Dear Neighbors,
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After 20 years of working with communities in Green Oaks, Libertyville and surrounding unincorporated Lake County, I am thrilled to give you this update on the Patriot Path! Please read the details below.
There will be an opening on the South Lake Mosquito Abatement District for a Village of Riverwoods resident. If you are interested, please contact me for more information.
As always, feel free to contact me about these or other issues. I am available to meet with groups in a setting that is comfortable for you.
Transportation News
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Patriot Path Design Gets IDOT Approval
The design of the proposed multi-use "Patriot Path" was recently approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), marking a key milestone that allows Lake County to move through Phase 2 of the project and plan for construction in the coming years.
The proposed Patriot Path is slated to run off-road along IL 137 from near Independence Grove Forest Preserve to Naval Station Great Lakes. It would be 5.5 miles long and serve as a key connection to other regional trails such as the Robert McClory Bike Path and Des Plaines River Trail. Learn more about the Patriot Path
Provide Input on IDOT’s IL 120 PEL Study
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) recently held a public meeting to introduce the IL 120 Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) Study. The purpose of the study is to analyze current and future traffic and safety data along with community, environmental, and economic considerations on IL 120 from IL 60 to Almond Road in Lake County.
You can view the information displayed at the public meeting and learn how to submit input at il120study.com. Comments IDOT receives by May 24 will become part of the official public information meeting record.
Lake County Government News
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Lake County Homelessness Data Released
The results are in from the most recent annual assessment of unhoused individuals in Lake County. This assessment, called the Lake County Point in Time Count (P.I.T.), is a count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night every January. The annual count occurs not just in Lake County, but in counties across the U.S. and is reported to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
This year’s P.I.T. count accounted for 701 individuals and an increase in those who are unhoused (unsheltered and currently in shelters) by 50 percent compared to 2023. The volunteers who participate in the overnight count utilize a specific list of questions to create an accurate snapshot of the unhoused. View the homelessness data released
Join the Digital Equity Coalition
 The Lake County’s Digital Growth Initiative is excited to be launching a Digital Equity Coalition! This Coalition is geared toward government, private, community and nonprofit organizations that are interested in improving digital equity across our county.
The Digital Equity Coalition will meet regularly to discuss projects and collaborate with coalition members to implement these plans. If you’re interested in joining, fill out this interest form so we can learn more about you and your work.
Learn more about the Digital Growth Initiative
Property News
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Property Tax Bills Are Being Mailed
Property tax bills are being mailed. Online bills are available and also will be sent via email to those who have signed up for that service.
The Lake County Treasurer’s Office also offers a feature, providing a text alert. You will still receive your bill by mail or online if you signed up for online billing. As always, be cautious of every text you receive.
The first installment of your property tax bill is due June 5, and the second installment is due Sept. 5. Paying your taxes is as quick and easy as a trip to your local bank or paying by eCheck online for free. Learn about your payment options
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Sustainability News
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Learn More About Discount Solar Installation through Solar Switch
Solar Switch is a program that allows homeowners and small businesses to secure a discount on solar panel installation. Optional add-ons such as battery storage and EV chargers are also available through the program.
Federal and State incentives can further reduce system costs. It is free to register, and there is no obligation to purchase a system. Take advantage of this opportunity by registering by May 15.
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Health News
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Take the Moment to Address Mental Health Care
One in five U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, and only half of them receive treatment. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to break down stigma, raise awareness, and promote mental health well-being.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) aims to normalize the practice of taking moments to prioritize mental health care without guilt or shame through their “Take the Moment” campaign. Visit NAMI to learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month.
For those in a mental health crisis visit the Crisis Care Program. Visit Behavioral Health Services to learn more about the services that Lake County offers.
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State's Attorney's Office News
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State’s Attorney’s Office Honors National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
The Lake County State's Attorney's Office Gun Violence Prevention Initiative unveiled the 2024 Violence Prevention Plan (VPP) as part of recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
The plan, which is a collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community members, is the first of its kind in the county and seeks to provide residents with transparency and a strategic roadmap for how the GVPI plans to reduce and prevent gun violence in Lake County.
The plan is just one tool in the office (along with the Violent Crimes Prosecution Unit and a renewed Cyber Lab) to reduce gun violence now, and decades into the future.
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Coroner's Office News
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Annual Report Is Unveiled, Offering Patterns, Trends Within County
Lake County, while well-known for its vibrant communities and natural serenity, also unfortunately grapples with the realities of mortality and public health. The unveiling of the 2023 Lake County Coroner's Annual Report offers profound insights into the dynamics of life and death within our county.
The 2023 Coroner's Report serves as a comprehensive chronicle, documenting the patterns and trends shaping mortality within Lake County. The 2023 report also serves as a testament to our commitment to transparency and accountability. Learn more about the 2023 Annual Report
Job News
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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. The website now has a new look including improved navigation and streamlined content.
Navigate to the featured content, including workforce solutions for businesses, career resources for job seekers, job opportunities vetted by our business service team and a robust calendar of events. And while on the website, try the “select language” feature in the upper right corner of the page.
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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Job Center On the Move
Meet with a Job Center representative one on one to work on the next steps in your career. Choose from a menu of custom services when you register.
Job Center on the Move will be available at: Catholic Charities in Round Lake, Legacy Reentry Foundation in Waukegan, the North Chicago Public Library and the Zion-Benton Public Library in Zion.
Learn more about On the Move and the May and June dates to attend a one-on-one session. This is administered on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Get Help
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Use 211 to Get Connected to the Help You Need
If you need help finding food, healthcare, shelter, or other 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 languages. The service is free and confidential. Learn more about 211
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Forest Preserves News
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Summer Serenade
Experience a variety of musical genres at Independence Grove's Concerts in the Plaza series, happening every Tuesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. from June 11 to Aug. 6.
From country and blues to rock, jazz, and reggae, there's something for everyone to enjoy, and 100% of your vehicle entrance fee directly supports the Forest Preserves' endowment fund. Managed by the Preservation Foundation, the endowment provides a perpetual, dependable funding source to care for beloved preserves such as Independence Grove. Learn more about the entertainment lineup.
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Fox River Marina Options
Embark on your sun-soaked adventures at Fox River Marina in Port Barrington. The Marina is your boat's slip, launch and storage location. The 169-slip Marina offers 20, 25 and 30-foot slips. Larger slips provide electric and water access, and optional in/out privileges. Take advantage of a four-lane launch for boats and personal watercraft. Indoor dry storage is available.
The Marina is open from 6:30 a.m. to sunset daily. The surrounding water makes a great playground for a variety of sports, including wakeboarding, water-skiing, tubing and fishing. Learn more »
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Safely Cycle Your Preserves
Proper etiquette is important while cycling on the trails. Please remember to:
- Travel at a safe speed. The speed limit is as posted and 20 mph where not posted.
- Ride on the right side of the trail. Allow ample space on the left for others to pass.
- Yield to pedestrians and equestrians.
- Avoid riding when trails are too wet.
- Learn more »
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Community Events & News
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Celebrate May in Lake County
Celebrate spring in Lake County with exciting activities in May. From vibrant festivals to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to make unforgettable memories in Lake County by checking Visit Lake County’s Top 10 Things to Do in May.
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Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
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The public is welcome to attend all County Board and committee meetings in person at the Lake County Administrative Tower, 18 N. County St., 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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