Report Blames State Policies For Rising Illinois Property Taxes
A new policy report claims Illinois property taxes have climbed sharply under Governor JB Pritzker, rising nearly 27 percent since 2018. Analysts argue while local governments set tax rates, state decisions on pensions, education funding and mandates are driving higher costs. The report says a growing share of state education dollars is going toward pension […]
Read MoreIllinois House Advances School Cellphone Ban And Other Measures
The Illinois House is moving forward with a wide range of legislation, including a proposal to ban cellphone use in public school classrooms. Lawmakers say the measure would require districts to adopt policies by the 2027 school year, citing concerns about distractions and student well-being. Other bills gaining traction include expanded bereavement leave, a potential […]
Read MoreSIU Cardboard Boat Regatta Draws Crowds At Campus Lake
Cardboard boats hit the water and often sank just as fast this weekend, during the 51st annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. The event at Campus Lake challenged students and community members to build and race boats made mostly of cardboard. Some teams made it across the finish line, while others […]
Read MoreMultiple Arrests Reported In Centralia
Several arrests were reported in Centralia over the weekend, including 52 year old Brian Meskil, who was taken into custody at the Marion County Courthouse on a Washington County warrant. Authorities say Meskil also faces new drug charges tied to an earlier traffic stop. In separate cases, 32 year old Karan Rasul was arrested for […]
Read MoreDeadly Shooting In Centralia Under Investigation
A deadly shooting in Centralia is under investigation after one person was killed and at least three others were hurt. The violence broke out in the 900 block of East Kell Street, with the victim later pronounced dead at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital. Police have released few details.
Read MoreMount Vernon Airport Moves Ahead With Major Upgrade
Mount Vernon Outland Airport is moving forward with a nearly 1 POINT 4 million dollar signage upgrade, aimed at improving runway safety and pilot guidance. Airport officials say the project could begin construction as soon as this fall, with most funding coming from the federal government and a smaller local match.
Read MoreMt Vernon Spring Leaf Burning Over For April But Another Set For May
The City of Mt Vernon’s first spring leaf burning period ended on Sunday, but another one is coming next month. Burning will be allowed again May 11th through the 17th. City officials say the limited windows are designed to protect air quality and reduce fire risk, and residents are urged to follow all safety guidelines.
Read MoreHeadlight Glare A Growing Concern For Drivers
A new AAA survey finds six in ten drivers here in Illinois say headlight glare is a problem at night, with most saying it has gotten worse over the past decade. The biggest complaint comes from oncoming headlights, though many drivers also report glare in mirrors. AAA says newer lighting technology and taller vehicles are […]
Read MoreTickets Now On Sale For Mt Vernon Brewers Festival
Tickets are now on sale for the annual Mt. Vernon Brewers Festival set for June 6th in downtown Mt. Vernon. The event will run from noon to four that day, and feature homebrewers and craft breweries from across the region. Attendees can sample a wide variety of beers while enjoying live music and food vendors. […]
Read MoreWar On Terror Memorial Wall To Be Escorted Through Mount Vernon This Week
A traveling Global War on Terror memorial wall will be escorted through Mount Vernon this week, honoring fallen service members and veterans. The procession begins Thursday afternoon with a police escort through the city, ahead of the 20th annual Lance Cpl. J. Kyle Price Memorial Ride. The memorial will be open for public viewing at […]
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