http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-977892.mp3
Macomb, IL – State Senator John Sullivan (D-Rushville) is preparing to serve some new constituents.
Portions of Galesburg and Knox County have been added to Sullivan's district under the new legislative map signed into law by Governor Pat Quinn. At the same time, Sullivan will lose some territory on the southern end of his current district.
Sullivan will not be the only state senator serving Galesburg, but he said that is okay.
"I think it works out quite well to have more than one voice (representing a city)," Sullivan said.
Sullivan serves a geographically large area. He is generally pleased with the map because it keeps his district as compact as possible.
"It allows me to get to places a little bit easier," Sullivan said. "I think it will allow me to access the district a little bit better than I have under the current map."
The new map was drawn by Democrats, and Sullivan believes it will be challenged in court.
Sullivan will put in some windshield time this week. He will spend Monday through Thursday visiting a dozen communities in his current district to talk about the legislative session and listen to comments and concerns from residents.
The schedule:
Monday, July 18
IGA Store in Mt Sterling, 9:00am - 10:00am
Arrowhead Heights Golf Club in Camp Point, Noon - 2:00pm
Quincy Senior Center, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Tuesday, July 19
Farmers & Merchants State Bank in Bushnell, 9:00am - 10:30am
Colchester City Hall, Noon - 2:00pm
Macomb City Hall, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Wednesday, July 20
Broadway Cafe in Stronghurst, 9:00am - 10:30am
Carthage City Hall, Noon - 2:00pm
Monmouth City Hall, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Thursday, July 21
Brew Unto Others Coffee Shop in Mason City, 9:30am - 10:30am
Occasions in Havana, Noon - 2:00pm
Golden Age Community Center in Beardstown, 4:30pm - 6:00pm