Freeport’s “No Trapping” ordinance was meant to control the stray cat population—but years later, residents are seeing the opposite. As colonies grow and spread into neighborhoods, pet owners are facing rising vet bills, disease exposure, and safety risks in their own yards. The law is clear. The consequences are now impossible to ignore.

Freeport has approved its first cannabis dispensary following a split council vote and mayoral tie-breaker. While city leaders highlighted projected revenue, questions remain about long-term development strategy, the Chicago-based operator, and what this decision means for Freeport’s future growth.

Freeport’s Historic Preservation Ordinance establishes how properties are designated, regulated, and reviewed once deemed historically significant. While designed to protect the city’s architectural heritage, the ordinance also introduces a formal approval process that directly affects how property owners can modify or redevelop their buildings.