local Amenities
Once you're somewhat settled, take a walk around your new neighborhood and downtown area. Discover the local grocery store, parks, restaurants, and other amenities. This exploration helps you acclimate to your new surroundings and brings exciting opportunities to engage with your new community.
In the end, moving is not just about transporting belongings. It's the start of a new chapter in your life or the life of your family. Each step is essential to the journey, from getting to know your new hometown and settling into your new home. With these tips, you're well-equipped to make your transition smooth and enjoyable.
Food trucks will not be allowed to operate inside the Village of St. Joseph border. After nearly an hour long discussion, village trustees put off the decision to allow or ban mobile restaurants services.
The discussion was initiated after it was announced via a post on Facebook that the Piato Food Truck had made plans to roll into town on June 15 and serve their signature cuisine.
Trustee Dan Davis contributed a post three days later, citing a committee meeting resolution, informing readers that food trucks were not allowed to set up shop in St. Joseph.
Responding to Davis' post close to an hour later, Office Manager Julie Hendrickson added to the thread, "I called the truck owner Friday and told him that we don't allow Food trucks."
Resident Amber Anderson, a day later, questioned the policy. She soon learned there was not a codified statute or policy on the books regulating food trucks operating in the village.
At the February 4 meeting, Mayor Tami Fruhling-Voges as well as Trustees Davis and Jim Wagner were present. Local businesses were represented by Roche's Frederick Sturts and Roche Cain, Bob Patel from Dairy Queen, Padano Pizzeria's Hassan Fadel, Kelly Reynolds from Scratch along with Tracie Trotter from Wyldewood Cellars and Denise Hatfield from Jack Flash. Also on hand were Jay Whealer from Monical's Pizza, Kathy Lyons for Geschenk Coffee Haus and Todd Woods from the St. Joe IGA.
The group, who felt the competition would be detrimental to their bottom line, unanimously opposed the idea of allowing food truck vendors operate inside the village. With the rising threat of the pandemic starting to gain ground in North America, the village administrators did not take further action on the issue.
"I’ve been in email contact with the mayor and there currently isn’t any food truck policy," Anderson wrote on June 18. "Things were spoken in this thread incorrectly, Piato should have never been told not to come, and are getting an apology from the town."
Last month's June 23 board meeting, the council plunged into the issue starting with statements sent via email from business owners after a presentation by former Champaign City Manager Steve Carter, who is seeking a similar position with the village.
In her statement, Trotter, from Wyldewood Cellars, said she could see the issue from both sides.
"Small business are not thriving," she said. "I don't want to see businesses close."
Trotter wrote that whatever decision that is eventually reached, it does needs to be fair.
In keeping the playing field level, she suggested that food trucks pay a permit fee and taxes to the village. She was neither for or against them providing their services to those in the community looking for alternative meal options.
The majority of the opposition from local business owners centered around the unfair advantage food truck services have over brick and mortar establishments.
Scratch's owner said local businesses have more financial responsibilities to navigate such as rent, utilities, bank notes and payroll.
"It will only result in a smaller piece of the pie," said Reynolds, who use to have a food truck business at one point and pointed out her restaurant, pre-Covid, regularly was frequented by visitors from Champaign, Danville, Monticello and Mahomet.
Later during the meeting she asked, rhetorically, "I am a little confused. Why do they (food trucks) want to come to a bedroom community of 4,000?"
Hatfield, who was also present for the open forum, voiced her opposition to the board. She had concerns about the competition food trucks potentially posed for Jack Flash.
Trustee Davis called local businesses stakeholders in the community. He pointed out that St. Joseph business owners contribute to the local economy in several different ways like advertising in athletic programs and at games.
He called for a decision to ban food truck operations for the time being. Davis suggested the issue be revisited in the future, perhaps after the local economy rebounds from the effects of state's shelter-in-place subsequent Restore Illinois plan.
Roche added that not many people see what he and other local business owners do for the community like "donating $500 right off the bat" to the St. Joseph-Ogden high school athletic program and providing generous donations to other programs in the school district.
"We feed the teams," he said. "There's never enough money."
After explaining the how tough it was for him to open his establishment eight years ago along with the financial and sweat equity he has invested into Roche's, he said flatly, "I'm not a fan."
"We made the commitment to our local businesses," said trustee Art Rapp. Earlier in the meeting, he admitted that he would hate to detour new business in the village but echoed Davis' sentiment. "Maybe at sometime it might be good to entertain (allowing) food trucks. I think a prohibition is in order."
Anderson asked the board to consider policy that will fair and will cover all food trucks that would like to or currently offer service in the village. She added that a policy governing food trucks should not be made out of fear.
She closed her time before the board asking the village to set a time frame to revisit the issue.
Before moving on to move on to other business, Fruhling-Voges said the decision for or against allowing food trucks won't come for a while.
"There is a lot to think about in creating a village policy," she said.
Moms across the U.S. are sharing similar struggles, highlighting the systemic failures in family and child care policy. Stories from Sweden, Norway, Canada, and Portugal show alternatives where child care is affordable and supportive of parents.
by Brea Harris OtherWords
At three months old, my son was kicked out of his daycare.
I had spent my pregnancy navigating my city’s brutal child care landscape — posting on social media looking for nanny shares, adding my name to year-long waitlists, and wondering how I was going to pay the astronomical daycare fees.
So when I found this place, I felt a flood of relief. It was close to my job, half the cost of others in the area, and had a gold star recommendation from a friend of a friend. It seemed like a unicorn amidst daycares. It seemed like the perfect fit.
Yet less than a week after I returned to work, I received a call asking me to pick up my son because he was crying too much. The next day, same call. After a few days I was told “it was not a good fit.” I had until the end of the month.
I quickly learned that I’m not alone. Almost every mom I know has a story like this.
I had exhausted my PTO and depleted my savings in an attempt to offset the costs of my unpaid leave. I don’t have family nearby. I’m a single mom working in healthcare unable to work remotely or stay home full time. And I had no idea where I was going to send my three month old son during the day while I worked.
I sent out desperate pleas to mom groups in my area and eventually, through the power of the moms in my community, I found the daycare he now attends.
I love this daycare. However, it costs more than my rent — it puts a $1,600 deficit in my monthly budget. So with each passing month I fall further behind on car payments, student loans, utilities. And every day I field calls from debt collectors.
All of this is due to the cost of child care.
It was moms that helped me secure a last minute daycare spot.
When I started sharing my story with friends, coworkers, and random moms on the playground, I quickly learned that I’m not alone. Almost every mom I know has a story like this. They’ve been juggling budget deficits to afford care, pleading for financial aid, adding their names to yearlong wait lists, reducing their work hours, or cutting their careers short.
The details vary, but the common thread is this: Child care costs are unsustainable.
This late night rabbit hole affirmed what I already knew in my gut: moms in the U.S. are struggling due to systemic issues and policy failures. And it does not have to be this way.
In my 13 months of motherhood, I’ve already witnessed the power moms have when we band together. It was moms that helped me secure a last minute daycare spot. It was moms who recently gathered at a local park to swap baby gear in response to rising prices.
And it will be moms who demand more from our policymakers when it comes to the accessibility of child care in our country.
by Terri Dee
