January 16, 2020
Dear Neighbors,
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Happy 2020—I hope your year has gotten off to a good start!
The 2020 Census is just around the corner, and it’s vital that all residents of Lake County are counted.
Census population data is used to determine the distribution of about $675 billion in federal funding to states and local communities.
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For every person not counted, Lake County loses out in approximately $1,400 per person per year in federal funding. That money goes to support local schools, health care services, housing, infrastructure and much more. Right now, the census is in need of temporary workers in Lake County to help ensure a complete count. Learn more and find out how to apply below.
You may have read that about two weeks ago, an elementary school in Lake County was vandalized with swasitkas spray painted on the school wall and playground. I was deeply saddened to learn this. Whenever there are instances like this, it is incumbent upon all of us to speak out and denounce them, and remind people that those messages go against the very core of our values. As you’ll read below, the Lake County Board passed a resolution at our last meeting affirming that Lake County embraces diversity and that all people are welcome here.
Every month, I report out to my colleagues, and I've included the January Report here for your reference. I hope you will take a moment to read about some of things we are working toward to improve the quality of life in Lake County and to ensure that our government is being efficient with your tax dollars.
Sincerely,
 
County News
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Become a Census Worker and Help Our Community
The 2020 Census is around the corner, and it's vital that every person in Lake County is counted. You can be part of that effort, and get paid for it! The U.S. Census Bureau is hiring census workers here in Lake County for a wide variety of full-time and part-time jobs. There is a great need for all types of workers, from office/clerical to enumerators and supervisors. Bilingual speakers are especially needed. |
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- Hours are flexible
- Pay is excellent
- The work is important
Due to exceptional need, non-citizens with language skills other than English are also invited to apply. The application is online and takes 30 minutes. Please consider applying or pass along to others who may be interested. Learn more and apply today at 2020census.gov/jobs, 1-855-JOB-2020.
County Board Passes Diversity Resolution
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At the Jan. 14 County Board meeting, board members passed a resolution affirming that Lake County embraces diversity. Lake County's strength is rooted in our people. We stand against hate and discrimination and affirm that Lake County should be a welcoming community for all.
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The board action was taken following a recent incident of vandalism at a Lake County school that included swastikas being spray painted on the school wall and playground equipment. “We want to reassure all those who live, work and visit Lake County that you are welcome. We will continue to promote inclusion and understanding, and to actively stand up against hate and intolerance,” said Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. Read the resolution
Update: Recreational Cannabis in Unincorporated Lake County
The recreational use of cannabis in Illinois became legal on Jan. 1. Under the law, jurisdictions in Illinois can ban recreational cannabis businesses within their boundaries or establish regulations to allow the production and sale of cannabis. This includes Lake County government, which enforces zoning regulations for unincorporated Lake County. Lake County is currently evaluating its options for regulating recreational cannabis in the unincorporated area.
After discussion at its Jan. 8 meeting, the Lake County Public Works, Planning and Transportation (PWPT) Committee directed staff to prepare a County Board resolution enacting a one-year moratorium on unincorporated recreational cannabis businesses. Committee action on the proposed moratorium will be taken at its Jan. 29 meeting and final action by the full County Board is anticipated at its Feb. 11 meeting. The resolution, if adopted by the Lake County Board, will formally prohibit recreational cannabis businesses within the unincorporated area for a period of one year (until 2021). Read more
New Illinois Laws for the New Year
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In addition to the cannabis law, more than 250 new laws went into effect in Illinois beginning Jan. 1, impacting nearly all Illinois residents. These include minimum wage increases, requirements to have diaper changing stations in every public building with a public restroom, increased fines for passing a stopped school bus and many more. Learn more
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Scott’s Law Fines Will Increase in 2020
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Scott’s Law requires vehicles to change lanes and slow down when approaching disabled or emergency vehicles on the side of the road. Beginning in 2020, the minimum fine for violating Scott’s law has increased from $100 to $250 for a first offense, and $750 for a second offense. In 2019, more than two dozen troopers were hit by drivers in Illinois, including three fatalities. Obey Scott’s Law and help keep those who work to protect us safe. Watch this video to learn more
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EPA Grants Will Help Improve Water Quality in Lake County
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The Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) was recently awarded a $1.2 million Section 319 grant by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to implement seven projects identified in local watershed-based plans. These projects will reduce non-point source pollution and improve water quality in the Des Plaines River, North Branch Chicago River, and Fox River watersheds. Learn more
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
The Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Jan. 20, 2020, marks the 25th anniversary of the day of service that celebrates the Civil Rights leader’s life and legacy. Observed each year on the third Monday in January as “a day on, not a day off,” MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. |
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You can find volunteer opportunities in your community by visiting the MLK Day of Service web page maintained by the Corporation for National and Community Service, click on “Find a Volunteer Opportunity” and type in your zip code.
Lake County Jail Population Data Now Publicly Available
Through a partnership with Loyola University Chicago, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has developed a platform to share demographical information from the Lake County Jail with the community.
This will allow the public to see information and trends such as daily and monthly jail population and other data such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, and more. In addition to increasing transparency, the data will provide vital information to government and community organizations to identify solutions to reduce recidivism. Read more
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Resolve to be Safe This Year!
In 2020, resolve to stay alert and be prepared for any emergency!
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Discuss emergency plans with your family, including a family evacuation plan and a meet up location if you get separated.
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Start and grow an emergency savings account.
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Reach out and connect with your neighbors, as being connected helps keep your neighborhood safe.
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Learn basic safety skills, including first aid, CPR & how to shut off utilities to keep you and your loved ones safe.
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Stream Restoration Projects Help Improve Water Quality and Reduce Flooding
The Stormwater Management Commission is responsible for reducing flood damage, improving water quality, and enhancing the natural drainage system in Lake County. One of the many ways they do that is to implement stream restoration projects with techniques like stabilizing the stream channel and banks. Watch this video and learn more about streambank stabilization techniques. |
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What Happened in Committees?
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Energy and Environment Committee
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The Environmental Health Division of the Lake County Health Department presented on its work to keep our water, air, soil, and food safe for everyone in Lake County. They discussed recent ethylene oxide (EtO) testing near Medline in Mundelein and Vantage in Waukegan, water sampling from wells, the danger of algae blooms and more. Watch the discussion.
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Public Works, Planning and Transportation Committee
At its Jan. 8 meeting, the Public Works, Planning and Transportation Committee discussed the regulation of cannabis in unincorporated Lake County, and road construction and public works projects. Watch the discussion. |
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Watch All County Board Meetings
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Keep informed about Lake County government! Watch County Board meetings live at 9 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. You can watch meetings live online or on Comcast channels 18 and 30, or AT&T channel 99. You can also view archived board meetings and standing committee meetings anytime.
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Environmental News
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New State Law Bans Batteries in Recycling Bins
As of Jan. 1, a new Illinois law prohibits residents and businesses from placing rechargeable or lead acid batteries into recycling carts. This is because lithium ion batteries may spark fires if improperly handled. The good news is that SWALCO’s Household Chemical Waste and sponsored Residential Electronics Recycling programs will accept rechargeable and small sealed lead batteries for proper disposal. |
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Need more information? Check out SWALCO’s batteries page
Want to know what other items can and can’t be put in your recycling bin? Visit SWALCO’s handy neighborhood guide, where you can search your town to see what is and isn’t accepted.
Holiday Tree Recycling
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Don’t send your Christmas tree to the landfill, drop it off with the Lake County Forest Preserves for recycling. Donated trees are chipped and used for trails and landscaping. Bring your tree to one of eight forest preserve drop-off locations no later than Feb. 1, 2020. Learn more »
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Recycle Your Holiday Lights
To help Lake County stay green, SWALCO is offering opportunities to recycle your old broken or unwanted strings of lights. Wire string holiday lights and extension cords will be accepted. Click here for drop off locations. |
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Health News
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Health Consequences of Marijuana Use
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The recreational use of cannabis (commonly known as marijuana) became legal in Illinois on January 1, 2020 for adults ages 21 and older. If you use marijuana, make sure you understand the health effects of cannabis on your mind and body and how to be safe.
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- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component in marijuana, impacts normal brain function and development, even in adults. The THC component of today’s marijuana is three times what it was 25 years ago.
- Like tobacco, smoking marijuana can harm your lungs.
- Over-consumption of marijuana can result in negative, harmful side effects including hallucinations and paranoia.
- Driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal and can increase your risk of getting into an accident.
- There is no safe amount of cannabis while pregnant or breastfeeding, regardless of how you consume it. THC can be transferred to your baby through your placenta or breast milk.
Get more health and safety tips at Let’s Talk Cannabis Illinois, www.prevention.org/lets-talk-cannabis.
Protect Your Family from Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and build up over time. It can’t be seen, tasted, or smelled — making it easy for radon problems to go unnoticed. The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center recommends that all residents test the radon levels in their homes and apartments during winter, when indoor radon levels are highest. |
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The Health Department offers radon test kits for $10, available at 500 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, or for $13 by mail. The cost includes return postage, laboratory analysis and interpretation by Health Department staff. Call 847-377-8020 to request a kit. If the results reveal elevated levels of radon in your home, contact a professional to fix the problem. Read more
Watch this video to learn ways to protect your home.
Transportation News
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New Year’s Resolution: Keep an Emergency Supply Kit in Your Car!
Resolve to stay safe this winter! The Lake County Division of Transportation encourages all residents to keep an emergency supply kit in their cars. Head down to the hardware store, pick up some jumper cables, tow rope, a bag of sand, a flashlight, a small shovel, a travel blanket and an ice scraper, and start out safe in the New Year! |
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Winter Vehicle Safety Tips
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Keep your gas tank full in case of evacuation or power outages. A full tank will also keep the fuel line from freezing.
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Install good winter tires and ensure they have adequate tread or any jurisdiction-required chains or studs.
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Beware of icy conditions, and drive at lower speeds and brake slowly. Use caution when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas. All are prone to icing.
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Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you. Any plow that’s hit must be pulled out of service, resulting in one less piece of equipment responding to snow and ice.
Learn more
County Clerk’s Office News
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Make Sure You’re Ready to Vote in the March 17, 2020 Primary
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If you are a registered voter, you can confirm that your voter registration record is up to date with your current name and physical Lake County street address by logging on to
LakeVoterPower.info.
If you need to update your record or register for the first time, visit our Voter Registration web page for qualifying requirements and in-person, online, or by mail registration options.
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Apply to Vote by Mail
Lake County registered voters can apply to vote by mail for the March election.
Severe winter weather could prevent you from going to your voting site on Election Day. Lake County Clerk Robin M. O’Connor is encouraging Lake County registered voters to vote by mail, including students away at school, traveling snowbirds, and those who be out of town on Election Day. This option allows any registered voter to receive and mark a ballot from the comfort of his or her own home or have a ballot sent to a temporary alternate address.
It's simple to vote by mail. Complete the short, required application form and return it to the Lake County Clerk’s office before noon on Thursday, March 12.
Applications are available by:
Circuit Clerk’s Office News
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Passport Services
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Starting to make your travel plans this year? Make sure getting or renewing your passport is part of your plans! Apply for or renew your passport at one of the several Mobile Passport Events the Lake County Circuit Clerk’s Office will host this year. View the full schedule.
Passport applications also are processed from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Circuit Clerk's Office, 18 N. County Street, Waukegan. View application requirements, including fee information.
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Forest Preserve News
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Dunn Museum Cradle Inspires
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Two traditional Native American artists visited the Dunn Museum to research a birchbark cradle in the collections. Inspired by their visit, the artists have been working on their own birchbark and quillwork cradles and bonnets. Their project, titled “Celebration of Life,” was recently completed and is now on exhibit at the Museum through April 16. It’s a rare opportunity to see the Museum’s cradle on exhibit paired with the work of present-day contemporary Native American artists.
Learn more »
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Winter Recreation
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Cold weather brings winter fun in your Lake County Forest Preserves. Solar-lit evening hikes, sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating and ice fishing are included in the array of activities available. Before heading out to the preserves, check the status map on the winter sport’s page. Learn more »
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Gift That Keeps Giving
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The Preservation Foundation is the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves. It supports the growth, development and sustainability of our region’s natural lands and cultural heritage. Like a root system pulls vital nutrients from the soil, the Foundation drives the mission of the Forest Preserves by responsibly directing funds to projects and programs that might otherwise go unfunded.
Learn more »
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Community Events and News
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Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with your community. Sunday, Jan. 19, 6 p.m. First Corinthian Baptist Church, 1529 Elizabeth Avenue, North Chicago. Learn more
Tuition Grants for Short-Term Programs
Looking for a rewarding career, but have very limited time and funding for schooling? You may be eligible to earn one of nine short-term career certificates at College of Lake County, with tuition and nearly all of your expenses paid, thanks to a new grant program called Transform Lake County.
This new opportunity provides full tuition grant in short-term programs. Nearly 200 residents of Lake County with a specific emphasis on North Chicago, Round Lake, Waukegan and Zion are eligible. Read more
Top 10 Things to do in January
Check out the top 10 activities recommended by
VisitLakeCounty.org to keep yourself energized this winter. Toast in the New Year with the Lake County Libation Trail, get a behind-the-scenes tour with the Tempel
Lipizzans who will warm your heart, and enjoy Lake County’s winter festivals, theater productions and much more. Learn more
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GO Gurnee Walk
Keep walking through the winter and join the Walking Club at Van Patten Woods. Saturday, Jan. 18, 9:30 a.m. Van Patten Woods 15838 W. Route 173, Wadsworth. Visit site for more information and indoor activities schedule.
Free Health Screening–Gurnee
Community Care Connection of Rosalind Franklin University Health Clinics will provide free screening for blood pressure, cholesterol (must fast 12 hours prior), blood sugar/diabetes, waist measurements, BMI (Body Mass Index), and sports physicals. Tuesday, Jan. 28, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at FitNation, 1655 Nations Drive, Gurnee.
Be sure to arrive before 11:15 a.m. as the Community Care Connection takes its last patient 15 minutes before the close time. Learn more
Participants Sought for Lawn Care Focus Group Discussions
Are you the caretaker of your lawn? The University of Illinois Extension, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG) invites you to take part in a focus group to learn how you care for your lawn, what environmentally-friendly practices you use, and to discuss
how to maintain healthy lawns while also protecting local watersheds. Jan. 23, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Grayslake. The specific meeting address will be provided upon registration. For more information or to register, contact Sarah Zack at
szack@illinois.edu or 217-300-4076. Learn more
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