State of the County 2025
The State of the County is an annual gathering that provides key stakeholders, business leaders, and community members with insights into the county's economic health, infrastructure developments, public safety, education, and overall quality of life. It serves as a platform for local officials and industry experts to share updates, discuss challenges, and outline future opportunities for growth and collaboration. Attendees gain a comprehensive understanding of the county's progress and strategic direction, fostering engagement and partnership across sectors.
Thank you to our Previous Key Speakers & Specials Guest:
Matthew Alexander-Hildebrand - Kankakee County Board Chairman
John Bevis - Administration, Kankakee County Health Department
Tim Nugent - President & CEO, Economic Alliance of Kankakee County
Mike Downey - Kankakee County Sherriff
Jim Rowe - Kankakee County State's Attorney
Andrew Wheeler - Former Kankakee County Board Chairman 2016-2024
Click here to hear more about the Kankakee County Farm Bureau
Click here to hear more about Visit Kankakee County
Click here to hear more about Grundy Livingston Kankakee Workforce Board
Highlights from the 2025 State of the County
Kankakee County Health Department
Celebrating 40 years of service, the Kankakee County Health Department continues to make an impact with 40 dedicated employees and a budget of over $4 million. The department oversees 90+ reportable diseases and manages over 25 grants. Notably, they've reduced overdoses by 52% through Narcan education and distribution. Explore the full range of services and resources on their website.
Economic Alliance of Kankakee County
"Building a world-class community" – Board Chair Jeff Bennet
Kankakee County is thriving with strong infrastructure, dependable utilities, diverse industries, and robust educational institutions. New businesses are driving job growth, and communities are actively investing in their future. However, there is a need for more housing as building rates have declined, impacting supply and increasing the cost of living. Learn more about how the Economic Alliance is shaping the future of Kankakee County.
Kankakee County Sheriff’s Department
The Kankakee County Sheriff's Department does not engage with ICE regarding legal statuses, and there have been no arrests related to immigration status. However, they remain committed to protecting all federal employees. Strong partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies enhance efficiency and save taxpayer dollars. The Sheriff's Department also voices concerns over the Safety Act and Pretrial Fairness Act, which they believe undermine public safety by creating revolving jail doors and releasing criminals back onto the streets.
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