The Watch

The Watch: Councils get down to business on diversity, budget approval

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Watching local government operate almost normally in 2022 is a Christmas gift in itself. Peoria City Council On Sept. 27, councilors approved $386,000 for a storm sewer contract with J.C. Dillon Inc. Maintenance Director Rick Powers said this includes 190…

The Watch: Social equity pot dispensaries under review; rail line gets funds; booths, ballots ready for big day

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  Cannabis, trains and upcoming budgets dominate government agendas this fall. Peoria City Council On Aug. 23, councilors reviewed an ordinance about recreational cannabis businesses. Changes relate to social equity applicants, meaning those who have convictions for cannabis possession and…

The Watch: County refinances Heddington Oaks, Elizabeth Gannon new Executive Director of Election Commission

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  Too bad we have that debt, but cheers to the Peoria County Board for saving between $20 million and $25 million by refinancing Heddington Oaks. PEORIA CITY COUNCIL On July 26, the council approved a request from City Manager…

The Watch | Gun violence discussed

From gun violence (big problem) to voter fraud (not), government representatives work to protect citizens and their rights. Peoria City Council On June 14, Monica Hendrickson, Public Health Administrator for Peoria County/City and Katy Endress, Director of Epidemiology and Clinical…

The Watch | Expect higher utility rates this summer

You aren’t the only one concerned about rising utility costs. Your local governments feel the heat, as well. Check the discussion. Peoria City Council On April 26 City Manager Patrick Urich provided information on predicted Ameren energy rate increases related…

The Watch | Politicians can run, but they can’t hide from the League of Women Voters

Summer kicks off with classic good news/bad news. The good news is the League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria was able to add coverage to include Peoria Public Schools District 150. With professional reporters ever-scarcer, volunteers who attend government…

The Watch | Three cheers to the county for streamlining collection of our real estate taxes

When public officials collaborate to make government more effective, flag it. Hence, three cheers for a new method of collecting real estate taxes prompted by the Peoria County Treasurer and Peoria Township Collector. Stephen Morris, Township Collector, recommended all in-person…

The Watch | Watch for more: Park District kicking back into action; Springdale reevaluating

Fans of democracy, rejoice! League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria has expanded its coverage of local government in the wake of journalistic cutbacks. First: thanks to the dedicated Observers. Second: there is such a wealth of information we can…