At its November meeting, the Lake County Board authorized a Solar Power Purchase Agreement that will advance a project aimed at installing solar panels at 10 Lake County owned facilities and to set the final electrical rate for solar power at these sites. This agreement is part of a joint effort led by Lake County to also bring solar power to municipal-owned facilities. |
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In total, 36 sites owned by seven municipalities are slated to get solar power as part of this process. This is an example of how shared efforts with other local governments can help us secure the best electrical rates possible.
Lake County residents may soon see some relief from their stormwater issues as the Lake County Board approved additional funding for the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) as part of the Fiscal Year 2020 budget. The funds will support multiple projects throughout the county and will have a significant impact in helping to alleviate two of the county’s biggest problems--stormwater runoff and flooding.
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Over the past few years, Lake County has experienced stronger and more frequent rainfall, and an increase in flooding. In 2018, Lake County rivers went above flood stage during six separate storm events, and this year exceeded flood stage seven times. Because of this, stormwater management projects have become critical. SMC's capital improvement plan will enable SMC to prioritize, design and construct the most beneficial and regionally impactful projects while improving conditions in flood-prone areas. The plan will be focused on three improvement areas: surface water/flood mitigation infrastructure, flooded property buyouts, and stream maintenance. Read more
Since launching earlier this year, United Way of Lake County’s 211 helpline has responded to more than 2,000 needs requests from Lake County residents and connected them to vital health and human services, including housing and emergency shelter, mental health services, assistance with utility bills, referrals for legal assistance and more. This free, confidential, 24-hour information and referral service provides a convenient way for everyone in Lake County to get connected to help, regardless of the time of day, the language they speak, or where they live. |
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Volunteer to Make an Impact on Lake County Homelessness
You can join the fight to end homelessness in Lake County. Every January, the Lake County Coalition for the Homeless (LCCH) conducts an annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Homeless Count. Volunteers are needed to interview and offer assistance to people experiencing homelessness in Lake County. The information gathered captures a picture of what homelessness looks like on any given day, helps coordinate services for people
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experiencing homelessness, and provides organizations with the information needed to end homelessness. This year’s PIT Count will be Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2020, from 9:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Learn more and apply to volunteer today.
Job News
Looking for a job? There are many recruiting events and job fairs to help you land your next job! Click on each link below for full details.
Lake County Engineering Internship & Job Fair
Attention college students: Set yourself up for success this summer while you’re home over winter break!
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Top engineering firms such as HydraForce, Flex, Culligan, and MacLean-Fogg will be under one roof looking to connect with students in various engineering fields.
In one afternoon, you can meet directly with hiring professionals to discuss your goals and launch your career.
Friday, Jan. 3, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington Street, Grayslake.
Apply for Census 2020 Jobs
Apply, and with one application you may be considered for several positions, including census taker, recruiting assistant, office clerk, and supervisory staff—and help your community while getting paid. Pay rates can vary by position and location, check pay rates in your location. Apply online
Prevent Flu and Stay Healthy This Holiday Season
As the holidays approach, protect yourself and your family—get your seasonal flu vaccine, the best way to prevent the flu. The flu is a highly contagious virus that can have serious complications.
In addition to getting your flu vaccine, the Health Department recommends following the 3 C’s to prevent the spread of flu: clean, cover, and contain.
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Clean—clean your hands frequently by washing your hands with soap and warm water or using an alcohol-based hand rub
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Cover—cover your cough and sneeze
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Contain—contain your germs by staying home if you are sick
The Lake County Health Department continues to provide flu vaccinations by appointment at its Community Health Centers. To schedule an appointment, call the Patient Access Center at (847) 377-8800. Many health care providers and retail locations also offer the flu shot. Contact your provider to see if they have the vaccine or find a convenient location using the Flu Vaccine Finder: vaccinefinder.org.
Essay Contest for Lake County High School Students
Attention high school students! The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office and other local organizations are inviting Lake County students in grades 9 to 12 to enter an essay contest focused on ending violence against women. Essays should be 500 words or less, and address the topic “Our Voices: Why Rising on Behalf of Abuse of Women is Everyone’s Responsibility.” The deadline is Dec. 27. Learn more
Forest Preserve News
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Salt Reduction Efforts
For the second consecutive winter, the Lake County Forest Preserves will reduce the amount of road salt applied to forest preserve roadways, sidewalks and parking areas during snow and ice removal. Salt reduction offers environmental and financial benefits. Though it seems to disappear in spring, most of the season’s road salt remains in our water and soil. Excess salt deteriorates water quality, harms native aquatic species, makes soil more susceptible to erosion, and corrodes infrastructure. |
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Salt reduction efforts showed positive results last winter. During a typical winter, operations staff is called out about 15 times to plow snow and apply salt. Because of last winter’s high snow totals, staff responded 28 times. Thanks to the adjustments made in 2018–19, approximately the same amount of salt was used last year as would have been traditionally used in a typical year, despite nearly twice as many snow and ice events.
The Forest Preserves will make more adjustments to further reduce the amount of road salt applied this winter. Signs indicating “Low Salt Area Ahead” will be posted at most preserves where salt reduction efforts are in place.
There are 44 strategically placed scenic overlooks in the Lake County Forest Preserves. Lake County is home to more endangered and threatened species than any other county in Illinois. You will find 8 miles of paved trails that are plowed during the winter at three forest preserves. There are so many aspects to help you enjoy your Lake County Forest Preserves. Learn more »
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Community Events and News
Holiday Event and Activities Guide
Tis the season to be in Lake County, which is home to a plethora of holiday festivities to fill yourself up with holiday cheer. Check out Visit Lake County’s listing of holiday events and activities to enjoy time with family and friends. Learn more
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Register for Spring Semester at College of Lake County
Make 2020 the year you begin your bachelor’s degree, work toward an associate degree or certificate, start a new career or develop your talents at the College of Lake County. Spring semester classes begin Jan. 21, and registration is now open.
View course offerings, both classroom-based and online. Find classes and register, call (847) 543-2090, or stop by the Welcome and One Stop Center,
Grayslake Campus, 19351 W. Washington St.,
Lakeshore Campus, 33 N. Genesee St., Waukegan,
and the Southlake Campus, 1120 S. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills.
Learn more
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