October 26, 2023
Dear Neighbor,
I hope you are having a wonderful fall! There is a lot happening around Lake County, but I first want to make you aware that a military related device washed in with the tide at the Lakeshore Preserve at Fort Sheridan this past weekend. The Waukegan bomb squad was contacted and the device was destroyed without incident. This is a good reminder as to why swimming is not allowed at Fort Sheridan. If you are walking along the lakeshore at Fort Sheridan and spot something suspicious, please contact our Ranger office at 847-549-5200.
Over the last few days I’ve been visiting with some of the non-profits that do great work across Lake County, like Northern Illinois Food Bank. For the past year in Lake County alone, 13.3 million meals were distributed via food pantries, soup kitchens, group homes, child-focused programs, and more. I was also able to observe Reading Power volunteers who work one-on-one with children to help them become better readers and writers. It was wonderful to speak to the volunteers about how much they enjoy it, which was very clear to me as I saw the children happily reading and writing with their buddies. I was also able to attend a ribbon cutting for a new Aspire home in Zion. Six adult people with disabilities live in this lovely home with the support of Aspire staff and volunteers, enabling them to attend local programs and work in and around their community.
Economic development is, of course, a key focus area for Lake County, and we are pleased to work with Lake County Partners to attract and maintain business. Ensuring that we have a workforce with the skills our companies need is priority, and the Regional Office of Education, College of Lake County, and Workforce Development are offering wonderful opportunities for training. You can read more here.
It is an honor and a privilege to represent you on the Lake County Board and the Forest Preserve board. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
 Sandy Hart
Lake County Board District 13
Sandy Hart Webpage
Lake County Government News
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Coroner's Office Holds First Ecumenical Indigent Burial
I am grateful that I was able to participate in an burial ceremony for indigent people who have passed away in Lake County. Coroner Jennifer Banek and the Lake County Coroner’s Office, in conjunction with Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago, conducted Lake County’s first Ecumenical Indigent Burial Ceremony at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville.
In total, the cremated remains of 79 indigent/unclaimed people were interred in the cemetery. "I am thankful to be able to lay to rest these community members in a dignified and respectful manner. May their memories be a blessing," said Coroner Jennifer Banek. "At the coroner's office, one of our charges is to be the final caretaker for indigent decedents, and I am humbled that we can provide them a final resting place." Funeral directors from throughout the county transported the remains from the coroner’s office to the cemetery with an escort from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
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Don’t Trash It - Smash It!
Divert your pumpkin from the landfill and help turn it into useful compost by bringing your pumpkin to one of numerous Pumpkin Smash locations across Lake County. The Pumpkin Smash is an annual effort by the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County and communities across the county. See locations
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Shoes, Shred and Seeds Event
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County and City of Highland Park will host a Shoes, Shred and Seeds Event from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 28 at the shared parking lot at 1201 Park Ave. W. Bring confidential documents to be shredded, shoes that can be reused or recycled and get a packet of seeds for plants that will benefit pollinators. Learn more
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East and West Skokie Drainage District Consolidation Complete
I'm pleased to announce that we continue to successfully consolidate and eliminate redundant and unnecessary taxing bodies for the benefit of Lake County taxpayers. The Skokie East and the Skokie West Drainage Districts are now the Skokie Consolidated Drainage District (SCDD). I want to thank the appointed residents of both districts who worked hard on this effort. While the current property assessment fees, operational activities, and level of service will remain the same, we will have a reduction in costs from improved administrative and operational efficiency. The funding that is freed up will be dedicated to much needed streambank stabilization projects. Learn more |
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Expect to Hear Train Horns Sound When Trains Approach Railroad Crossings
A quiet zone was established in 2007 through a joint partnership with local municipalities to limit trains from sounding their horns at certain crossing locations within Lake County. This quiet zone has been temporarily suspended by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) until modifications are made at 12 identified crossing locations.
It is the responsibility of the participating quiet zone municipalities, not the Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT), to complete the modifications to the crossings to bring them into compliance with FRA guidelines. LCDOT is responsible for reviewing and issuing permits for work performed within the county highway right-of-way. All impacted communities are working swiftly to complete the required improvements and anticipate the quiet zone to be reinstated by the new year. View a map of impacted rail lines
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Lake County and Pace Celebrate Round Lake Area On Demand Service
Transportation is a challenge for many Lake County residents, so I was happy to celebrate the expansion of the Round Lake Area On Demand service. Pace On Demand is an innovative alternative to traditional bus service, offering a reservation-based, shared-ride service in 10 designated service areas throughout the suburban region at the same low fare as the fixed route bus services ($2 with Ventra, $2.25 with cash).The change more than doubles the service area and adds more vehicles to the program, providing additional flexible weekday service to a larger portion of western Lake County. Learn more
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Unincorporated Residents Are 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 percent savings on flood insurance premiums. Property owners should contact their flood insurance agent to obtain individual savings information. Learn more
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Provide Input on Hunt Club, Stearns School Road Intersection Improvement
The Lake County Division of Transportation is studying potential improvements to the intersection of Hunt Club and Stearns School Road, and we want to hear from you!
A virtual forum has been created for you to share your ideas through Thursday Oct. 26. Use the interactive comment map to provide an exact location of your input. All input submitted through the website goes directly to the project study team. If you miss this date and would still like to provide feedback, please email me. Provide your input and learn more
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Snowbirds Are Needed This Winter
The Lake County Division of Transportation is hiring snowbirds for the winter season. Help plow the county roads when the snow starts to fly. The temporary road maintenance workers will be needed Dec. 1 to March 31, 2024. Learn More
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Watch Out for Deer on the Roads this Fall
Crashes involving deer increase significantly during the fall during deer mating season. Deer become more active, mainly at dawn and dusk from October through December. Last year, there were 14,524 crashes involving deer in Illinois. Driving tips
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The Leaves are Falling! The Leaves are Falling!
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year in Lake County, a chance to enjoy the cooler weather and changing leaves. Fall also signifies a time of year that is all too familiar with property owners, leaf cleanup! As you glance at the colorful leaves now laying at your feet, consider mulching or composting as some options when collecting those leaves this fall.
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Meet Our New Public Works Director!
Austin McFarlane has been appointed by the Lake County Board as the Director for the Lake County Public Works Department. McFarlane is a long-term Lake County employee with more than 30 years of working at Lake County Public Works Department. "Austin has led critically important initiatives that modernize our water and sewer infrastructure, improve water quality, and increase system resiliency," said Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. "We look forward to continue working with Austin on projects involving the county's most valuable asset, our water." Our Public Works team provides water and sanitary sewer service to about 40 percent of Lake County's population, primarily the unincorporated areas. Learn more
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Patrice Sutton Recommended to be Lake County’s Next County Administrator
I am pleased to announce that the County will enter into contract negotiations with Patrice Sutton to become Lake County’s next County Administrator. Patrice’s deep knowledge of Lake County Government, work ethic, and collaborative leadership style makes her an excellent fit, and I look forward to working with her in her new role. Ms. Sutton currently serves as Lake County’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), a role she has held for the last six years.
Prior to her appointment as CFO, Ms. Sutton was Lake County’s Deputy Finance Director for six years. She has considerable experience and expertise in the financial and management arena, having served in multiple roles in public and private sectors throughout her career. Learn more
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Health News
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Properly Dispose Unused, Expired Prescription Drugs
Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, misuse, and overdose. Lake County is joining National Drug Enforcement Agency Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 28 and urges you to properly dispose unused drugs to save lives and the environment. Find a collection box near you
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Mental Health First Aid is a free course that teaches you how to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The Lake County Health Department’s Mental Health First Aid initiative is now offering classes virtually. This includes a two-hour self-paced course, followed by four hours of instructor-led training delivered virtually. The virtual course curricula includes expanded content on trauma, addiction and self-care.
View Upcoming Classes and Register
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County Clerk's Office News |
Help Design the 2024 "I Voted" Sticker
Kindergarten through twelfth grade students are invited to channel their inner artist and help design the 2024 “I Voted” sticker.
The Lake County Clerk’s Office’s sticker design contest is open now through Nov. 30. Students may submit entries online, in person at the County Clerk’s Office or by mail. The grand prize winner will receive a gift card and the honor of having their design transformed into the official Lake County “I Voted” sticker for the 2024 elections. The winner be chosen Dec. 6. Learn more
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Be Aware of Misleading Lien Notices
Lake County residents need to be aware of “official-looking” letters that may claim a lien on a resident’s property but can involve false information and requests for higher charges for documents or services that the Lake County Clerk’s Office would charge.
These letters will look like they originated from an official government office with names such as “Lake County Public Judgment Record.” Learn more
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Veteran News |
Veterans are invited to register and join the 2023 Veteran's History Project, hosted by the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Illinois.
On Nov. 10, veterans will be interviewed by volunteers and have their oral histories recorded by official court reporters who will produce written verbatim transcripts. The typed transcripts will be archived at The Library of Congress, making their personal accounts accessible to future generations.
The registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 27. Learn more and register
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Sheriff's Office News
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Donate New, Gently Used Winter Clothing to Help Veterans, Families
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Midwest Veterans Closet are collecting donations of new and gentled used winter clothing for veterans and their families now through Dec. 4. Please bring your donation to one of seven locations. View the drop-off locations
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Get Help
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Call 211 to Get Connected to the Help You Need
If you need help 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. Speak to a live person in English or Spanish when you call. The 211 team will also interpret more than 150 other languages. Learn more
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Job Center of Lake County Is Your Career Solution
The Job Center of Lake County can help you to transition careers, identify job opportunities and connect with employers.
Watch this video to learn more about the virtual and onsite resources that are available to all job seekers through the Job Center partners. And view the full Job Center calendar to learn about various upcoming events and resources.
Check Hire Lake County
Check Hire Lake County for information about job opportunities and businesses vetted by the Job Center’s business service team.
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Forest Preserves News
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2024 Budget Approved
In order to continue moving toward its 100-Year Vision to preserve and sustain Lake County's natural landscape and extend community outreach and education, the Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners approved the fiscal year 2024 budget earlier this month.
The $66,825,199 budget represents a decrease of $23,663,504 (26.15%) from the previous year’s modified budget. The decrease is due to a reduction in capital expenditures. The budget covers expenditures for the period from January 1 through December 31, 2024. “I’m proud of this conservative budget and everything that it will help us accomplish,” said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Learn more »
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Illuminate Your Nights
Struggling to enjoy nature with the earlier sunsets? Starting Sunday, November 5, explore two Lake County forest preserves under the soft glow of solar-lit trails.
Small solar lights guide the way so hikers, skiers and snowshoers can get some evening exercise along the 1.3-mile fitness trail at Old School Forest Preserve in Mettawa, and along a hilly 1.65-mile section of the Millennium Trail adjacent to the Winter Sports Area at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda.
The solar lights serve as a guide along the trails. Visitors are encouraged to bring a flashlight or headlamp for added illumination. Though regular preserve hours are 6:30 a.m. to sunset, the illuminated trails and adjacent parking lots will remain open until 9 p.m. daily through Sunday, March 10. Learn more »
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Dunn Museum Sensory-Friendly Hour
Experience a special hour at the Dunn Museum. An exclusive Sensory-Friendly Hour takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday, November 19. Dive into history in a tranquil setting before public hours and find solace in a designated quiet room.
Creative crafts and hands-on education tools will be provided in the café space. Registration is required. All ages are welcome. Price is available on the website. Get a ticket»
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History Symposium Proposals Accepted
Love history? Professional, amateur and student historians are invited to submit proposals by November 6 for presentations at the Lake County History Symposium, an annual gathering of people interested in the history of Lake County.
This year’s theme, “Good Neighbors: Making a Difference in Lake County” shares stories of individuals and organizations that made significant contributions to society and continue working to improve their communities today. The Symposium takes place virtually on Zoom on January 4 and 18, 2024 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Learn more »
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Sign Up for Prescribed Burn Notifications
During fall, winter and spring, our professionally trained crews conduct prescribed burns across hundreds of acres throughout your forest preserves. Prescribed burns are considered a natural resource manager’s most cost-effective tool available for managing natural communities.
Mailed notifications will be discontinued after this fall. If you would like to receive a digital, phone call or email notification when a prescribed burn is happening near you or if you have special health concerns, complete this contact form »
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Community Events and News
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Trick or Treat, Lake County!
It's time when the young and young-at-heart adorn their creative costumes, embracing Halloween with enthusiasm and anticipation. Explore the captivating world of kid-friendly trick-or-treating in Lake County, where holiday magic awaits around every corner.
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Immerse Yourself in the Charm of Fall Foliage
As the leaves turn from vibrant greens to hues of fiery reds and golden yellows, Lake County transforms into a captivating canvas of fall magic. Amidst the crisp air and the scent of pumpkin spice, there's no better time to capture the essence of the season than now.
Join a picturesque journey as Visit Lake County unveils the most festive fall photo locations in Lake County.
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Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
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All Lake County board and committee meetings can be viewed on 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 also is welcome to attend all meetings in person at the Lake County Administrative Tower, 18 N. County Street, Waukegan or may attend meetings remotely using the registration link on the front page of each meeting’s agenda.
Individuals attending meetings in person or remotely may present their public comments during the meeting. Those not in attendance may provide written public comment via email or by mail. View the current meeting schedule.
All meetings are recorded and are posted on the Lake County website.
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