Des Plaines Forum To Focus On Cost Of Living, Community Needs

DES PLAINES, IL — State Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg) will moderate a Sept. 14 forum in Des Plaines focused on the cost of living and growing community needs.

The Center of Concern's program, titled "The Growing Gap: Cost of Living and Community Needs," will be held at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St.

Networking and appetizers begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6:30 p.m.

"Affordability is one of the biggest issues facing our state and, frankly, our whole country," Mussman said. "I'm excited to moderate these important conversations on what our community members are really struggling with, and how we can formulate solutions accordingly."

U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth is expected to provide an introduction before the panel discussion.

Panel To Cover Housing, Health And State Services

Mussman will moderate a conversation featuring Danita Childers of the Housing Authority of Cook County, Tangela Eniya of Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Dr. Kiran Joshi of the Cook County Department of Public Health and John F. Schomberg of the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Mussman, a Schaumburg Democrat who has represented Illinois' 56th House District since 2011, is a full-time legislator and longtime member of several local and statewide civic organizations. She holds a bachelor's degree in design from the University of Cincinnati.

Mussman said she plans to use the discussion to better understand issues that could potentially be addressed through state legislation.

"While I'm guiding this conversation rather than participating, I'll be paying close attention and looking for ways state legislation can impact and improve lives in our community," Mussman said.

"I invite everyone to attend to share your experiences and engage in a meaningful discussion on how we can decrease the cost of living."

More information and RSVP details are available through the Center of Concern.