Dawn Patrol: Opponents of homeless plan speak out
Opponents of Midlothian Manor near Lake Zurich cite location, safety
Members of a Lake Zurich-area residents group gathered last night to discuss their effort to block a proposal for homeless people with mental illness from moving into a Lake County Housing Authority building just outside the village. Safety and property values were among the concerns raised by Residents for an Engaged Community at the session at Ela Area Public Library. Full story.
Man dies in motorcycle crash in Glendale Heights
A 26-year-old man died yesterday after the motorcycle he was driving was involved in a crash in Glendale Heights, police said. The crash happened at 11:18 a.m. at Schmale Road north of Fullerton Avenue, and involved the motorcycle and a car driven by a 69-year-old woman, police said in a news release. Full story.
Dist. 300 concerned about tax incentives
Community Unit District 300 Superintendent Fred Heid says he is concerned about Hoffman Estates establishing a special taxing district without properly consulting with the affected taxing bodies. Village officials are reviewing a 184-acre residential and retail development at the northwest corner of routes 59 and 72, as well as a proposed tax increment financing district - used as a tool to spur economic development. The TIF joint review board is set to meet 1:30 p.m. today. Full story.
Flowers, trees face downside to warm spell
Though a week of springlike temperatures in the middle of February is sure to make people feel good, there's really not much upside for vegetation as long as the possibility of cold weather remains, according to an expert at Morton Arboretum in Lisle. Full story.
Oakton set to vote on closing preschool
Oakton Community College's board could vote tonight to close the preschool on the school's Des Plaines campus, a move that would cut six jobs and force about 30 families to go elsewhere for early education. The potential closing comes as the school continues to reduce spending amid the state's budget impasse. State lawmakers have not passed a budget for nearly two years. Full story.
Weather
Some rain showers are moving through the area this morning, with temps in the mid 50s. Highs today around 65, with lows tonight near 45. Full forecast.
Traffic
Construction of the new Route 390 extension is scheduled to reduce Prospect Avenue in Itasca to one lane in each direction between Granville and Pierce. Full traffic.
Cubs pitchers and hitters finally spring into action
After two days of rain and chilly weather, the Chicago Cubs were able to hold their first full-squad workout yesterday. The main event was "live" batting practice, with pitchers such as Jon Lester and John Lackey throwing to hitters. Full story.