Cook County has been recognized as a top digital county in the U.S. for the fifth consecutive year, praised for its cutting-edge use of technology in government operations and services. The county will receive the award in July.

Blue Island residents face a property tax spike, prompting Mayor Bilotto to recommend challenging assessments amid wider SALT deduction cap reform efforts.

Chicago sees over 12,000 volunteer sign-ups for the Democratic National Convention, with events including community service at the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Evanston City Council approved a $2 million federal grant application for renovations at Hilda's Place homeless shelter, expecting to enhance the shelter's facilities.

Calhoun County residents face a new property assessment multiplier of 1.0982, changing from the previous year's 1.0. This adjustment aims to maintain tax equity, reflecting the difference between assessed values and market values.

Chicago unveils the Cycle Breakers initiative aimed at tackling violence by enhancing youth conflict resolution skills and fostering community partnerships.

Illinois contemplates merging CTA, Metra, and Pace into a single public transit system. The Senate held a hearing for public input on potential efficiency and budget benefits as federal COVID relief funds dwindle.

State Rep. Mary Beth Canty has been honored by the AFFI for her role in passing House Bill 3249, which improves health and survivor benefits for first responders in Illinois.

The River Forest Public Library in Chicago reduced Tuesday hours and hired security due to escalating threats, including some against the director and police.

Chicago joined with Cook County and Illinois to form the GASC, focusing on community safety, offering a resource website, and allocating nearly $350M in public funds.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson addresses the surge in gun violence over the July 4th weekend, calling for accountability and additional resources to combat the issue. No arrests have been made yet for the shootings.

Illinois AG Kwame Raoul and 18 other Democratic attorneys general defend DEI initiatives amid conservative opposition and a lawsuit against Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law for alleged discrimination.

Illinois high schools will switch from SAT to ACT for state assessments starting spring 2025, following a $53 million contract over six years with the ACT, which includes a science assessment component.