Illinois unveils funding for vacant, abandoned residential properties
$9 million investment will help local governments revitalize distressed areas, creating new housing opportunities By Tribune Staff • The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is now accepting applications from units of local government for grant funding dedicated to supporting local affordable housing needs and community revitalization efforts across Illinois. Offered through IHDA’s Strong Communities Program…
Read MoreIllinois rises to top tier in National Emergency Preparedness Ranking
Newly published report highlights state’s progress in readiness for disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and bioterror threatThe By Tribune Staff • Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced Illinois has been named a “high-performance” state for emergency preparedness, the highest ranking a state can receive, in a newly released report by Trust for America’s Health.…
Read MoreRep. Charlie Meier continues fight for “Dignity in Pay Act” funding
By Tribune Staff • State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) is continuing his work to advocate on behalf of workers with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The “Dignity in Pay Act” passed during the 103rd General Assembly in 2024, which requires people with intellectual disabilities to be paid minimum wage. Previously, organizations could employ these individuals as 14c…
Read MoreHSHS leaders Klay, Cornelius named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s Rural Hospital, Health System Presidents, CEOs for 2026
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Chris Klay, President and CEO of HSHS Southern Illinois Market and HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, and Teresa Cornelius, Chief Administrative Officer of HSHS Holy Family Hospital in Greenville and HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland were recently recognized on Becker’s Hospital Review 2026 iteration of its “Rural hospital and health…
Read MoreMadison County Sheriff continues investigation into Troy house explosions, fire
By Randy Pierce • An investigation concerning an early April series of explosions at a home in rural Troy that resulted in three fatalities is continuing and not expected to conclude “for quite some time,“ according to Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor. Addressing the Madison County Board Public Safety Committee on Monday, May 4, Connor,…
Read MoreSenator Erica Harriss announces traveling office hours for May
By Tribune Staff • State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is pleased to announce a new round of Traveling Office Hours taking place throughout May, providing residents with additional opportunities to connect with her office and receive assistance with state services. “These Traveling Office Hours are an important way for my team to stay connected…
Read MoreStuart schedules time with constituents in Collinsville on May 14
By Randy Pierce • Illinois State Representative from the 112th District Katie Stuart is making herself available to meet with constituents on May 14, from 4 to 6 p.m. at her district office located at 2105 Vandalia Street, Unit 16, in Collinsville. Anyone with questions or concerns they wish to address to Stuart may do…
Read MoreIllinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs relaunches state retirement program for small businesses with lower fees, new name
Savers, employers encouraged to claim accounts in new online portal after June 15 By Tribune Staff • Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today announced lower fees and technology improvements for employers and savers of the Illinois Secure Choice Savings Program, which will take effect in June 2026. “A decade ago, too many Illinois workers didn’t…
Read MorePritzker announces $56 million in available grant funding for community development block grant programs
By Tribune Staff • Governor J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced $56 million in funding is available for the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) for Public Infrastructure ($25 million), Housing Rehabilitation ($15 million), Community Revitalization ($13 million), and Emergency Assistance ($3 million). Grantees will be selected…
Read MoreMaryville’s Memorial Day, pavilion grand opening event on May 23
By Tribune Staff • Saturday, May 23 will be Maryville’s Memorial Day, America’s 250 Years Celebration and the Grand Opening for Maryville’s new American Legion Entertainment Pavilion in Firemen’s Park. A full day of festivities will mark the inaugural opening and ribbon cutting for the new stage with food, drink, games and music beginning at…
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