La Salle’s new garbage hauler began delivering new 95-gallon waste and recycling bins Monday to residents.

Nearly every seat in the La Salle City Council chambers was filled Monday with residents concerned about the Jan. 11 Carus Chemical fire.

State Rep. Lance Yednock, D-Ottawa, was named the new chair of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Some La Salle residents were able to identify their new trash pickup day and get answers to questions about La Salle’s new garbage provider at an informational session at City Hall on Tuesday.

After a second discussion on whether to allow dogs in Peru city parks, the Peru City Council is expected to decide in two weeks on allowing dogs in Baker Lake only.

There was big applause Monday for two of Oglesby’s finest: Michael Rivara, Oglesby’s officer of the year, and for retiring Chief Doug Hayse.

While no official action on the topic was taken Monday night, the council heard various comments and concerns from surrounding business and landowners, as well as interested members of the community.

The La Salle County Board denounced the Protect Illinois Communities Act – the hotly-disputed ban on some firearms – and La Salle County’s state’s attorney said he won’t enforce it.

The Illinois and Michigan Canal turns 175 this year and Utica hopes to join the celebration by re-watering its portion of the canal.