Following the devastating floods, Lake County government and its partners have been working nonstop to respond to the disaster and provide needed resources and assistance. In this video, Chairman Aaron Lawlor visits the Red Cross Disaster Resource Center, which has helped hundreds of families impacted by the floods. He talks about the response efforts, including what a local disaster declaration means, clean-up, and what all residents should know about mosquitoes. Watch now.

Flood Information Website
Make sure to view the county’s flood information page, which contains updated, valuable information, including steps to follow if your home or personal property was damaged by the flooding, free water testing provided by the health department, and additional local resources that may be available for those affected by the flooding. 

A mosquito pool sampled earlier this month in Zion has tested positive for West Nile virus and is the first confirmed indicator of West Nile presence in Lake County this year. While floodwater mosquitoes are reaching nuisance population levels in the county, the Lake County Health Department reports they do not carry the West Nile virus. The concern is that standing water in items like buckets, gutters, plant containers and debris from flood cleanup will become breeding sites for the species of mosquito that is the primary carrier of West Nile virus.

Remember to practice the 4 D’s to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes: Drain, Defend, Dawn to Dusk, and Dress. Visit the health department’s Fight the Bite Now website to learn more prevention tips and additional information about West Nile virus.

The property tax process can be confusing! As blue property assessment notices continue to be mailed to residents across Lake County, you may have questions about what goes into determining your property tax bill, property assessments, and how to file an appeal. Watch this edition of Lake County Update as County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor and Chief County Assessment Officer Marty Paulson address common questions residents have with their property tax assessments.

The Nineteenth Judicial Circuit recently celebrated the expansion of the Robert W. Depke Juvenile Complex Center in Vernon Hills. The building now features new courtrooms and hearing rooms and more space for the State's Attorney's Office and Public Defender's Office to privately interview clients and witnesses. Watch this video to learn more about the center. 

Forest Preserve News

Gospelfest
Be inspired by Lake County’s gospel voices on Sunday, July 30 at the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago. This annual favorite feature choirs, solo performances and praise dancers that bring you to your feet. Children can also enjoy fun nature activities during the event. Learn more

Wildlife Homes
Discover with your little explorer the places animals make their homes. Hands-on nature activities include a hike, story, craft, and interaction with live animals. This event takes place select Thursdays in July and August at Independence Grove, and it is open to children ages 4-5 with an adult. Register today