LETTERS

One of Illinois Issues' regular features is the Question of the Month, a nonscientific survey of readers' opinions on current issues. We decided to run a sample of responses to our question on regionalism: In Illinois, on what issues(s) is it most important that state and local governments take a cooperative "regional" approach in policy making and problem solving. Why?

From Philip of Riverside: Water distribution and wastewater treatment, because of economies of scale. Police and fire-fighting capabilities, because it makes economic sense in terms of major equipment purchases, like fire-fighting equipment, and in the case of police, a broader experience and talent base than individual communities can afford.

From Peter of Oak Park: Road construction and transportation planning is by far the regional issue that affects the most Illinois citizens on a daily basis. The continuing growth of the Chicago suburban region has created significant traffic congestion as transportation planning has failed to keep up. Related to this issue is the lack of affordable housing in the suburban regions. Many citizens are forced out of economic necessity to live in older communities and commute long distances to their jobs in the booming newer suburbs.

From Andrea of Macomb: Water, which includes looking at the effect of large animal confinement on this essential ingredient to our sustainability.

From Roger of Galesburg: Roads, water supply, crime, economic development, schools, basic infrastructure. The why for all: common sense.

From Duane of Chicago: Schools. Nothing will impact the future of this state/region as much as the education of children or the re-education of adults.

From Kim of Champaign: Cutting down the huge number of different, overlapping governmental units: school districts, forest preserve districts, etc. Consolidate, integrate. Save time and money.

From Sheila of Freeport: Water quality, air quality, pollution control. Preservation and protection of the environment are the most important of all issues to all people. Only regional approaches will work.

How to write us
Your comments on articles and columns are welcome. Please keep letters brief (250 words). We reserve the right to excerpt them. Send letters to:
Letters to the Editor
Illinois Issues, K-10
P.O. Box 19243
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL 62794-9243
e-mail address on Internet:
Ilissues@uis.edu;
Editor: boyer-long.peggy@uis.edu

40 ¦ October 1998 Illinois Issues