A bitter dispute between automaker Stellantis and union auto workers continues with the plant in Belvidere becoming Ground Zero.

As part of a deal with the United Auto Workers, Stellantis agreed to invest nearly $5 billion in the area, retooling the auto plant and constructing a parts distribution center and an EV battery plant. The plant was expected to create 1,300 jobs and launch in 2028. But Stellantis announced in August that the reopening would be delayed to ensure the company’s sustainability.

About two dozen government bodies in Chicago’s suburbs will ask voters for more money or other changes in the Nov. 5 election.

The referendums cover a range of issues from $420 million in school improvements in Naperville and Aurora to whether to allow backyard chickens in Thornton.

Cook County has announced a “good news budget” plan for fiscal year 2025.

Unlike the city of Chicago with its looming budget holes and “everything’s on the table” approach, including tax hikes, Cook County’s $9.9 billion dollar proposal announced last week, up 6.8% percent compared to last year, includes no plans to increase taxes, cut services or layoff any workers to cover a $218 million projected budget gap.

Rosemont trustees — who attend short monthly board meetings and ribbon cuttings — are in line for a 10% pay raise, but Mayor Brad Stephens — who doubles as a Republican state representative — is foregoing any salary increase.

The elected panel voted Monday to give themselves a $3,000 pay bump — from an annual salary of $30,000 to $33,000 — but it wouldn’t take effect until after the April 2025 election for three trustees, and two years later for the other three.

Like several other municipalities in central Illinois, the city of Washington is considering an ordinance that would fine those who camp outside.

The topic came up at Monday’s city council meeting, where no action was taken, but it led to an in-depth discussion.