SE Illinois News

In a Nov. 16 Facebook post, Rep. Dave Severin (R-Marion) shared a press release announcing legislation to transfer the Southern Illinois Arts and Artisans Center from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to the Rend Lake Conservancy District.

”I am very proud of the cooperation and the results that we have been able to achieve by working together with IDNR and Rend Lake Conservancy District. This is an example of government working together for the best interests of the people of Southern Illinois,” Severin posted.

Severin filed House Bill 5845 with the clerk on Nov. 16, and it has been referred to the Rules Committee. The bill directs the "Director of the Department of Natural Resources to deliver a quitclaim deed for a portion of real property in Franklin County to the Rend Lake conservancy District for $531,667, subject to specified conditions." It will go into effect immediately upon passage.

On Aug. 3, Severin announced funding for the Rend Lake Resort and Conference Center. Severin said $17 million would be released from Rebuild Illinois funds to rehabilitate and refurbish the shuttered resort and conference center. 

“Today is one of the best days for Southern Illinois I can remember in a long time,” Severin said. “Rend Lake Resort and Conference Center has sat idle for far too long, so I am proud to join Senator Bryant and other local elected officials and officials from IDNR in announcing the release of $17 million in funding to rehabilitate and renovate the facility.” Severin said the project would bring tourism, jobs, and economic development opportunities for years to come.

Severin was first elected to the Illinois House in 2017. His legislative experience includes serving on the Judiciary - Criminal and Mental Health & Addiction Committee. Severin resides in Benton.