The Cook County government on Monday announced the first organization to receive funding through the Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program. Fifteen organizations were awarded grants worth either $7,500 or $15,000, depending on the size and scope of the project, to carry out projects that promote digital inclusion using storytelling and community engagement, according to the county. The selected projects will "amplify community voices, address digital divides and create impactful narratives that advocate for equitable digital access," according to a news release. You can view a list of the selected organizations here.

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas announced her office will soon give county property owners the ability to prepay their 2024 first installment property taxes, which are due in March. “Many Chicago-area snowbirds spend winters in Florida, Arizona and other warmer climates,” Pappas said in a news release. “The prepay option lets you enjoy your time away without worrying about returning home in time to pay your tax bill by the due date.” Bills will be mailed by request to taxpayers on Dec. 16 and must be prepaid by Dec. 31.

Mayor Brandon Johnson announced his appointments to fill out the Chicago Board of Education Monday. Sean Harden, a former deputy CEO of Chicago Public Schools, will serve as board president, and the mayor also appointed Ed Bannon, Karen Zaccor, Norma Rios-Sierra and Emma Lozano to the board.