News

Earley sworn in as Braidwood’s new mayor

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 5:03pm

A large crowd made their way to Braidwood City Hall on April 25 to witness the swearing in of new Mayor Chris Earley.

Earley took his spot at the conclusion of the last meeting of the mayor and commissioners under the administration of Bob Jones, making a few brief remarks before adjourning the meeting.

Outgoing council: Braidwood is moving forward

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 5:01pm

Tuesday, April 25 was the last regular City Council meeting under the administration of Mayor Bob Jones.

And, the exiting mayor had some words for the new City Council as they take the reins in Braidwood.

Braidwood to purchase new public works vehicle

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:59pm

The city of Braidwood will add a new pickup truck to its public works fleet.

Public Property Commissioner Warren Wietting, who won reelection to his seat in April, said he plans to continue his review of city property, specifically vehicles that are in need of repair or replacement.

Wietting told the members of the City Council on April 25 that a truck had been found for purchase, but there was a catch when it came to the bidding process.

Two new faces join the force

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:58pm

The Coal City Police Department has welcomed two new patrol officers to the force.

As family and colleagues looked on, Tyler Gringus and Nathan Stadler raised their right hands and vowed to faithfully discharge the duties of police officer to the best of their ability.

Upon taking the oath, Stadler and Gringus were presented with their silver star badge by Police Chief Chris Harseim and were welcomed to the community by members of the Village Board.

Wilmington PD secures contract for body-worn cameras

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:56pm

The Wilmington Police Department is ahead of schedule on the state mandate to outfit all law enforcement officers in Illinois with body cameras by 2025.

On April 25, the members of the City Council approved a contract with Axon for body worn cameras for a total of $18,576 per year, plus a one time fee of $1,575.

Coal City bids farewell to town leaders

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:55pm

It’s always hard to say good-bye, especially when it’s to something that holds a place of significance in your life.

The Coal City Village Board bid farewell Friday to outgoing Mayor Terry Halliday and Trustee Ross Bradley as they sat at the table for the final time.

Choosing not to seek a third term as mayor, Halliday departs the village with 26 years of service that included four terms as trustee, two as mayor and a couple of years as a commissioner on the Planning and Zoning Board.

Wilmington, Forest Preserve work toward kayak launch on North Island

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:53pm

A plan to revitalize part of the North Island Park and provide recreational opportunities by adding a kayak/canoe launch is officially underway.

On April 25, the members of the City Council approved an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the Forest Preserve District of Will County.

The agreement is the first step to secure funds to improve the North Island by adding a kayak/canoe launch and upgrade the parking lot near the small dam where the Mill Race flows back into the Kankakee River.

Hope Helps’ plan would finalize playground

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:51pm

A community build for the third and final phase of Hope Helps All Inclusive Playground is scheduled for August.

Brittney Kaluzny, the founder and president of the non-profit organization, announced last week that Hope Helps met its fundraising goal and is ready to expand the playground in Coal City’s Lions Park.

Before moving forward with its investment, Kaluzny reiterated concerns she brought to the Village Board’s attention last year with regard to routine maintenance and security issues at the park.

Wilmington Park District plans survey at Children’s Memorial Park

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:50pm

The members of the Wilmington Park District are making plans to get a survey completed at the park in Northcrest, as summertime maintenance and planning for upgrades at the site have led to some questions about where exactly the property line lies.

The board discussed the issue at their regular monthly meeting on Thursday, April 27.

The issue was brought to the attention of the commissioners out of worries of intruding on neighbors who back up to the park property while working on new installations at Children’s Memorial Park.

Next stop for Mills will be the Golden State

Published by admin on Tue, 05/02/2023 - 4:47pm

Jaylee Mills has definitely made a name for herself within the volleyball community over the past four years at WHS. She excelled on the court no matter what position.

Mills, daughter of Jenny Mills, recently signed to continue her athletic and academic career at Pacific Union College in Angwin, California.

Jaylee knew Pacific Union was her match. “I love the campus and I feel as though I would really fit in there,” she said.