Mayor Brandon Johnson announced $42.5 million in city grants to fund 56 neighborhood projects, targeting vacant‑building rehabs, community centers and small businesses. The awards are meant to catalyze local hiring and private investment.

Environmental and community groups sued the EPA, saying the agency delayed action on a petition challenging U.S. Steel’s Gary Works permit. Plaintiffs want a court to force a decision and stronger monitoring.

Palatine police arrested a 29-year-old after neighbors reported someone tampering with ground-floor windows on the 1700 block of North Rose Avenue. He faces multiple attempted trespass and disorderly conduct counts.

A 24‑member mayoral task force has pitched a downtown congestion fee, a broad tax on consumer services, electricity surcharges and pension changes to close Chicago’s budget gap.

Mike Quigley will hold a Saturday kickoff to formally begin his campaign for Chicago mayor, putting a budget‑first message and pension reform at the center of the race.

A 52-year-old man died after his SUV was struck during a left turn early Tuesday on Irving Park Road in Lake View. Area 3 detectives are investigating.

Angelo J. Triolo, 54, was pronounced dead Saturday after an apparent watercraft incident at a Wilmington boat launch. An autopsy was performed and the IDNR is investigating.

A woman was wounded early Tuesday in Chicago's West Ridge during an apparent carjacking attempt. Police say detectives are investigating the incident.

DeKalb's council voted to migrate its license‑plate readers to Flock Safety under a two‑year, $27,500 agreement, prompting privacy concerns from residents.

Mayor Brandon Johnson hailed Chicago’s move to power municipal buildings with 100% clean energy, citing new Illinois solar capacity and long‑term contracts.

Hidden GPS trackers helped Cook County deputies recover $3,300 in stolen Lululemon gear and arrest 22-year-old Tavieon Holman after a traffic stop near 79th and Halsted.

ZSD’s 1282 Washington will deliver 16 single‑family–style condos in the West Loop with 4–5 bedroom layouts, private elevators and prices that top $3 million.

A multi‑story building in Chicago's South Shore erupted in flames Tuesday night, sending a towering plume of smoke visible for blocks. Fire crews were on scene and no injuries were immediately reported.