Meeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Board Legislative Committee for January 6, 2026
Will County Board Legislative Committee Meeting | January 6, 2026
Overall Meeting Summary
The Will County Board Legislative Committee met on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, to finalize the county’s state and federal legislative agendas for the upcoming year. The meeting was marked by ideological debates regarding federal policy, specifically concerning immigration and media fairness. The committee voted to amend the federal agenda to support a “clear path to citizenship” and adopted the National Association of Counties (NACo) top priorities. On the state level, the committee approved the fiscal year 2026 agenda while discussing concerns regarding mass transit safety and the upcoming legislative session in Springfield.
News Briefs
Federal Lobbyist Reports on Venezuela and Budget
Federal lobbyist John Bear reported that Washington D.C. is currently focused on the Trump administration’s recent operation in Venezuela, which resulted in the arrest of Nicolás Maduro. Bear noted that reactions have largely fallen along party lines. Additionally, Congress is facing a funding deadline on January 30, with a “minibus” package of three appropriation bills expected to be voted on this week.
County Aligns with NACo Priorities
Vice Chair Judy Ogalla (R-Monee) successfully moved to amend the county’s federal agenda to include the top 10 priorities of the National Association of Counties (NACo). These priorities include strengthening intergovernmental partnerships, passing a multi-year farm bill, and enhancing disaster mitigation efforts. The committee agreed this alignment strengthens the county’s voice on a national level.
Housing Investor Language Retained
Member Julie Berkowicz attempted to remove language from the federal agenda that opposes HUD subsidies for institutional investors. Berkowicz argued that institutional investors often prioritize profit over care, citing negative impacts on local subdivisions and nursing homes. However, her motion to strike the language failed due to a lack of a second, and the provision remains in the agenda.
Legislative Breakfast Scheduled
Committee Chair Denise Winfrey announced that the county’s annual Legislative Breakfast will be held on February 9, 2026, at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet. Invitations will be sent to state and federal legislators immediately to allow them to review the newly adopted legislative agendas prior to the event.