July 30, 2020
 
Lake County Government News
|
$105 Million Allocated for COVID-19 Recovery
On July 27, the Lake County Board passed a $75 million emergency appropriation of Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds to support Lake County residents, communities, taxing districts, businesses, and countywide services in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Adding to the previous $30 million that the board already appropriated, the Lake County Board has now committed $105 million for COVID-19 recovery in Lake County over the past two months. Read more
The Lake County Board also voted to extend its Coronavirus disaster proclamation through Aug. 11. This measure allows Lake County to continue to access additional state and federal funding and resources for COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.
For more information about how Lake County Government is supporting recovery efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit lakecountyil.gov/forward.
Census Workers to Start Home Visits in August
Your participation in the 2020 Census is vital to ensure that Lake County gets adequate funding to support healthcare, schools, public transportation, roads and more.
Households that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census will be receiving a final postcard directly from the U.S. Census Bureau during the last week of July reminding of the importance of self-response during the ongoing global pandemic.
|
|
 |
Beginning Aug. 11, census takers will start visiting households that haven’t yet responded.
While census takers will be wearing personal protective equipment and will follow all safety protocols, the Census Bureau strongly encourages the public to respond online and avoid the need for an in-person visit. Fill out your form now at mycensus2020.gov, call 844-330-2020 or watch this video to learn how you can be counted this year. Households can respond online or by phone in English or 12 other languages or by mail using the paper questionnaire
mailed to nonresponsive addresses.
2020 Property Assessment Notices Will Soon Be Mailed
Lake County property owners will soon be receiving their property assessment notice in the mail. It’s important for taxpayers to read, understand and check this notice for accuracy as it contains important information about their property. Taxpayers are encouraged to contact their local township assessor’s office if they have questions regarding the valuation of their property.
|
|
 |
After assessments are published for each township, a property owner has 30 days to appeal their assessment if they so desire. View the schedule of publication dates for each township.
Property Tax Bill Reminder
In recognition of the financial hardship that many Lake County taxpayers are experiencing in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the County Board enacted a one-time ordinance that allows taxpayers to spread their property tax payments over four installments, instead of the usual two installments. The new due dates are as follows:
|
|
 |
-
50 percent of first installment was due June 8
-
50 percent of first installment is due Aug. 7
-
50 percent of second installment is due Sept. 8
-
50 percent of second installment is due Nov. 9
County Saves $98,000 Annually by Moving Lake County Regional Office of Education
The Lake County Regional Office of Education's (ROE) Administrative Office and Truancy Division has moved from its previous location at the College of Lake County in Grayslake and is now located at the Lake County Central Permit Facility, 500 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. This move will save the County approximately $98,000 annually in rent and utility costs. The Lake County Board has been working diligently to save operational costs and will continue to look for opportunities to utilize existing County-owned facilities wherever possible in an effort to save taxpayers significant dollars. Read more
The Lake County ROE provides service for the nearly 275 schools, and approximately 15,000 teachers, substitutes, administrators, paraprofessionals, and school service personnel in Lake County. Even with the move, all Lake County ROE offices are continuing to operate remotely due to COVID-19. For assistance, visit lake.k12.il.us.
Lake County Problem-Solving Courts Receive Certification
The Illinois Supreme Court approved Lake County’s 19th Judicial Circuit Court’s Certification of its problem-solving courts, including Drug, Mental Health, and Veterans Treatment and Assistance Courts.
The mission of the problem-solving courts is to reduce crime, enhance public safety, and reduce jail populations by providing a comprehensive treatment and supervision plan. With court oversight and accountability, problem-solving court participants can achieve and maintain recovery, become contributing members of their communities, and dramatically decrease their risks of recidivism. Read more
|
|
 |
Lake County COVID-19 Update
|
Lake and McHenry Counties United Against Resurgence of COVID-19
Lake and McHenry County officials are working together to slow the recent resurgence of COVID-19. The two counties make up the North Suburban Region identified under a plan recently rolled out by the State of Illinois. Under the plan, any region that sustains an 8% positivity rate for three consecutive days or sees an increase in positivity rates and simultaneous decrease in hospital capacity will need to implement additional community mitigation interventions.
|
|
 |
Interventions in the region will be chosen from a tiered ‘menu’ of options based on the severity and potential cause of the resurgence.
While the state metrics show the North Suburban Region metrics currently meet state targets, health department leaders are concerned about the recent spike in cases and are proactively evaluating future interventions. Data-informed mitigation measures in the region could include restricting the size of social gatherings, reducing capacity at businesses, or scaling back operations in industries that pose a higher risk of transmission, such as indoor dining, bars, salons or personal care services. All Lake County residents are encouraged to do their part and wear a mask or face covering when appropriate to help keep our county open.
To view the North Suburban Region metrics on the Illinois Department of Public Health website, visit illinois.gov/regionmetrics and select Region 9. Metrics are updated daily, including testing positivity rates, hospital admissions, and hospital capacity. Learn more
Case Count Update
The Lake County Health Department continues to monitor COVID-19 cases in Lake County. As of July 30, 11,768 Lake County residents have tested positive for COVID-19, and there have been 427 deaths associated with COVID-19. View the most current information.
Answers to Your COVID-19 Questions
Recommendations for Quarantine After Travel
The Lake County Health Department recommends that individuals returning from travel to areas with a high incidence rate of COVID-19 self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor their symptoms daily.
|
|
 |
Currently, this list includes the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. Read more on how to travel safely
This list will be updated every Tuesday on our website. This quarantine period will help reduce the risks of spreading the virus if you are infected and don't know it yet.
Please note, this is only a recommendation. There is not a mandatory quarantine for travelers to Lake County.
Apply for Federal Paycheck Protection Program by Aug. 8
The deadline to apply for the Federal Paycheck Protection Program, which provides forgivable loans for small businesses to help pay up to eight weeks of payroll costs, including benefits, is Aug. 8. Funds can also be used to pay interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. Read more
|
|
 |
Employment Resources
Are you looking for a job during this challenging time of layoffs, furloughs, and hiring freezes?
-
Census Jobs: You can still apply for a temporary part-time position with the 2020 Census. Interested in learning more? The census is hosting a virtual job fair every Monday and Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday from 9 a.m. until noon. During those hours, dial 1-872-888 6261 and enter conference id 290994639# to talk to a census recruiter.
|
|
 |
Call 211 to Get Connected to the Help You Need
If you need assistance finding food, shelter, rent or utility assistance, or other essential services, call 211 or TEXT your zip code to 898211 to speak with someone who can help 24/7. To receive general COVID-19 information via text message, text “COVID19” to 211211. For more information, visit www.211lakecounty.org.
|
|
 |
Transportation News
|
Provide Input on Public Transit Projects
The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is seeking your input on its new regional framework, which outlines how RTA, Metra, Pace, and CTA projects are chosen and funded in our area. Read the plan and provide your comments to
Communications@RTAChicago.org through Aug. 28. The RTA board will then consider adopting the new framework at its September meeting.
|
|
 |
Lake Cook Road Reconstruction Update
A new traffic pattern is in place along Lake Cook Road between IL-83 and Hastings Lane. Traffic is reduced down to one lane in each direction. Expect long delays and be alert when driving though the work zone. For the latest updates, visit cookcountylcr.org.
Hart Road at US 14 Improvement
Curb and gutter was recently poured on the south side of Hart Hard Road and pavement removal is complete on the north side of Hart Road. Crews are working on asphalt paving, and are installing a large storm sewer on US 14 and the north side of Hart Road.
Traffic Impacts: Hart Road at US 14 remains closed. Please drive carefully and watch for workers in this area. For additional information about this project, please visit www.hartandus14.com |
|
 |
Quentin Road Project Update
Asphalt has been placed on the north half of West Cuba Road and at Pheasant Ridge Drive. Paving is complete for this stage of work. The next area of permanent pavement will be in the medians. Construction is complete on a retaining wall north of Lea Ln, and noise abatement wall panel installation as well as drilling and pouring foundations for the noise abatement walls has resumed. |
|
 |
Work anticipated over the next couple of weeks includes sidewalk grading on the west side of Quentin Road and pulling traffic signal wire.
Traffic Impacts: Please watch for workers and flaggers and trucks coming in and out of the job site. Learn more: quentinroadproject.com.
Stormwater Management Commission News
|
Public Comment Period for Watershed Development Ordinance Amendments Open
The Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) opened a 60-day public comment period on Thursday, July 9, to collect feedback regarding 29 amendments, which are being proposed as additions to the Watershed Development Ordinance (WDO), a countywide ordinance that sets minimum requirements for the stormwater management aspects of development within Lake County.
|
|
 |
The goal of the WDO is to ensure that new development does not increase existing stormwater problems or create new ones by establishing minimum countywide standards for stormwater management, including floodplains, detention, soil erosion/sediment control, water quality treatment, and wetlands. Comments may be submitted to Kelcey Traynoff at
ktraynoff@lakecountyil.gov until Sept. 8, 2020. Learn more
Learn Safe and Effective Winter Maintenance Alternatives
Fortin Consulting is hosting a 2020 Salt Symposium on Aug. 4 and 5 and Smart Salter Certification on Aug. 6, These online classes will bring together stakeholders who are interested in reducing the environmental impacts of winter maintenance by showcasing the latest research and innovations. To learn more about this symposium or to register, click here.
|
|
 |
The deicing workshop has been canceled due to the pandemic. Stay tuned for more information and tips on safe and effective winter maintenance practices from the Lake County Deicing Team.
Public Works News
|
Hawthorn Center Reservoir Improvements
After more than 45 years, the Hawthorn Center reservoir is getting much-needed upgrades! Originally built in 1973 to provide water service and fire protection for the mall, the reservoir now serves as an important part of the Vernon Hills water system. Watch this video to see some of the improvements and learn how Lake County Public Works can now monitor the reservoir at all times from anywhere. |
|
 |
Sanitary Sewer Cleaning in Action
One way Lake County Public Works ensures continued service and eliminates adverse environmental impacts is by keeping our sanitary sewer pipes clean. Instead of using chemicals, water is sprayed at a high velocity against the internal pipe walls, removing accumulated grease, debris, and sediment Watch this video to see this work in action as crews clean a 3.5-mile long pipe in Libertyville. |
|
 |
Forest Preserve News
|
New Trails at Buffalo Creek
Public access and restoration improvements are complete at Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve in Long Grove. Through an intergovernmental agreement with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and the Village of Buffalo Grove, new trails and natural resource restoration efforts were completed as part of expansion of the preserve's flood control reservoir. Improvements include 1.7 miles of new gravel trails, seven new boardwalks, two scenic overlooks, 30 additional parking spaces, 45 acres of land restored, and more than 1,000 native trees planted. |
|
 |
Ask an Educator Live: Paddle Sports
Join Environmental Educators Jenny Sazama and April Vaos, along with Paddle Sport Volunteer Paul Klonowksi, as they answer your paddle sport questions live from 7 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 5. This biweekly Q&A series features a panel of educators excited to share their expertise about Lake County nature and history. Join us live via Zoom or Facebook every other Wednesday for a new topic about amazing history, creatures and places that make our county special. Learn how to join » |
|
 |
Summer Horizons Magazine Online
The summer issue of Horizons magazine is now available. Native orchids are the feature story of the magazine that can be found online. Horizons is the free quarterly publication of your Lake County Forest Preserves. You can subscribe to receive a free printed copy in the mail. |
|
 |
Community Events and News
|
Eat Great Food and Support Local Restaurants During the Lake County Restaurant Rally Beginning July 31
Savor amazing flavors and tastes throughout Lake County by taking part in the Lake County Restaurant Rally sponsored by Visit Lake County. From July 31 to Aug. 9, more than 100 restaurants will offer a variety of delicious food, ranging from fast food options to fully-plated dinners to tempting desserts for dine-in, carryout and outdoor dining options.
|
|
 |
Each location provides a chance for diners to win a gift card, valued from $25 to $50. Local media personalities will also be at select locations, sharing their food and libation experiences with Facebook Live streams.
New Provider for Lake Zurich Refuse/Recycling Collection
The Village of Lake Zurich is changing its refuse service provider to Prairieland Disposal effective Sept. 1. The services provided will include a new 10 percent senior discount service, backdoor collection service for $25 extra a month, e-waste recycling and more. Read more |
|
 |
Paulus Park Barn and Fire Station #1 Survey
The latest issue of Benchmarks, the Village of Lake Zurich’s email newsletter, features information about a phone survey to provide feedback on Paulus Park Barn and Fire Station #1 and other relevant information. Read more
What Happened in Committees?
|
Health and Community Services Committee
At its July 28 meeting, the committee discussed the appropriation of a state grant of $4.9 million to support contact tracing efforts, and a $680,000 grant to expand testing capacity for COVID-19. Watch the discussion and read the agenda. |
|
 |
Public Works, Planning and Transportation Committee
At its July 29 meeting, the committee discussed several items, including the appropriation of Motor Fuel Tax funds for road construction projects, an update on the temporary burn ban, public works projects and more. Watch the discussion and read the agenda.
|
|
 |
Energy and Environment Committee
Watch All County Board Meetings
All Lake County board and committee meetings are continuing to be conducted remotely. Meetings are live-streamed at lakecounty.tv and on cable television (Comcast channels 18 or 30, depending on where you live, and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99). The public is also welcome to view the livestream of all meetings in-person at 18 N. County Street, Waukegan, 10th Floor Assembly Room.
|
|
 |
To maintain proper social distancing, the number of persons permitted to attend will be limited. Public comments can also be submitted by email and phone call. Learn more
To see a current schedule of board and committee meetings, and to find links of recordings of past meetings, click here.
|
