From Congresswoman Lauren Underwood’s website come these descriptions of “member initiatives” earmarked in an appropriations bill.

PROJECT SPONSOR: Independence Health & Therapy 
LOCATION: 2028 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098 
AMOUNT REQUESTED: $60,000 

PURPOSE/JUSTIFICATION: Independence Health & Therapy requests funding to purchase an electronic medical record (EMR) database system for their Adult Day program and a separate and distinct EMR for their Behavioral Health program. The Adult Day and Memory Care program is the only such program in McHenry County and seeks to promote independence and improve the quality of life for adults and their family. The intent of the Behavioral Health Program is to provide behavioral health services, within an outpatient community setting, to the greater McHenry County area, including traditional individual counseling, psychiatry services, preventative services, and community supportive services. Appropriate technology improves the delivery of services and agency operations. 

This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because EMRs allow staff to create and maintain individualized treatment plans, record clients’ assessments, and improve communication and access among care providers. The database also permits the creation and recording of daily progress notes, analysis of clinical outcomes, and the ability to bill electronically to multiple funders. Utilizing custom assessments and treatment plans, allows for efficient use of staff time, and improves services through individualized planning with access for all staff involved in client care. Such assessments and treatments plans are also crucial for securing payment for services from insurance companies, managed care organizations, and state Medicaid. Customized electronic medical record systems are critical for appropriate and timely billing, effective and efficient provision of care to the client, and increased amount of direct staff time with the client. The project is supported by the McHenry County Department of Health, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, and McHenry County Mental Health Board.  

PROJECT SPONSOR: McHenry County College 
LOCATION: 8900 US Highway 14, Crystal Lake, IL 60012 
AMOUNT REQUESTED: $822,690 

PURPOSE/JUSTIFICATION: This funding would be used to expand McHenry County College’s existing dual credit/dual degree program in partnership with all 15 public high schools in McHenry County. It is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it will fund additional graduate education for high school instructors, qualifying more instructors to teach college courses at their high school and making dual credit and dual degree programs available to many more students. The funding would also be used to help underwrite the cost of college tuition, fees, and course materials for students with demonstrated need. 

PROJECT SPONSOR: Village of Richmond 
LOCATION: 5600 Hunter Drive, Richmond IL 60071 
AMOUNT REQUESTED: $560,800 

PURPOSE/JUSTIFICATION: This funding would be used to rehabilitate two aging water towers, which serve as the residents of the Village of Richmond. Recent inspections of the towers revealed blight and decaying conditions that potentially pose a threat to public health and safety; therefore, restoration is critical and an appropriate use of taxpayer funds. Further delay in the water tower restoration could result in water quality violations and service disruptions, which may impact emergency fire department water supply.