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

Drug bust in Watseka

A Watseka woman is facing numerous charges after a large-scale drug bust in the tiny eastern Illinois town.

The Watseka Enforcement Team conducted an undercover narcotics purchase that led to a search warrant. Police said they recovered 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 several drug offenses, and as a result of the SAFE-T Act, was released from custody.

WIU layoffs

Western Illinois University administrators have confirmed that more layoffs are coming.

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

It’s still unknown on the amount of classes or programs that might be cut.

Lead pipe replacement funds

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

The funding is provided through the Illinois EPA’s State Revolving Fund, which provides low-interest loan funding for drinking water, wastewater and storm water projects.

The funding for each of these awards is being provided in the form of principal forgiveness, so none of the communities will have to repay any of the funds awarded. The largest award, over $5 million, is going to Shelbyville to replace around 350 lead service lines.