Illinois quick hits: Pritzker creates new agency position; homestay brokers see DNC increase

Pritzker creates new agency position

An executive order penned by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday creates a new state position with the Illinois Department on Aging. The chief planning officer will lead the development and implementation of a multi-year, multi-sector plan for the department. The plan will serve as a decade-long blueprint to support healthy aging in Illinois with clear objectives for public and private sector progress.

Homestay brokers see DNC increase

Airbnb searches have surged 30% in the run up to next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago. A spokesman for the short- and long-term homestay broker said big events like the DNC serve as an opportunity for existing and prospective new hosts to open their homes, and help cities meet the demand during these peak-travel periods. Top cities for Chicago Airbnb guests for next week include Washington D.C., New York City, Los Angeles and Seattle.

Springfield explosion

Two people were injured and sent to a Springfield hospital after a suspected natural gas explosion in the capital city Tuesday. A city spokesperson announced first responders arrived at the scene and put the fire out with investigators remaining on the scene.