Latest News in Chicago, IL

Lawmakers Block 4 Million In Grants From Partially Closed Weiss Hospital, Demand Repairs

State lawmakers blocked $4 million in grant aid to Weiss Hospital after its owner, Manoj Prasad, failed to communicate with them regarding an appeal to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Community leaders expressed frustration over the hospital's closure and the impact on local residents and healthcare services. They accused Prasad of mismanagement and neglect while he defended his ownership as a necessary measure to prevent the hospital's permanent closure.

Advocates Push City Council To Help Chicagos Struggling Animal Shelter We Should Do Better

Animal activists urge Chicago to enhance support for its only municipal shelter, Chicago Animal Care and Control, facing a surge in unwanted animals. In July, the shelter took in nearly 1,842 animals, up from 34 per day in previous years, leading to difficult decisions regarding euthanasia due to overcrowding. Advocates call for public meetings to address the shelter's challenges and push for improved resources.

Push To Allow New Coach Houses, Basement Units Citywide Moving Forward With More Restrictions

Chicago's City Council is poised to approve a proposal allowing additional dwelling units (ADUs) like coach houses and basement apartments citywide, with new restrictions. The ordinance, a compromise between Ald. Bennett Lawson and Ald. Marty Quinn, aims to boost affordable housing while addressing concerns over neighborhood character. A final vote is scheduled for Thursday.

ICE Agent In Franklin Park Fatal Shooting Said His Injuries Were Nothing Major, Report Says

Federal immigration agents fatally shot Silverio Villegas González in Franklin Park after he allegedly drove his car at them. Body camera footage reveals an ICE agent downplayed his injuries, stating they were “nothing major.” The incident has sparked calls for an independent investigation from local officials.

Can Preservationists Save Artist Roger Browns Former Lincoln Park Home From Demolition?

Preservationists are working to save Roger Brown’s former home and studio in Lincoln Park from potential demolition after the School of the Art Institute of Chicago listed the property for sale. The 19th-century building, significant to Chicago's art history, housed Brown's creative work for over 20 years. Preservation groups are urging the city to designate the property as a landmark to prevent its destruction.

Chicago Fire Stadium At The 78, South Side Hotels Get Key Zoning Approvals

A Chicago City Council committee approved plans for a 22,000-seat soccer stadium for the Chicago Fire at The 78 development site. The $650 million project, expected to open in 2028, will include a dedicated bus route and some parking options for fans. The full City Council will vote on the project Thursday.

Expect A Rainy Week For Chicago But Clear Skies Are Coming This Weekend

Chicago expects a rainy week with possible thunderstorms, but conditions are set to improve by the weekend. Unseasonably warm weather will return, offering residents a reprieve from the wet forecast.

81 Mpox Cases Reported In Chicago In 6 Months Health Officials Urge Vaccination

Chicago health officials report 81 new mpox cases in the past six months, urging vaccinations to curb the spread. Most cases, particularly among gay and bisexual men, emerged since June 10, with 14 reported in just one week. Vaccination is crucial for reducing illness severity, according to local health experts.

Casa Yucatn, A 98-Unit Affordable Housing Building, Breaks Ground In Pilsen

Local officials and nonprofit leaders broke ground on Casa Yucatán, a new development providing 98 affordable apartments in Pilsen. The project will support families earning 30-70 percent of the area median income, with rents ranging from $551 to $1,768 monthly. Completion is expected by fall 2026, addressing the neighborhood's housing crisis.

Tony Fitzpatrick Looks Back On A Less-Than-Holy Life In New Book, Steppenwolf Show

Tony Fitzpatrick's new book, “The Sun at the End of the Road,” captures his life and love for Chicago through various artistic mediums. The book, available Oct. 1, reflects on personal memories and cultural observations, despite Fitzpatrick's recent diagnosis of interstitial lung disease. His upcoming gallery show and performance at Steppenwolf Theatre coincide with the book's release.