Illinois lawmakers are considering a multibillion-dollar tax hike that the Illinois Policy Institute says may worsen the state’s already weakened economy.

Gov. Bruce Rauner signaled he is ready to jump on board with several parts of the proposed "grand bargain," yet remains staunchly opposed to other elements of it.

The state of Illinois is losing people faster than any other state in the Midwest.

The Benton Firefighter Pension Board met Jan. 20 discuss training opportunities.

The Anna City Council met Jan. 17 to present the police code enforcement update.

The Anna Community School District No. 37 Board of Education met Jan. 19 to purchase kitchen equipment.

The Benton City Council met Dec. 12 to purchase meter heads.

Cancer survivors experiencing insomnia or sleep disturbances are being offered the chance to participate in a clinical research trial at the Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) Cancer Institute that might help with their sleep.

Children and adults with disabilities are being invited to attend summer camp on the shores of Little Grassy Lake this summer through Camp Little Giant, Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s therapeutic recreation camp.

The Jefferson County Board Services Committee met Jan. 19 to discuss the committee's responsibilities.

The Waterloo City Council met Jan. 16 to review a raffle license request.

The Jefferson County Fiscal Committee met Jan. 17 to review election proposals.

The Benton Police Pension Board met Jan. 20 to discuss special election results.

The Jefferson County Land, Tax and Appointments Committee met Jan. 19 to appoint a fire protection chief.

The Anna City Council met Dec. 20 to approve the annual tax levy.

The Herrin City Council met Jan. 23 to to amend liquor license numbers.

The Herrin City Council met Dec. 12 to accept a roof repair bid.

The village of Freeburg Board of Trustees met Jan. 3 to review investments.

The Herrin City Council met Dec. 26 to appoint board members.

The village of Freeburg Board of Trustees met Dec. 19 to discuss replacing lift station pumps.