Good morning, Normal.

The Illinois House voted 91-19 to pass a bill that would ban carbon injections under the Mahomet Aquifer—the main drinking water source for over 500,000 people—and the measure now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk for review.

An amendment narrowed the ban area to the EPA-designated sole-source region, leaving Normal and parts of eastern McLean County outside the prohibition to allow a proposed 7-mile pipeline from Gibson City to move forward.

The Immigration Project warned immigrants that they have constitutional rights and should prepare a safety plan amid concerns over expedited deportations.

Executive Director Charlotte Alvarez said people may refuse to speak with ICE and are not required to let enforcement officers into their home without a warrant—she urged families to seek legal counsel.

On Monday, May 20, the Normal Town Council approved six agenda items on multifamily housing after 45 minutes of public disapproval over developer Young America’s plans near single-family homes — even a child voiced concerns during the meeting.

Councilmembers unanimously voted on all items, showing strong support for a balanced housing mix despite a lengthy public outcry.

The McLean County Regional Planning Commission is working with the Illinois Department of Transportation on the state’s first high-speed rail feasibility study to explore a new passenger system that could cut travel time between Chicago and St. Louis.

The commission is seeking public input via a survey and virtual event to help guide planning for routes and possible expansion — including options for Bloomington-Normal.

Bloomington-Normal police are improving officer wellness by offering counseling, training, and peer support to help officers cope with traumatic events on the job (a shift from old practices that expected silence).

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of participation — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of creativity with guided painting and delicious food.

Paint Nite: Moonshine Mountains

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — $45 per person — Unleash your creativity while enjoying pizza and painting your masterpiece.

Tri-Shark Classic Triathlon and Duathlon

1-5 p.m. — 13001 Recreation Area Dr, Hudson, IL — Registration fees apply — Compete in the Bloomington-Normal area's premier sprint triathlon and duathlon on a flat and fast course through Comlara Park.

Tailgates N' Tallboys Country Music Festival

All Day — McLean County Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the joy of country music with live performances and a vibrant atmosphere.

Sign & Sing with Communication Junction

10:00-10:30 a.m. — Underwood Park — Free entry — Engage in stories, signs, and bubbles with Miss Meghan for kids ages birth to 5.

Open House at 306 N Blair Drive

10:00am - 11:00am — 306 N Blair Drive — $219,900 — Explore a beautifully updated home with ample outdoor space in Normal's Mission Hills Subdivision.

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Supplies included — Unleash your creativity in a fun and guided painting experience for all ages.