Dear Neighbors,
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 This past Tuesday after our County Board Meeting, I was privileged to be able to take a tour of the County’s new Regional Operations and Communications Facility. The shell of the state-of-the-art facility is built, and we continue to make progress. The building should be finished in January 2025.
The next six months, the technology will be installed, with a grand opening date slated for summer 2025. The County is thrilled to welcome a large number of police and fire departments who will join a consolidated dispatch center.
I was also thrilled to join the Lake County Indian Association on their charity walk last Sunday at Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve. More than 200 participants came out to join the fun and raise money for our local food pantry. Great to see so much great participation!
The farmer’s markets are open in all of our towns across the county. We are so lucky to have the opportunity to grab such amazing fresh produce from our very motivated and talented farmers! Go check out the farmer’s market in your town.
Best,
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Lake County Government News
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Lake County Approves Intergovernmental Agreements Toward 9-1-1 Consolidation at June 11 Board Meeting
Lake County has taken a giant step forward towards the consolidation of 9-1-1 and emergency dispatch services with the establishment of two new agencies after the County Board approved two intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) at its June 11 meeting.
Lake County Continues Flight Towards Bird-Friendly Building Design With New Ordinance
On the heels of passing a groundbreaking bird-friendly building design policy last month, the Lake County Board approved a new ordinance at its June meeting to mitigate fatal bird collisions with glass on non-residential buildings in unincorporated Lake County.
The ordinance, which will go into effect on Aug. 11, 2024, requires bird-friendly design as part of new construction or major renovation of non-residential development in unincorporated areas of Lake County.
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Public Works News
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County Board Approves Lake Michigan Water Interconnection Project for Pekara System
 Lake Michigan water is on its way to the Pekara and Horatio Gardens neighborhoods in south central Lake County. At its latest meeting, the County Board approved a contract that gives Lake County Public Works the green light to begin construction this summer on a connection that will bring Lake Michigan water to these areas.
The Pekara Water System, comprised of the Pekara and Horatio Gardens neighborhoods, currently utilizes groundwater wells. These wells are aging, not sustainable long-term and costly to upgrade.
Transportation News
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Share Your Input with Metra!
To assist with its evolution toward a regional rail service model – which calls for service throughout the day rather than prioritizing peak morning and evening trains, Metra has launched a survey to ask riders about their current and future needs.
As part of its Systemwide Network Plan, Metra wants to hear from its riders to understand more about how they use Metra now and how that may change in the future so it can better respond to changing travel patterns and preferences.
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Sustainability News
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Mobile Household Chemical Waste Collection is Coming June 22
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County will hold this year's second mobile household chemical waste collection from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 22 at Lake Zurich High School.
Items you can bring include CFL bulbs, unwanted prescription, over-the-counter medicines and supplements (people and pet), household cleaners, gasoline, garden chemicals, pesticides, oil-based paints and varnishes. View acceptable and unacceptable items
The mobile HCW collections are now by appointment. The appointment scheduler works online and on mobile devices allowing you to book an appointment at your convenience.
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Learn About Projects to Take Action on Climate Change, Program Benefits Available
Learn about sustainable federal and state programs that offer assistance funding at The Inflation Reduction Act: Federal Funding for Lake County town hall at 6:30 p.m. June 27 at the Waukegan Public Library.
The Inflation Reduction Act is federal legislation aimed at investing in projects to take action on climate change. Learn how you can take advantage of the program benefits available. This event will be co-hosted by the Illinois Environmental Council, Clean Power Lake County, the offices of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth and State Representative Rita Mayfield.
Forest Preserves News
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Summer Horizons Online
The beautiful summer issue of Horizons magazine is available online. Readers will learn why milkweeds matter, the science behind habitat restoration and about the Preservation Foundation’s mission to raise $20 million in a permanent endowment. The cover image features cardinal flowers along the Des Plaines River Trail. The vivid reds are scattered across the understory of a restored woodland.
The issue also showcases a variety of other news including upcoming events, information about a rare plant recovery pilot program, Dunn Museum special exhibitions and the summer concerts series schedule. Read more »
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Buzz-Worthy Brew Debuts
Periodical cicadas are adding a touch of magic to this summer. Inspired by these intriguing insects, the Lake County Forest Preserves teamed up with Harbor Brewing Company in Lake Villa to celebrate the cicadas’ 2024 arrival with a new craft beer. Brewed XIII (13) is named after the brood of cicadas that emerged this summer after spending 17 years underground.
“The hibiscus shandy is deep red, inspired by the eyes of the insect,” said Harbor Head Brewer Adam Brose, who crafted the beer. “It bursts with refreshing tropical vibes, thanks to infusions of lemonade and hibiscus tea. The beer, which contains no dye or cicadas, is floral and fruity.” The base beer is a golden ale with wheat and oats and has a blended 4.8% alcohol by volume, or ABV. Brewed XIII will then be sold regularly at the Beer Garden and at Harbor Brewing locations in Lake Villa and Winthrop Harbor. Discover more »
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Learn about your Forest Preserves
Discover the wonders of the Forest Preserves right in your inbox! Our e-newsletter is your key to unlocking a treasure trove of nature-inspired stories, event updates and restoration news.
Dive into the beauty of your natural landscapes, learn about local wildlife and stay informed about upcoming programs and activities for the whole family. Sign up »
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Public Works News
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2024 Water Quality Reports Available
Lake County Public Works is committed to providing safe water throughout the County. As strong supporters of the Safe Drinking Water Act, Public Works releases annual water quality Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) for the water systems they operate.
These reports describe the sources, treatment, and chemical analysis of each water distribution system. All Lake County systems passed testing requirements for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Visit the water quality reports page to read your report.
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Job News
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Pilot Program Helps Veterans Take Control of Their Career
The Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT) pilot program is an opportunity for veterans, veterans currently serving in the National Guard and Reserve, and their spouses to take control of their career through workshops to help meet their employment goals.
OBTT provides employment preparation, education and opportunities that allow attendees to maximize their career potential.
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. View the full Job Center calendar to learn about 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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Health News
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Follow These Tips to Swim Safely this Summer
If you are swimming at your local pool or enjoying time at your favorite beach, it is important to protect yourself from illness, prevent the spread of germs, and practice safe swimming. There is a small chance you can get sick from swimming in unclean or contaminated water.
The Lake County Health Department monitors lake water for E.coli bacteria in over 100 Lake Michigan and inland lake beaches to ensure that the water is acceptable for swimming. Now through Labor Day, beach closure information can be found on the Health Department’s Beach Monitoring and Advisories web page, which is updated daily by 10 a.m.
Follow these additional tips by the Health Department to swim safely this summer.
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State's Attorney's Office News
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Events Planned to Recognize Gun Violence Awareness Month
In honor of Gun Violence Awareness Month, the Gun Violence Prevention Initiative invites the public to attend a number of events planned in June. These events will bring together the community to raise awareness about the effects of gun violence and open collaborative opportunities to reduce violence and save lives. View the June events planned
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Sheriff's Office News |
County Honors Law Enforcement Heroes
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office held their annual Police Memorial at Lincoln Plaza in Waukegan, honoring 20 law enforcement heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice, serving and protecting the people of Lake County.
Law enforcement personnel, pipes and drums, honor guard and community members from throughout the County gathered to recognize and pay tribute to those who were honored during the ceremony. Watch this video to see moments from this year's Police Memorial.
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Emergency Management News
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Residents Learn Basics of Storm Spotting. Learn about Next Class
The Lake County Emergency Management Agency (LCEMA) held their annual Severe Weather Spotter Course where over 50 residents ages 10 to 99 were educated about storm safety. Topics of the course included the basics of storm spotting, how to report severe weather, in addition to what to look for and what to report to the NWS when severe weather hits the County.
Another Severe Weather Spotter class will be offered in 2025. To be notified about the next course, email lcema@lakecountyil.gov. To learn more about preparing for severe weather, visit www.lakecountyil.gov/Weather.
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19th Judicial Circuit Court News
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Judge Betar Receives Lifetime Advocate Award
Lake County Associate Judge Michael B. Betar received the 2024 Arab American Bar Association (AABAR) of Illinois Lifetime Advocate Award presented by Jawad Shalabi, Vice President of AABAR.
The Arab American Bar Association of Illinois is a professional association of attorneys dedicated to the rule of law, equal justice, fellowship, legal education, and community service. They are committed to quality legal representation for all, regardless of background.
After high school, Judge Betar served in the United States Marine Corps. He then attended American University in Washington, D.C., and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He earned his Juris Doctorate degree from the Northern Illinois University College of Law. After admission to the Illinois Bar, he practiced civil litigation in the private sector until he was appointed Associate Judge of the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit in 2008.
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, the free, confidential one-step resource that connects Lake County residents to the services they need.
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Community Events & News
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Discover Farmers Markets in Lake County
Browsing through the vibrant array of produce at Lake County's farmers markets isn't just about supporting the local economy. It's an opportunity to savor the warm summer days with family and friends.
Explore an abundance of locally sourced fruits and vegetables along with prepared foods, aromatic spices, succulent meats, artisanal pastries, and freshly baked bread. Check out the comprehensive list of Lake County's farmers markets by clicking the Farmers Market Finder and find a market near you.
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Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
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The public is welcome to attend all Lake County Board and committee meetings 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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