August 12, 2025/
WATCH: Illinois In Focus Daily | Tuesday Aug. 12th, 2025
(The Center Square) – In today’s edition of Illinois in Focus Daily, The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop delves into the back and forth between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety, presidential politics and no-cash bail.
Bishop also shares concerns raised by the National Federation of Independent Business Illinois State Director Noah Finley about Senate Bill 1976 now on the governor’s desk. Finley says if the measure becomes law, Illinois could fall further behind the rest of the nation in economic growth.
Watch the full program below. Subscribe to Illinois in Focus Daily with The Center Square on YouTube. You can also subscribe to the Illinois in Focus podcast to get the entire show uninterrupted.
Events
Latest News Stories
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS
Summer Construction Planned: Major facility improvements begin after Memorial Day, with cafeterias closed June 2-17 for asbestos abatement and Agriculture/Industrial Arts Building without power for electrical upgrades. State Track Qualifiers:...
Casey-Westfield School Board Reorganizes Leadership, Seats New Member
The Casey-Westfield School Board completed its post-election reorganization Monday evening, maintaining current leadership while welcoming new member Mike Fouty and establishing committee assignments for the coming term. The organizational meeting...
SCHOOL BOARD BRIEFS
Election Results Certified: The April 1 school board election results were officially certified, with Mike Fouty joining as the new member after receiving 282 votes for a four-year term. Leadership...
Casey Completes $498,279 Housing Rehabilitation Grant Project
The City of Casey successfully completed a nearly half-million dollar housing rehabilitation program that brought nine homes up to code and assisted 19 low-to-moderate income residents, officials announced during a...
CITY MEETING BRIEFS
Grant Administration Success: The Coles County Regional Planning & Development Commission successfully administered the $498,279 housing rehabilitation grant with 100% of funds reaching qualifying low-to-moderate income households. No Resident Displacement:...
Casey-Westfield Board Approves $100,000+ in Technology and Facility Upgrades
The Casey-Westfield School Board approved more than $100,000 in technology purchases and facility improvements during Monday's meeting, while also addressing administrative cost limitations and preparing for new board member transitions....
Casey-Westfield Students Excel in Academics and Community Service
Casey-Westfield students demonstrated exceptional achievement across academic competitions, community service, and educational experiences, according to administrator reports presented during Monday's board meeting. High school students showcased academic excellence through multiple...
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS
Bond Funds Secured: The Series 2025 HLS Bonds closed April 15 with proceeds deposited at Casey State Bank and fully collateralized, advancing facility improvement projects. Board Transition Pending: New board...
Casey Council Approves Major Equipment Purchase, Awards Tree Removal Contracts
The Casey City Council authorized the purchase of a $191,537.50 hydro-vac truck and awarded contracts totaling more than $40,000 for tree and stump removal projects during Monday's meeting, while also...
Casey Committee Maintains Chicken Ban, Advances Planning Initiatives
Casey city committees addressed livestock regulations and economic development planning during meetings held before Monday's council session, with decisions that will affect both residential regulations and long-term community growth. The...
CITY MEETING BRIEFS
Pond Project Installation: The valve structure for the park pond project arrived Tuesday with installation work beginning this week, continuing progress on the recreational facility enhancement. Sidewalk Bids Scheduled: Contractor...
Casey Council Approves Union Contract, Issues Historic Founding Day Proclamation
The Casey City Council approved a tentative agreement with the ICOP Union and signed a proclamation commemorating the city's founding during Monday's meeting, while also advancing several business and infrastructure...
Casey Schedules Public Input on Comprehensive Plan Update
Casey residents will have the opportunity to provide input on the city's comprehensive plan update during a public meeting scheduled for April 22nd from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Economic Development...