20 ILCS 3410/5

In addition to the powers otherwise specifically granted to the Department by law, the Department shall have the following powers and responsibilities: (a) to perform the administrative functions for the Council; (b) to hold public hearings and meetings concerning the National Register of Historic Places; (c) to prepare and periodically revise a statewide preservation plan; (d) to attempt to maximize the extent to which the preservation of historic resources is accomplished through active use, including self-sustaining or revenue-producing use and through the involvement of persons other than the Department; and (e) to disseminate information of historic resources, to provide technical and other assistance to persons involved in preservation activities, to develop interpretive programs and otherwise stimulate public interest in preservation.