Community News
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 · Wheaton
Illinois Court Allows Pension Restructuring to Proceed
The Illinois Supreme Court has upheld key provisions allowing the state to continue restructuring its massive unfunded pension liability, marking a significant shift in how Illinois can address its retirement system crisis. The ruling permits Illinois to move forward with pension reforms while navigating the state's stringent constitutional protections for worker benefits.
Illinois AG Defends Stricter Federal Soot Standards Amid Industry Challenges
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is fighting federal lawsuits to protect tougher EPA limits on fine particulate matter, or soot, that threaten public health in Chicago and beyond. The new standards cut annual PM2.5 levels from 12 to 9 micrograms per cubic meter, targeting deadly pollution linked to heart disease and respiratory issues. With 10 Illinois counties already in non-attainment, the stakes are high for communities of color and low-income areas.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Milton Township Awards $1.3M in Mental Health Grants, Eliminates Debt
Milton Township awarded $1.3 million in mental health grants and eliminated its debt, officials reported at the annual meeting.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Milton Township Distributes $1.3M in Mental Health Grants, Reports Zero Debt
Milton Township distributed $1.3 million in mental health grants and reported zero debt after completing overdue audits.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
West Chicago Earns Second Tree City USA Designation
West Chicago planted a tree at its wastewater treatment facility as part of efforts to earn a second consecutive Tree City USA designation.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Milton Township Expands Food Aid, Emergency Assistance in 2025
Milton Township served over 13,000 residents through its food pantry in 2025 while distributing $84,000 in emergency assistance.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Milton Township S.A.L.T. Council Brings Senior Safety Speakers to Community
The Milton Township S.A.L.T. Council hosts monthly speakers covering housing, Medicare, and senior care resources for older residents.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Village Board Approves Changes to Refuse and Recycling Collection
Wheaton's Village Board approved changes to the refuse and recycling collection program, introducing new carts and an updated schedule for single-family homes this summer.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Elgin Pumps $200K into PADS Shelter to Avert June Shutdown
Faced with a crushing $500,000 budget shortfall, PADS of Elgin received a critical $200,000 lifeline from the city to keep its doors open through June 30. The Elgin City Council's one-time grant ensures transitional housing and support services continue for homeless residents in Kane County. A June 7 garden party fundraiser aims to bridge the remaining gap.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026