5 Essential Local Stories Revealed By The Journal-News Hillsboro IL: A Deep Dive Into Montgomery County's Latest Updates
The Journal-News in Hillsboro, Illinois, continues its long-standing tradition as the undisputed "newspaper of record" for Montgomery County, providing critical, hyper-local coverage that shapes the daily lives of its residents. As of the current date, December 19, 2025, the paper has delivered a fresh batch of essential reporting, focusing on pivotal local governance decisions and beloved community happenings that define the Hillsboro area.
The latest editions highlight significant developments from the Hillsboro City Council, crucial fiscal decisions made by the Raymond Village Board, and heartwarming holiday events that underscore the tight-knit nature of the area's communities. This deep dive explores the most recent and important stories covered by The Journal-News, solidifying its role as the primary source for fresh, unique, and vital information across the region.
The Journal-News: A Chronicle of Montgomery County History (Since 1852)
While this article focuses on a newspaper rather than a person, The Journal-News itself possesses a rich and detailed "biography" that establishes its profound topical authority in central Illinois. Its history is a mirror reflecting the entire history of Hillsboro and Montgomery County, making it one of the state's oldest and most respected local media entities.
- Founding Roots (Pre-1900): The newspaper's lineage extends back to 1852, establishing a continuous record of the area's development, political shifts, and community life for over 170 years.
- The Core Entities: The paper's modern identity is the result of a significant merger between two long-standing Hillsboro publications: the Hillsboro Journal and the Hillsboro News.
- The 2004 Merger: The two entities officially combined in 2004, forming the current publication, The Journal-News. This consolidation ensured the continuation of a strong, unified voice for the local populace.
- Current Role: The Journal-News is headquartered on Main St. in Hillsboro, IL, and serves as the official newspaper of record, covering the communities of Montgomery County, including Raymond, Coffeen, Litchfield, and others.
- Key Coverage Areas: Its reporting is comprehensive, spanning Local News, Sports, Obituaries, and a detailed Community Calendar, all accessible via its e-edition.
- Community Recognition: The paper has been recognized for its dedication, including being selected as a Chamber Business of the Year, a testament to its essential role in the local economy and social fabric.
Unpacking the Latest Local Governance Decisions in Hillsboro and Raymond
The heart of local journalism lies in its coverage of civic matters, and The Journal-News has recently delivered crucial updates from the two most significant local governing bodies: the Hillsboro City Council and the Raymond Village Board. These reports give residents vital transparency into how their communities are managed and their tax dollars are spent.
The Hillsboro City Council’s Annexation Questions
In a recent meeting, the Hillsboro City Council faced a densely packed agenda, with a staggering 28 items requiring deliberation. The most prominent and complex issue was the matter of "Annexation Questions," a topic with significant implications for local property owners and the city's boundaries.
The detailed report, often penned by respected local journalist Ron Deabenderfer, highlighted the technical and financial aspects of annexation. Discussions centered on how the process impacts local real estate property taxes. The tax structure in Illinois is complex, relying heavily on a property's Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) and the total local tax rate applied to it.
Annexation discussions are critical as they determine which municipal services—such as police, fire, and utilities—are extended to new areas, directly affecting property values and tax liabilities for both existing and newly annexed residents. The City Council's careful consideration of these 28 agenda items, including the critical annexation questions, demonstrates the ongoing effort to manage sustainable growth for Hillsboro, IL.
Raymond Village Board Adopts Crucial Tax Levy
Further demonstrating its commitment to covering all corners of Montgomery County, The Journal-News provided a concise report on the Raymond Village Board meeting. Mayor Dennis Held presided over the session, which took place on Monday, December 15.
The board's primary order of business was fiscal: the adoption of the Village tax levy for 2026, which is scheduled to be collected in 2025. The board officially approved the levy at a substantial sum of $1,052,533.00.
This decision is paramount for the Village of Raymond, as the property tax levy provides the essential funding for municipal operations, infrastructure maintenance, and public services. The Journal-News's prompt reporting on the levy ensures that all residents of Raymond are informed about the financial framework of their local government.
Community Spirit and Holiday Cheer in Hillsboro Area
Beyond the serious matters of governance and finance, The Journal-News excels at capturing the vibrant community spirit that thrives across Montgomery County. The latest edition featured heartening coverage of local holiday events, emphasizing the area's focus on family and tradition.
Santa’s Visit to Coffeen Fire House
One of the most anticipated annual events is the visit from Santa Claus to the Coffeen Fire House. This festive occasion, which brings joy to local youth, was prominently featured in the paper.
The event was hosted by Coffeen Fire Chief Collin Wasson and his wife, Breanna Wasson, showcasing the close relationship between the local fire department and the community it serves. The coverage included details of the festive treats and the opportunity for children to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, reinforcing the importance of local organizations like the Coffeen Fire Department in fostering community bonds.
St. Agnes Youth Celebrate the Birth of Christ
In addition to secular holiday events, The Journal-News also covered religious and faith-based community activities, such as the celebration by the St. Agnes Youth. This balanced coverage reflects the diverse interests and spiritual life of the Hillsboro area population.
By reporting on these events, The Journal-News not only provides news but also acts as a crucial calendar and record of the social and cultural life of Hillsboro, Raymond, Coffeen, and the broader Montgomery County region. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the deep-seated traditions and local pride that characterize life in central Illinois.
The Future of Local News in Central Illinois
The continued strong performance of The Journal-News, evidenced by its fresh and detailed coverage of the Annexation Questions, the Raymond Village tax levy, and beloved community events, stands as a testament to the enduring necessity of hyper-local journalism. In an era where many smaller newspapers are struggling, The Journal-News remains a critical pillar for Hillsboro, IL, and its surrounding communities.
Its commitment to covering everything from Litchfield School Board updates to the intricacies of property tax legislation ensures that residents are well-informed on every aspect of their local existence. For anyone seeking to understand the current pulse of Montgomery County, from the decisions made by Mayor Dennis Held to the activities of the St. Agnes Youth, The Journal-News remains the definitive, most current, and most reliable source. Its legacy, stretching back to 1852, continues to be written with every new edition it publishes.
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