IL HB0477

Amends the Downstate Forest Preserve District Act to allow for elected commissioners in certain counties with populations between 200,000 and 800,000 that border Wisconsin and do not adjoin counties with over 2,000,000 population.

Establishes that seven commissioners shall be elected at large by county voters beginning with the 2010 general election, with candidates nominated by petition signed by at least 100 qualified voters.

Sets staggered initial terms: top three vote-getters serve 6-year terms, fourth and fifth serve 4-year terms, sixth and seventh serve 2-year terms, with all subsequent commissioners serving 6-year terms.

Requires commissioners to be county residents, serve without compensation (though may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses), and prohibits simultaneous service in other elective or appointive county offices.

Provides for filling commissioner vacancies through board appointment if more than 28 months remain in the term; otherwise the vacancy is filled by election at the next general election.