Sponsored by the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) in Washington, D.C., this unique ACE program gives participating members of the House of Representatives the opportunity to visit with members of the opposite party within their district, tour sites of local economic, military, cultural, or social significance with their colleagues, and meet civic, business, education, or leaders for policy discussions in which the two Members have common interests.
On the trip to Richton Park, Congresswoman Kelly was accompanied by Congressman Bob Latta (R) representing Northeast Ohio. Both serve on the House Energy & Commerce Committee.
Located at the Richton Park Community Center, Rep. Kelly arranged a roundtable discussion with several municipal leaders, including the mayors/village presidents of Richton Park, Matteson, Hazel Crest, Country Club Hills, Markham, Lansing, Lynwood, Kankakee, and Peotone. After initial meeting and introductions, the group discussed the kinds of incentives and support that could come from the federal government, in partnership with state, county, and municipalities. And, how recently passed federal legislation like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act can aid key sectors including: transportation, logistics, food/beverage and packaging; metals, machinery and equipment manufacturing; and chemical/materials.
Richton Park was the third stop along the tour, among others such as the Obama Foundation, Steve Warrick Farm, Family Christian Health Center, University of Chicago Ingalls Memorial Hospital, Torrence Ave Ford Motor Plant, and the Pullman National Historic Park.
This initiative is all about broadening the horizons of all involved, and becoming aware that the core issues are those of everyone. To date, over 40 Republican and Democratic members across the political spectrum have returned from these illuminating visits with new constructive relationships and a genuine interest in working together; resulting in co-sponsoring bills, introducing new legislation, and other collaborative efforts.