Kane County Reporter

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has allocated $109.4 million for transportation projects in the 33rd Senate District between 2026 and 2031 as part of its Multi-Year Program. Of this amount, $72.446 million is designated for local highway projects, while $36.95 million will go toward state highway initiatives in the district.

According to Senator Don DeWitte, these investments are expected to improve travel safety, strengthen infrastructure, and support communities in the area. "These improvements will make travel safer, strengthen local infrastructure, and support our communities for years to come. These investments are an important win for families, farmers, and businesses that depend on reliable and safe roads," DeWitte stated.

Residents can access a full list of planned projects included in IDOT’s six-year Highway Improvement Program for the district by visiting the department's website.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has opened its application portal for winter assistance as of October 1. The program provides one-time benefits to eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills or reconnect services. Applications will be accepted until August 15, 2026 or until funds run out.

Priority is given to propane customers due to typically higher winter prices. Applicants must provide proof of income from all household members over the previous 30 days, documentation related to Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers if applicable, recent utility bills, and rental agreements if utilities are included in rent.

Applications began on October 1 for older adults (60+), individuals with disabilities, families with young children under five years old, and households facing disconnection or low propane supply. All other eligible households may apply starting November 1. Beginning January 1, ComEd LIHEAP customers will receive monthly discounts through new Low Income Discount Rates; more information is available at powerbilldiscount.com.

Households that have received a benefit but later face disconnection may reapply within the same program year. Free heating system repairs may also be available for qualifying homeowners.

This year’s eligibility has expanded; households must be at or below 60% of the state median income based on household size to qualify. Details about income limits are provided on liheapillinois.com.

Senator DeWitte’s annual coat drive continues through October 13 across Kane, McHenry, and DuPage Counties. Donations of new or gently used coats can be dropped off at several locations including his West Dundee office and municipal buildings in St. Charles and Algonquin. Collected coats will be distributed among local organizations such as Kids in Need (McHenry County), Wayside Center (Elgin), Lazarous House (St. Charles), and The Salvation Army (St. Charles). "We have families right here in Kane, McHenry, and DuPage Counties that cannot afford warm outerwear for colder weather," DeWitte said.

A senior fair is scheduled for October 14 at Crystal Lake’s Grand Oaks Recreation Building from 10:00 AM to noon. Senator Craig Wilcox will join DeWitte at this event featuring agencies serving older Illinois residents.

DeWitte also reported attending several recent community events throughout his district including meetings with business groups and public safety events sponsored by organizations like NAMI and law enforcement officials.

Illinois remains a leading producer of pumpkins nationally; according to USDA data cited by DeWitte, over 485 million pounds were harvested statewide in 2024—most processed in Morton ("Pumpkin Capital of the World"). The harvest runs from late August through early November each year.

Archery deer season began October 1 across Illinois counties with varying dates depending on location relative to Illinois Route 47. Hunters are reminded that tree stands are a leading cause of hunting accidents; safety guidelines are available from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources along with regulations and harvest reports online.

DeWitte was elected as a Republican senator representing Illinois’ 33rd Senate District in 2018 after replacing Karen McConnaughay (https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=101&MemberID=2740).

For further details about ongoing programs or upcoming events hosted by Senator DeWitte’s office—including updates for next year—residents can visit his official website.