A press release from State Rep. Mike Tryon:

Tryon Bill that Saves Park Districts Money on Energy Costs Receives Unanimous Support in the House

SPRINGFIELD….. A bill that has the potential to save Illinois Park Districts up to 30% on their energy costs received unanimous support in the Illinois House last week and is headed to the Senate for consideration.

Mike Tryon

State Representative Mike Tryon (R-Crystal Lake), Chief Sponsor of House Bill 2232, said the bill allows park district officials to take advantage of electricity deregulation and shop for alternative electric suppliers and cheaper rates.

“This bill has great potential to save park districts a lot of money,” said Tryon. “And since park districts are funded primarily through taxes, this is also a win for taxpayers.”

Under the provisions of the bill, park districts may enter into a contract to purchase energy from a utility or an alternative retail electric supplier for a term exceeding one year, but not to exceed three years.

“Park Districts have significant electrical needs that extend beyond their main buildings,” Tryon said. “They provide security lighting at park facilities, lighting for baseball fields and tennis courts, heating and pumping of water for swimming pools, and much more,” said Tryon.

“Since we already allow our municipalities and our county governments the ability to take advantage of electricity deregulation, it only makes sense that we extend the same money-saving opportunity to our park districts.”

Peter Murphy, President and CEO of the Illinois Association of Park Districts, said he was pleased the bill received unanimous support in the House.

“The Illinois Association of Park Districts commends Representative Tryon for bringing this legislative initiative forward,” he said. “It’s a common sense bill that saves taxpayers money.”