By Dave Dahl/Illinois Radio Network
SPRINGFIELD – Money for local road projects – including the purchase of salt – and lottery winnings and 9-1-1 centers is a signature away from breaking loose. A bill which passed the Illinois House with only one No vote last week passed the Senate unanimously Monday afternoon.
“As you know,” said former Carbondale mayor Brad Cole, who now heads the Illinois Municipal League, “the motor fuel tax funds are of significant importance to municipalities … in the ability to use these dollars for snow and ice control materials, labor, wages, and repair of streets.”
Cole spoke to a committee shortly before the floor vote, after which State Sen. Matt Murphy (R-Palatine) said, “Merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, and, to our mayors, good spending!”
SB 2039 has passed the Senate, 53-0, and awaits the governor’s action.