Washington Police Department

In the aftermath of two major fires over the weekend where lives were saved and pets were rescued, Washington officials praised first responders, community members and neighboring fire departments.

A troublesome 700-foot water main under Bondurant Street just west of Washington Community High School will be replaced this summer. The Washington City Council approved a low bid of about $270,000.

Washington is the latest Greater Peoria community to ban the sale of kratom. But in Washington's case, the sale of synthetic kratom is no longer allowed while a natural kratom product can be sold, after lab testing.

Catastrophic engine failure has taken the Washington Police Department's current canine vehicle out of commission, perhaps forever. The Washington City Council came to the rescue this week.

The Washington Police Department's new deputy chiefs were sworn in this week. Steve Smith and Brian Simpson are only the third and fourth people to hold the position since it was created in 2007.

The Washington Police Department will be adding to its command structure. The city council approved a recommendation from Chief Jeff Stevens to add a second deputy chief to his department's roster.

Should a large billboard be allowed in a busy Washington intersection? The city worries about "potential detrimental impacts."

The Washington City Council on Monday approved a four-year contract for new Police Chief Jeff Stevens, who had served as interim chief for a month following the retirement of former chief Mike McCoy.

Washington Mayor Lilija Stevens said she wants to "put the brakes" on any decision regarding a proposed amphitheater on the city's "223" land off U.S. Route 24 until the new city council holds a goal-setting session. City staff and the council agree.

The new Washington City Council had a lot on its plate Monday in its first monthly committee of the whole meeting.