Committee debates creating part-time legislative aide, considers intern program

Chair Michelle Gums told the committee she wants a dedicated staff person to coordinate Kane County’s legislative agenda and serve as a single point of contact for offices across the county and external lobbyists. "I think that staff person would be the connection piece instead of a board member," Gums said, arguing the role would help unify messages before officials meet legislators in Springfield and Washington.

Members generally agreed the committee should first define the job duties before seeking funding or hiring. Several members urged drafting a clear job description and suggested working with Jamie Lebrillo to create a draft, then refining it with committee input. One member noted Open Meetings Act constraints on staff involvement and stressed the job could be a work in progress: "If I was Jamie and you came to me with that request, I'd say, 'What's this person going to do?'" a committee member said.

On financing, a member suggested using riverboat funds to pilot a half-time position rather than drawing from the general fund; committee members said the board would need to approve any such funding and that the finance committee is finalizing next year’s budget. Chair Gums said she will meet with Finance Director Mr. Leonard to explore options and timelines. "If this is something you're serious about, there's still a small amount of time to get it submitted," a committee member warned.

Jennifer Abatakola proposed developing an intern program with local colleges and universities to provide low-cost legislative support and practical experience for students. "It would be low impact on taxpayers and invest in giving opportunities to people pursuing higher education," Abatakola said. Members agreed the idea merits further study but flagged pay, credit and legal considerations: "We can't have free interns working here," one member said.

The committee agreed to continue the discussion, prepare a job description as the next step and explore both a pilot paid half-time position and an intern program as alternatives. No formal vote was taken on hiring; the committee directed staff and members to develop a draft job description and to consult with finance before proposing budget changes.