"The state shouldn't balance its budget on the backs of local communities,"Senator Linda Holmes.
AURORA, IL - In recognition for her legislative accomplishments during the past year, State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) was presented with this year's Governmental Leader of the Year award by the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference this evening.
"I am honored by this award, and I look forward to continuing my efforts to support local government at the state level," Senator Holmes said. "Last year, I fought to keep critical dollars for local government in the state budget because they allow municipalities to fund essential community services. The state shouldn't balance its budget on the backs of local communities, especially during tough economic times when they are faced with their own fiscal concerns."
The DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference presents the Governmental Leader of the Year Award each year to individuals who understands municipal burdens, support important municipal legislation or initiatives, and work toward legislative or other solutions to municipal concerns. The Conference receives nominations for the Governmental Leader of the Year from its members and the Board of Directors makes the final decision.
Senator Holmes, who serves on the Senate Local Government Committee and has a background in local government as a former member of the Kane County Board, was chosen this year because of her advocacy against plans to cut revenue from municipalities. She was a leader this year in the fight to protect funding for the Local Government Distributive Fund.
"I am pleased to present Senator Holmes with our 2011 Governmental Leader of the Year Award," said Burr Ridge Mayor Gary Grasso, who serves as President of the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference. "She was a tireless advocate last year on behalf of local governments when funding was seriously threatened by deep budget cuts. Thanks in large part to her efforts, local government funding was saved, and communities are able to continue providing essential services to citizens."
Senator A.J. Wilhelmi (D-Joliet) also received the Governmental Leader of the Year Award. Past winners include former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan.
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