Legislators should act now on priority issues

Now that the election is over, it's time for leaders of both parties in Springfield to come together, this month and next, to agree on a balanced budget and pass reform legislation on a few easier-to-address bipartisan issues. Why wait until next year? We are all residents of a state in deep competition with our neighbors and affected by this standstill.

As mayor of Mundelein, I'm aware of two issues affecting our community which are in the interests and ability of both parties to address in Springfield. First, high workers' compensation costs hinder our state from attracting outside businesses and even drive some away. I've spoken with state reps from both parties who fully understand this and there seems to be a bipartisan desire to solve this problem.

Second, the pension crisis in Illinois needs to be addressed immediately. How about dusting off Senate President John Cullerton's "consideration" model? Proposed by a Democrat and supported by Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner, this should be a no-brainer.

This month and next, our Springfield leaders should make passing a balanced budget with obtainable bipartisan reforms Priority No. 1. It's time, right now, to put aside the differences and do what needs to be done.

Steve Lentz

Mundelein