Peoria Standard

In a year filled with community engagement and meaningful connections, Representative of the 16th Congressional District of Illinois, highlighted 16 snapshots from 2023 that showcase the diverse and vibrant region. The congressman, whose constituents span across 21 counties in central and northern Illinois, made it a priority to connect with local businesses, organizations, and residents.

The year began with a visit to Galena in January, where the congressman met with small businesses, elected officials, and the Chamber of Commerce to gain insights into the community and the issues affecting it. This was followed by a visit to the Rockford Airport to discuss the future plans for airport upgrades.

In February, the congressman had the privilege of speaking at Eureka College, President Ronald Reagan's alma mater. The event honored President Reagan's legacy of civic leadership and celebrated the exceptional students at the college.

March brought a visit to the LyondellBasell plant in Morris, Grundy County. The congressman acknowledged their contribution to the community through job opportunities and their leadership in the low-carbon industry.

Recognizing the importance of agriculture in the district, the congressman visited Brian Duncan's family farm in April to lend a hand during the planting season. He expressed gratitude towards the hardworking family farmers who play a vital role in feeding and fueling the country.

In May, the congressman turned his attention to the Future Farmers of America (FFA) in Livingston County. He visited the FFA to witness their innovative work in agriculture and to support the development of the next generation of Illinois farmers.

The congressman's focus on energy led him to tour the Byron Nuclear Plant in June. He emphasized the significance of nuclear energy as an emission-free resource that supports Illinois' economy and its all-of-the-above energy approach.

Continuing his commitment to supporting the future leaders of the nation, the congressman hosted students appointed to the nation's military academies in his Peoria District Office in June. This annual tradition allows him to nominate deserving young men and women to attend these prestigious institutions.

July and August marked the opening of new Congressional Offices in Morris and Normal. These offices, led by the congressman, serve as accessible and open spaces for constituents to seek assistance and engage with their representative.

The congressman's dedication to healthcare and research brought him to the OSF's Cancer Institute in Peoria in September. He embarked on a hard hat tour to witness the progress of the institute, which aims to become a hub for cancer research and treatment in the state and region.

In the same month, the congressman visited Precision Planting's new facility in Morton. The facility's expansion is expected to create numerous job opportunities in the community, strengthening the local economy.

October saw the congressman celebrating the Community Funding Project award secured for the new YMCA facility in Morris. He participated in a beam signing ceremony alongside local officials, demonstrating his commitment to supporting community initiatives.

November provided an opportunity for the congressman to address the Rockford Chamber of Commerce and provide a Congressional update. The chamber serves as a vital advocate for local small businesses, and the congressman's presence highlighted his support for their endeavors.

In November, the congressman also broke ground on the Willis Senior Lofts project in Rochelle. This project, championed by him, aims to strengthen the low-income housing tax credit and provide high-quality housing for seniors in the community.

The year concluded with a visit to the Little Learners and Birth to Five Council at the CTE Academy in Elizabeth. The congressman engaged in discussions regarding their mission to improve childcare and support families, highlighting his commitment to early childhood development.

Looking ahead to the new year, the congressman expressed his excitement to continue serving his constituents and building on the connections made in 2023.

Click this link to access more information: https://lahood.house.gov/2023/12/year-in-review-16-from-2023-in-il16