Bob Okon

County elections, leadership changes at the Diocese of Joliet and for some large school districts are just some of the stories we will be following this year.

Here's a look at our top stories for Will County in 2025

City spokeswoman says vote expected "early in the new year." JCA has been told possibly Jan. 20. But no date has been set.

The lawsuit was filed in Will County Circuit Court on behalf of Thomas Kirchner's family. OSHA is investigating the incident, according to a release.

About 50 juveniles involved in the incident despite Youth Supervision Policy at Louis Joliet Mall.

About 50 juveniles involved Saturday. There were "multiple fights," Joliet police said. Two were arrested.

Boyfriend-girlfriend spat at holiday gathering got out of control, police said. Kankakee man is accused of forcing his way into girlfriend's Joliet home, where she, her daughter, and her mother were injured.

City manager pointed to "jerry-rigged" system while urging approval for new stage lighting system. City also is looking for a new park manager.

The city is developing an expanding special events staff, but director was not consulted about future of Taste of Joliet.

Twenty people showed up at a Joliet City Council meeting to object to plans for a data center that was not on the council agenda. A state report warns Illinois data centers are sucking up the state's available electricity.

The house, now uninhabitable, was without electricity, and the candle was being used for light, according to the Plainfield Fire Protection District.

Hicks will remain bishop of the Diocese of Joliet until his installation in New York on Feb. 6.

The biggest summer event in Joliet has been called off for 2026. The Joliet Park District plans to replace it with a downsized event in 2027, and it may not be in the summer.

New York and national Catholic media, along with local Catholics, say they hear Bishop Ron Hicks will be named archbishop in New York.

Budget is balanced with no new taxes, but city is adding 11 jobs that will pay salaries totalling $920,000.