CHICAGO — Council mulls electricity referendum (Chicago Tribune) But mayor has yet to weigh in on negotiating bulk rates Chicago aldermen are weighing whether to ask voters in November if the city should try to negotiate lower electric rates for residents and small retailers — a step approved … Continue reading →

MATTOON — Mattoon City Council drops proposed land sale from agenda amid controversy (Herald & Review) The Mattoon City Council heard calls from the public Tuesday for the city administrator to be removed and the mayor to resign over a proposed land deal involving the administrator’s fiance.

ROCK FALLS — Rock Falls City Council clears way for gaming machines (Daily Gazette) The City Council agreed Tuesday night to allow video gaming machines in bars and restaurants.

DU QUOIN — Du Quoin Council to draft ordinance to regulate city’s gambling machines (Daily American) The first video poker machines in Illinois to legally pay winners could be plugged in as soon as September. There are a lot of obstacles to overcome, including local regulation, affordability of … Continue reading →

MONTGOMERY — Montgomery will try to lower electric rates (Beacon-News) Electricity may be cheaper in the Village of Montgomery early this fall. Trustees overwhelmingly approved a measure to go with the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Cooperative (NIMEC) to obtain electricity bids for residents. Some 140 other communities in … Continue reading →