State Representative Jackie Haas of Illinois’ 79th District shared updates on legislative activities, local grants, and community events in her February 2026 newsletter.
Haas announced that over $1.5 million in Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Grants have been awarded to projects within the district. The City of Braidwood received $600,000 for the Braidwood Town Center, while the City of Kankakee was granted $990,000 for the West Riverwalk. “This funding will go directly to critical projects that develop new outdoor spaces, which will encourage residents to spend more time outside and increase quality of life for everyone in our community. Thank you to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for providing this funding,” Haas stated.
The OSLAD program was established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986 to support communities with land acquisition and park development.
Haas reported that the House returned to Springfield last month for one week but did not pass any bills or attend committee meetings. She commented on this outcome: “Unfortunately, we passed zero bills and attended zero committee meetings. When Illinoisans are facing skyrocketing property tax bills, energy bills, grocery bills, and more, getting nothing done is not an option.” She expressed hope for progress during upcoming February session dates.
Information about scholarships was also provided. The Illinois Conservation Foundation is accepting applications from high school seniors dedicated to conserving natural resources. The Illinois Retail Merchants Association has launched a scholarship challenge encouraging students to address business challenges in retail; teams can compete for up to $60,000 in scholarships with a deadline of March 30, 2026. The Chime Scholars Foundation is offering scholarships up to $20,000 for post-secondary education programs with applications open until March 31, 2026.
In community news, Haas attended a breakfast meeting with Braidwood officials and county leaders about ongoing city projects. Her office participated in an IDOT open house regarding Route 113 improvements and she visited Prairie State College’s surgical technology program alongside other legislators.
She also attended Will County Farm Bureau’s annual meeting and delivered opening remarks at the MLK Day prayer breakfast in Kankakee: “Dr. King’s legacy of unity, peace, and equality is a timeless message for us to remember.”
Residents interested in visiting Chicago museums can request a Museum Resource Card through her office.
Haas reminded constituents about upcoming office hours on February 25 at Monee Village Hall and February 26 at Park Forest Public Library.
Haas was elected as a Republican representative for the state’s 79th House District in 2020 after Lindsay Parkhurst vacated the seat.
