Policy & Place
Policy and Place is your go-to podcast for unraveling the complexities of local government and exploring the policies that shape our communities. Hosted by Ken Helms, each episode dives into topics like economic development, urban planning, public services, and more—breaking them down in a way that’s accessible and engaging for everyone.
Whether you’re a policy enthusiast, a community leader, or simply curious about how decisions are made at the local level, Policy and Place offers valuable insights and practical knowledge to help you stay informed and involved.
Policy & Place
Home Rule, Big Impact: Empowering Small Towns in Illinois
"In this episode of Policy and Place, we unpack the power of home rule and how it’s transforming small towns in Illinois. Home rule gives communities under 20,000 residents the ability to address local challenges with flexibility and efficiency. We explore real-world examples, like how Monmouth leveraged home rule to implement municipal energy aggregation—saving residents hundreds annually—and to create a special tax district that attracted a Love’s Truck Stop, driving economic growth.
Join us as we discuss how home rule empowers local leaders, streamlines services, and fosters stronger connections between governments and their communities. Whether you’re a local leader or a curious resident, this episode is packed with insights into how home rule is making a big impact in small towns."
