Kankakee, IL – Mayor Wells-Armstrong has been appointed for the Restore, Reinvest, and Renew Board (R3). The R3 Board was established in 2019 under the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. The goal is to direct cannabis revenues toward communities that have been disproportionately impacted by systemic policies related to the War on Drugs.

The R3 Board will administer grants that will be used to improve economic development, youth development and civic legal aid. Additionally, funds will be used to help reduce gun violence in the community, provide services and re-entry opportunities for those involved in the criminal justice system, and support educational and health programs.

“Kankakee County has numerous designated R3 areas damaged by the War on Drugs and Kankakee should and now is represented on the local level at the R3 board through the Mayor’s office,” said State Representative, Lindsay Parkhurst, in a press release.

Representative Parkhurst has been an R3 board member since last Fall and supported Mayor Wells-Armstrong’s appointment.

Senior Advisor to the Governor on Cannabis Control, Toi Hutchinson, states in order for the R3 board to be successful, the board must have competent and insightful leaders, including individuals who not only have professional experience, but personalized insight on the process of aiding disproportionate communities.

“The commitment the Mayor has brought to social work and constituent service alone have transformed the landscape of Kankakee’s population for the better and must be commended. As a lifelong citizen, Mayor Wells-Armstrong has a personal connection to the community that allows her to speak on behalf of the city in ways that others cannot. Additionally, the City of Kankakee meets, through verified data, all the qualifications that would elicit aid from the R3 Program,” said Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer, Toi Hutchinson.

“I am honored to be the appointee for our region. My background as a social worker and certified addictions counselor informs my perspective in regard to systemic oppression and inequity. The spirit of this legislation addresses years of injustices and provides the resources needed to aid in crime reduction, create economic opportunities for those impacted to participate in the industry, and further educate the community regarding the legislation. I look forward to working with the board and serving as a local voice for the City of Kankakee,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

The R3 board is chaired by Lieutenant Governor, Juliana Stratton, in addition to the Attorney General, directors of six state agencies, and four legislators. Additional board members will also be appointed as representatives from community based-providers, violence reduction experts and those who have been previously incarcerated.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

Download the Press Release - Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton Taps Mayor Wells-Armstrong for the Recovery, Reinvest, and Renew Board (R3)