December 3, 2020
Dear Neighbors,
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I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! While we usually travel out of state to see my family, this was a very quiet holiday for us, staying home like thousands of others. We visited several Forest Preserves, and it was great to see so many people taking advantage of the beautiful weather and our spectacular open spaces.
As we face climbing positivity rates, hospitalizations, and unfortunately deaths, I am deeply grateful for our first responders and essential workers. Following the mitigation protocols and wearing a mask, washing our hands, and staying socially distant will hopefully allow us to get together with friends and family again and continue our recovery from this devastating pandemic.
I was on a call this morning regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, and according to the draft IDPH SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Planning Guide, vaccinations will be prioritized as follows:
- Critical workforce members who provide health care
- Staff and residents in long term care facilities
- Critical workforce members who provide essential functions of society
I am proud of the work Lake County Government has done to distribute federal CARES Act funds to residents, businesses, non-profits, and governmental agencies that are experiencing loss in revenue and increases in costs as we all work to get through this very difficult time. You can read more about this below.
Last month I was re-elected to my third term and I am humbled and grateful to be able to continue to serve you for another two years. We are getting closer to our goal of opening a Crisis Center (also known as a "Wellness Triage Center"), which has shown to be a critical element in helping people in mental health crisis and providing an alternative to jail and/or emergency rooms. I continue to focus on government efficiency and transparency, and I am committed to working every day to improve the quality of life for the people of Lake County. As always, it is am honor to serve you. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Take care,
 
Lake County Government News
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Lake County Distributes More Than $16 Million to Small Businesses Impacted By COVID-19
Checks totaling more than $16 million have been distributed to 1,195 Lake County small businesses that applied for and were awarded grants to help offset revenue losses due to COVID-19. The grants were funded by the Lake County Small Business Assistance COVID-19 grant program, which the Lake County Board established using federal funds received from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The amount of the grant to each business ranged from $485 to a maximum of $30,000. A list of business that received grant checks can be found online at www.lakecountyil.gov/forward. To be eligible to receive the grants, businesses needed to be incorporated prior to Feb. 15, 2020, have less than $2.5 million in annual revenues, and to have provided documentation of impact due to COVID-19. The application period was open from July 7 to July 20.
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Election Results Certified— New County Officials Begin Duties
Congratulations to the following countywide elected officials, who were sworn in and began their new term of service on Tuesday, Dec. 1. All were elected to four-year terms.
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Lake County Circuit Court Clerk Erin Cartwright Weinstein
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Lake County Coroner Jennifer Banek
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Lake County Recorder of Deeds Mary Ellen Vanderventer
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Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart
Coroner Banek and State’s Attorney Rinehart were each elected to their respective offices for the first time, and were both sworn into office Tuesday morning by Lake County Chief Judge Diane Winter. Circuit Court Clerk Cartwright Weinstein and Recorder of Deeds Vanderventer were each re-elected to their positions.
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Banek resides in Green Oaks and is a certified registered nurse anesthetist, providing anesthesia to patients in Illinois and Wisconsin in preparation for surgery. For years, Banek has been an active member in the anesthesia field, providing professional guidance and leadership to more than 200 registered nurses in Illinois. Read more
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Rinehart began the first two years of his legal career practicing civil law in Chicago. Pursuing work closer to home and in order to spend more time in the courtroom, Rinehart joined the Lake County Public Defender’s Office in 2003 before starting his own law firm in 2009. He has conducted over 70 jury trials in Lake County and handled appeals that have culminated in over 20 oral arguments before the Illinois appellate courts and the Supreme Court of Illinois. Read more
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Congratulations to the following County Board members, who will be sworn in on Monday, Dec. 7, for two-year terms:
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District 1: Linda Pedersen
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District 2: Diane Hewitt
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District 4: Gina M. Roberts
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District 7: Carissa Casbon
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District 12: Paras Parekh
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District 13: Sandy Hart
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District 16: Terry Wilke
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District 20: Marah Altenberg
Following the swearing-in at the Dec. 7 Lake County Board meeting, the Board will reorganize and elect a chair. Watch the board meeting live on Dec. 7 at 9 a.m.at lakecounty.tv.
United Way Announces 7th Round of COVID-19 Fund Grants Totaling $124,075
United Way of Lake County recently announced that it has awarded $124,075 to nine local organizations in the seventh round of Lake County COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund grants.
The most recent round of grants were awarded to programs that decrease or help children adjust to social isolation, as well as the purchase and distribution of items needed to educate children and youth engaged in remote learning in Waukegan, North Chicago, Zion, Round Lake and Highwood.
Since the fund was launched on March 20, more than $1 million has been granted to 46 nonprofits throughout Lake County so they can continue their critical work serving our most vulnerable neighbors.
For more information about the Lake County COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, future funding opportunities, or to donate, visit LIVEUNITED
lakecounty.org/covid19.
Lake County COVID-19 Update
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Health Department Urges Staying Home as COVID-19 Infections Quadruple
The Lake County Health Department continues to urge the public to stay home as much as possible to slow the rapid resurgence of COVID-19. From mid-October to mid-November, the county’s rate of new cases quadrupled, and hospitalizations were approaching where they were in the spring.
On Nov. 20, the State and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) moved all regions into Tier 3 mitigations. These include limiting social gatherings to members of your immediate household only, as well as restrictions on retail, personal care, health and fitness centers, hotels, bars and restaurants, and more. The purpose of these mitigations is to limit indoor gatherings where the virus can easily spread from person to person.
Please choose virtual gatherings over in-person get-togethers. When you do go out for groceries or other essential errands, follow the 3 Ws to protect yourself and others:
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Wear a mask over your mouth and nose. This helps limit respiratory droplets from spreading through the air to others. A mask also offers some protection for the person wearing the mask.
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Wash your hands often using soap and water or use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, which can introduce the virus into your body.
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Watch your distance by keeping at least 6 feet between yourself and others at all times, even when you are wearing a mask. This reduces the likelihood of respiratory droplets being shared between people.
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Case Count Update
The Lake County Health Department continues to monitor COVID-19 cases in Lake County. As of Dec. 2, 36,888 Lake County residents have tested positive for COVID-19, including 626 deaths. Recently, our Health Department launched new features to our Coronavirus Data Hub as a resource to help Lake County residents better understand the impact of the pandemic on our communities. These resources include case trends and demographics, death demographics, and information on testing and hospitalizations. View the Lake County Coronavirus Datahub
As of Nov. 27, the rolling 7-day average testing positivity rate in North Suburban Region 9, which includes Lake and McHenry Counties, was 12.8 percent. View the Region 9 current information.
Upcoming COVID-19 Testing in Lake County
A free mobile COVID-19 testing unit managed by the Illinois Department of Public Health will be available at the following locations in December:
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Saturday, Dec. 5, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington Street, Grayslake.
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Sunday, Dec. 6, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Grant Community High School – South Lot, 285 Grand Avenue, Fox Lake.
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Monday, Dec. 14, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., College of Lake County, 19351, W. Washington Street, Grayslake.
Testing is free and open to all regardless of symptoms. A phone number and name are required in order to receive testing results. Photo identification and proof of insurance are helpful, but not required. High demand for testing may result in long wait times.
The state of Illinois operates the following testing sites, open seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Testing at these sites is free.
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Waukegan, 102 W. Water Street
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Arlington Heights, 2000 W. Euclid Ave.
Many healthcare providers in Lake County also have COVID-19 testing available. Please contact your provider or the facility to ask about testing criteria and appointment availability. Residents without a healthcare provider or insurance can contact the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center for an appointment at (847) 377-8800.
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COVID-19 Conference Calls for Business Owners and Community Leaders
To receive the latest information or to get answers to your questions, business owners, faith leaders and municipal leaders are invited to join twice-monthly conference calls hosted by the Lake County Health Department:
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Faith Leaders: Every first and third Wednesday, 10 a.m.
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Businesses: Every first and third Wednesday, 1 p.m.
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Municipal Leaders: Every first and third Wednesday, 2 p.m.
Get Help
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Get Help Paying Rent and Utilities
If you're a Lake County resident and need help paying rent or utility bills because you've lost income due to COVID-19, you are encouraged to apply for the Lake County COVID Housing Relief Program (CHRP).
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Upcoming Pop-Up Food Drives
Families in need of food are invited to come to the following pop-up food markets to receive free groceries. No ID or registration is required.
College of Lake County, 19351 West Washington Street, Grayslake, Parking Lot 5 on the southeast side, accessible off Lancer Lane: Every other Tuesday through at least December. Upcoming Dates: Dec. 15 and Dec. 29, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. To sign up to volunteer, visit www.SolveHunger
Today.org/Volunteer, or call (630) 443-6910. Read more
St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 27551 Volo Village Road, Volo: Every Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Grant Community High School, 285 Grand Avenue, Fox Lake: Saturday, Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to noon
Lake County CATCH Program Provides Food Assistance
The Lake County Community Action to Combat Hunger (CATCH) Program is still taking new clients. CATCH is a coalition of local organizations that connects families who are in need of food to resources. If you need to quarantine or isolate and can’t access food, the CATCH program can help. Call 211 to be connected.
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Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Resources
Lake County Partners and the College of Lake County’s Small Business Development Center continue to provide resources to help businesses ensure their Paycheck Protection Program loans are forgiven. Learn more
Employment Resources
Are you looking for a job during this challenging time of layoffs, furloughs, and hiring freezes? Here are some helpful resources from the Job Center of Lake County:
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Public Transportation for Everyone: Learn about bus and train solutions for job seekers, including the Regional Transportation Authority’s reduced fare, ride free and dial-a-ride programs and other travel planning tools. On Thursday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., learn more and
register for this online event.
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Four vital Virtual Tools for Job Seekers
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December Calendar of online events
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Visit the resource room. Jobseekers can set up a time to use the computers for a self-directed job search by calling 847 377 3450. Face coverings are required and social distancing guidelines will be followed.
Get Hired Illinois: Get Hired Illinois is a single portal where individuals can access virtual job fairs, free online training, and current job listings.
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Get Assistance With ComEd Bills
Small Business customers who have past due balances are invited to apply for one-time grants that would cover up to 30% of their outstanding balance, up to $1,000. Call 1-877-426-6331 for more information.
Residential customers who need help paying their outstanding ComEd balances and energy bills should contact ComEd's customer care team at 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334- 7661), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
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Helping Hand Program: ComEd's Helping Hand program offers immediate aid to eligible customers most in need during the pandemic. This program offers expedited, one-time financial assistance up to $300 for a limited time to help limited-income customers facing financial hardships. Learn more and apply online.
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Customer Hardship Grants: Residential customers facing financial hardship may be eligible to receive one-time CARE grants from ComEd to help them get back on their feet.
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Bill Payment Assistance Program: A one-time bill assistance credit of up to $500 is available until Dec. 31 for income eligible households with a past-due balance. Learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply at ComEd.com/BillAssistance.
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Flexible, Extended Payment Arrangements: For a limited time, residential customers may be eligible for flexible payment arrangements.
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.
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Transportation News
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View LIVE Road Conditions this Winter
Lake County has built several tools in-house through Lake County PASSAGE for you to get real-time, local traffic information throughout the winter season. YOU have access to the PASSAGE cameras which means you can look at real-time snapshots from major intersections. Turn on camera images in “Layer Options” at the top right, find intersections along your route, and check road conditions in each direction.
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Grand Avenue Closed east of Skokie Highway
Grand Avenue east of Skokie Highway (US 41) is closed at the railroad bridge until Monday, Dec. 7. The closure is necessary to demolish the Union Pacific Railroad temporary bridge as part of a project to improve Grand Avenue between Skokie Highway and Waveland Avenue.
A detour is directing traffic to Skokie Highway, Washington Street and Green Bay Road. More Information.
Health Department News
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and Diabetes Awareness Month. Those with underlying medical conditions are at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. During the pandemic, it continues to be important to talk to your doctor and schedule regular exams.
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Treasurer's Office News
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2nd Annual Treasurer's Toy Drive
The Treasurer's Office is spreading good cheer this holiday season! In partnership with local state representatives, the office is conducting its second annual toy drive. Unwrapped gifts are being collected through Dec. 16, and all toys will be donated to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office for distribution to agencies across Lake County. Please call the Treasurer’s Office at 847-377-2029 or your local state representative to coordinate pick-up or drop-off. Read more
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Public Works News
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Unincorporated Residents Eligible for Flood Insurance Premium Discounts
Property owners residing in unincorporated Lake County may be eligible to save an average of $281 a year on their flood insurance policies. Currently, there are more than 910 flood insurance policies in unincorporated Lake County. Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS) program, residents within unincorporated Lake County – who meet certain requirements – are eligible for up to 20% savings on flood insurance premiums. Property owners should contact their flood insurance agent to obtain individual savings information. Learn more
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Sheriff News
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Sheriff John D. Idleburg Appointed to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has appointed Sheriff John Idleburg as the Board Member of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board.
The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board is the state agency mandated to promote and maintain a high level of professional standards for law enforcement and correctional officers. Read more
Forest Preserve News
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Expand Your Experience
No matter where you live in Lake County, you’re fortunate to have a forest preserve within about a 10-minute drive of your home. It makes sense your nearby preserve is one you know best and frequent most often. Have you thought about expanding your experience to other perseveres and trails in the area? There are so many recreational treasures in the Lake County Forest Preserves. We asked some of our resident trail and history experts to highlight a few expanded experiences you can try during any season of the year. Learn more »
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Safety Tips to Protect Valuables
Do you know how long it takes to break a car window, unlock the door and remove items inside? Less than a minute! There has been an increase in vehicle break-ins since the pandemic began. During difficult economic times, it is more important than ever to take additional precautions to protect your valuables. Our Ranger Police strongly urge you to lock car doors, close windows, and keep personal property out of plain view, take it with you, or leave it at home. The simple act of placing valuables in the trunk of your car and out of plain view before you arrive at your destination can significantly reduce the likelihood of being a victim of auto burglary. Learn more »
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Virtual Program: Enjoying Winter in the Preserves
The winter season offers a different sensory experience in nature while the Lake County Forest Preserves provides a variety of recreational opportunities for you. Join Environmental Educator Jenny Sazama and Ranger Police Sergeant Eric Collins as they answer your questions virtually about winter recreation in the preserves. The live session takes place via Zoom or Facebook from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 9. This monthly Q&A series features a panel of educators and special guests excited to share their expertise about Lake County nature and history. The sessions take place the second Wednesday of the month. Learn more and get link to attend»
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Community Events and News
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New Partnership for Brae Loch Benefits CLC Culinary Students and Community
The vacant Brae Loch Golf Club banquet facility on Route 45 in Grayslake will soon be occupied with the next generation of culinary students learning at College of Lake County (CLC). CLC’s Board of Trustees recently approved a 20-year agreement with the Lake County Forest Preserves (LCFP), which owns and manages the Brae Loch property. Students and the community will both benefit from culinary programming and classes, including a student-run restaurant. Read More
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Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
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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, click here.
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