Chicago's Acero Charter Schools Network plans to close seven of its schools by June 2025, affecting 2,000 students and 270 staff. Declining enrollment and financial challenges are cited as reasons for the closures.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle introduced a $9.89 billion budget for 2025 that foregoes tax hikes and layoffs, featuring investments in AI, disaster relief, solar panels, and commits 84% of federal pandemic relief funds.

Chicago's Mayor Johnson is weighing measures like layoffs and a tax hike due to a $1 billion deficit; cancelled police training has raised safety concerns.

The CDPH issued a health alert about possible rabies exposure from bats at a recent concert at the Salt Shed in Chicago. Attendees are urged to seek medical advice if they had contact with bats.

Chicago's Mars Wrigley factory and Jackson Storage building are recommended for landmark status, and a housing project for gender-based violence survivors gains approval. Lincoln Park okays a mixed-use development with affordable units.

A gun found at Trump International Hotel in Chicago led to a SWAT response and one person being taken into custody without incident; no injuries were reported.

The Gary/Chicago International Airport began a $24 million project to expand its air cargo facilities, anticipating economic growth for Northwest Indiana.

Michael Thompson, a 16-year-old from Aurora, is missing in Chicago, last seen in blue scrubs without shoes. He needs medical help, and the CPD seeks public assistance to find him.

Englewood, Chicago, is without a fire truck due to a vehicle shortage, affecting emergency responses. After Truck 20's brake failure, the Chicago Fire Department has no spares. Union contract negotiations include a demand for more equipment.

The Illinois Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against TikTok, claiming the platform's features harm children's mental health and that the company prioritizes profit over safety.

Chicago has seen multiple armed robberies and carjackings by suspects described as male Blacks, ages 18-25, using a black sedan or Kia Optima.

Michael Madigan, former Illinois House Speaker, and lobbyist Michael McClain begin their federal racketeering and bribery trial, with jury selection underway amid concerns over widespread name recognition.

A convenience store in Berwyn, Illinois, sold a $650,000 winning Lucky Day Lotto ticket. The store owner, Mayurkumar Patel, plans to share the store's commission with his staff.