Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough passed away at 73, leaving behind a legacy as the first Black and female clerk.

Illinois enhances financial literacy education among high school and higher education students through new classroom measures and legislative initiatives, addressing a recognized need for financial education.

Chicago faces high rates of gun violence despite law enforcement seizing many weapons and a reported 13% drop in homicides and shootings in 2023. Federal prosecutors in the city approve fewer gun charges compared to other districts.

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church in Chicago is opening a new shelter for families in need, in partnership with the City of Chicago, Cook County, the Archdiocese, and the Zakat Foundation.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson urges President Biden to provide more work permits to undocumented immigrants, citing economic benefits and Illinois' labor shortages.

Mayor Brandon Johnson appoints four new leaders, including Rev. Dr. Marshall Elijah Hatch, Sr., to the City Colleges of Chicago Board of Trustees to steer the city’s educational future.

Mayor Brandon Johnson unveils a $528 million plan to develop over 1,000 new apartments, 319 of which will be affordable, in Chicago's Loop, contingent on $150 million in TIF assistance.

Dr. Cristina Pacione-Zayas becomes Chicago's City Hall's first Latina chief of staff, appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson. Her background in public service and policy development is set to advance the city's equitable goals.

Eileen O'Neill Burke won the Cook County state's attorney Democratic primary by a narrow margin, facing Republican Bob Fioretti in November. She received various endorsements and aims to focus on public safety.

Chicago appoints Sendy Soto as first Chief Homelessness Officer, launching a strategic plan for housing and implementing $128 million renovation of Lawson House for affordable housing.

Chicago Residents AG Raoul warns of tax identity theft and urges consumers to protect personal information, especially during tax season, highlighting a rise in digital scams and sham tax preparers.

Ogle County, IL, maintains last year's property assessment equalization factor at 1.0000, ensuring consistent tax assessments without an automatic increase or decrease in property taxes.

The Illinois Department of Revenue has kept McHenry County's property tax equalization factor at 1.0000, ensuring consistent property assessments across the county.