A PODCAST FROM THE ILLINOIS STATE ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES.
*Podcasts marked with an asterisk were created with assistance from one or more of the following AI technologies: Chat GPT, Notebook LM, and Eleven Labs. Sources used in podcasts include ISACo materials, media reporting, and other sources discussing an issue. AI was used to assist with script and voice generation. Podcasts are intended to be informative discussions about issues for both county officials and a general audience. Conversational podcasts include references to the sources used.
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Episode 10
6/2/2025
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In this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast, Executive Director Joe McCoy breaks down the key takeaways from the adjournment of the 2025 spring legislative session. From the passage of the state budget and other legislation along with high-profile bills that stalled and what it all means for counties, we provide a concise overview of what happened and what to expect heading into the summer and fall.*
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12:45 Length
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Episode 9
5/21/2025
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This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast explores the federal budget reconciliation process and its far-reaching implications for state and local governments. Learn how this fast-track legislative tool is being used to propose major changes to taxes, debt, Medicaid funding, affordable housing, renewable energy and other programs critical to counties. We explain what’s at stake and how counties across Illinois—and the nation—may be affected.*
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14:38 Length
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Episode 8
5/19/2025
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This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast discusses free, accessible outdoor wellness opportunities for communities and schools across Illinois thanks to a continued partnership between National Fitness Campaign (NFC) and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. The program is designed to bring world-class healthy infrastructure to public spaces, along with consulting, funding, and community programming support.
In 2025, the sponsorship provides $750,000 in new grant funding to communities and schools in the state of Illinois. The program is seeking applications from counties of all sizes across the state of Illinois, interested in building accessible outdoor wellness infrastructure to support the health and wellbeing of their residents.
Find out how you can apply for an outdoor fitness court for your county!*
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10:50 Length
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Episode 7
5/8/2025
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In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, we dig into HB 3363—landmark legislation that could reshape how public defense works across Illinois. The podcast breaks down what the creation of a State Public Defender’s Office means for counties, from shifting appointment authority to concerns about funding mandates and local control. We’ll explore why the bill is being proposed, what’s at stake for county governments, and how the debate reflects broader questions about justice, equity, and the future of criminal defense in Illinois. Whether you’re a state policymaker, county official or engaged citizen, this episode unpacks the political and practical implications of a major reform effort.*
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11:31 Length
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Episode 6
5/5/2025
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This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast discusses the challenges holding up a transit bill, including governance, structural reforms, funding sources and a need for consensus to advance major legislation. ISACo staff incorporated generative AI to develop this podcast using content provided by ISACo and outside media sources.*
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13:07 Length
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Episode 5
4/23/2025
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In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, ISACo Executive Director Joe McCoy breaks down the world of tax-exempt municipal bonds—one of the most powerful financial tools counties use to fund critical infrastructure like roads, water systems, and public safety facilities. Learn how these bonds work, why they save taxpayers money, and what political challenges threaten their future. Whether you’re a finance buff or just wondering how that new county building got funded, this episode has something for you. ISACo staff incorporated generative AI to develop this podcast using content provided by ISACo and outside media sources.*
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8:47 Length
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Episode 4
3/11/2025
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This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast discusses 25th District State Representative Curtis Tarver's (D-Chicago) background, his personal experience working in the state legislature and what he's learned so far as the Chairman of the Counties and Townships Committee.
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17:56 Length
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Episode 3
2/29/2024
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This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast discusses the Governor's combined State of the State and Budget Address, opportunities to shape state and federal policy affecting counties by participating on one of ISACo's seven policy committees and the February NACo Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.
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12:02 Length
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Episode 2
12/6/2023
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This week's Counties Count! Podcast congratulates McHenry County for being recognized for its participation in Operation Greenlight for Veterans, recognizes Illinois' 205th statehood anniversary, announces the upcoming NACo Legislative Conference, reports on the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) investigation of the United States Steel Corporation concerning the Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN), shares information about the construction of two new shelter sites for migrants, invites county officials and staff to join an ISACo Policy Committee, highlights ISACo corporate partner UnitedHealthcare and invites counties to join ISACo.
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4:58 Length
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Trailer Episode
11/17/2023
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Welcome to the trailer episode of the Counties Count! Podcast. The first episode discusses ISACo's mission and what to expect in future episodes. ISACo Executive Director Joe McCoy also introduces himself and shares some background about ISACo.
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4:57 Length
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