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Dear Neighbor,
I hope this newsletter finds you well and ready to enjoy a beautiful Memorial Day weekend! There are many Memorial Day celebrations across Lake County on Monday; please take time to remember and honor members of the military who lost their lives in service to our country.
Congratulations and thank you to our Lake County teachers and educational staff! Regional Superintendent Dr. Michael Karner recently held the Lake County Awards Ceremony to honor those who are making a difference in the lives of our children. Dawn Smith, a second-grade teacher at Big Hollow Elementary School, received the Teacher of the Year Award, and a special shout out to Kate Whitehead, who teaches Pre-K in Lake Bluff, my own school district. Read more below.
In April, Stormwater Management Commission held a public meeting in Knollwood to get feedback from residents on flooding on their property and the area. Responses are being compiled to create a Drainage Improvement Concept Plan that will be used to make necessary capital improvements to protect homes and infrastructure. If you have something to add, please use this link.
I am really proud of the leadership that Lake County Government shows on a regular basis. Earlier this month the Lake County Board approved a policy that requires new Lake County government buildings to use bird-friendly glass to mitigate bird collisions. Lake County lies within one of the major bird migratory routes in North America. According to Birdcast, more than 37 million birds have crossed the region this spring. This is one of many sustainability efforts Lake County is undertaking as part of our Strategic Plan.
I often talk about the importance of transparency in government, and I want to thank the Lake County Government appointees of the Fire Protection Districts for their positive response to my request to add more information to their websites for the public. Budgets, meeting minutes, monthly expenses, and background on new business items are being posted so residents can easily access how tax dollars are being spent. I will be working with Sanitary and Drainage Districts in the near future.
Lastly, I was honored to speak at Lake County Partner's Big Event last week! Kudos to Fischer Paper for receiving the community investment award in recognition of the tremendous work they do across Lake County. Congrats also to Gina Schuyler, from Grayslake School District 127 who received the talent achievement award for her work connecting high school students with career and tech education.
As always, it is an honor and a privilege to represent you on the Lake County Board and the Forest Preserve Board. I hope you have a wonderful and safe Memorial Day weekend.
Lake County Government News
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First Property Tax Bill Due June 5
Property tax bills have been 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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Public Transportation Offerings for People With Disabilities, Low Income Customers.
New Rideshare Access Program
Pace has launched its Rideshare Access Program (RAP) to provides riders with disabilities an option to book rideshares with Uber and UZURV at a discounted rate, subsidized by Pace. This program provides paratransit passengers an easy-to-use option to travel throughout the six-county service region. Learn more about the RAP program
Free Fixed Route Bus Fares for Paratransit Riders
Pace also has introduced free fares for all riders with disabilities, making it easier for ADA Paratransit passengers to access the region-wide network of fixed-route buses. Paratransit passengers need to show their card to their driver when boarding the bus. The fixed route buses are fully accessible with ramps, dedicated seating areas, audio and visual stop announcements, and other accessibility features. Learn more
Travel Training Program
The RTA offers a free Travel Training Program to teach older adults and people with a disability how to use public transportation in the RTA region. The goal is to increase travel independence and is customized based on a person’s need. To sign up, email traveltraing@rtachicago.org or call 312-913-3120.
Access Pilot Program
Reduced fares are available through the Metra system to riders experiencing low incomes through the Regional Transportation Authority Access Pilot Program. All Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipient household members within RTA’s six-county jurisdiction are eligible for reduced fare. The pilot program will end July 31, 2025. Learn more, including how to apply.
RTA also coordinates discounted fare and free ride programs to qualifying riders in the region. Learn more about these programs
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
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
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Sheriff’s Office Holds Annual Police Memorial
Last week I attended the Lake County Sheriff's Office annual Police Memorial. It was another beautiful event, and we heard several speakers talk about the importance of honoring those who have served. Lake County law enforcement, community, and stakeholders recently gathered to honor and pay tribute to the 20 law enforcement heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice, serving and protecting the people of Lake County. The Lake County Board had a special recognition to recognize National Police Week, May 15-21.
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Lake County K9s and Other Service Dogs in Lake County
You may have heard in the news about the passing of Dax, a K9 unit dog who died shortly after sustaining injuries while assisting in an arrest. Dax and his handler, Deputy John Forlenza, were recognized nationally for their work over the years, which included locating missing and/or endangered people, finding firearms and illegal drugs, and recovering millions of dollars. Dax was an extraordinary dog, and just one of many in Lake County's K9 unit. Lake County also has dogs that assist the State's Attorney Office, including Linden, a comfort dog who joined the Children's Advocacy Center last week; Grip, an electronics detection dog, and Hitch, who just retired last month.
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2024 Educator of the Year Is Announced
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Dawn Smith of Big Hollow Elementary District 38 was announced as the 2024 Educator of the Year as the Lake County Regional Office of Education held its annual Educator of the Year event earlier this month.
The event honored over 140 educators in Lake County and recognized the contribution of maintenance and custodial staff. View the full list of this year's honorees |
Lake County Honored by Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board
Lake County was recently honored by NIFSAB for passing an ordinance requiring fire sprinklers for most new homes in the unincorporated area. The adoption implements the International Residential Code, which requires the installation of fire sprinklers in all new one- and two-family homes. As part of the code adoptions, the minimum threshold for commercial buildings to be protected with fire sprinklers was also lowered to 5,000 square feet. Prior to this, the threshold for commercial buildings varied throughout the county. I want to thank NIFSAB for their partnership that will help keep firefighters and residents safe.
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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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Animal Care and Control Program Has New Facebook Group
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The Lake County Health Department’s Animal Care and Control program has a new Facebook group. Here, you can find updates on found, reunited and rescued pets in Lake County. Join the group
To report a lost or found animal, contact Animal Care and Control at 847-377-4700 or email animalcare@lakecountyil.gov. |
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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Advocating for Key Policy Issues in Springfield
I recently joined fellow County Board Members and met with officials from 40 counties across the state to advocate for key policy issues as the Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo) in partnership with the United Counties Council of Illinois hosted the first annual Illinois County Lobby Day in Springfield. Among the topics that were addressed were the importance of safe firearm storage, the increased protection of our wetlands and natural resources and our overall legislative program.
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Superintendent Tangen Addresses Claims, Appeals for Veterans
Superintendent Andrew Tangen of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County testified before the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs on Capitol Hill on several pending and proposed legislative initiatives considered by Congress.
These initiatives focus on improving the processing of claims and appeals for benefits in the veteran community. These legislative initiatives may bring faster, more accurate decisions to veterans and survivors and clearer communication from the VA so that veterans and survivors have a better understanding of the decisions they receive on benefits.
The Veterans Assistance Commission provides a variety of services to veterans and their families including VA disability claims advocacy, financial assistance, burial benefits and survivor’s benefits. All services are provided at no charge to the veteran. Learn more
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· Public Works Five-year Capital Improvement Program is Released
- Lake County Public Works has released its 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Program. Some of these projects will be part of this year's busy construction season. Our team continues to be proactive in preserving, modernizing, and expanding infrastructure through the Capital Improvement Program. In some areas, we will be replacing more than 60+ year old pipes, and in other areas crews will be building new infrastructure to ensure our service areas can keep up with increased demand.
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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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Beer Garden at Independence Grove is Now Open!
The Beer Garden at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville opened Saturday, May 4 for the summer! The popular venue features a variety of Lake County craft brews on tap, along with packaged snacks and other beverages. Plenty of casual lakeside seating is available. The hours are:
- Beginning May 4: Friday through Sunday, 1 to 9 p.m.
- Special hours Monday, May 27: 1 to 9 p.m.
- Beginning May 28: Tuesday through Thursday, 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday: 1 to 9 p.m.
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Learn more »
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Cicada Symphony
The Dunn Museum in Libertyville is combining a spectacle of nature with a special exhibition. Dedicated to the emergence of the 17-year periodical cicadas, “Celebrating Cicadas” runs from April 27 to Aug. 4.
Every 17 years, billions of periodical cicadas emerge from the ground, creating a natural phenomenon that captures the imagination of people worldwide. The Dunn Museum's exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the biology, behavior and ecological significance of these remarkable creatures.
On Sunday, June 9, 12pm - 4pm, join us to celebrate all things insects and cicadas at Ryerson! We will have learning stations, insect demonstrations, a dress up booth for kids, insect collecting, a cicada search and much more! Read more »
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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 am 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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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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