October 8, 2026

The Stephenson County Sheriff's Office has launched a new program aimed at making interactions between law enforcement and people with autism safer and less stressful.

The Blue Envelope Program provides a recognizable envelope where a driver can keep a license, registration, insurance information, and emergency contacts.

Now, during a traffic stop, the envelope signals to deputies that the person may communicate or respond differently or may need additional time to process instructions.

Sheriff Steve Stobel says the goal is to prevent misunderstandings and reduce anxiety while maintaining everyone's safety.

The voluntary program is being offered in partnership with the Autism Hero Project.

There's no registration requirement, and envelopes and optional autism awareness vehicle stickers are available free at the Public Safety Building on West Exchange Street and at the sheriff's office at the Stephenson County Courthouse.

Stephenson County is getting an early start on an initiative that becomes statewide in Illinois January 1st.

The City of Freeport is getting a financial vote of confidence from one of the nation's major credit rating agencies.

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Freeport's credit rating from A to A+ while giving the city a stable outlook.

S&P cited improvements in Freeport's operating reserves, growth in its tax base, and a reduction in tax-supported debt.

The higher rating could also benefit taxpayers by helping the city secure better borrowing costs when issuing debt for infrastructure and other major projects.

City officials say improving financial stability is part of Freeport's strategic plan, which calls for carefully managing debt and revenue while maintaining city infrastructure.

The Stephenson County Sheriff's Office has launched a new program aimed at making interactions between law enforcement and people with autism safer and less stressful.

The Blue Envelope Program provides a recognizable envelope where a driver can keep a license, registration, insurance information, and emergency contacts.

Now, during a traffic stop, the envelope signals to deputies that the person may communicate or respond differently or may need additional time to process instructions.

Sheriff Steve Stobel says the goal is to prevent misunderstandings and reduce anxiety while maintaining everyone's safety.

The voluntary program is being offered in partnership with the Autism Hero Project.

There's no registration requirement, and envelopes and optional autism awareness vehicle stickers are available free at the Public Safety Building on West Exchange Street and at the sheriff's office at the Stephenson County Courthouse.

Stephenson County is getting an early start on an initiative that becomes statewide in Illinois January 1st.

The City of Freeport is getting a financial vote of confidence from one of the nation's major credit rating agencies.

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Freeport's credit rating from A to A+ while giving the city a stable outlook.

S&P cited improvements in Freeport's operating reserves, growth in its tax base, and a reduction in tax-supported debt.

The higher rating could also benefit taxpayers by helping the city secure better borrowing costs when issuing debt for infrastructure and other major projects.

City officials say improving financial stability is part of Freeport's strategic plan, which calls for carefully managing debt and revenue while maintaining city infrastructure.