Reporting from The Villagers’ Voice and Illinois Leaks. Explore the stories below and follow the links to read the full reports at their original publications.
Illinois Leaks follows financial concerns at the Colchester Fire Protection District, including disputed memorial-fund reimbursements and leadership resignations. Its report examines a resignation letter, questions about who returned the money, and an ongoing state police investigation.
A former Dolson Township clerk pleaded guilty to official misconduct and received a five-year prison sentence, according to Illinois Leaks. Its report details the court’s restitution order of more than $168,000 and the history of the missing-funds investigation.
Illinois Leaks examines a proposed 9.8% increase in Edgar County’s tax levy and urges residents to scrutinize local taxing bodies. The report discusses the proposed increase and an upcoming public hearing.
Illinois Leaks questions Kankakee School District 111’s payment of a board member’s personal fine. Its report examines the difference between the amount officials said they approved and the $6,515 payment, alongside an Open Meetings Act complaint.
Illinois Leaks reports that Bonnie Kurowski entered a no-contest plea and was adjudicated guilty of misdemeanor stalking in Florida. The article reviews the disposition and other separately pending proceedings.
Illinois Leaks revisits its earlier investigations of Cognizant, government technology contracts, and H-1B labor practices. The article connects that reporting with renewed scrutiny of the visa program and includes an updated account from an investigator.
Illinois Leaks reports that the Village of Kansas had not answered defense subpoenas seeking drainage records and evidence in a criminal case. The article identifies the requested materials and an updated hearing date.
A charging decision concerning the Murdock Township highway commissioner remained outstanding, according to Illinois Leaks. The report examines a denied records request and the prosecutor’s latest timetable for deciding the matter.
Illinois Leaks examines Taylorville Public Library board training and complaints about restrictions on public comments. The report describes concerns submitted to the Attorney General’s Public Access Counselor for review.
Shelby County ethics complaints remained unheard months after filing, according to Illinois Leaks. Its report examines correspondence questioning why the ethics commission had not met to address the complaints.
Illinois Leaks challenges the Kansas village president’s description of the board as relatively new in a response to an Open Meetings Act complaint. The article reviews members’ tenure and the disputed meeting practices.
A federal lawsuit alleges race and disability discrimination at the Winnebago County Veterans Assistance Commission. Illinois Leaks reviews the complaint’s allegations against the commission and two individuals, including claims concerning language, accommodation, and retaliation.