Posts by Newspaper Staff
Lobbyists Outline Strategy for Federal Funding and Grundy County Expansion
JJC Trustees Workshop Meeting | January 28, 2026 Article Summary: Representatives from Point of Difference Strategies updated the JJC Board on efforts to secure state and federal funding for key capital projects, including a new campus in Grundy County. The presentation highlighted the increasing importance of federal lobbying to secure appropriations for the college. Legislative…
Read MoreCapital Imp Committee Debates ‘Human Factor’ in Drafting New Artificial Intelligence Policy
Will County Capital Improvements & IT Committee Meeting | Jan. 6, 2026 Article Summary: The Will County Board Capital Improvements and IT Committee launched a comprehensive discussion on creating a countywide Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy during its Jan. 6 meeting, emphasizing the protection of jobs and data security. The committee directed staff to survey all…
Read MoreHBO Max Orders Cop Drama Pilot ‘American Blue’ to Film in Joliet
Article Summary: HBO Max has ordered a pilot for a new police drama titled “American Blue,” with production scheduled to begin in Joliet and Chicago this April. Starring Milo Ventimiglia and directed by David Ayer, the project aims to deliver a gritty, authentic look at local policing with a production model designed for annual releases.…
Read MoreJJC Administration Proposes Tuition Increase Amidst Future Budget Concerns
JJC Trustees Workshop Meeting | January 28, 2026 Article Summary: Joliet Junior College (JJC) administration presented a three-year financial plan that relies on a proposed $3 per credit hour tuition increase to maintain a balanced budget in 2027. Trustees expressed hesitation regarding the hike, citing concerns about student affordability and enrollment retention. JJC Financial Plan…
Read MoreWill County Public Works Advances $1.9 Million Improvement for Wilmington-Peotone Road
Public Works & Transportation Committee Meeting | February 3, 2026 Article Summary: The Will County Public Works and Transportation Committee has authorized a nearly $2 million contract for Phase I engineering services on Wilmington-Peotone Road. The agreement sets the stage for future improvements along the corridor between U.S. Route 45/52 and Center Road. Wilmington-Peotone Road…
Read MoreWill County Public Works: Access Will County Dial-a-Ride Expands to All 24 Townships, Eliminating Borders
Public Works & Transportation Committee Meeting | February 3, 2026 Article Summary:In a major overhaul of county transit, officials presented a quarterly report confirming that the Access Will County Dial-a-Ride program now covers all 24 townships, removing residency barriers for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The expansion consolidates multiple fragmented systems into a single, cohesive…
Read MoreSuspect Captured in Execution-Style Murder of Momence Bar Owner
Article Summary: Authorities have arrested a 47-year-old Indiana man in connection with the fatal shooting of Courtney Drysdale, the owner of a bar in rural Momence. The suspect was apprehended 26 hours after the robbery and homicide occurred. Momence Homicide Investigation Key Points: The Suspect: Julius E. Burkes Jr., 47, of Hammond, Indiana, was arrested outside…
Read MoreMeeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Planning and Zoning Commission for Jan. 20, 2026
Will County P&Z Commission Meeting | Jan. 20, 2026 The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, to adjudicate a series of zoning variances and special use permits. The meeting was notable for the scheduling of two massive off-site hearings in March to address controversial solar farm developments. In regular…
Read MoreThree Charged After Pitcher Attack Sparks Fight at Will County Jail
Article Summary: A fight involving six inmates broke out at the Will County Adult Detention Facility on Sunday afternoon, requiring intervention by the Emergency Response Team. Authorities have charged three men in connection with the brawl, which reportedly began with a weaponized drink pitcher. Will County Jail Incident Key Points: The Incident: A melee involving six…
Read MoreBolingbrook man charged after bringing loaded gun to Will County Courthouse
JOLIET – A Bolingbrook man is facing multiple felony charges after security officers discovered a loaded firearm in his possession at the Will County Courthouse last Tuesday. On the morning of Jan. 27, Court Security Officers and Will County Sheriff’s Deputies intercepted a potential threat during routine screening at the facility’s front security station. Officers identified…
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