I hope you, family and friends had a great Thanksgiving. I relished seeing the lighting of downtown Grayslake to illuminate the start of the holiday season.

Since we’re heading toward the end of the year, I’m happy to report progress on a number of community projects. Most of them will improve our environment and quality of life.

On Monday, I was thrilled to grab a shovel for the virtual groundbreaking of the Haryan Farms/Western Grayslake flood remediation project. A new drainage pipe will help relieve stormwater in and around Haryan Farms.

For those of you who were here in 2017, Grayslake residents got walloped with record rainfall, causing significant damage to neighbors’ homes. The completion of this project will provide new, enhanced flood protection for the western portions of the village through the installation of a new outfall storm sewer as well as protect the wetland ecosystems in their neighborhoods.   

Work at the site includes the construction of a 30-inch storm sewer pipe connecting the Haryan Farms North Pond to the existing detention pond northwest of the Lake Street and Washington Street intersection. In addition, a new storm sewer will be installed to extend into the Village of Grayslake Metra Station campus. This will limit the amount of excess standing water in the subdivision ponds. 

Many thanks to the Village of Grayslake, our county Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) and our state representatives for funding this $1.4 million public works partnership project, which will get underway next year. I was thrilled to advocate for this improvement. Since climate change is causing more extreme weather events, we’re trying to adapt our infrastructure to better protect our area.

I’m also excited to report that the SMC is involved in another area public works project. The commission recently approved a contract for a wetland restoration study on forest preserve land in Rollins Savanna where Mill Creek has its confluence with Third Lake. SMC is studying whether improving the adjoining wetland will improve water quality and reduce silting in Third Lake. Thanks to our Forest Preserve ecologists, Third Lake Mayor Butch Buckley and SMC Director Kurt Woolford for getting this work off the ground.

FY2024 Budget Approved

Every year, the County Board works through the arduous process of drafting, debating and approving an annual budget. With a sharp focus on public safety and the environment, we passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Budget earlier this month.

Highlights of next year’s budget include funding a Regional Tree Initiative; a Gun Violence Prevention Specialist; and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program. The FY2024 budget also includes funding for presidential year election costs and an employee compensation study.

Like most organizations (and taxpayers), we were gobsmacked by inflation. Although we’ve held the line by not raising our levy the past four years – the preceding 20 years saw yearly increases by previous administrations -- we had to earmark more dollars for higher expenses across the board. We are also building new infrastructure such as a badly-needed, energy-efficient (“net zero”) county emergency operations facility, which had been situated in a converted house for decades. Our blueprint for this budget is to provide exceptional services for Lake County’s communities and environment.

"The approved budget demonstrates the County Board's commitment towards investing in our talented employees and infrastructure while continuing to provide outstanding services for residents and be fiscally responsible," said Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. 

Please note: Fortunately, for homeowners, your property-tax impact will be small. For the average $280,000 Lake County home, property taxes paid to the county will only increase by about $7.

Also note that the lion’s share of your tax bills – from the high school and elementary school districts – have been dropping in recent years in some of our area thanks to increased state education funding. Since Springfield is largely responsible for financing our public school system, I am working with our legislators to pay more of this growing bill. That’s how we’re going to see the most meaningful reductions in our real estate taxes.

Sustainability

I was invited to speak and answer questions at the College of Lake County Sustainability Club recently. Thanks to club president Jake Pardus and members who attended.

Since I relish talking about -- and acting -- on improving environmental quality in our area, it was an honor to engage with this dynamic group of students. I’ve also been working with the Round Lake High School “Green Panthers” club, which stepped up to volunteer at a recent Nippersink volunteer workday. Heartfelt thanks to all of our volunteers. Learn more about conservation and restoration volunteer opportunities available through the Lake County Forest Preserves. 
 

Speaking of sustainability, there are several local activities you can engage in to help our environment.

The Solar Switch Chicagoland program, which is endorsed by Lake County Government, is still open for residents who want to install home solar systems I installed mine through this program in 2021 and haven’t had an electric bill in more than a year.

Several non-profit groups running this program buy solar systems and installation services at a bulk discount, so you can save significant money on this purchase. Learn more

Looking to help a non-profit that invests in our Forest Preserves? The Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves needs your support. They finance a number of our great education programs. A year-end or ongoing donation is a perfect gift for lovers of our great Forest Preserves.

Passings

Our county and community lost three friends in recent weeks.

Skip “Two Doors” Twardosz shared many of his Native American traditions at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. He played a vital role assisting Museum staff in how to display and store collections respectfully. Skip served as a guiding voice in helping us craft the District’s Land Acknowledgement, reflecting his deep commitment to indigenous heritage.

Additionally, he assumed the role of an educator, sharing his expertise during programs at the Museum, which is overseen by the Lake County Forest Preserves. We will miss his humor and wisdom. Personally, I will always cherish our conversations where I had the privilege of gaining insights into the Native traditions that hold such significance in our mission to honor and preserve.

Glenn Ryback, mayor of Wadsworth, was also board chair of the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County. I was proud to serve with him on SWALCO’s executive committee and SMC in past years. He was always a gentleman and dedicated public servant.

Pat Serzynski of West Miltmore, who retired as business manager for IBEW Local 150, died in a boating accident several weeks ago. I knew Pat and enjoyed his compassion, wit and service to this community.

My deepest condolences to family and friends of these men. I’m glad our journeys intersected. Their memory will live on in the care and work they left behind.

I hope this holiday season finds you well and enjoying joyous and peaceful traditions you and your family embrace. If you need immediate assistance with county services, please call 2-1-1. And if you’d like to invite me to talk with your community or faith group in the coming year, please contact me at JWasik@lakecountyil.gov. 

Environmental News

The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County wants to help Lake County green the holiday season by offering free opportunities to recycle your old and unwanted strings of lights. Visit one of four locations across the county to drop off your wire string holiday lights and extension cords.

We’re entering the holiday season and during this time of the year we create a large amount of waste. Our waste stream increases by 25-43% between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. Most of it just ends up in a landfill, but food can be diverted and put to good use through composting.

Learn more about composting by watching this video.

Transportation News

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) introduced Move Illinois: the 2024 Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) which will strategically outline goals, objectives, and strategies for Illinois' diverse transportation network for the next 20 to 30 years.

Help the project team identify the plan’s goals and objectives by taking their survey. The survey will close by Dec. 31. IDOT also is holding Virtual Advisory Group webinars that will shape the plan's strategic goals, objectives, and strategies, influencing Illinois’ diverse transportation network for the next 20 to 30 years. 

The LRTP will take place through late 2024. Your input is critical for developing a well-rounded plan. Learn more

Metra has approved a $1.1 billion operating budget for 2024 that includes a major revision to its fare structure and new mix of fare products.

The fare structure was created to be easy to understand, encourage ridership, simplify onboard fare collection and meet Metra’s financial and technical constraints. Under the new fare structure, which will start Feb. 1, 2024, fares will be equal to or lower than 2018 levels.

Learn more

The Transit app offers trip plan results that now include Pace On Demand – making it easier than ever to plan rides throughout the region. Pace On Demand offers a reservation-based, shared-ride service in 10 designated service areas throughout the suburban region, which include the Round Lake Area and Vernon Hills-Mundelein.

Reservations can be made up to 7 days in advance and as little as ten minutes prior to pick-up time, based on availability. Learn more by viewing this flyer in English and Spanish.

Health News

Every U.S. household is eligible to order an additional four free at-home COVID-19 rapid tests delivered directly to their home.

If you did not order tests this fall, you may place two orders for a total of eight tests. The order is free, which includes shipping. This service is managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Order your tests

Election News

The Lake County Clerk's Office has announced increased compensation for the diligent and dedicated pollworkers who play an essential role in ensuring the smooth conduct of elections within our community as a result of the recently approved budget passed by the Lake County Board on Nov. 14.

The County Clerk's Office relies on hundreds of community members to serve in a variety of roles to ensure adequate staffing for every election. It is the policy of the Office of the County Clerk to compensate these pollworkers for their time, training, and service in ensuring effective election administration.

The Lake County Clerk's Office encourages community members interested in becoming pollworkers to apply here.  Learn more

More than 135 high school students in Lake County gained meaningful work experience while earning a paycheck during the 2023 Lake County Summer Youth Employment Program.

Funded by the Lake County Board, the program offers students a paid, part-time work experience. For most student workers, this represents their first job. Hear from supervisors and student workers regarding work assignments and what students gained from the experience.

Watch video

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.

This year, the 19^th Judicial Circuit’s Problem Solving Court Teams, which includes Drug Court, Mental Health Court, and Veteran’s Assistance Court joined the Lake County’s Division of Transportation Adopt-A-Highway Program.  Initiated by Public Defender Joy Gossman, the team was able to adopt the Robert McClory Bike Path in North Chicago. 

Judge Christen Bishop and Judge Paul Novak, who oversaw the project, were joined by members of the Public Defender’s Office, the Adult Probation Division, Psychological Services and several current Problem Solving Court clients as well as peer support specialists and program alumni.

This initiative is not only a great way to give back to the community, but it also provides an opportunity for Problem Solving Court clients to interact with team members in a pro-social environment outside of a Courtroom. Both clean-ups were deemed great successes. The team is already anticipating even more clients and members will partake in the next event which is being planned for early spring.

Email Adult Probation Assistant Director Jeff Ross at jross@lakecountyil.gov for more information about our Lake County Problem Solving Courts.

Forest Preserves News 

The Chicago Wilderness Alliance recognized the Lake County Forest Preserves with two prestigious awards.

Restoration work at Greenbelt Forest Preserve in North Chicago was honored with a Platinum-level Excellence in Ecological Restoration award. And the esteemed George B. Rabb Force of Nature Award for 2023 celebrates the Chiwaukee Prairie–Illinois Beach Lake Plain Partnership, a regional collaborative project initiated by the Forest Preserves in 2010. Learn more»

Explore the night. Join an educator for a guided twilight stroll on a solar-lit trail. Participants will learn about animals that are active at dusk.

The program runs from 5 to 6 p.m., Sunday, December 10 at Old School Forest Preserve in Mettawa. Designed for adults, the cost is $5 for Lake County residents and $7 for nonresidents. Email AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org with questions. Get a ticket »

Discover winter wonders at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. During special winter break hours, visitors of all ages can engage in creative crafts, delve into fossil mysteries or experience sensory-friendly exploration times.

Programs take place during the day on Wednesday, December 27 and Thursday, December 28. Registration is required. Times and pricing are listed on our website. Get a ticket »

Get Help

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 person in English or Spanish when you call. The 211 team will also interpret more than 150 other languages. Learn more 

Community Events and News

Take a journey through Lake County's most enchanting light events, from the magical tree lighting ceremonies illuminating town squares with a warm, golden glow to the mesmerizing lightscapes that transform gardens into captivating wonderlands. Take a delightful ride through holiday drive-thru lights extravaganzas where miles of twinkling lights create a dazzling path to explore.

Discover Visit Lake County’s guide to holiday light displays to enjoy the festive magic that twinkling lights create.

Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings