Senate already has approved Sears deal

I read with interest the Dec. 2 “Woeful inaction on Sears deal” editorial. I agree action is needed. That's why the Senate, in a bipartisan vote, last week approved an economic package extending incentives for Sears.

I know what is at stake. I went to Sears' suburban campus to meet company officials. I also appreciate the concerns of officials and taxpayers in Community Unit District 300. Discussions with the superintendent led to specific safeguards intended to address the district's interests and resources.

The Daily Herald opinion writers overlooked these positive steps. They focused on the Illinois House, the process there and ultimate demise in that chamber of the legislative package that included Sears. The Senate approval was never mentioned. Instead, I was accused of being “cavalier” for suggesting we could address this issue when the legislative session resumes in January.

Let me add some context. That response was to a question about the message the House rejection sent to Sears. My full response was that I hoped those businesses would consider Senate approval as a step forward and I encouraged them not to take any rash actions given the clear support in the Senate among Republicans and Democrats. The proposed law doesn't take effect until next summer. I was expressing my optimism that the Senate had done the right thing, the companies would see that as a positive step and there is still time to win over the House.

The editorial concluded by urging lawmakers not to wait to see if Sears would in fact stick around. To that end, the House and Senate will be back in session next week with the goal of approving this vital economic package. Thank you for the opportunity to set the record straight.

Sen. John J. Cullerton

Illinois Senate President