McLean County Times

Governor JB Pritzker has recently appointed his brother-in-law to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees. The Governor's Office clarified that this appointment does not breach the Illinois state employee code of personal conduct, stating that it "does not legally apply to a separate entity like the University of Illinois." However, concerns about public corruption remain prevalent in the state.

In law enforcement news, there is growing criticism against the SAFE-T Act, with some arguing that it endangers communities and should be repealed. Additionally, Operation Restore Justice has led to the rescue of several children and the arrest of 205 offenders involved in child sexual abuse. Meanwhile, a bill proposing to ban police from stopping or searching vehicles based on cannabis odor was discussed by the Judiciary Criminal Committee.

Energy costs are set to rise significantly this summer. The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) reported an increase in summer capacity prices due to reduced coal-fired power generation and strategic pricing by suppliers. Ameren, a major utility provider in central and southern Illinois, expects electricity costs for consumers to rise by 18% to 22% compared to last summer.

A recent study highlights four Illinois cities as having some of the highest property tax rates in the nation. According to Attom's analysis, Rockford, Chicago, Peoria, and Champaign-Urbana have property taxes significantly above market value and more than double the national average effective rate.

Finally, as Mother's Day approaches, there is a reminder of the important roles mothers play as mentors and protectors throughout life.