Monee Annual Town Meeting

http://thevedette.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/cropped-Vedette-News-Logo.png
April 19, 2022/Comments Off on Monee Annual Town Meeting
Spread the love

By Karen Haave
Monee Township’s Annual Town meeting drew only a dozen participants, lasted just under an hour, and provided a wealth of information about local services.
Township Trustee William “Billy” Morgan was elected moderator for the meeting.
Township Supervisor Donna Dettbarn gave a lengthy report detailing the accomplishments of 2021-2022.
“It was another year of the pandemic,” she said, “which affected the whole world. Here at the township, we carried on the business of serving our township residents, with the Food Pantry, General Assistance, and Emergency Assistance.
“We continued to require masks, as it was state policy and, after that was rescinded, continued the policy as we have immunocompromised officials and staff. We will continue pandemic policies until the different variants that pop up are more contained. We are back to in-person meetings for our monthly township meetings, held on the third Thursday of each month and will continue to do so, unless the pandemic becomes more virulent, as in the past.
“Financially, the township is in the black,” she continued. “Monee Township does a lot with your tax dollars. Last year, we received $663,997 in property taxes into the General Town Fund, and we were able to sustain all on-going programs, pay all officials’ salaries, and fund the assessor’s office, which gets almost a third of the taxes collected.
“Your tax dollars also were spent on senior programs, the Will Ride Bus service for seniors and disabled, General Assistance, Emergency Assistance, and other outreach programs.
“We also had several special food drive-up distribution days and spent money on upkeep to the township building.”
While COVID curtailed indoor events for seniors, she said, “We did host many drive-up senior box lunch events, instead.
“The township Senior Committee was able to hold the annual Senior Brunch in-person at the Green Garden Country Club in December, a party “our seniors really enjoyed.”
Youth Committee programs also suffered under COVID, Dettbarn noted.
“Hopefully, this year we can restart our Youth Program, and our Trustee Billy Morgan is starting the search for where to hold it and how to staff the program. It was started as a volunteer program, but we will probably hire a part-time coordinator and a few staff to help run it, along with volunteers.”
Dettbarn also noted that Township Trustee Debbie Burgess is planning a blood drive for Wednesday, May 4, at the township building, from 3 to 7 p.m. Volunteers are needed to help, and 10 or more donors are needed to sign up.
The Will Ride busing program meanwhile, “is a costly program, as it costs us approximately $35 per ride, each way,” the supervisor reported.
“Will County does have a grant with the RTA to pay for one-half of that, and also they have an area aging grant, which pays 85 percent, so the township pays much less per ride, but it is still a costly program. This has proven to be a much needed program our board feels is important to pay for, as it helps so many of our residents.”
At the same time, the township is expanding its newsletter to quarterly publication.
“We were publishing three times a year but, as of this year we will be moving to a quarterly newsletter,” Dettbarn said.
“We think four times a year will better-serve our Monee Township residents, as many areas do not have access to local papers. We try to deliver to all Monee Township residents. Our newsletter is very cost effective, costing us just over $10,000 this last year and should cost no more than $16,000 four times a year.
“Our newsletter gives an overview of all township activities, helpful programs, and information on recycling electronics, education tutoring, legal services, ILHEAP, and veterans assistance, and we have an ‘Around the Township’ column that gives loads of community information.”
Township outreach programs continue, she said, for those who are experiencing financial struggles, along with the Thanksgiving Food Baskets, Easter Baskets, Back-to-School Supplies, and Santa’s Sack in December.
“We cannot thank our residents, businesses and schools enough for all their generous donations of money and food throughout the year,” she said. “These donations help keep all our programs going, and thanks to volunteers who helped sort food, wrap presents, and prepare for the give-away day.
“Thanks to our Highway Commissioner David Deutsche and his crew for all their help. They picked up food donations from businesses and schools, and also picked up Toys for Tots in Joliet. They are always there when we need them.
“Also, many thanks to all on the board of trustees, who helped on one or more distribution days, with special thanks to the strong men who helped carry very, very heavy boxes and bags to residents’ cars: James Young, Bobby Lathan, Billy Morgan, James Chambers, and Oscar Trevino from the Senior Committee.”
A big thank you goes to Township Administrator Willa Simmons for her continued leadership in handling all that we do. It could not be done without her. She always has a very kind, gentle way with all people, even when stressed.
“Willa’s job is complex. Besides the day-to-day operations of the township, which includes being the bookkeeper/accountant, customer service, and health care/insurance coordinator, she is also the General Assistance and Emergency Assistance Coordinator. The GA program is a mandated governmental program, which is the last place people go who have no income, do not qualify for social security or medicare, and have nowhere else to go. GA gives them a very small monthly subsidy, and we ask them to contribute work hours to get that.
“Willa also handles the EA, which helps income-challenged township residents pay utility bills or rental assistance. The GA and EA take up approximately one-third to one-half of her duties, sometimes more. She keeps our township running!
“Another thank you goes to our township assistant, Shirley Lathan. She really has been a big help with organizing our holiday and food programs and having her here allows Willa to concentrate on the more detailed needs of the township.
“And thank you also to Ruth Marcukaitis, who is our new office assistant. She helps Shirley with the food programs and holidays programs. Shirley and Ruth are integral to our programs’ success.
“One last thing I want to address is that the township form of government is under constant attack in Springfield. It started with former Governor Rauner wanting to cut what he considered excess taxation, which started an onslaught of bills to get rid of townships. These attacks have slowed due to COVID and very few bills being passed, but  soon they will continue, as COVID comes under control.
“I recently saw an article in the Southland paper complaining about excess units of government. Most townships in Illinois are not excess. They are the closest local form of government that helps people. Monee Township is an integral part of our community. We serve many underprivileged residents, who would have to drive 30 miles to Joliet to get financial help if we were not here.
“Townships are very cost effective,” she continued. “I doubt it would save taxpayers anything to take what we do and give it to the county. It would probably end up costing more. 
“If we were not here, our seniors would not have a place to congregate and socialize, our youth would not be served, our economically challenged residents would not have a nearby place to get financial help or food when hungry, or just advice on where they can go for help.
“Getting rid of townships is a very bad idea, so please ask your state representatives and senators to vote against any bill trying to destroy township government.
“And lastly, I am very thankful that David Deutsche, our highway commissioner, is getting back into the office after scaring us with health problems. David and his crew and the supervisor’s office help each other in so many areas. David, we missed you and thank you again for all you and your guys do.”
The next Annual Town Meeting was set for Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., at the Township Hall, 26121 Egyptian Trail in Monee.

Spread the love

Illinois News

Diversity, judicial appointments at issue in 1st District Supreme Court race
Diversity, judicial appointments at issue in 1st District Supreme Court race
Bailey vs. Bost congressional race among GOP primaries to watch
Bailey vs. Bost congressional race among GOP primaries to watch
Candidate Q&A: Cunningham, Reyes make pitch for Supreme Court seat
Candidate Q&A: Cunningham, Reyes make pitch for Supreme Court seat
Pritzker agency heads questioned on $1.1 billion revenue proposals
Pritzker agency heads questioned on $1.1 billion revenue proposals
House panel opens hearings on Pritzker’s health insurance reforms
House panel opens hearings on Pritzker’s health insurance reforms
House panel opens hearings on Pritzker’s health insurance reforms
House panel opens hearings on Pritzker’s health insurance reforms

National News

Sorry, we couldn't find any posts. Please try a different search.

Classifieds

personal statement writer

Area News

Liz Gibson, Rep. Haas, and Lamekia Davis recently attended the Emerging Women Leaders event in Springfield. –Photo submitted.

Rep. Haas Honors Local Women at Emerging Women Leaders Event

March 14, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveRecently, State Rep. Jackie Haas welcomed Lamekia Davis and Liz Gibson to the Emerging Women Leaders Event in Springfield. The event consisted of a brunch, listening session, and informational seminars from other women in leadership roles. Rep. Haas moderated the ‘Put Your Oxygen Mask on First’ breakout session, which focused on maintaining positive…


Spread the love
Vedette logo

Monee Eighth Grader Proposes a Community Garden

March 14, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveBy Karen Haave A Crete-Monee Middle School eighth grader told the board of trustees recently a community garden could help mitigate the absence of a grocery store there. Lauren Young offered information she learned researching her community project assignment. “We have to complete a community project as part of our graduation requirements,” she…


Spread the love
Pics from the Monee Historical Soc. presentation on the railroad and history of Monee. Christi Holston is standing and Rachel White is seated on the left. Photo by Karen Haave.

History of Monee Shaped by Railroad

March 13, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveBy Karen Haave The Village of Monee seems like a quiet little place now, but in the 1850s, it was a boomtown and the nucleus of Will County. In a presentation for the Monee Historical Society recently, MHS President Christi Holston said the village, at that time, had a general store, post office,…


Spread the love
Crete PD posed before their run in the Manteno Lake. –Photo by Karen Haave.

Crete, Monee Take the Plunge

March 13, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveBy Karen Haave Law enforcement teams from Crete and Monee were among the hundreds of participants to take a dip in the icy waters of Lake Manteno for Polar Plunge 2024. Both teams are award-winners recognized for the record amounts of money raised to benefit Special Olympics Illinois. Monee Police Department’s Sgt. Teresa…


Spread the love
Monee PD logo

Monee Police Blotter: February 28 – March 1

March 10, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveFebruary 28, at approximately 7:57 a.m., Monee Officers received four burglary reports of semi-trailers at the Pilot Travel Center that had been burglarized. After investigating, they found four separate semi-trailers with locks and seals that had been cut. This occurred on the Pilot North lot. Various items were removed from the trailers of…


Spread the love
Monee Police Department took the plunge on march 2. Photo by Jim Piacentini.

Polar Plunge Raises $190K-Plus!

March 10, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveBy Andrea Arens The annual Manteno Polar Plunge, once again, surpassed its goal and raised more than $190K for Special Olympics. The Manteno Polar Plunge is an event that is conducted as a fundraiser for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is the single largest fundraising movement for Special Olympics. Police departments from…


Spread the love
CAPITOL RECAP: Illinois Democrats hoping to host 2024 nominating convention

DeLuca Continues Work to Lower Property Taxes

March 8, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveIntroduces plan to prohibit taxpayer-funded guaranteed income programs.  As part of his continued efforts to lower property taxes and the need to responsibly manage taxpayer dollars, State Rep. Anthony DeLuca, D-Chicago Heights, has introduced a measure that would prohibit governments from using taxpayer money to fund guaranteed income programs. “We must focus our…


Spread the love
–Photo submitted.

Preserving Legacies of Love Key Part of February

March 7, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveWe all strive to be remembered for making a difference, and for showing others we appreciate all they have done to help us be successful. I had two important opportunities to show that legacy of love during the past month.   As I have written here many times, I am proud to be…


Spread the love
The Strategic Planning Workgroup is comprised of an inclusive group of parents, teachers, staff, administrators, and community members. –Photo submitted.

CM 201-U Holds First Strategic Planning Workgroup Meeting

March 5, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveCrete-Monee School District 201-U held its first Strategic Planning Workgroup meeting on Thursday, February 22, with approximately 50 members participating. During the session, participants discussed the importance of strategic planning, the process that will be used to create the strategic plan, and the district’s mission and vision. The group also reviewed feedback from…


Spread the love
Vedette logo

Monee Honors CREW Award Recipients

March 5, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveBy Andrea Arens Ten Village of Monee employees were recognized for exemplary performance with semi-annual CREW awards during the February 28 meeting of the board of trustees. “CREW is an acronym that defines an employee who provides exemplary work,” Mayor Therese Bogs said, introducing the recipients. “CREW stands for Credibility, Respect, Equality/Fellowship/Identity, and…


Spread the love
Former Illinois State Police trooper who pleaded guilty in relation to deadly crash postpones hearing

Monee Police Blotter: February 19 – 24

March 2, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveFebruary 19, at approximately 4:30 p.m., a traffic stop resulted in the arrest of Javier Alvarado, 22, of Oak Lawn. Alvarado was cited for no registration and no insurance. He also was wanted for failure to appear in Will County, was secured, and transported. February 22, at approximately 9:30 a.m., a vehicle wanted…


Spread the love
–Photo submitted.

Franciscan Health Olympia Fields Redesignated Acute Stroke Ready Hospital

March 2, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveFranciscan Health Olympia Fields has been redesignated as an Acute Stroke Ready hospital by the Illinois Department of Public Health, the hospital announced recently. Acute Stroke Ready hospitals serve as the first stop for patients suspected of having a stroke. Franciscan Health Olympia Fields is the only hospital in the South Suburbs with…


Spread the love
Upcoming events logo

Legion Fish Fry March 9

March 2, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveArea residents are invited to Peotone American Legion Post 392’s monthly all-you-can-eat fish fry on Saturday, March 9, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., or until sold out. Tickets are $15 for perch or catfish and include French fries, cole slaw, bread, and butter. You might also want to try a special dessert for…


Spread the love
–Logo submitted.

Rep. Haas Celebrates IDOT District 79 Vehicle Procurement

March 2, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveFollowing the announcement of $57.1 million awarded in new paratransit vehicles on behalf of the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), State Rep. Jackie Haas released the following statement: “I am thrilled the Illinois Department of Transportation has awarded a total of 11 new vehicles to transit providers in the 79th District through their…


Spread the love
–Photo submitted.

Franciscan Health Heart, Vascular Institute Echocardiography Lab Achieves Accreditation

March 2, 2024
Spread the love

Spread the loveThe Franciscan Health Heart and Vascular Institute Olympia Fields echocardiography lab has achieved accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (ICA) for adult transthoracic echocardiography. Echocardiography (also known as echo) is a form of non-invasive imaging used to assess different areas of the heart, which can detect heart disease or signs of serious conditions.…


Spread the love