A new program could help create Illinois construction jobs, but at a cost to taxpayers.

Last week the Senate approved a $29 billion public works program that would help rebuild crumbling roads and transit systems, in turn creating much-needed jobs. Officials are hoping the House will approve the bill soon. However, the program will be paid for by increasing taxes and legalizing video gambling throughout the state.

According to an article by the Chicago Tribune, the plan would pay $148 million in school construction money that has been owed for years to 24 school districts throughout Illinois, including $29.7 million to Chicago schools. Legislative leaders and Gov. Pat Quinn are negotiating another $1.5 billion in public works projects.

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Federal stimulus money is helping to maintain and create Illinois teaching jobs.

School districts will receive stimulus money in three waves. The first two are aimed at giving districts more money for special education and Title I, a program for low-income students. The four Illinois Quad-City districts will receive $4.6 million and $2.6 million in special education and Title I money. The last chunk of money will come in the form of state fiscal stabilization funds, which Illinois will use to maintain state funding levels for districts during this school year and next school year.

According to an article by the Quad-City Times, some potential plans for the stimulus money include:

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Those with Illinois farming jobs will soon have a place to show off the fruits of their labor.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is beginning its Illinois Products Farmers’ Market for the second year. The market will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursdays May 14 through October 22 at the Commodities Pavilion on the Illinois State Fairgrounds, except during the fair.

The market not only boasts fresh produce, but the public also will have the chance to purchase a number of other products that are produced or processed only in Illinois.

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One company is helping to create new Illinois careers.

Mead Johnson Nutrition Company recently announced its plan to open a new corporate office in Glenview, a move that will create 50 new jobs. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is offering the company $2.6 million in incentives to support their $10.4 million commitment.

“In spite of a recession, we are working to create new jobs and to keep Illinois business strong,” DCEO Director Designee Warren Ribley said in a press release. “This investment package will not only encourage growth, it will also put people to work. By investing in global companies like Mead Johnson we are investing in the future of our state’s economy.”

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