DES PLAINES –To make sure every family in the community has the option to enjoy fresh seasonal produce, State Senator Laura Murphy partnered with Mercer County Farm to donate sweet corn to local food pantries, including Elk Grove Township Pantry, the Schaumburg Barn, Maine Township Pantry, the Center of Concern, Des Plaines Self Help Closet, Catholic Charities in Des Plaines, and the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry.

“Sweet corn is an Illinois delicacy—but unfortunately, fresh produce is not accessible to many families because of their location or socioeconomic status,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I am proud that this partnership allows for more corn to go back to the community, and ensuring all of us can enjoy this summer’s crop.”

This donation is the latest event of the ongoing partnership between Mercer County Farm Bureau and Sen. Murphy’s office. The Bureau participates in the Adopt a Legislator Program, working with Senator Murphy on agriculture-related legislation, holding tours for the Senator of their facilities, and provides resources for local events like the upcoming donation. Senator Murphy looks forward to continue the partnership moving forward, including learning more about the agricultural industry and giving back to her community.

SPRINGFIELD – Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by Senator Laura Murphy, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced approximately $43.35 million in road and bridge improvement projects for the 28th District, and Senator Murphy is looking forward to see these funds at work in her community.

 “Infrastructure is such an essential part of our society because it literally connects us to each other and to our community,” said Murphy (D—Des Plaines). “Our bridges, roads, and highways help make sure we get to work and to our families safely. I look forward to seeing this investment make real improvements in my community’s infrastructure to maintain the standards of safety and efficiency we deserve.”

 As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Murphy represents will see 22 infrastructure projects totaling more than $43.35 million over the next six years.

Some of the projects coming to the area in the next year include:
   • Bridge repair on IL-53 and Touhy Avenue
   • Pavement rehabilitation on Algonquin Road
   • Reconstruction of Rodenburg Road and National Parkway

These projects are part of IDOT’s multi-year plan, a $34.6 billion investment in construction projects for the next six fiscal years.

The $34.6 billion will go to highway reconstruction and preservation, bridge improvements, strategic expansion, system support such as engineering and land acquisition, and safety and system modernizations. Over six years, the funding will be dispersed to improve more than 2,500 miles of roads and nearly 10 million square feet of bridges.

“This investment will improve access and connectivity in the district I represent, as well as throughout the state,” Murphy said. “Prioritizing our aging infrastructure system is long overdue, and I am glad to see these projects in the works for commuting families all over our great state.”

To find a full list of projects slated for the 28th Senatorial District, visit IDOT’s website.

DES PLAINES—State Senator Laura Murphy is hosting a free educational property tax appeals seminar from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 22, at the Schaumburg High School Gymnasium, Door 10, 1100 W. Schaumburg Rd.

“Property taxes can be confusing for many—especially the appeals process” said Murphy (D—Des Plaines). “I am happy to sponsor this event to make sure Schaumburg residents have access to resources they need to get their property tax appeal concerns in order.”

The seminar will include a presentation followed by a question and answer period. Speakers with the Cook County Assessor's Office will explain how property taxes are calculated and explore tips on how to file a successful appeal. Township and Cook County Assessor's Office staff will be available to assist residents in filing appeals on site.

Senator Murphy is holding the event along with Schaumburg Township Assessor John R. Lawson, State Representative Michelle Mussman, Cook County Commissioner Kevin B. Morrison, village of Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod, village of Hanover Park Mayor Rodney Craig and Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig B. Johnson.

Registration is not required but requested at bit.ly/3zJxfhV. Contact the Schaumburg Township Assessor's Office with question or for more information at (847) 285-4567.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Murphy (D—Des Plaines) is proud to announce she has been selected to be a part of the 10th annual Edgar Fellows Program out of a pool of 160 nominees from all levels of government, nonprofit organizations, and the business world.

“Being chosen as an Edgar Fellow is a tremendous honor,” Murphy said. “I expect to learn a lot from not only the distinguished faculty, but the other fellows who were chosen this year.”

The Edgar Fellows Program is an initiative designed by former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar to inspire respectful and collaborative leadership to address the state's major challenges. Since 2012, the designated fellows meet for a week for an intense executive training program to learn about leadership skills, strategies, and expectations.

During the week-long workshop, the fellows will engage with more than two dozen policy experts and experienced practitioners. In addition, they will discuss economic development, climate change, education, Medicaid, negotiations and intergovernmental cooperation.

“I am excited to work with and learn from so many respected community leaders through this program,” Murphy said. “I can’t wait to make the most of this week, and return to the 28th District with new ideas for the upcoming session.”

The 40 selected Edgar Fellows will meet next week in Urbana-Champaign. More information about the Edgar Fellows program is available here.