Quincy Reporter

The corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan has entered its third month at the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago. Federal prosecutors have presented key witnesses over the past eight weeks to support their case against Madigan, who is accused of racketeering and bribery conspiracy. Witnesses include local, state, and federal officials, as well as family members and business leaders.

Former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis recently concluded his testimony after 21 hours on the stand over six days. Solis secretly recorded conversations with Madigan while serving as Chairman of the City of Chicago’s Zoning Committee, aiming to recruit business for Madigan's law firm.

Madigan was indicted in March 2022 on 23 counts related to racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct. These charges are linked to a long-standing bribery scheme involving Commonwealth Edison. He served in the Illinois House from 1971 until 2021, mostly as Speaker.

In response to these allegations, Senate Republicans have proposed legislation for ethics reforms aimed at preventing future power abuses. The trial is expected to continue into next year.

Following the adjournment of the Legislature after the Fall Veto Session in 2024, State Senator Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) has been active within her district. She has engaged with local groups and constituents to understand community challenges better.

As Senators work within their districts, they also begin drafting bills for the upcoming General Assembly session starting January 8, 2025. A "lame-duck session" is anticipated between January 2 and January 7 before new officials are sworn in. Such sessions often see votes on controversial legislation without political consequences for outgoing legislators.

Fire departments statewide can now apply for a Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program through the Illinois State Fire Marshal's office. Grants up to $350,000 are available for fire station construction or rehabilitation projects from a total fund of $5 million.

To qualify for these grants, departments must be registered with SAM.gov and comply with NFIRS requirements covering December 2022 through November 2024. Applications must be submitted by February 28, 2025.

With winter approaching, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) urges residents to protect themselves against seasonal respiratory illnesses during holiday gatherings when such illnesses typically rise. IDPH reports an increase in whooping cough cases this October—the highest monthly total in two decades—and offers preventive tips such as ensuring good ventilation during gatherings and encouraging hygiene practices like hand washing.