Help Shape Cook County’s Environmental Justice Policy | |
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At the February 13th Environmental Justice (EJ) Committee meeting, the Cook County officials introduced their first-ever Environmental Justice Policy to address historical environmental injustices and embed equity in decision-making. Southland municipalities raised concerns about industrial pollution, flood mitigation, and green infrastructure barriers, emphasizing the need for strong municipal input. County officials are still gathering input on their draft environmental justice policy, focusing on key areas such as funding equity, regulatory streamlining, and transparency in sustainability efforts. Stakeholder feedback on the policy is due by February 28. Find the draft policy here.
SSMMA's next EJ Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 10, at 2:00 PM on Zoom. For meeting details or questions email David Clay II at david.clay@ssmma.org.
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Get Involved in Shaping the Future of Will County! | |
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Will County is planning for the future, and your voice matters! Our Way: Will County’s Comprehensive Plan is a community-driven initiative designed to guide growth, development, and sustainability in the region.
Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or community leader, your input will help shape policies on housing, transportation, economic development, and more.
Visit Our Way Will to learn more, share your ideas, and participate in upcoming events.
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Southland Chamber Recognizes New Leaders and Partners | |
The Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce (CSCC) Board announces the retirement of Dr. Terri L. Winfree, who has provided exceptional leadership over the past four years, guiding the organization through challenges, including the pandemic. Her dedication to the business community has left a lasting impact.
Stepping into the role of Executive Director is Ms. Jennel Hooper, a dynamic leader with a strong background in coalition building, economic development, and legislative advocacy. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience and expertise in project management and grant funding, Ms. Hooper is well-equipped to drive CSCC’s mission forward.
The Chamber also celebrated leadership transitions at the Annual Recognition and Board Installation event on February 19 at Idlewild Country Club. Mayor Vernard L. Alsberry Jr. concluded his tenure as 2024 Chairman, passing the role to Paul Donohue of Ingalls UChicago Medicine as 2025 Chairman. Kristi Delaurentiis, Executive Director of South Suburban Mayors and Managers, was honored as Legislative Ambassador for her outstanding advocacy efforts on behalf of the Southland region.
For more information on the Southland Chamber visit: the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce.
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Additional Grant Opportunities and Resources | |
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• The American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) has opened applications for its 2025 Community Challenge grant programs, including Flagship, Capacity-Building and Demonstration Grants. Learn more.
• FEMA has released a NOFO for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program. BRIC grants are designed to assist communities in developing disaster risk planning, analyzing hazards, and implementing projects to increase resiliency and safety. Learn more.
• The Flood Mitigation Assistance Swift Current program provides $500 million in funding to reduce flood risk for NFIP-insured properties with repetitive or substantial flood damage. Learn more.
• Find a list of DECO grant opportunities for the state of Illinois here.
• Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is accepting grant applications for green infrastructure projects, under the GIGO program. Learn more.
• Check out Will County's small business assistance resource page.
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News from Community Partners | |
Cook County Public Health Department Offering Free Vaccine Clinics in South Suburbs
CCDPH is hosting vaccination clinics throughout the month of March. No appointment is necessary. Find a list of dates, times, and locations at the link below.
Learn more.
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Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Accepting Grant Applications
2025 Homes for a Changing Region Program
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus is accepting applications for the 2025 Homes for a Changing Region program. This initiative provides free technical assistance to help municipalities address housing challenges, create balanced housing options, and meet the needs of diverse residents. Supported by the Illinois Housing Development Authority, the program offers data-driven insights, stakeholder engagement, and tailored action plans.
Applications are due by Friday, February 28th. Spots are limited—apply now to secure your community's participation! Contact Ben Schnelle at bschnelle@mayorscaucus.org for details.
Powering Safe Communities
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, in partnership with ComEd, is accepting applications for the Powering Safe Communities program through March 29, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CDT. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 for public safety and electrification projects. Eligible applicants include municipalities, townships, counties, and local governments within ComEd’s service area. Non-profits may also apply if partnered with a government entity.
Recipients must provide matching funds and complete projects within one year of receiving the grant. Past grants have supported projects like electric vehicles, charging stations, public safety equipment, and emergency systems.
Learn more and apply: Powering Safe Communities Program.
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Job Postings & Requests for Proposals | |
• SSMMA offers a list of local job opportunities and RFPs throughout the south suburban region directly on our website.
• Municipalities and organizations can send job openings and proposals here to be publicly posted.
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Start Planning for 2025 Auctions!
Now is the time to plan for the spring auction which is just two months away.
2025 Auction Dates
The 2025 auction dates are:
• Tuesday, April 22
• Tuesday, July 22
• Tuesday, October 21
SPC Vehicle Contracts Continue Strong Production As previously reported, the Suburban Purchasing Cooperative (SPC) is pleased to report that production is strong for all SPC vehicle contracts, with most units ordered today could be delivered after May for budgeting purposes. The SPC vehicle contracts are as follows:
| For more information contact Melissa Doud. |
Have something you'd like included in our next newsletter? Email it to news@ssmma.org.
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