Millner, Mussman talk about state budget problems

As state Rep. Michelle Mussman and Sen. John Millner delivered what they warned would be somber news on Tuesday, they gained applause from a group of local residents and leaders gathered Tuesday in Roselle.

“I know people in this room are going to have all kinds of new programs and ideas and we are going to have to tell you we're sorry, we just can't do that,” said Millner, a Republican. “We are going to have to find ways to cut.”

The audience clapped with approval as Millner and Democrat Mussman both discussed cutbacks and reforms that will affect schools, social service programs and more as Illinois leaders try to rein in a $15 billion budget deficit.

About 60 people gathered for the town hall-style meeting at Roselle village hall, where residents asked questions about issues including local government consolidation, the use of lobbyists, Elgin-O'Hare Expressway expansion and pension funding for teachers.

But job creation and economic growth took center stage at the forum, where one resident admitted she is on unemployment and is concerned about extension of benefits, and others said they are unable to find viable jobs near home.

“Every bill I look at I ask, ‘Will this help or hinder job growth in Illinois?'” Millner said.

He shared examples of what he views as problems with Illinois policies, including the cost of workman's compensation insurance. Millner said an international company wanted to open two American branches: one in Bartlett and one in Pennsylvania. But the cost of workman's compensation insurance for 100 employees was $50,000 annually in Pennsylvania and $230,000 in Illinois, so the company did not settle here.

Residents also expressed concerns about local businesses taking loans from out-of-state banks or national conglomerates, but Millner said choices are dwindling as community banks close at a rapid rate. Mussman added that banks still leery after the recession are also hindering local economic development.

“Many small businesses are ready to hire, expand, or buy new pieces of equipment but banks don't want to give loans because they are paranoid,” she said.

The pair touted their meeting as a local rarity that paired leaders from both the Democratic and Republican parties, saying cooperation is necessary to tackle the state budget deficit.