At the edges of the region, we are working with the state and regional groups on the EPA process review for extending water and sewer lines. There's no doubt the process needs streamlining, but without some overall plan and oversight, there's no incentive for communities to work together. As with all these issues, communities need both technical assistance in conjunction with a unified vision for sensible growth regionally. All these priorities need to be balanced to achieve quality of life. However, to remain competitive, the region must continue to grow.
Growth is a good thing, and brings many positives to the region.
That is why we are looking to use incentives to encourage private sector and the development community to enhance quality of life issues by addressing our growth in a planned, sensible way. He has also signed a bill to keep open land in Illinois via the Open Lands Trust. Strategies pursued by the Metropolitan Planning Council include acknowledging the hunger people have for information, and their interest in connecting with the decisions being made. The council encourages really basic public education. We plan for small group outreach, and are willing to work with anyone or any group who wants to organize.