This year’s National County Government Week (NCGW) is April 23 to 29. To celebrate, Peoria County offers its citizens many opportunities to learn more about county government and the services we provide. As this year’s theme is “Protecting Our Communities,” several of the week’s events focus on how Peoria County helps protect its citizens and the environment. We encourage the community to participate in one or more of the following events during NCGW.
On April 23, Peoria County’s Recycling and Resource Conservation Department participates in a “Walk for the Earth, Wind and Water” at the Peoria Riverfront. Proceeds from the walk benefit Clean Water Celebration, a two-day annual event that encourages students to think globally and act locally about water conservation and preservation. To register for the walk, call 495-4932.
On April 25, Peoria County’s Emergency Services & Disaster Agency, along with the Sheriff’s Office and other emergency response agencies, hosts an “Emergency Expo” at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie from 5 to 8 p.m. This event highlights how Peoria County helps protect the community by bringing several agencies together to display emergency equipment and by giving citizens an opportunity to meet first responders. Families who visit the Shoppes during our expo are guaranteed a unique emergency equipment experience. This event is open to the community and free of charge.
On April 27, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Peoria County kicks off its annual fundraising campaign with a “House Warming” at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie from 5:30 to 7:30 p m. CASA is a national program in which judges appoint local volunteers to advocate for the needs of abused and neglected children in the juvenile justice system. Those participating in the fundraising event have a chance to win an exclusive backyard playhouse. For more information on the event and the program, call 669-2939.
Also April 27, Peoria County presents the tax cycle process from 6 to 8 p.m. at Illinois Central College’s North Campus as part of ICC’s FUNshop community education program. County elected and appointed officials whose office plays a role in the tax cycle will present the process to citizens interested in learning how property and taxes are assessed. To register for the free presentation, call 999-4545.
April 29 is County Government Night at the Peoria Chiefs’ game. Various elected and appointed officials will be on hand throughout the stadium to answer questions and distribute information on the services, programs, and events Peoria County offers its citizens. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door from the Peoria Chiefs’ ticket office. Game time is 6:30 p.m., with fireworks to follow immediately.
We encourage you to celebrate National County Government Week with us by participating in one or more of the events we’re hosting to help raise awareness of all Peoria County has to offer. For more information on NCGW, visit www.peoriacounty.org or call 672-6056. IBI