Chris Balkema, Illinois State Senator for 53rd District | Facebook
Chris Balkema, Illinois State Senator for 53rd District | Facebook
Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) has held meetings with leaders from 54 state agencies since taking office, as part of an initiative to improve transparency and efficiency in Illinois government. According to his office, additional agency meetings are planned as part of a comprehensive review process.
“The objective is both simple and essential,” Balkema said. “I want to clearly understand each agency’s mission, budget, and leadership structure so Illinois families can be assured their tax dollars are being put to work responsibly.”
Balkema stated that these meetings are intended to provide the basis for stronger oversight, closer collaboration between agencies, and reforms designed to reduce waste while improving service quality.
As a member of the Legislative Audit Commission, Balkema also reviews financial audits conducted by the Illinois Auditor General’s office.
“Our state must meet vital needs while respecting hardworking families,” Balkema said. “By reducing costs and increasing accountability, we can help reverse the flow of moving trucks that are currently taking people out of Illinois.”
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring state government remains responsive and focused on serving residents.
Balkema was elected in 2025 as a Republican representing Illinois’ 53rd Senate District, succeeding Thomas M. Bennett.
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