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.

A lively campaign punctuated by strong competition has paid off for Randy Ramey, who won his party’s nomination for the position of Wayne Township supervisor in Feb. 28’s Republican primary and expressed gratitude via social media.

The unofficial results for the Winfield Township Republican primary have been released.

Aurora voters rejected a bid by state Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia (D-Aurora) to become mayor in the Feb. 28 primary. Chapa LaVia received 2,821 votes in the four-way race, which placed her third behind Alderman Richard Irvin and Aurora Assistant Chief of Staff Richard Guzman.

Aurora Civil Service Commission recommends police cadet to the next selection process step at its recent meeting.

Aurora Block Grant Working Committee discusses pedestrian safety improvements at yesterday's meeting.

Bensenville Elementary School District No. 2 approves energy contract at a recent meeting.

Jason Friedman, (350 N. Clark St., Chicago), donated $500 to Chicago's Citizens for Alderman Reilly on Jan. 22, 2016.

Aurora City Council votes on mayoral appointments to library board, African American Heritage Advisory Board at its meeting earlier this week.

Ralph B. Mandell, (1146 Ashland Ave., River Forest), donated $1,000 to Chicago's Friends of Edward M. Burke on Nov. 22, 2016.

Illinois high school lacrosse players have finally scored. Next year around this time, they will be gearing up to make Illinois history as the first state-sanctioned lacrosse championships draw near.

Winfield Village Board of Trustees amends village's banner policy at a recent meeting.

Villa Park Economic Development Commission reviews mission statement and goals at its recent meeting.

Aurora City Council establishes maximum number of class E-1 liquor licenses at a recent meeting.

Patrick John, (1005 S. Mayfield Ave., Chicago), donated $970.91 to Chicago's Committee to Elect Patrick D. John for Judge on Jan. 1, 2016.

The first day of March in Chicago was grey and wet, and Chicagoans were rushing along the streets with their serious faces and busy minds. For me, it was one of the best days in my life.

West Chicago Environmental Commission reviews priority list at a recent meeting.

Peter Flowers, (4254 Evergreen Drive, Lisle), donated $5,000 to Marion's Southern Illinois Political Victory Fund on Jan. 6, 2016.