County Board Chairman Headed for Washington in September

Effingham County Board Chairman Jim Niemann said he will be heading to Washington in September to discuss policy issues important to counties.

(NIEMANN)

Niemann told other board members at this month's meeting that he will join other county board chairs belonging to the United Council of Counties of Illinois at a meeting with senior administration officials and elected officials on September 13. Niemann said there will be no travel expense borne by the County or its taxpayers as UCCI has agreed to cover the actual cost up to $2,000 per county. Niemann said he booked and paid for the trip with hotel and airfare coming in just under $1,000.

Niemann said the White House has requested topics for discussion from UCCI. Niemann asked for representation from the Department of Agriculture for information on expanding ag markets, representation from the Department of Transportation and the FAA regarding central Illinois transportation corridor expansion, and representation from Medicare regarding coverage of in-home emergencies like diabetic shock or lift assists, without requiring transportation to a hospital in order to be a covered event. Other counties are making their requests. UCCI and the White House will coordinate the event schedule.

The National Association of County Organizations will be holding a reception and meeting on the evening of September 12 to brief attendees on national issues regarding county governments as well as provide any last-minute updates regarding the meeting on the 13th.