Illinois Public Media News

There's a debate about the future of Lake Calumet on Chicago's far south side. Some residents want public access to the lake. The port district that controls the lake wants to expand.

Illinois government has been deadlocked on a state budget for 23 months. During that time, the once-perfunctory job of comptroller has gained in power and prominence. On paper, Susana Mendoza is simply in charge of paying the state's bills. But because there’s not nearly enough money to meet Illinois’ obligations, Mendoza must decide who to pay in what order.

Democratic state Rep. Scott Drury, from the Chicago suburb of Highwood, is entering the race for Illinois governor. Drury is the only Democrat in a generation who did not vote in favor of Michael Madigan to be speaker of the House. He says that proves an independence the other candidates lack.

Webster-Cantrell Hall in Decatur is shutting down a residential program for at-risk homeless teens, saying it is no longer financially viable after the state Department of Children and Family Services reduced its funding.

State Senator and Democratic candidate for governor Daniel Biss joined WBEZ's Morning Shift on Monday after the end of the Illinois legislature’s spring session, which again saw lawmakers unable to approve a budget. Biss talked about his approach to raising taxes, his relationship with House Speaker Michael Madigan, and more.