Marian Johns Stories | Metro East Sun

Madigan's re-election as party chairman shows misunderstanding of Illinois' problems, Hildenbrand says

By Marian Johns | Apr 27, 2018

Republican Tanya Hildenbrand, who is vying for the Senate District 57 seat, said House Speaker Mike Madigan is the reason for the state's fiscal problems and that his recent re-election as speaker by House Democrats signals the party is out of touch.

Madison County voters reject sales tax to help fund school facilities

By Marian Johns | Mar 22, 2018

Madison County residents said no Tuesday to a retailer occupational tax and service occupational tax, known as a sales tax, at the ballot box this week, with unofficial results showing 65 percent of voters rejecting the tax increase.

Metro East Taxpayers urges 'no' vote on proposed school facilities tax

By Marian Johns | Mar 6, 2018

As voters in Madison County head to the polls March 20 to vote on the proposed 1 percent school facilities sales tax, opponents of the measure are voicing their disdain over any type of new tax.

$1.9 million in federal funds to help fix Swansea school damaged by mine collapse

By Marian Johns | Feb 22, 2018

Five months after Wolf Branch Middle School in Swansea was shut down due to structural damage from caused by the ground sinking, the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation (OSMRE) has approved nearly $1.9 million for the state to restore the school site.

Ruocco tells voters tax hike 'headed our way'

By Marian Johns | Aug 15, 2016

House District 113 candidate Katherine Ruocco brought her campaign message of “Balanced Budget - No Tax Hike” to voters in Fairview Heights recently as she warned residents that unless changes are made this election, a tax hike is on the horizon.