The Will County Board is poised to start chipping away at its serious space shortage after more than a decade of debate.

With $14.3 million in existing funds, the county could soon start on a path toward $441 million in new buildings.

“We have a lot of cramped space and raggedy buildings, and things need to be done,” said board member Denise Winfrey (D-Joliet), chairwoman of the board’s capital improvements committee.

With the New Year in full swing, state Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. (D-Elwood) is encouraging local area seniors to apply for the benefits that are available to them through the state.

“As we continue working to rebuild our economy, it is important that senior citizens still receive vital services that they need,” Walsh said. “One of my top priorities as a representative is to ensure services that improve the health and well-being of senior citizens are protected in Springfield.”