The Joliet City Council has approved the proposed 2026 annual budget, which maintains property taxes, prioritizes public safety and infrastructure, and includes investments in roads, sidewalks, Fire Department vehicles, police vehicles, and the Lake Michigan Water Project.
Beth Beatty
Joliet council continues agreement with Correctional Center
The Joliet City Council adopted an intergovernmental agreement with the State of Illinois to continue using the Joliet Correctional Center for historical, cultural, and economic purposes, despite concerns from residents about access to former employees and the financial burden on the city.
City of Joliet expands Arts and Culture at Bicentennial Park
The City of Joliet is continuing to expand its community programming and partnerships with local arts and cultural organizations at Bicentennial Park, featuring signature events, educational programming, and performances by local schools and theater groups.
Joliet residents question changes at Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
Lori Carmine, manager of Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park in Joliet, has been placed on administrative leave, sparking questions from residents, while the city also announced plans for a large data center campus in the area.
Joliet Council approves downtown free parking, hires Cultural Affairs Director
The Joliet City Council approved an ordinance amendment allowing free two-hour street parking in three zones between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. weekdays to improve accessibility and convenience in the downtown area, and also approved hiring a director of cultural affairs and special events at a salary of over $100,000.
Proposed Changes to Joliet City Ordinance Aim to Reduce Unfunded Liability and Align with Affordable Care Act
The City of Joliet’s Finance Committee is considering changes to a city ordinance that would reduce the city’s unfunded insurance liability and update healthcare benefits to reflect the provisions of the Affordable Care Act.
Joliet City Council Approves Raises for Future Elected Officials
The Joliet City Council has approved raises for future elected officials, including a $7,000 increase for the Mayor and a $4,000 increase for the three at-large council seats, effective May 2027.
Anderson to officially fill Joliet Community Development position
Dustin Anderson has been hired as the permanent Community Development Director for the City of Joliet, bringing his extensive experience in municipal operations and strategic planning to the department.
Joliet selects Lauren Staley Ferry as new City Clerk
Lauren Staley Ferry has been appointed as the new City Clerk of Joliet, after serving as Will County Clerk for 1.5 terms, and is expected to begin her new role on August 21st.
Joliet hires Paulina Martinez, new Economic Development Director
Paulina Martinez has been hired as the new Business Development Director for Joliet, with a salary of $135,000, and Rosemaria DiBenedetto has been appointed as the new Media Engagement and Communications Director, with a focus on promoting the city’s good work.

