Urbana appoints new fire chief
Steven Doggett will take over the position from Urbana’s interim fire chief, Tal Prendergast. He’s been serving in the interim role since December.
Tag: Illinois
These citizen scientists track frog calls to monitor ecosystem health
Volunteers with FrogWatch USA track frog calls during mating season to collect data about ecosystem health.
Gov. Pritzker pausing public duties after ‘routine’ health procedure
The governor’s office on Friday disclosed that Pritzker will fulfill his regular duties next week but “pause public events while resting.”
Urbana City Council member resigns, citing health issues
Chaundra Bishop, who represented northeast Urbana on the city council, said she is stepping down to to put more focus on her health. The city is expected to take applications from residents hoping to complete her term.
Top Illinois Democrats call U.S. Supreme Court ruling on voting rights a ‘crushing blow to our democracy’
The ruling is likely to impact elections in 2028, since many filing deadlines for this year’s elections have passed, including in Illinois.
What to know about your county’s mental health court
Mental health courts have proliferated across Illinois in recent decades. Now, the state has 31 courts across 25 counties.
Photography exhibit turns ‘The Black Gaze’ on Champaign-Urbana leaders
Photographer Dwayne Banks Jr. highlighted 30 local African American leaders in his exhibit at the University YMCA in Champaign.
Champaign County Board approves 1-year data center moratorium
The Champaign County Board was previously considering a nine month moratorium on data centers.
Urbana residents will soon be opted in to an electric aggregation program. Here’s what you need to know
Urbana residents have been automatically opted in to an electrical aggregation program, unless they’ve already opted out.
Illinois farmers ease critical labor shortages through this agricultural visa program
The H-2A visa has become a lifeline for farmers who can’t find enough domestic workers.
Waymo begins testing in Chicago as bill seeks to legalize autonomous vehicles
For the last year, legislators in Springfield have been trying to work through a variety of issues raised by skeptics of the autonomous vehicles, known as AVs.
Illinois pursues abortion coverage for people with little or no insurance
Federal law requires the insurers to segregate that money and use it only for abortion care. Illinois’ bill would allow the state to exert greater authority over the funds.
New Illinois bill aims to address ‘asset trap’ for residents with disabilities
In Illinois, asset limits tied to public benefits can make even modest savings risky for many people with disabilities. A bill in the state legislature aims to keep people informed about their options.
Thousands gather in downtown Urbana for third ‘No Kings’ protest
The protest on March 28 was part of a broader wave of rallies across North America. Organizers and demonstrators pointed to growing concerns over civil rights and government actions while urging continued public engagement.
In Illinois, a short-term guardianship can help youths during ICE deportations
Some parents are turning to the state program to protect their children during a crisis.