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 village of River Forest Board of Trustees met Jan. 9 to declare surplus vehicles.

The Cook County Forest Preserve Finance Committee met Feb. 7 to consider pavement repairs.

The River Forest Firefighters Pension Fund met Jan. 26 to review retirement applications.

The village of Godfrey Parks and Recreation Committee met Feb. 10 to discuss the budget.

Illinois drivers hoping to beat a train by illegally crossing tracks after the gates are down now face not only the dangers inherent in such a move but also double the fines of previous years, Metra reminded drivers recently.

The Village of Brookfield would like its businesses to feature more attracting signs, both to promote the city and help shops increase sales, the village announced recently.

The Cook County Health and Hospital Systems Board met Feb. 7 to receive the animal control report.

The village of Godfrey Emergency Services and Disaster Agency met Jan. 24 to postpone mailing informational flyers.

The Cook County Roads and Bridges Committee met Feb. 7 to hear public testimony.

The Cook County Board of Commissioners met Feb. 7 to honor the deceased.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County Litigation Committee met Feb. 7 to review invoices.

The Westchester School District 92.5 Board of Education met Jan. 24 to discuss dual language courses.

The River Forest Public Library Policy Committee met Jan. 10 to review operations policies.

The River Forest Public Library Policy Committee met Feb. 7 to discuss computer lab equipment.

The Westchester School District 92.5 Board of Education met Feb. 6 to discuss capital projects.

The River Forest Public Library Board of Trustees met Jan. 17 to review the expense reports.

The Westchester School District 92.5 Board of Education met Feb. 7 to appoint employees.