New Web Site Asks For Stimulus Spending Suggestions

By Anthonia Akitunde in News on Feb 21, 2009 9:45PM

Transparency and accountability are two features sorely lacking in Illinois' political landscape. But they are a big part of Governor Pat Quinn's new Web site urging Illinois residents to bring in their suggestions on how to spend anticipated stimulus funds.

Recovery.illinois.gov allows users to fill out an informal application to "ensure potential stimulus projects have a chance to apply for funding." Applicants give a brief description of the project and its expectations, select which Federal Stimulus Program their program best fits under and estimate the number of jobs the project would create or retain.

Recovery may give Illinois a leg up in determining how to divvy up funds. In the site's frequently asked question portion, the need to act quickly was addressed: "[The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act] stipulates that if funds are not obligated (that is, marked for specific purposes) within 90 to 180 days of receiving them, the money is available to other states. Using stimulus money quickly will create jobs, repair communities, and help families hurt by the national economic crisis."

The site is in keeping with provisions in the federal stimulus, demanding "regular public reporting of project status, spending, and job creation and retention." Quinn promises to go above and beyond these requirements, making data available for download and working with the Illinois federal stimulus team to establish tracking and reporting procedures.

So what would be on your wish list for Illinois? Do you think the site will be put to good use?