Metro East Sun

In February, Jersey County saw a decrease in County School Facility Tax collection compared to the previous month.

City of Belleville Public Health & Housing Committee met May 15

By Angelica Saylo Pilo | May 17, 2024

City of Belleville Public Health & Housing Committee met Wednesday, May 15

City of Belleville Police & Fire Committee met May 13

By Angelica Saylo Pilo | May 17, 2024

City of Belleville Police & Fire Committee met Monday, May 13

City of Belleville Finance Committee met May 13

By Angelica Saylo Pilo | May 17, 2024

City of Belleville Finance Committee met Monday, May 13

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4.6% of citizens unemployed in Jersey County in 2021

The unemployment rate in Jersey County hit 4.6% among residents aged 16 and 65 years old in 2021.

Bill aiding child trafficking victims awaits Governor's signature

Legislation designed to aid child victims of human trafficking in their recovery process has been unanimously passed by the Senate on Thursday. The bill, House Bill 5465, was carried by State Senator Erica Harriss and State Representative Jeff Keicher. It had previously been passed unanimously in the House and will now proceed to the Governor's desk for further consideration.

Republicans sue over rapid changes to Illinois election law

In a swift legislative move earlier this month, Illinois Democrats expedited a bill through the General Assembly to alter election rules mid-cycle. The bill was introduced, passed through both chambers, and signed into law in less than 48 hours, offering no opportunity for public review. As a result of this abrupt change, Republicans have initiated legal proceedings with the aim of having the law declared unconstitutional.

Home valuation prices increased in Madison County in April 2024, compared to April 2023

In April, the median sale price of a home in Madison County rose by $48,150 from the same period in the previous year, while total sales decreased by 98.1%.

Illinois Republicans advocate for bipartisan student protection bill

Illinois Republicans, Representative Amy Elik and Senator Terri Bryant, urged for action on a bipartisan bill designed to protect students during a press conference held on May 16, 2024. The legislators specifically discussed House Bill 4241, underscoring its importance in safeguarding the rights and welfare of students across the state.

Illinois legislators push for Senate action on House Bill 4241

In a press conference held today in Springfield, Rep. Amy Elik (R-Alton) and Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) called on the Senate to take action on House Bill 4241. The bill, aimed at protecting high school students aged 18 and older from sexual abuse by an educator, passed unanimously in the House last month and is currently awaiting action in the Senate. Sen. Erica Harriss (R-Glen Carbon), who also attended the press conference, is a chief co-sponsor of the bill.

Landon Moore, former Mascoutah High School baseball player will compete with his collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Baseball Championship

His team enters the tournament as a number three seed.

Kari Krueger, former Jersey Community High School softball player will compete for a chance to play for the College World Series

They open the tournament against Virginia Cavaliers.

Jenna Christeson, former Civic Memorial High School softball player will compete for a chance to play for the College World Series

Her team enters the tournament as a number nine seed.

Madison County experienced increase in median home valuation prices in March 2024 compared to March 2023

In March, the median sale price of a home in Madison County rose by $39,000 from the same period in the previous year, while total sales decreased by 80.1%.

Q1 Recap: 2 parolees from St. Clair County convicted of financial crimes or fraud set for supervised release

There were two offenders convicted of financial crimes or fraud living in St. Clair County released on parole during the first quarter of 2024, according to Illinois Department of Corrections data obtained by the Metro East Sun.

Harriss and Keicher's bill to tackle roadside trash problem awaits Governor's signature

The issue of trash scattering from waste-hauling trucks on their way to landfills has become a common sight, causing not only aesthetic problems but also raising safety and environmental concerns. This issue has been particularly damaging for farmers' operations and fields. In response, State Senator Erica Harriss and State Representative Jeff Keicher have collaborated with local leaders in their respective districts to formulate legislation aimed at mitigating this problem.

Rep. Elik and Sen. Harriss attend Education Day at Lewis and Clark State Historic Site

Last week, the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site in Hartford hosted its annual Education Day. Senator Erica Harriss and Representative Elik were among the attendees, witnessing hundreds of school children actively participating and gaining valuable knowledge. They had the opportunity to meet a representation of President Thomas Jefferson, who emphasized to the young minds that "education is the most important thing a free nation can offer its citizens."

Taylor Geluck, former Belleville West High School softball player will compete with her collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Softball Championship

Her team enters the tournament as a number one seed.

Ean DiPasquale, former Belleville East High School baseball player will compete with his collegiate team for the NCAA D2 Baseball Championship

First game takes place on Thursday, May 16.

Cole Hampton, former Edwardsville High School baseball player will compete with his collegiate team for the NCAA D2 Baseball Championship