Schrage not seeking re-election as township supervisor

8 months, 3 weeks ago by Bob Gough

Deputy Supervisor Cindy Brink takes out petitions to run for post

Steve Schrage is not seeking re-election as Quincy Township’s supervisor of general assistance.

Schrage has worked in the office since 1978 and was elected supervisor in 1989. Schrage, a Democrat, defeated current Adams County Board Chairman Mike McLaughlin in the election for the post.

General Assistance is a welfare program run by the township to provide money and medical assistance to those in need. To be able to get General Assistance, you have to have little or no money and not be eligible for assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services or Social Security.

Schrage says people can work 30 hours and earn $250 a month, but first they must apply for work at 10 other places they are hiring before they can get general assistance. They can pick up trash and perform other menial tasks.

The office has a $220,000 budget with about $140,000 going directly to aid those in need. Schrage said the office has been very busy.

“Times aren't getting any easier out there,” he said.

Cindy Brink is the deputy supervisor and office manager. She picked up petitions at City Hall this morning to run for the office in the February primary. She said she has yet to declare which party she will be affiliated with. She doesn't have to declare until she turns in petitions in November.

“I hope people will look past the Democrat or Republican label and look at my experience and ability to control spending and be fiscally responsible,” Brink said.

Brink, 48, has worked in the office for 19 years. She is a graduate of Quincy High School and John Wood Community College.