Government
CDC offers reopening advice
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released six “decision trees” last week aimed at helping decision makers as they look to reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic. The guidelines cover…
Read MoreReopening concerns at forefront
Last week’s regional reopening plan for Illinois by Gov. JB Pritzker has been met by both praise and criticism from local leaders. “I commend Gov. Pritzker for putting out a…
Read MoreCensus data may change congressional district map
Depending on what the 2020 census shows, southern Illinois may lose a seat in the United States House of Representatives, The Associated Press reports. That is because the 15th Congressional…
Read MoreCoronavirus case at Waterloo Burger King; regional reopening plan unveiled
Monroe County is up to 83 confirmed cases of coronavirus as of Tuesday, one of which is an employee at Burger King in Waterloo. The fast food restaurant, located at…
Read MoreCounty, Oak Hill talk COVID
The coronavirus pandemic was a main point of discussion during Monday’s meeting of the Monroe County Board. The meeting was held in public session at the courthouse and virtually via…
Read MoreColumbia holds brief meeting
In a short meeting of the Columbia City Council Monday night, the council voted to establish guidelines for public input during virtual meetings and approved several changes to boards, commissions…
Read MoreCoronavirus maintains its grip: 74 cases, 11 deaths in county
The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in 74 positive cases and 11 deaths in Monroe County, with much of the attention placed on local senior facilities. The latest death was another…
Read MoreLocal pushback on Pritzker’s order
Gov. JB Pritzker said Thursday that he plans to extend Illinois’ stay at home order until the end of May with some modifications. “Make no mistake, Illinois has saved lives.…
Read MoreCity, county finances in limbo
Almost everyone, from individuals to businesses, have seen their finances affected by the coronavirus pandemic, and the same is true for local governments. With many businesses closed or seeing revenue…
Read MoreReopening plans proposed
As data appears to show social distancing and stay at home orders have slowed the spread of the novel coronavirus, federal and state officials are preparing to “reopen” the country…
Read MoreCities OK budgets in uncertain times
The Waterloo and Columbia city councils on Monday night approved budgets for the 2020-21 fiscal year despite an uncertain economic future due to the coronavirus pandemic. Municipalities must pass a…
Read MoreUnemployment skyrockets in county
One of the most devastating impacts of the coronavirus pandemic is the toll it is taking on the workforce, with millions of Americans filing claims for unemployment insurance over the…
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