These collaborations help us improve public safety, strengthen our economy, advocate for our community, and ensure we continue delivering high-quality services to our residents.

Public safety is one of the best examples of regional cooperation in action. The Pekin Fire Department is an active member of the Tazewell County Firefighters Association and Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) Division 42. These partnerships allow departments to train together, share specialized equipment, and quickly provide assistance during major emergencies. Whether responding to a large fire, severe weather, or another significant incident, mutual aid ensures our residents receive the resources they need when every second counts.

The Pekin Police Department also works closely with agencies throughout Illinois and beyond. Through partnerships such as the Central Illinois Emergency Response Team (CIERT), the Illinois State Police Regional Intelligence Group (RIG), the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS), the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Secret Service, our officers have access to specialized training, intelligence, investigative resources, and regional task forces that help combat everything from violent crime and narcotics trafficking to cybercrime. These partnerships make our department stronger and our community safer.

Regional cooperation also plays an important role in Pekin’s long-term growth. The City works closely with the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, where I serve on the Executive Board and City staff participate on technical committees to help shape transportation, housing, and infrastructure planning across Central Illinois. We also partner with the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, the Tri-County River Valley Development Authority, the Illinois River Cities and Towns Initiative, and the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce to promote economic development, improve infrastructure, support local businesses, and create opportunities that benefit both Pekin and the surrounding region.

Strong communities also depend on strong local government. Our staff actively participate in dozens of professional organizations such as the Illinois City/County Management Association, the Illinois Municipal League, the Illinois Government Finance Officers Association, and the Central Illinois Municipal Clerks Organization. These professional associations allow city leaders to share best practices, receive specialized training, stay informed on changes in state law, and continuously improve the services we provide. Good government doesn’t happen by accident—it requires a commitment to learning, innovation, and collaboration.

Many of these partnerships take place behind the scenes, but their impact is visible throughout our community. They help us respond more effectively during emergencies, advocate for resources in Springfield and Washington, plan for the future, support economic growth, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely.

Pekin has always been a community that values working together. By partnering with organizations across our region and throughout Illinois, we are strengthening our city today while building an even brighter future for the generations that follow.