About Manhattan Local
Your community. Your news. Always free.
Serving Manhattan
Manhattan Local is your free, digital-first source for news and information serving Manhattan, Illinois — a fast-growing Will County village with a strong community character. As Manhattan continues to grow, the need for reliable local news has never been greater.
Manhattan Local covers the village board decisions, school news, sports, community events, and Will County government coverage that residents need to stay informed and engaged. Fast growth brings change — and change needs to be covered.
Meet Your Publisher
Chris Russell
Publisher & FounderChris Russell is a third-generation newspaper publisher whose family has been serving Illinois communities since his grandfather bought the local paper in 1942. After decades in community journalism, Chris founded Windmill Media to bring free, digital-first local news to communities across Illinois that have lost their local voice.
Manhattan Local was built to serve a community that is growing fast but values its small-town roots. As development decisions shape Manhattan’s future, residents deserve a reliable source to keep them informed every step of the way.
What We Cover
Manhattan Local delivers comprehensive local coverage across all areas of community life in Manhattan and Will County:
🏛 Local Government
Coverage of the Village of Manhattan and Will County Board — the decisions that affect Manhattan residents most directly.
🎓 Schools & Education
School board meetings, district updates, and news affecting Manhattan students and families.
🏈 High School Sports
Schedules, scores, and coverage of the Manhattan local athletes and Manhattan-area athletics.
📅 Events & Community
Local events, library news, park district programs, and everything bringing Manhattan together.
⚖ Planning & Zoning
Will County planning and zoning hearings — so you always know what’s proposed near your property.
📢 Submit Your News
Residents can submit news tips, events, and announcements directly to our team.
Part of the Windmill Media Network
Manhattan Local is proudly part of Windmill Media — a growing network of free, digital-first local news sites serving communities across Illinois. Our mission: every community deserves to know what’s happening in their hometown.
Visit Windmill Media