November 18, 2025/
WATCH: Chicago committee rejects proposed tax hikes; Hemp industry wants regulation
(The Center Square) – In today’s edition of Illinois in Focus Daily, The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop shares comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson after a city council committee rejected a slew of proposed tax increases he says are needed to prevent layoffs in city government. Johnson vowed to veto a budget with a property tax increase, but dodged whether he’d veto a budget that didn’t include a head tax on employers.
Bishop also discusses the current status of regulations on the hemp industry after the federal government approved regulating intoxicating hemp products. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he’s looking to work with the industry on how Illinois can further regulate the industry.
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
Utilities Chief Announces December Retirement; Police Department Adds Officer
Casey Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs announced at Monday's city council meeting that he will retire on December 31, 2025, ending his tenure overseeing the city's water, sewer, and electric operations....
Casey Council Meeting Briefs
July 4th Planning Begins: City Clerk Jeremy Mumford reminded the council that planning for the 4th of July celebration needs to begin soon. Mayor Mike Nichols asked the Downtown Improvement/Festivals...
Casey-Westfield Board Approves Major Technology Upgrades, Facility Improvements
The Casey-Westfield School Board approved significant technology and facility upgrades totaling more than $76,000 during Monday's meeting, while also addressing multiple personnel changes as the district prepares for summer construction...
Casey-Westfield Students Excel in Academics and Community Service
Casey-Westfield students demonstrated exceptional achievement across multiple areas while participating in unique educational experiences and community service initiatives, according to administrator reports from Monday's board meeting. High school students received...
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...