Counties Count! Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:34:43 -0500 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2277734 en-us © 2026 Counties Count! yes f6cad68d-598a-576b-9309-24401ac4400d Illinois State Association of Counties episodic false The Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo)  shares the latest state and local news impacting counties, interviews with state and local elected officials, insights from our legislative staff, discussions about the important role of county government in Illinois and more.  

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Illinois State Association of Counties https://storage.buzzsprout.com/iy3u0y6qx1jnb5yxoiad45roke9n?.jpg Counties Count! Housing Pressure Builds: What Illinois Voters Want—and What It Means for Counties Housing Pressure Builds: What Illinois Voters Want—and What It Means for Counties A new statewide poll, first reported by Capitol Fax, reveals overwhelming concern about housing affordability—and strong bipartisan support for legislative action. In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, we look at what voters are saying, how proposed solutions like “missing middle” housing could reshape communities, and what it all means for counties navigating the balance between state policy and local control.

]]> A new statewide poll, first reported by Capitol Fax, reveals overwhelming concern about housing affordability—and strong bipartisan support for legislative action. In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, we look at what voters are saying, how proposed solutions like “missing middle” housing could reshape communities, and what it all means for counties navigating the balance between state policy and local control.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-18931154 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0500 346 full false Solar Mandates and Diminished Discretion: Reviewing Equity Solar v. Grundy County Solar Mandates and Diminished Discretion: Reviewing Equity Solar v. Grundy County In this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast we break down the landmark appellate decision in Equity Solar Illinois v. County of Grundy, which clarifies the limited role of non-home-rule counties in siting commercial solar facilities. The court affirmed that under the 2023 "Solar Amendments," a county must approve a special use permit if the applicant meets all technical state standards, effectively rendering the board’s role ministerial rather than discretionary. This ruling signals that traditional zoning considerations, such as community compatibility or future municipal expansion plans, are no longer valid grounds for denial if state requirements are met. We explore how the "shall be approved" statutory language strips local boards of their traditional legislative authority to block compliant renewable energy projects. Join us as we discuss the significant implications this loss of local control has for county officials navigating Illinois’ aggressive clean energy mandates.




]]> In this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast we break down the landmark appellate decision in Equity Solar Illinois v. County of Grundy, which clarifies the limited role of non-home-rule counties in siting commercial solar facilities. The court affirmed that under the 2023 "Solar Amendments," a county must approve a special use permit if the applicant meets all technical state standards, effectively rendering the board’s role ministerial rather than discretionary. This ruling signals that traditional zoning considerations, such as community compatibility or future municipal expansion plans, are no longer valid grounds for denial if state requirements are met. We explore how the "shall be approved" statutory language strips local boards of their traditional legislative authority to block compliant renewable energy projects. Join us as we discuss the significant implications this loss of local control has for county officials navigating Illinois’ aggressive clean energy mandates.




]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-18875362 Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500 288 full false Affordability, Uncertainty, and the Road Ahead: What to Expect from Illinois’ Spring Legislative Session Affordability, Uncertainty, and the Road Ahead: What to Expect from Illinois’ Spring Legislative Session As Illinois lawmakers return to Springfield for an election-year legislative session, one theme dominates the conversation: affordability. In this episode of Counties Count, we break down what House and Senate leaders from both parties are signaling for the months ahead — from budget pressures and shrinking federal support to energy policy, insurance regulation, and revenue debates. 

]]> As Illinois lawmakers return to Springfield for an election-year legislative session, one theme dominates the conversation: affordability. In this episode of Counties Count, we break down what House and Senate leaders from both parties are signaling for the months ahead — from budget pressures and shrinking federal support to energy policy, insurance regulation, and revenue debates. 

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-18547702 Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0600 398 full false From Lincoln to Today: How Thanksgiving Became What It Is From Lincoln to Today: How Thanksgiving Became What It Is This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast explores the fascinating journey of Thanksgiving as a national holiday, spotlighting President Abraham Lincoln’s pivotal role and the cultural changes that have reshaped the celebration over generations. This interesting journey connects the threads from Illinois history to the Thanksgiving table of today.

]]> This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast explores the fascinating journey of Thanksgiving as a national holiday, spotlighting President Abraham Lincoln’s pivotal role and the cultural changes that have reshaped the celebration over generations. This interesting journey connects the threads from Illinois history to the Thanksgiving table of today.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-18247183 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 15:00:00 -0600 850 full false The Property Tax Puzzle: Counties, Cashflow, and the CPI Squeeze The Property Tax Puzzle: Counties, Cashflow, and the CPI Squeeze In this episode of Counties Count, host Joe McCoy breaks down Illinois’ complex property tax system and how it affects county governments across the state. From the behind-the-scenes administrative role counties play to the challenges of funding essential services under tax caps and regional disparities, we explore why property taxes are both a lifeline and a constraint. Whether you’re a policymaker, public official, or just trying to make sense of your tax bill—this episode sheds light on the structural pressures facing counties and what reform could look like.

]]> In this episode of Counties Count, host Joe McCoy breaks down Illinois’ complex property tax system and how it affects county governments across the state. From the behind-the-scenes administrative role counties play to the challenges of funding essential services under tax caps and regional disparities, we explore why property taxes are both a lifeline and a constraint. Whether you’re a policymaker, public official, or just trying to make sense of your tax bill—this episode sheds light on the structural pressures facing counties and what reform could look like.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17079948 Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0600 677 full false Understanding Illinois’ New Transit Funding Solution Understanding Illinois’ New Transit Funding Solution In this episode, we break down the major transit funding package approved during the fall veto session — one of the most consequential transportation actions in recent years. We explore what’s in the bill, why lawmakers pursued it, and how it affects transit systems across Illinois, from the Chicago region to downstate counties. Tune in for a clear, accessible discussion designed to help county officials and community leaders understand the policy implications and what comes next.

]]> In this episode, we break down the major transit funding package approved during the fall veto session — one of the most consequential transportation actions in recent years. We explore what’s in the bill, why lawmakers pursued it, and how it affects transit systems across Illinois, from the Chicago region to downstate counties. Tune in for a clear, accessible discussion designed to help county officials and community leaders understand the policy implications and what comes next.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-18132285 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0600 863 full false Clarifying the County–VAC Relationship: Understanding the Sangamon County Court Decision Clarifying the County–VAC Relationship: Understanding the Sangamon County Court Decision This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast explains how a Sangamon County Circuit Court ruling may clarify the relationship between county boards and Veterans Assistance Commissions. We’ll review the 2023 changes to the Military Veterans Assistance Act (MVAA) that reshaped that relationship, the dispute that followed, and what the court’s decision means for counties across Illinois.

]]> This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast explains how a Sangamon County Circuit Court ruling may clarify the relationship between county boards and Veterans Assistance Commissions. We’ll review the 2023 changes to the Military Veterans Assistance Act (MVAA) that reshaped that relationship, the dispute that followed, and what the court’s decision means for counties across Illinois.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-18012506 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0500 355 full false When Washington Shuts Down: County Impacts of a Federal Gridlock When Washington Shuts Down: County Impacts of a Federal Gridlock In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, we break down the ongoing federal government shutdown and what it means for Illinois counties. From federal grants and reimbursements to essential services like health care, transportation, and nutrition programs, county governments are on the frontlines of managing the fallout. Join us as we explore the challenges and potential long-term effects.

]]> In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, we break down the ongoing federal government shutdown and what it means for Illinois counties. From federal grants and reimbursements to essential services like health care, transportation, and nutrition programs, county governments are on the frontlines of managing the fallout. Join us as we explore the challenges and potential long-term effects.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17940038 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0500 1081 full false Remembering Former Governor Jim Edgar: A Legacy of Steady Leadership Remembering Former Governor Jim Edgar: A Legacy of Steady Leadership Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar, who passed away at 79, left behind a reputation for fiscal discipline, bipartisanship, and integrity. In this episode, we reflect on his journey from Charleston to the Statehouse, his accomplishments in education and government reform, and the enduring lessons of his public service.

]]> Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar, who passed away at 79, left behind a reputation for fiscal discipline, bipartisanship, and integrity. In this episode, we reflect on his journey from Charleston to the Statehouse, his accomplishments in education and government reform, and the enduring lessons of his public service.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17849250 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:00:00 -0500 365 full false Bipartisan FEMA Act Advances: What It Means for Counties Bipartisan FEMA Act Advances: What It Means for Counties The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has overwhelmingly approved the bipartisan FEMA Act of 2025, sending it to the full House for consideration. The legislation would elevate FEMA to cabinet-level status, speed disaster funding through a grant-based system, streamline survivor aid, expand mitigation resources, and improve transparency with new public dashboards. For counties, the Act promises faster recovery, reduced red tape, and a stronger voice in shaping federal disaster policy.

]]> The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has overwhelmingly approved the bipartisan FEMA Act of 2025, sending it to the full House for consideration. The legislation would elevate FEMA to cabinet-level status, speed disaster funding through a grant-based system, streamline survivor aid, expand mitigation resources, and improve transparency with new public dashboards. For counties, the Act promises faster recovery, reduced red tape, and a stronger voice in shaping federal disaster policy.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17809065 Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0500 356 full false Counties in the Classroom: Supporting Students Then and Now Counties in the Classroom: Supporting Students Then and Now As Illinois kids head back to school, this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast looks at the important role counties have played in supporting education—past and present. From the days of one-room schoolhouses to today’s modern classrooms, we explore how counties help create the conditions for student success.

]]> As Illinois kids head back to school, this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast looks at the important role counties have played in supporting education—past and present. From the days of one-room schoolhouses to today’s modern classrooms, we explore how counties help create the conditions for student success.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17712723 Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0500 367 1 15 full false The Case for Civility: Leading Across Differences The Case for Civility: Leading Across Differences This episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast explores why civility isn’t just about being polite — it’s about building stronger, more effective local government. Drawing on lessons from the Great Lakes Civility Project and practical communication strategies, we highlight how county officials can disagree respectfully, listen actively, and invest in relationships that outlast any single vote. Civility isn’t weakness — it’s a leadership tool that strengthens trust, improves decision-making, and keeps communities moving forward.

]]> This episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast explores why civility isn’t just about being polite — it’s about building stronger, more effective local government. Drawing on lessons from the Great Lakes Civility Project and practical communication strategies, we highlight how county officials can disagree respectfully, listen actively, and invest in relationships that outlast any single vote. Civility isn’t weakness — it’s a leadership tool that strengthens trust, improves decision-making, and keeps communities moving forward.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17688798 Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0500 787 full false Fixing FEMA: What Counties Need from Disaster Reform Fixing FEMA: What Counties Need from Disaster Reform In this episode, we unpack the urgent need for FEMA reform from a county government perspective. As natural disasters grow in frequency and intensity, counties are often on the front lines—managing response, coordinating recovery, and facing bureaucratic hurdles that slow progress and strain local budgets. We explore key reforms under discussion in Washington, the gaps in FEMA’s current approach, and what counties need to better protect their communities. This conversation shines a spotlight on changes that matter to county leaders.

]]> In this episode, we unpack the urgent need for FEMA reform from a county government perspective. As natural disasters grow in frequency and intensity, counties are often on the front lines—managing response, coordinating recovery, and facing bureaucratic hurdles that slow progress and strain local budgets. We explore key reforms under discussion in Washington, the gaps in FEMA’s current approach, and what counties need to better protect their communities. This conversation shines a spotlight on changes that matter to county leaders.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17619525 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0500 1044 full false The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" and What It Means for Counties and Communities The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" and What It Means for Counties and Communities In this episode, we break down the sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” and explore what it means for county governments and the people they serve. From funding shifts to regulatory changes, tune in to learn how this landmark legislation could reshape local priorities and public services across the country and in Illinois.

]]> In this episode, we break down the sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” and explore what it means for county governments and the people they serve. From funding shifts to regulatory changes, tune in to learn how this landmark legislation could reshape local priorities and public services across the country and in Illinois.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17465303 Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0500 1230 full false Transit at a Crossroads: Where Illinois Reform Stands Now Transit at a Crossroads: Where Illinois Reform Stands Now In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast we break down the latest developments in Illinois transit reform following the General Assembly’s spring session. Despite significant debate and a late push in the Senate, a comprehensive funding and governance overhaul fell short of final passage. We explore what was proposed, why it stalled, and what could come next as lawmakers, transit agencies, and local leaders prepare for renewed discussions this summer and fall. Tune in to learn what’s at stake for counties and commuters.

]]> In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast we break down the latest developments in Illinois transit reform following the General Assembly’s spring session. Despite significant debate and a late push in the Senate, a comprehensive funding and governance overhaul fell short of final passage. We explore what was proposed, why it stalled, and what could come next as lawmakers, transit agencies, and local leaders prepare for renewed discussions this summer and fall. Tune in to learn what’s at stake for counties and commuters.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17384358 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0500 957 full false Spring Session Wrap-Up: What Happened, What Didn't and What’s Next? Spring Session Wrap-Up: What Happened, What Didn't and What’s Next? In this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast, Executive Director Joe McCoy breaks down the key takeaways from the adjournment of the 2025 spring legislative session. From the passage of the state budget and other legislation along with high-profile bills that stalled and what it all means for counties, we provide a concise overview of what happened and what to expect heading into the summer and fall.

]]> In this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast, Executive Director Joe McCoy breaks down the key takeaways from the adjournment of the 2025 spring legislative session. From the passage of the state budget and other legislation along with high-profile bills that stalled and what it all means for counties, we provide a concise overview of what happened and what to expect heading into the summer and fall.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17268802 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0500 765 full false “Behind the Budget: What Might Reconciliation Bring for States, Counties and Taxpayers? “Behind the Budget: What Might Reconciliation Bring for States, Counties and Taxpayers? This episode explores the federal budget reconciliation process and its far-reaching implications for state and local governments. Learn how this fast-track legislative tool is being used to propose major changes to taxes, debt, Medicaid funding, affordable housing, renewable energy and other programs critical to counties. We explain what’s at stake and how counties across Illinois—and the nation—may be affected.

]]> This episode explores the federal budget reconciliation process and its far-reaching implications for state and local governments. Learn how this fast-track legislative tool is being used to propose major changes to taxes, debt, Medicaid funding, affordable housing, renewable energy and other programs critical to counties. We explain what’s at stake and how counties across Illinois—and the nation—may be affected.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17204090 Wed, 21 May 2025 12:00:00 -0500 878 full false Outdoor Fitness Court Opportunity for Illinois Counties by NFC Outdoor Fitness Court Opportunity for Illinois Counties by NFC This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast discusses free, accessible outdoor wellness opportunities for communities and schools across Illinois thanks to a continued partnership between National Fitness Campaign (NFC) and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. The program is designed to bring world-class healthy infrastructure to public spaces, along with consulting, funding, and community programming support.

In 2025, the sponsorship provides $750,000 in new grant funding to communities and schools in the state of Illinois. The program is seeking applications from counties of all sizes across the state of Illinois, interested in building accessible outdoor wellness infrastructure to support the health and wellbeing of their residents.

Find out how you can apply for an outdoor fitness court for your county!





]]> This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast discusses free, accessible outdoor wellness opportunities for communities and schools across Illinois thanks to a continued partnership between National Fitness Campaign (NFC) and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. The program is designed to bring world-class healthy infrastructure to public spaces, along with consulting, funding, and community programming support.

In 2025, the sponsorship provides $750,000 in new grant funding to communities and schools in the state of Illinois. The program is seeking applications from counties of all sizes across the state of Illinois, interested in building accessible outdoor wellness infrastructure to support the health and wellbeing of their residents.

Find out how you can apply for an outdoor fitness court for your county!





]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17189442 Mon, 19 May 2025 09:00:00 -0500 650 full false Defending Justice: What Public Defense Reform Means for Illinois Counties Defending Justice: What Public Defense Reform Means for Illinois Counties In this episode of Counties Count!, we dig into HB 3363—landmark legislation that could reshape how public defense works across Illinois. The podcast breaks down what the creation of a State Public Defender’s Office means for counties, from shifting appointment authority to concerns about funding mandates and local control. We’ll explore why the bill is being proposed, what’s at stake for county governments, and how the debate reflects broader questions about justice, equity, and the future of criminal defense in Illinois. Whether you’re a state policymaker, county official or engaged citizen, this episode unpacks the political and practical implications of a major reform effort.

]]> In this episode of Counties Count!, we dig into HB 3363—landmark legislation that could reshape how public defense works across Illinois. The podcast breaks down what the creation of a State Public Defender’s Office means for counties, from shifting appointment authority to concerns about funding mandates and local control. We’ll explore why the bill is being proposed, what’s at stake for county governments, and how the debate reflects broader questions about justice, equity, and the future of criminal defense in Illinois. Whether you’re a state policymaker, county official or engaged citizen, this episode unpacks the political and practical implications of a major reform effort.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17104663 Thu, 08 May 2025 10:00:00 -0500 691 full false Tracks, Taxes, and Turf: Untangling the Politics of Transit Reform Tracks, Taxes, and Turf: Untangling the Politics of Transit Reform This episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast discusses the challenges holding up a transit bill, including governance, structural reforms, funding sources and a need for consensus to advance major legislation. 

]]> This episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast discusses the challenges holding up a transit bill, including governance, structural reforms, funding sources and a need for consensus to advance major legislation. 

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17079908 Mon, 05 May 2025 09:00:00 -0500 787 full false Counties Count! Podcast: Bonds, Bucks and Bridges: The Power of Tax-Exempt Municipal Bonds Counties Count! Podcast: Bonds, Bucks and Bridges: The Power of Tax-Exempt Municipal Bonds In this episode of Counties Count!, ISACo Executive Director Joe McCoy breaks down the world of tax-exempt municipal bonds—one of the most powerful financial tools counties use to fund critical infrastructure like roads, water systems, and public safety facilities. Learn how these bonds work, why they save taxpayers money, and what political challenges threaten their future. Whether you’re a finance buff or just wondering how that new county building got funded, this episode has something for you.

]]> In this episode of Counties Count!, ISACo Executive Director Joe McCoy breaks down the world of tax-exempt municipal bonds—one of the most powerful financial tools counties use to fund critical infrastructure like roads, water systems, and public safety facilities. Learn how these bonds work, why they save taxpayers money, and what political challenges threaten their future. Whether you’re a finance buff or just wondering how that new county building got funded, this episode has something for you.

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-17031330 Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0500 526 full false Episode 4- A Conversation with Representative Curtis Tarver Episode 4- A Conversation with Representative Curtis Tarver Episode 4- A Conversation with Representative Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago) 25th District is now available. 

This episode discusses Representative Tarver's background, his personal experience working in the state legislature and what he's learned so far as the Chairman of the Counties and Townships Committee. 

]]> Episode 4- A Conversation with Representative Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago) 25th District is now available. 

This episode discusses Representative Tarver's background, his personal experience working in the state legislature and what he's learned so far as the Chairman of the Counties and Townships Committee. 

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-14669745 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0500 1076 full false Episode 3-A Conversation with Executive Director Joe McCoy Episode 3-A Conversation with Executive Director Joe McCoy This Counties Count! Podcast discusses the Governor's combined State of the State and Budget Address, opportunities to shape state and federal policy affecting counties by participating on one of ISACo's seven policy committees and the February NACo Legislative Conference in Washington, D. C. 

]]> This Counties Count! Podcast discusses the Governor's combined State of the State and Budget Address, opportunities to shape state and federal policy affecting counties by participating on one of ISACo's seven policy committees and the February NACo Legislative Conference in Washington, D. C. 

]]> Illinois State Association of Counties Buzzsprout-14602176 Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0600 722 1 3 full false Episode 2 Episode 2 This week's Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo) Counties Count! Podcast congratulates McHenry County for being recognized for its participation in Operation Greenlight for Veterans, recognizes Illinois' 205th statehood anniversary, announces the upcoming NACo Legislative Conference, reports on the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) investigation of the United States Steel Corporation concerning the Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN), shares information about the construction of two new shelter sites for migrants, invites county officials and staff to join an ISACo Policy Committee, highlights ISACo corporate partner UnitedHealthcare and invites counties to join ISACo.  

]]> This week's Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo) Counties Count! Podcast congratulates McHenry County for being recognized for its participation in Operation Greenlight for Veterans, recognizes Illinois' 205th statehood anniversary, announces the upcoming NACo Legislative Conference, reports on the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) investigation of the United States Steel Corporation concerning the Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN), shares information about the construction of two new shelter sites for migrants, invites county officials and staff to join an ISACo Policy Committee, highlights ISACo corporate partner UnitedHealthcare and invites counties to join ISACo.  

]]> Buzzsprout-14100277 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0600 298 1 2 full false Counties Count Counties Count The Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo) launches its first trailer episode to introduce ourselves as an association. Host Tiffani Homer explains ISACo's mission and what to expect in future episodes. ISACo Executive Director Joe McCoy also introduces himself and provides some background history on ISACo. 

]]> The Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo) launches its first trailer episode to introduce ourselves as an association. Host Tiffani Homer explains ISACo's mission and what to expect in future episodes. ISACo Executive Director Joe McCoy also introduces himself and provides some background history on ISACo. 

]]> Buzzsprout-13986965 Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0600 298 full false