House members had some fun Wednesday when Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Highwood) introduced his first bill on the House floor, asking him a barrage of questions as a rite of passage for such an occasion.
Morgan said House Bill 2103 will assist sanitary districts of the North Shore Water Reclamation District. It also spells out the period of time sanitary districts could lease property.
"I know of no opposition," Morgan said. "This just allows us to better use government property."
| Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Highwood)
Rep. Mark Batinick (R-Plainfield) confirmed it was Morgan's first bill.
"What's the cost of this? Does this prohibit the land from being sold? Did you talk to all of the mayors in your district," Batinick questioned.
Morgan said he had not spoken to every mayor in the district.
"My district is well aware of this piece of legislation," Morgan said. "The sanitary districts are very supportive of this legislation."
Batinick asked if Morgan talked to park districts, which Morgan had not.
"I've got nothing else," Batinick laughed. "Congratulations."
Rep. Grant Wehrli (R-Naperville) asked Morgan if he was a former federal prosecutor, which he confirmed that he was not.
"Have you spoken to former federal assistant prosecutors about this piece of legislation?" Wehrli asked.
Morgan confirmed he had not.
"I know of no opposition on this bill, including any former federal assistant prosecutors," Morgan said.
"I appreciate your indulgence," Wehrli said. "Congratulations. Support the bill, please."
The bill passed with 114 Yes votes and zero No votes.
The bill amends the North Shore Water Reclamation District Act and the Sanitary District Act of 1917 to provide that the North Shore Water Reclamation District and sanitary districts may lease property not required for district use to others for a period not exceeding 50 years, rather than the current 20 years for the North Shore Water Reclamation District and 10 years for sanitary districts. The bill, if it becomes law, is effective immediately.
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