Illinois quick hits: Drug bust in Watseka; WIU layoffs; lead pipe replacement funds – Illinois

Drug raid in Watseka

A Watseka woman is facing numerous charges following a large-scale drug raid in the small eastern Illinois town.

The Watseka Enforcement Team conducted an undercover drug buy that resulted in a search warrant. Police said they seized approximately 1,200 grams of cannabis, 280 grams of psychedelic mushrooms, 500 “pressed pills” that tested positive for meth and fentanyl, nearly 400 Xanax bars, a small amount of cocaine and 15 grams of ecstasy.

Kristin Kirby, 30, was charged with multiple drug offenses and released from custody under the SAFE-T Act.

WIU layoffs

The administration of Western Illinois University has confirmed that there will be further layoffs.

After an informational meeting between WIU's Faculty Senate, the interim president and the executive director of financial affairs, the university still needs to save nearly $10 million to balance the budget.

It is not yet known how many courses or programs may be canceled.

Funding for the replacement of lead pipes

The Illinois EPA announced over $43 million in funding to be provided to 17 communities to replace lead service lines in the last quarter of 2024.

Funding is provided through the Illinois EPA's State Revolving Fund, which provides low-interest loans for drinking water, wastewater and stormwater projects.

Funding for each of these grants comes in the form of debt forgiveness, so none of the communities have to repay the funds awarded. The largest grant, for over $5 million, will go to Shelbyville, where approximately 350 lead pipes will be replaced.