It's graduation season in Kane County, with high schools across the area's nine school districts preparing for ceremonies in May. Kane County Connects has compiled a list of graduation dates, times and lists of locations. READ MORE

The Kane County Board has approved revised speed limits along portions of Kirk Road in St. Charles following an engineering and traffic study by the Kane County Division of Transportation. READ MORE

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia has welcomed its first five American bison calves of the season. Officials say the calves typically arrive from mid-April through June, with about 20 expected each year. READ MORE

As people spend more times outside, residents in unincorporated Kane County are reminded that open burning regulations vary by ZIP code. What’s allowed in one area may be restricted in another, making it important to check local rules before lighting any fire. READ MORE

Katara, an 8-month-old Great Pyrenees mix, loves soft toys, spending time with people and other laid-back dogs. While she’s still learning leash skills and focus, her joyful personality makes her a great companion in the making. Katara is available for adoption today at Kane County Animal Control. READ MORE

Kane County Government Blood Drive May 5

Kane County is hosting a blood drive on May 5 to support the American Red Cross. The drive will be held at the Geneva Park District’s Sunset Community Center, 710 Western Ave. in Geneva. To donate, schedule an appointment here, using zip code 60134. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.

WWII Homefront Heroes Program in West Dundee

The Dundee Township Historical Society will present “World War II Unsung Heroes on the Homefront” on, May 3, at 2 p.m. at the Dundee Township Historical Society Museum. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated. For more information, call 847-428-6996 or email dths@sbcglobal.net.

North Aurora Police to Host Cops on a Rooftop Fundraiser

The North Aurora Police Department will partner with Dunkin’ for its annual Cops on a Rooftop fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. The event will be held May 15, at three Dunkin’ locations on S. Lincolnway, Genesis Dr. and S. Randall Road. Donors will receive a free donut with any contribution.

Bike Huntley Challenge Returns in May

The Village of Huntley invites residents to ride throughout May in celebration of National Bike Month. Riders can participate at their own pace and can join the “Bike Huntley 2026” club to win end-of-month awards.

Water Treatment Plant Open House in Pingree Grove

The Village of Pingree Grove is hosting a free, behind-the-scenes tour of Water Treatment Plant #2 (Daniel Blvd. & Reinking Rd.) during Public Services Week. Stop by May 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn how drinking water gets from source to sink.

Lane Closures Planned on Randall Road Near Route 72

Lane closures on Randall Road just south of Illinois Route 72 near Carrington Drive are set to begin the week of April 27 and continue through late May, weather permitting.

The work will occur in phases, starting with a temporary northbound lane closure, followed by reduced traffic to one lane in each direction for several weeks. The roadway widening project is expected to be completed by December 2026.

Sugar Grove Fire District Expands AED Access With Donation

The Sugar Grove Fire Protection District has partnered with Mercy Medical Center to expand access to life-saving equipment through the donation of seven automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The devices will be placed at community locations, including the Sugar Grove Township building and the Sugar Grove Park District. One AED will also be provided to the Big Rock Fire Department to support regional response efforts.

Weatherization Rebates Available for Kane County Farmers

Kane County farmers can receive up to $800 for home weatherization projects like air sealing and attic insulation, helping reduce energy use and improve comfort.

Funding is first-come, first-served. Apply here or contact 630-444-3157 for details.

Illinois America 250 Passports Available in Elgin

The Illinois America 250 Passport is now available at the Explore Elgin Area Visitors Center (60 S. Grove Ave.) while supplies last. Pick one up Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., or learn more at il250.org/passport.

Chipko Market Brings Zero-Waste Grocery Concept to Kane County

What if your grocery store helped you cut waste with every visit?

That’s the idea behind Chipko Market, now open in St. Charles. As the Tri-Cities’ first bring-your-own-container grocery, the store is rethinking how residents shop for everyday essentials, from flour and coffee to soaps and cleaning products. READ MORE

Kane County Connects | Website

Kane County Connects

719 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva, IL 60134

kanecountyconnects@kanecountyil.gov