McHenry Times

Over $312 million will be invested in road and bridge projects in Illinois' 32nd Senate District between 2026 and 2031, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) Multi-Year Program. Of this total, $299.2 million is allocated for state highway projects, with an additional $12.9 million dedicated to local highway initiatives. These upgrades aim to improve travel safety and infrastructure reliability for residents, businesses, and farmers.

A full list of the planned projects under IDOT’s six-year Highway Improvement Program is available online. Additionally, more than 223 community-driven infrastructure projects totaling over $400 million are also detailed on the program's website.

Applications are now open for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which offers one-time benefits to eligible homeowners and renters struggling with energy bills or service reconnection. The application portal opened on October 1 and will remain available until August 15, 2026, or until funds run out. Priority groups—including older adults, people with disabilities, families with young children, and those facing utility disconnection—are encouraged to apply early due to increased propane costs during winter months.

Applicants must provide proof of income from all household members for the prior month, identification numbers where available, recent heat and electric bills, rental agreements if applicable, and any other required documents based on their situation. Those not in priority groups can begin applying November 1. Starting January 1, 2026, eligible LIHEAP customers served by ComEd will receive a monthly discount through new Low Income Discount Rates; more information is at powerbilldiscount.com.

Eligibility has expanded this year: households must have incomes at or below 60% of the state median income to qualify for LIHEAP assistance. Specific guidelines based on household size are listed at liheapillinois.com.

Senator Craig Wilcox will co-host a senior fair alongside Senator Don DeWitte on October 14 at Crystal Lake’s Grand Oaks Recreation Building from 10:00 AM to noon. The event features agencies and organizations serving older Illinoisans.

Wilcox is also partnering with State Senator Darby Hills for a free Veterans Appreciation Luncheon & Expo on November 15 at Knights of Columbus Hall in Lake Zurich from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Veterans and their families are invited for lunch and access to resources about veterans’ programs.

Illinois remains a leading producer of pumpkins nationwide; in 2024 farmers harvested over 485 million pounds statewide. Morton continues its role as a central processing hub for canned pumpkin products.

The Illinois Archery Deer Season began October 1 across most counties—with some variations depending on firearm season status—and runs through January 18 in many areas. Hunters are reminded that tree stands cause most hunting-related accidents; safety practices should be reviewed before participating this season.

For further details about hunting regulations or deer harvest reporting requirements, hunters can consult Hunt Illinois or contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources by phone or email.

Wilcox was elected as a Republican representative for the state's 32nd Senate District in 2018 after succeeding Pamela Althoff.