Illinois Public Media News

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Chris Kennedy talked about a labor group's endorsement of one of his rivals, Illinois' property tax system and whether marijuana should be legalized, in an interview originating at public radio station WBEZ in Chicago.

The state of Illinois has racked up over 14-billion dollars in unpaid bills since the budget impasse began nearly two years ago. The state owes the money to social service agencies, businesses, hospitals and school districts. The state Comptroller’s office says the state owes the Champaign Unit 4 School District about $4.8 million, making the district one of the state's bigger creditors in eastern Illinois. Unit 4 Chief Financial Officer Tom Lockman spoke to Illinois Public media about the money and how the district is getting by without it as part of ongoing series on the effects of the budget impasse.

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.