Regional Media Podcast Network

Farmers across Illinois may soon see relief from increasing wildlife-related crop damage. Legislation sponsored by Senator Neil Anderson, Senate Bill 710, cleared the State Senate unanimously and now moves to the House for review. The bill aims to help manage deer overpopulation, a persistent issue causing both agricultural losses and vehicle accidents. Key measures include automatic issuance of extra hunting permits for qualifying landowners, expanded free permits for those with at least 40 acres, and new guest permit options. The initiative was developed with input from local farm bureaus and state officials, underscoring the push for practical, bipartisan solutions.

“Agriculture is Illinois’ leading industry, and when experts in the field raise concerns, it’s our responsibility as lawmakers to find real solutions,” said Senator Anderson. “This is a bipartisan issue, and I’m grateful my colleagues recognized the significant impact deer overpopulation has on both agriculture and public safety.”

“This bill is a result of collaboration with local farm bureaus, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the Illinois Farm Bureau,” Senator Anderson added. “It’s a strong first step, and I’m committed to continuing our conversations further based on continued feedback from our agricultural community.”

Anderson also stressed the public safety benefits of the legislation regarding deer-related vehicle accidents. Reducing deer populations near roadways is a crucial part of protecting drivers, especially in rural areas where these collisions are most frequent.

“This bill supports our farmers, but it also looks out for everyday Illinoisans who drive our roads,” said Senator Anderson. “It’s about protecting crops, ensuring road safety, and managing wildlife in a responsible, effective way.”

Galva Mayor Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to recap the Monday City Council meeting. Galva’s City Council welcomed three members following April’s election—John Wirth joins for Ward 2, while Doug Anderson and Jayme Hopping continue serving their wards. The American Legion begins poppy sales for Memorial Day and invites volunteers to place flags at Galva Cemetery on May 11, 2025, meeting at 7 AM. Citywide cleanup runs June 16–21, with pickup available on June 16th; contact Galva City Hall at 309-932-2555  for details, especially regarding tire disposal fees. Galva acquired 44 acres near the park district, and the park district is looking to expand recreational areas. The park district intends to use the five acres to add a parking area, soccer field, and ball diamond.

The city is still installing the solar arrays, and when completed, residents will have the option to purchase electricity from the solar array. Mayor Volkert said the city will never ask you for financial information. If you have questions regarding individuals going door-to-door selling electricity, contact City Hall. The city has demolished some dilapidated buildings, and they have one building left. Anyone interested in opening a business in the final building or building on the land from demolished buildings should contact Galva City Hall for more information. The park district taxing boundaries need to match the city boundaries, so land around the ethanol plant has been annexed into the city, allowing for a larger tax base for the Galva Park District. Galva added a couple of trinkets and pictures to the Henry County time capsule, which will be opened far into the future.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about health designations as we begin the month of May. Child Mental Health Week is celebrated from May 5th to 11th, 2025, and Nurses Week is celebrated from May 6th to 12th, 2025. Health advocates in Henry and Stark counties are spotlighting children's mental health as part of a national awareness week from May 5th to 11th, underscoring that one in six youth nationwide faces mental illness annually. Limited resources leave many without critical care, so families are urged to seek help early. Alongside this, National Nurses Week runs from May 6th to 12th, honoring nurses' critical roles—from bedside support to community leadership. Meanwhile, Clean Air Month brings a warning about radon dangers, with local data revealing high levels in most Stark County homes. Affordable radon test kits are available for $15 at Health Department offices in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon.