States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Tenn. Labor & Workforce Development Dept.: 79 Tennessee Counties Report Unemployment Rates Below 5%
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, April 25 (TNSrpt) -- The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development issued the following news:
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79 Tennessee Counties Report Unemployment Rates Below 5%
Williamson, Macon, and Cheatham Counties Recorded the Lowest Rates in February
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Seventy-nine of Tennessee's 95 counties reported unemployment rates below 5% in February even as most counties saw an increase in their rates over the previous month, according to new data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD).
In 87 counties, unemployment rates for February were up when
... Show Full Article
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, April 25 (TNSrpt) -- The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development issued the following news:
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79 Tennessee Counties Report Unemployment Rates Below 5%
Williamson, Macon, and Cheatham Counties Recorded the Lowest Rates in February
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Seventy-nine of Tennessee's 95 counties reported unemployment rates below 5% in February even as most counties saw an increase in their rates over the previous month, according to new data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD).
In 87 counties, unemployment rates for February were up whencompared with January rates. Rates remained the same in five counties and decreased in three counties.
Williamson, Macon, and Cheatham counties recorded the state's lowest unemployment rates for February at 3%. Williamson County's rate was up three-tenths of a percentage point over the previous month, Macon's rate was up one-tenth of a percentage point, and Cheatham's rate was up two-tenths of a percentage point.
Pickett County recorded the state's highest unemployment rate for February at 6.7%. That was an increase of seven-tenths of a percentage point over its January rate of 6%.
Perry County followed at 6.6%, down 4.7 percentage points from its January rate of 11.3%. Cocke County reported the third-highest rate for the month at 6.5%, an uptick of one-tenth of a percentage point.
Tennessee's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.6% in February. That rate was up slightly from the previous month but is still eight-tenths of a percentage point below the U.S. rate of 4.4%.
Unlike the statewide rate, county rates are not seasonally adjusted.
TDLWD has compiled an analysis of the February 2026 county unemployment data.
Tennessee is growing at a record pace, and with that growth comes an increase in construction projects across the state.
To help protect the workers building our communities, Tennessee OSHA is highlighting the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, May 4-8, 2026. This important initiative encourages employers and workers to pause and focus on fall prevention, the leading cause of fatalities in construction. By taking time to discuss safety, we can help ensure Tennessee's growth is built on a strong, safe foundation. Learn more about the National Safety Stand-Down.
Tennessee will release statewide unemployment data for March on May 14, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. CDT.
Lowest County Unemployment Rates in February 2026
1. Williamson, 3%
2. Macon, 3%
3. Cheatham, 3%
4. Wilson, 3.1%
5. Rutherford, 3.1%
6. Knox, 3.1%
7. Dickson, 3.1%
8. Sumner, 3.1%
9. Davidson, 3.2%
10. Robertson, 3.2%
Highest County Unemployment Rates in February 2026
1. Pickett, 6.7%
2. Perry, 6.6%
3. Cocke, 6.5%
4. Hardeman, 5.9%
5. Hancock, 5.8%
6. Lake, 5.7%
7. Meigs, 5.5%
8. Maury, 5.5%
9. Sevier, 5.3%
10. Benton, 5.3%
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REPORT: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/workforce/documents/LaborEstimates/TN_Labor_Force_Estimates_February_2026.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.tn.gov/workforce/general-resources/news/2026/4/23/79-tennessee-counties-report-unemployment-rates-below-5.html
N.Y. State Agriculture Department Announces $2 Million Awarded Through Pilot Program to Soil and Water Conservation Districts to Improve Water Quality Across the State
ALBANY, New York, April 25 -- The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets issued the following news on April 24, 2026:
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State Agriculture Department Announces $2 Million Awarded Through Pilot Program to Soil and Water Conservation Districts to Improve Water Quality Across the State
Funding Awarded Through the State's Ecosystem Based Management Program Will Support On-and Off-Farm Water Quality Conservation Programs
Announcement Comes As New York State Celebrates Earth Week
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During Earth Week, New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today announced that
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ALBANY, New York, April 25 -- The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets issued the following news on April 24, 2026:
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State Agriculture Department Announces $2 Million Awarded Through Pilot Program to Soil and Water Conservation Districts to Improve Water Quality Across the State
Funding Awarded Through the State's Ecosystem Based Management Program Will Support On-and Off-Farm Water Quality Conservation Programs
Announcement Comes As New York State Celebrates Earth Week
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During Earth Week, New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today announced that$2 million is being awarded to 26 projects in 27 County Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) across the state, through the Ecosystem Based Management - Stream Corridor Management Pilot Program. Awarded projects will help to protect water quality and the long-term health of the State's waterways. Funding for the program was included in the New York State FY 2026 Enacted Budget and builds on the State's efforts to support programs and initiatives that combat climate change and support the preservation of our state's natural resources.
State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "The Ecosystem Based Management program is focused on water quality protections both on and off the farm to ensure a cleaner, more resilient New York, but they will also support the economic viability of our state's agricultural industry for generations to come. I commend our partners in this effort - our Soil and Water Conservation Districts across the state - for spearheading projects that will make significant improvements to the health of our waterways and soils and support the State's climate and environmental goals."
New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee Chair Matt Brower said, "The various projects being funded as part of the Ecosystem Based Management Program demonstrates the wide range of water quality protection and improvement practices being implemented by landowners with the help of the Soil and Water Conservation Districts across the State. It is great to see the money being distributed across many regions of the State, including New York City."
The goal of the Ecosystem Based Management Program is to improve water quality, reduce erosion and sedimentation, improve wildlife habitat, and support the long-term health of our natural riparian ecosystems.
SWCDs were awarded the grants on behalf of farmers in one of four tracks:
* Track 1: Stream Channel Restoration
* Track 2: Stream Corridor Protection - Riparian Buffer Implementation
* Track 3: Storm Water Culvert and Roadside Runoff Control
* Track 4: Public Outreach and Education
Led by County SWCDs, a total of 26 projects will be implemented across New York State through this round of funding:
* Capital Region: $199,370 to implement two projects in Rensselaer County
* Central New York: $39,117 to implement one project in Cortland County
* Finger Lakes: $238,635 to implement three projects in Ontario and Wayne Counties
* Hudson Valley: $150,000 to implement two projects in Delaware County
* New York City: $10,000 to implement one project in New York City
* North Country: $527,260 to implement nine projects in Jefferson, St. Lawrence, Essex, Hamilton, and Lewis Counties
* Southern Tier: $100,000 to implement one project in Tompkins County
* Western New York: $368,651 to implement eight projects in Chautauqua and Niagara Counties
Grants support activities that improve or protect stream corridors, including stream stabilization, establishment of riparian buffers, and the reduction of roadside erosion and sedimentation due to runoff and failing culverts systems. A complete list of awardees is available to view here.
This announcement comes as the State celebrates more than $240 million dedicated to supporting on-farm environmental protection projects over the last five years, with over $75 million alone dedicated to SWCDs across the state. This includes record funding for the Climate Resilient Farming (CRF) Program, the Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program (AgNPS), the Enhanced Nutrient and Methane Management Program (ENMP), and state aid to County Soil and Water Conservation Districts, among others.
The Governor's FY27 Executive Budget Proposal provides $425 million for the Environmental Protection Fund, with $83 million for agricultural programs that are helping farms to implement environmentally sustainable practices and combat climate change. This includes investments in grant programs that conserve farmland, boost farm resiliency and provide additional aid to New York's County Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
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Original text here: https://agriculture.ny.gov/news/state-agriculture-department-announces-2-million-awarded-through-pilot-program-soil-and-water
N.Y. Environmental Conservation Dept.: Unified Command Completes Phase One of Environmental Cleanup and Vessel Stabilization at Buffalo Naval Park
ALBANY, New York, April 25 -- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the following news release on April 24, 2026:
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Unified Command Completes Phase One of Environmental Cleanup and Vessel Stabilization at Buffalo Naval Park
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), United States Coast Guard (USCG), the City of Buffalo, and Buffalo Naval Park today announced the completion of phase one to stabilize two historically and culturally significant vessels - the USS Croaker and USS The Sullivans. The coordinated multi-agency response at the Buffalo
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ALBANY, New York, April 25 -- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the following news release on April 24, 2026:
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Unified Command Completes Phase One of Environmental Cleanup and Vessel Stabilization at Buffalo Naval Park
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), United States Coast Guard (USCG), the City of Buffalo, and Buffalo Naval Park today announced the completion of phase one to stabilize two historically and culturally significant vessels - the USS Croaker and USS The Sullivans. The coordinated multi-agency response at the Buffaloand Erie County Naval and Military Park helped protect the Buffalo River after potentially hazardous threats to the environment were identified on the vessels in March.
"The fuel removal operation on the USS Croaker and USS The Sullivans was a tremendous success due to the incredible coordination and expertise deployed by DEC, the Coast Guard, City of Buffalo, and Naval Park," DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. "DEC is excited to see these two historically significant vessels head to dry dock so they can be repaired for their eventual return back to the Buffalo River waterfront."
Commander Adam Mosley, the Coast Guard's Incident Commander, said, "The U.S. Coast Guard was proud to partner with the New York State DEC, the City of Buffalo, and the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park in this coordinated response. The successful completion of Phase One reflects the dedication of the many professionals working through a Unified Command structure. Coast Guard members committed their expertise to help mitigate compounding issues to a challenging problem. Protecting the maritime environmental from harm is a core Coast Guard mission. We remain steadfast in our environmental stewardship and coordination with our partners as preservation efforts of these historic vessels moves into the next phase of restoration."
Mayor Sean Ryan said, "Protecting the Buffalo River was of the utmost importance for this mission, and that has been accomplished. It's great to see the successful completion of the first phase of environmental cleanup and vessel stabilization. We will continue working closely with our state and federal partners as this project moves forward."
President and CEO of the Buffalo Naval Park Brian Luallen said, "The Park is deeply grateful to the teams who made this possible. This work was carried out efficiently and with the urgency required to support the preservation of these ships. While many complex phases remain, this is a vital and meaningful first step toward long-term repair."
The efforts began on March 16 after a pinhole in one of the fuel tanks aboard the USS Croaker and water incursion on the USS The Sullivans created two potentially hazardous threats to the environment. Through more than a month of work, there continues to be no impact to wildlife from the intermittent petroleum releases.
DEC was the lead State agency under a Unified Command structure that included the Coast Guard, City of Buffalo, and the Buffalo Naval Park. The Phase 1 response focused on the safe removal and treatment of legacy residual fuel products typical of historic naval vessels, along with stabilization measures required to manage contaminated water accumulation and support vessel integrity.
Crews removed 124,665 total gallons of diesel fuel and oily water from the USS Croaker and 100,418 gallons from the USS The Sullivans. Without this removal, the ships' stability was in question, as was the potential contamination of the Buffalo River. Oil collected by DEC will be recycled. Contractors off-loaded recovered water into portable storage (frac) tanks for appropriate treatment.
The cleanup was funded through commitments already included within the established public funding framework supporting the ships' preservation. Using DEC contractors allowed the work to proceed on an accelerated timeline, which will allow Phase 2 to begin immediately on the removal of oil from USS Little Rock.
The next steps in the Naval Park's "Operation Preservation" project will include finalizing contracts, dredging underneath the vessels, and moving USS Little Rock temporarily so that USS The Sullivans and USS Croaker can be towed for long-term repair and return. Both vessels will be transported along Lake Erie to Donjon Shipbuilders in Erie, Pennsylvania, where dry dock repairs will take place to help save the two vessels and their historic legacy.
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Original text here: https://dec.ny.gov/news/press-releases/2026/4/unified-command-completes-phase-one-of-environmental-cleanup-and-vessel-stabilization-at-buffalo-naval-park
N.C. Public Instruction Dept.: Onslow County High School Teacher Named 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year
RALEIGH, North Carolina, April 25 -- Public Schools of North Carolina State Superintendent Maurice Green issued the following news release on April 24, 2026:
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Onslow County High School Teacher Named 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year
Cason Justice, a history teacher at Swansboro High School, was named the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made today at an awards luncheon honoring Justice and eight other regional finalists at the Umstead Hotel in Cary.
State Superintendent Maurice "Mo" Green said educators
... Show Full Article
RALEIGH, North Carolina, April 25 -- Public Schools of North Carolina State Superintendent Maurice Green issued the following news release on April 24, 2026:
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Onslow County High School Teacher Named 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year
Cason Justice, a history teacher at Swansboro High School, was named the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made today at an awards luncheon honoring Justice and eight other regional finalists at the Umstead Hotel in Cary.
State Superintendent Maurice "Mo" Green said educatorslike Justice exemplify North Carolina's commitment to make our public schools the best in the nation.
"Mr. Justice approaches teaching with a level of dedication and excellence that creates results," Green said. Through his intentional lessons and investment outside of the classroom, Mr. Justice encourages his students and colleagues to reach their full potential."
A National Board Certified Teacher and North Carolina Teaching Fellow, Justice inspires his students to be active participants in their education by "doing" history with lessons such as an archeology dig and a "WWI Dodgeball Battle." A 13-year veteran educator, Justice serves beyond the classroom as a mentor teacher, strategic planning team chair and teacher leadership council member at Swansboro High School. As the advisor for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes since his start at Swansboro High School, the program has grown from 15 to 250 students where he encourages them to be strong student leaders.
"These lessons reflect my core teaching philosophy that anyone, especially my students, can 'do' history," Justice shared. "Within a week, I've shown them that history isn't crusty old books. History gives them the tools they need to investigate the world around them. It gives them the confidence that they can do more than they thought possible before. I often tell my kids, 'Be pilots, not passengers.' I make all my kids believe in their ability as learners. All it takes is some dirt and dodgeballs."
In addition to his newly minted honor as the North Carolina Teacher of the Year, Justice has also been recognized as the Onslow County Schools Teacher of the Year and the Swansboro High School Teacher of the Year. Justice has also been previously recognized as Swansboro High School's rotary and literacy teacher of the year, as well as a finalist for Onslow County's Teacher of the Year in 2017-18.
"Great teachers ignite curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to futures students may not imagine for themselves," said Dr. Louis Muglia, president and CEO of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. "The Burroughs Wellcome Fund Teacher of the Year exemplifies this spirit, demonstrating how inspired teaching can transform classrooms into spaces of discovery and possibility."
Justice's platform reiterates the integral role educators play in the futures of students and their communities: "teaching isn't just delivering content. It's the daily act of believing in students, colleagues and communities. ... Teaching is transferring belief. Students walk into our classrooms unsure of who they are or what they can become. But every teacher has the chance to look at a student and say, 'I believe in you.'"
Justice will spend the 2026-27 school year representing and advocating for North Carolina's teachers. He will have the opportunity to participate in professional learning opportunities at the NC Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT), the National Teacher of the Year Conference and International Space Camp. He will also be able to attend the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) conference with support from the Digital Learning Initiative, as well as travel abroad through an endowment sponsored by Global NC. Justice will receive a mobile device from Lenovo, an engraved award, financial support to serve as a liaison for North Carolina Public Schools, a monetary award from Bojangles and a gift from Carolina Hunger Initiative. He will also receive a prize package and recognition during an NC State Athletics football game.
Additionally, Cason and the 2026 regional Teacher of the Year Cohort will also take part in the year-long North Carolina Education Policy Fellowship, with funding for his participation provided by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund.
Throughout the 2026-27 school year, Justice will work alongside the eight additional regional Teacher of the Year finalists. These teachers were also recognized today:
* Northeast: Heather Dail, Hertford Grammar School (Perquimans County Schools)
* North Central: Shannon Campbell, Wilson Early College Academy (Wilson County Schools)
* Sandhills: Manzell Spencer, Jr., Douglas Byrd Middle School (Cumberland County Schools)
* Piedmont-Triad: Jonathan Lancho Villa, Pilot Mountain Elementary School (Surry County Schools)
* Southwest: Melissa Hollar Culp, St. James Elementary Schools (Lincoln County Schools)
* Northwest: Gina Holste, Valle Crucis School (Watauga County Schools)
* Western: Nishelle Henson, Macon Middle School (Macon County Schools)
* Charter: Stephanie Lane, Lake Norman Charter School
North Carolina has recognized outstanding teachers through its Teacher of the Year program since 1970. For more information on North Carolina's Teacher of the Year recognition program, visit the program's website. You also can follow the North Carolina Teacher of the Year finalists on social media at #NCTOYPOY.
With support from PBS North Carolina, a recording of this year's livestream of the Teacher of the Year event is available on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's YouTube channel.
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About the Burroughs Wellcome Fund
The Burroughs Wellcome Fund (BWF) is a private foundation dedicated to advancing biomedical sciences and supporting the next generation of scientific researchers and educators. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in science, the Burroughs Wellcome Fund has made a significant investment in the realm of STEM education. In the past 25 years, BWF has invested more than $100 million to support initiatives and networks in STEM education. In addition to funding, BWF provides opportunities for interactions with colleagues and engagement with the broader community of educators and grant recipients across other BWF education programs. BWF's focus on support of education highlights the belief in the pivotal role it plays in shaping the future of scientific discovery and addressing complex global challenges.
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Original text here: https://www.dpi.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/04/24/onslow-county-high-school-teacher-named-2026-burroughs-wellcome-fund-north-carolina-teacher-year
In Lycoming County, Shapiro Administration Highlights Williamsport Lumber Yards Land Redevelopment Project, Turning Former Landfill Into New Sports Complex
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, April 25 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news on April 24, 2026:
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In Lycoming County, Shapiro Administration Highlights Williamsport Lumber Yards Land Redevelopment Project, Turning Former Landfill into New Sports Complex
DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley and other officials highlighted the need for new resources for the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Fund
Governor Shapiro has called for $20 million for HSCF in his 2026-27 budget proposal to stabilize the program until permanent funding is found
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Williamsport, PA -Yesterday,
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, April 25 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news on April 24, 2026:
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In Lycoming County, Shapiro Administration Highlights Williamsport Lumber Yards Land Redevelopment Project, Turning Former Landfill into New Sports Complex
DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley and other officials highlighted the need for new resources for the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Fund
Governor Shapiro has called for $20 million for HSCF in his 2026-27 budget proposal to stabilize the program until permanent funding is found
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Williamsport, PA -Yesterday,Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Jessica Shirley along with Senator Gene Yaw, Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter, Lycoming County Commissioner Scott Metzger, and Jason Fink, President/CEO of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce visited the new Williamsport Lumber Yards ballfield complex to highlight the success of an Act 2 Land Recycling Program project in the City of Williamsport, which transformed a former landfill into a new regional sports tourism destination. DEP's technical review was supported by staff funded through the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Act (HSCA).
"This location was an eyesore and a hazard right in the heart of Williamsport, and now it's an amazing baseball field and sports complex made possible in part thanks to funds from the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Act," said Secretary Shirley. "Not only do those funds help protect public health and the environment, but they also help turn unproductive and contaminated sites into vibrant businesses and recreational spaces --like new ballfields in a community known for baseball."
Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed a one-time $20 million transfer in the 2026-27 budget proposal to support HSCA, which will allow for state-led site investigations and remediation projects. The HSCA program conducts initial investigations into land and water pollution to identify responsible parties. When none can be found, HSCA funding supports cleanup solutions such as land remediation and water treatment. The one-time funding in the Governor's proposed budget will help stabilize the program while the Shapiro Administration works with the General Assembly and stakeholders to identify a long-term funding solution.
"The Lumber Yards are a perfect example of how smart investment and collaboration can turn a long-neglected site into something that truly benefits the community," said Senator Yaw. "What was once a contaminated landfill is now a safe, vibrant space for youth sports and community activity here in Williamsport. I'm thankful to our local and state partners for joining us today to highlight the important work done to transform this space."
The Williamsport Lumber Yards recently opened for its inaugural season and has begun hosting its first travel ball tournaments and youth clinics. The complex features six lighted synthetic turf fields, a collegiate-sized field, modern concessions, and hospitality spaces. It is anticipated to be a significant driver of economic activity for the regional hospitality industry.
The 28-acre site was an unregulated landfill in operation from approximately 1960 to 1978, where a variety of waste streams -- including hazardous waste, hospital waste, septic tank waste, and incineration residue -- were disposed of. Portions of the site were later used by a construction services company and for storage of road salt and cinders.
Cleanup and remediation activities undertaken at the site through the Act 2 Land Recycling Program included: soil sample collection and analysis; removal of four underground storage tanks; engineered controls, including a soil cap and vapor mitigation barrier to eliminate future pathways of exposure to visitors; and the future implementation of an environmental covenant to ensure proper long-term stewardship of the property.
HSCA provides funding for DEP staff in the Act 2 Land Recycling Program, which encourages the voluntary cleanup and productive reuse of contaminated commercial and industrial sites. Since it was established by legislation enacted in 1995, the Act 2 Program has approved 13,688 cleanups across all 67 counties in Pennsylvania.
What Pennsylvanians are reading about the Williamsport Lumber Yards Land Redevelopment Project:
* PennLive: State officials use new Pa. athletic complex to pitch for hazardous waste cleanup funding (https://www.pennlive.com/news/2026/04/state-officials-use-new-pa-athletic-complex-to-pitch-for-hazardous-waste-cleanup-funding.html)
* Williamsport Sun-Gazette: Williamsport's new sports complex a 'phoenix rising from the ashes' (https://www.sungazette.com/news/top-news/2026/04/williamsports-new-sports-complex-a-phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes/)
* 28/22 News: Landfill turns into baseball destination (https://www.2822news.com/news/landfill-turns-into-baseball-destination/amp/)
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/newsroom/2026-04-24-in-lycoming-county-shapiro-administration-highlights-williamsport-lumber-yards-land-redevelopment-project
Ill. Auditor General: 'Regional Office of Education #21: Franklin, Johnson, Massac, and Williamson Counties -- Financial Audit'
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, April 25 (TNSLrpt) -- The Illinois Auditor General issued the following report involving Regional Office of Education #21: Franklin, Johnson, Massac, and Williamson Counties -- Financial Audit.
Here are excerpts:
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REPORT DIGEST
REGIONAL OFFICE OF EDUCATION #21: FRANKLIN, JOHNSON, MASSAC AND WILLIAMSON COUNTIES FINANCIAL AUDIT (IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UNIFORM GUIDANCE) FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 Release Date: April 22, 2026 FINDINGS THIS AUDIT: 0 FINDINGS LAST AUDIT: 0 State of Illinois, Office of the Auditor General
FRANK J. MAUTINO, AUDITOR GENERAL To obtain
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SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, April 25 (TNSLrpt) -- The Illinois Auditor General issued the following report involving Regional Office of Education #21: Franklin, Johnson, Massac, and Williamson Counties -- Financial Audit.
Here are excerpts:
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REPORT DIGEST
REGIONAL OFFICE OF EDUCATION #21: FRANKLIN, JOHNSON, MASSAC AND WILLIAMSON COUNTIES FINANCIAL AUDIT (IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UNIFORM GUIDANCE) FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 Release Date: April 22, 2026 FINDINGS THIS AUDIT: 0 FINDINGS LAST AUDIT: 0 State of Illinois, Office of the Auditor General
FRANK J. MAUTINO, AUDITOR GENERAL To obtaina copy of the Report contact: Office of the Auditor General, 400 West Monroe, Suite 306, Springfield, IL 62704-9849
(217) 782-6046 or TTY (888) 261-2887 This Report Digest and Full Report are also available on the worldwide web at www.auditor.illinois.gov INTRODUCTION
Our report covers the financial audit for the period ending June 30, 2025.
AUDITORS' OPINION Our auditors state the Regional Office of Education #21's financial statements as of June 30, 2025 are fairly presented in all material respects.
This financial audit was conducted by the firm of Adelfia LLC.
TRICIA WAGNER
Division Director This report is transmitted in accordance with Section 3-14 of the Illinois State Auditing Act.
FRANK J. MAUTINO Auditor General FJM:JMM
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The report is posted at: https://www.auditor.illinois.gov/Audit-Reports/Compliance-Agency-List/ROE/roe21/FY25-ROE21-Fin-Digest.pdf
Arizona Supreme Court Justice and Administrative Director Honored for Service and Leadership
PHOENIX, Arizona, April 25 -- The Arizona Supreme Court issued the following news release on April 24, 2026:
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Arizona Supreme Court Justice and Administrative Director Honored for Service and Leadership
Arizona Supreme Court Justice Maria Elena Cruz and Administrative Office of the Courts Director Dave Byers were honored this week with awards celebrating their leadership in the legal profession and in service of the judiciary.
Justice Cruz was recognized Thursday with the Ruth V. McGregor Award from the Arizona Women Lawyers Association. Every year, the AWLA's Maricopa Chapter honors a
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PHOENIX, Arizona, April 25 -- The Arizona Supreme Court issued the following news release on April 24, 2026:
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Arizona Supreme Court Justice and Administrative Director Honored for Service and Leadership
Arizona Supreme Court Justice Maria Elena Cruz and Administrative Office of the Courts Director Dave Byers were honored this week with awards celebrating their leadership in the legal profession and in service of the judiciary.
Justice Cruz was recognized Thursday with the Ruth V. McGregor Award from the Arizona Women Lawyers Association. Every year, the AWLA's Maricopa Chapter honors arecipient for their extraordinary contributions in support of the association's goals, as well as the advancement of women in the legal field.
"To receive the Ruth V. McGregor Award from the Arizona Women Lawyers Association is both humbling and deeply meaningful," said Justice Cruz. "Chief Justice McGregor's legacy is one of excellence, integrity, and quiet but powerful leadership. To be associated in any way with her name--and with the list of women who carry that same spirit forward--is something I will always treasure."
Justice Cruz joins a distinguished list of past award winners, including current Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Ann Scott Timmer, as well as former Chief Justices Ruth V. McGregor and Rebecca White Berch.
Director Byers was also honored Thursday as a recipient of the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System's annual Rebuilding Justice Award. Byers was recognized for Questioning the Status Quo--a principle he has modeled through decades of innovative, forward-looking leadership in Arizona's judicial branch.
"As the Arizona Supreme Court has pursued significant regulatory reforms over the past several years, Dave Byers has been steadfast in turning vision into reality," noted Chief Justice Timmer. "This award rightly recognizes his unwavering commitment to innovation, integrity, and service to the people of Arizona."
Byers is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Arizona court system with over 10,000 employees across the state. His leadership has helped shape Arizona into a national model for judicial reform-- characterized by a deep commitment to public service and advancing the judicial branch.
"I am deeply honored to be counted among this year's distinguished recipients," said Byers of the accolade.
Byers and the other IAALS winners were recognized during the organization's Rebuilding Justice celebration--a day-long forum convening national leaders to explore the future of civil justice.
To learn more about Arizona's judicial branch, visit azcourts.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.azcourts.gov/Portals/0/News%20Release%20-%20Arizona%20Supreme%20Court%20Justice%20and%20Administrative%20Director%20Honored%20for%20Service%20and%20Leadership.pdf
