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McLean County Times

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Senator Balkema discusses state spending surge and infrastructure plans for Illinois’ 53rd District

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Chris Balkema, Illinois State Senator for 53rd District | Facebook

Chris Balkema, Illinois State Senator for 53rd District | Facebook

State Senator Chris Balkema of Illinois' 53rd District has released his latest weekly update, highlighting state spending, infrastructure investments, and seasonal topics relevant to his constituents.

Balkema criticized recent trends in state government spending, noting that expenditures have increased by nearly 40% over the past seven years under Governor J.B. Pritzker's administration. He referenced a recent executive order from the governor calling for agencies to cut up to 4% of their fiscal year 2026 budgets. According to Balkema, "Nearly 80% of you said it was another stunt." He added, "Under Governor Pritzker, state spending has grown nearly 40% in just seven years, despite record tax collections. Instead of reining in costs, he continues to expand government while blaming Washington for Illinois’ fiscal problems."

Balkema also pointed out that the governor’s budget includes more than $1 billion in new taxes and various measures such as a package delivery tax and service taxes on haircuts and car repairs. He argued that these steps contribute to higher living costs for families while job growth lags behind neighboring states.

On infrastructure developments, Balkema announced that the 53rd Senate District will benefit from over $1 billion in transportation investments as part of Illinois’ proposed $50.6 billion multi-year construction plan. "This plan represents a major investment in the communities of the 53rd District," Senator Balkema said. "Our families, farmers, and small businesses rely on safe, dependable roads every day, and this funding will help improve quality of life while supporting local jobs and economic growth." The district is set to receive funding for 171 state highway projects estimated at more than $900 million and 50 local highway projects totaling over $65 million.

“These dollars mean safer roads for families, less wear and tear on vehicles, and better connections for the businesses and farms that drive our region’s economy,” Sen. Balkema said. “It’s about making sure our communities get their fair share of resources and ensuring the 53rd District continues to thrive.”

The Rebuild Illinois program began in 2019 as the state's largest capital initiative and aims to improve not only highways but also transit systems, railways, airports, pedestrian routes, and bicycle paths over six years.

In addition to policy updates, Balkema recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. He shared data from the National Breast Cancer Foundation stating that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime; an estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men are expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the U.S. this year. Early detection leads to a five-year survival rate of 99 percent.

Balkema also highlighted Illinois' role as a leader in pumpkin production—farmers harvested more than 485 million pounds last year according to USDA data—with Morton known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World due to its large processing industry.

Finally, he provided information about Illinois Archery Deer Season for 2025–2026. The season started October 1 with specific dates depending on county firearm regulations; hunters are reminded about safety precautions regarding tree stands due to accident risks.

Balkema was elected as a Republican senator representing Illinois' 53rd Senate District in early 2025 after replacing Thomas M. Bennett.