Making Health and Hospitals System Board Permanent
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As one of the original supporters of an independent governing body for the Cook County Health and Hospitals System, I have been pleased with the efforts I have seen by the CCHHS Board to promote efficiency and improve services in the County health system. The public hearings CCHHS is holding this month to gather input from the community about future
plans for the health system are indicative of the CCHHS Board's serious interest in strategic development and the efficient delivery of quality services to County residents.
The creation of an independence governance board was a step in the
right direction, but for lasting and effectual improvement in the
administration of the CCHHS, the independent board must
be made permanent. That is why at the September County Board Meeting I will be proposing an amendment removing the sunset clause from the Cook County Health & Hospitals System Ordinance. This amendment will cement the independence of the CCHHS Board and allow them to move forward uninhibited by meddling from the Cook County Board.
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Prohibiting Video Gambling
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In light of the State of Illinois' recent passage of a Video Gaming Act, which allows licensed retail establishments to conduct video gambling, I am proposing an ordinance to reiterate the County's prohibition
on Video Gambling.
Although County ordinance already prohibits video gambling in unincorporated areas, I feel it is important to reinforce this prohibition in accordance with the Illinois Video Gaming Act which allows video gambling, but permits counties and municipalities to prohibit video gaming by ordinance.
The legalization of video gambling would present a variety of adverse impacts on residents of Cook County, including regulatory difficulties, potential for corruption, an increased burden on law enforcement and the high social costs associated with this form of gambling--according to a study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, electronic gaming is designed to entice people to play longer, faster,
and at higher rates of wagering.
Video gaming is an increasingly predatory form of gambling that is inappropriate as a revenue stream for public services. The legalization of video gaming within Cook County is not consistent with our desire to maintain a family friendly environment for citizens and their children. |
