Dear Neighbors,
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I hope this finds you, family and friends enjoying the last weeks of spring. I have a bushel basket of news, although surprisingly little of it involves cicadas (I haven’t seen any yet up by us but enjoyed the recent Cicada Festival hosted by the Lake County Forest Preserves.)
I’m happy to say that our area fared well in the most recent legislative session. Lawmakers in Springfield approved a new $1 million grant to fund a strategic plan for the Route 53 Greenway corridor. This will enable the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to plan the corridor, which we are hoping will be transformed into a state park with trails and conservation areas.
Of course, much work lies ahead on this project, which I’ve lobbied for in Springfield and locally. The project was seeded when the Lake County Board (when I first joined) voted to oppose the extension of Route 53 from Cook County. The Illinois Tollway backed off its support shortly thereafter.
Considered by state highway planners for decades, the Route 53 road extension would’ve been an environmental disaster, which is why I opposed it. Many thanks to the coalition of environmental groups including Openlands and Midwest Sustainability for working with us on this project. Very little is easily accomplished in Springfield, but this was the first step in greening 1,000 acres of biodiverse land that would be lost forever under a major highway.
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 Now let’s talk about garbage, namely the Waste Management (WM) “Countryside” landfill in Grayslake between Routes 83 and 137. Slated to close in 2027 (WM’s current estimate), the landfill will host a “Meadowview waste transfer” station that will also feature an expanded local public recycling center.
What’s involved in this new operation? A new 31,000 square-foot building with solar panels, bird-friendly glass and a much lower carbon footprint that will generate most of its own power. Garbage that used to be buried in the landfill will be dropped off in the building, then shipped somewhere else. It will have the capacity to process 1,000 tons of waste a day.
When I had the opportunity to question WM officials about the specifics of this new facility, this is what they told me:
- The new 3,500-square foot recycling facility will be a separate building on the “green campus” and be open to drop-offs from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Saturday holiday make-up days. I asked if they could extend the public hours and accept other less-recycled waste such as polystyrene and they said they would consider it. The current recycling center at the Grayslake Public Works facility, operated in partnership with the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County, accepts electronic waste, aluminum cans/glass, kitchen scraps, paper/cardboard, textiles and shoes.
- While the number of trucks dumping waste into the existing landfill will eventually wind down to zero, WM said it expects more trucks coming in and out of the facility five days a week.
- All told, WM said it will process 167 regular garbage trucks a day (except on weekends) and an additional 40 transfer trailers to haul away the trash to another landfill. Each of the transfer trucks holds about 24 to 25 tons.
- I also asked how much the additional truck traffic would impact the local environment, including increased emissions and noise. WM officials said they could provide that information at a future date.
- WM is in the process of converting all of its local garbage trucks from diesel to liquified natural gas. While not entirely carbon neutral, the trucks will have lower emissions. They were unsure whether electric vehicles would be used in the facility.
- The new buildings will be on the south side of the landfill’s present footprint, but won’t be visible from the Rt. 137 side of the property. WM said odors would be contained and collected by an internal system.
Keep in mind that this plan and WM’s use of this facility is subject to extensive regulation and permitting. More public hearings will be held, most likely early next year. View some drawings of the site plan. I requested that any future hearings be held locally. I will be monitoring this process closely and keep you posted on any new developments.
 Forest Preserve News
We authorized a referendum question for the Nov. 5 ballot, asking voters to approve the sale of $155 million in bonds. The money will be used for land acquisition, habitat preservation and restoration, flood control, water quality improvement and trail extensions. The estimated cost to homeowners would be an additional $33 annually for a home valued at $300,000.
Why are we asking property owners to consider this referendum now? The funds from the 2008 referendum, which enabled us to acquire numerous biodiverse properties and establish new preserves, have been fully utilized. As the second-largest forest preserve district in the state, we hope to do more. The bond sale would fund several local projects, including:
- Eliminating flooding on the Millennium Trail in Rollins Savanna in Grayslake. During heavy rains, the trail section closest to Mill Creek floods. We’re planning to fix that, possibly by moving the trail.
- Restoring habitat at Fourth Lake Forest Preserve in Lake Villa. Our ecologists have targeted an area just off the Millennium Trail, south of Grand Avenue. You may have seen the “Habitat Restoration in Progress” sign near a trail spur. It’s a lovely little enclave of flowers and woodland plants.
- Finishing other large projects. We’re financing the completion of the Master Plan at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda, which includes a nature playground, three-season building and a net-zero energy maintenance facility. As our largest preserve complex, Lakewood is a hub on the Millennium Trail.
I’ve also been discussing water improvements along Mill Creek where it connects with Third Lake in Rollins Savanna. At the request of Third Lake Mayor Butch Buckley, we’ve been studying how to reduce the silt flowing into Third Lake. We’ve been working with the Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) and ecologists from the Forest Preserves to develop a solution.
I’m happy to say that our consultant on this project, Hey and Associates has presented a draft proposal to SMC for the Third Lake project. The commission will now review and secure funding for it.
Neighbors in the News
While attending our Grayslake Memorial Day parade and ceremony, even though it was a solemn day, I received some pleasant news.
Ava Weimer, a student at St. Gilbert’s School in Grayslake, won an essay contest sponsored by VFW Ronald Hill Post 2245. Her winning entry in the Patriot's Pen Essay Contest was “How Are You Inspired by America?” Congratulations to Ava, her parents and school. Her father currently serves at Naval Station Great Lakes. And special thanks to Mike and Zoey Magnetta, two Navy veterans and officers from Post 2245.
Finally, there’s one more surprise from Memorial Day. A section of Route 45 in Grayslake will be named in honor of Sean P. Maher. A 19-year-old Marine Lance Corporal from Grayslake, Corp. Maher perished in Iraq in 2005. Thanks to State Rep. Laura Faver-Dias and Village Trustee Zoey Magnetta for presenting an honorary state resolution to his parents. Our veterans and their families should be thanked daily for their service, sacrifice and daily dedication to democracy and freedom.
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Miscellaneous
At the request of family and neighbors, I asked our county's Division of Transportation engineers to see how they could improve safety at the intersection of Atkinson and Washington. As you may know, Victoria Piela lost her life in a tragic accident at that intersection while waiting to cross Washington.
I was told by our county engineers that the walk time for pedestrians was increased through timing the lights to allow walkers, runners and bikers more time to safely cross. A larger sign indicating a pedestrian crossing was also installed. Now all traffic lights will be red when the pedestrian signal is on. A pedestrian tunnel is also being jointly considered by our Forest Preserves and transportation engineers, who will continue to monitor that intersection for possible future improvements.
Our Stormwater Management Commission will begin accepting project proposals and stream maintenance requests for Fiscal Year 2025 in June. Project proposals and maintenance requests must be received by Sept. 13. SMC's Watershed Project Managers look forward to working with you! Check out SMC's Request for Proposals & Bids webpage for more information. SMC is currently reviewing proposals for the Manitou Creek Watershed Plan.
Finally, I wanted to thank the Venetian Village homeowner’s association and the Grayslake Exchange Club for inviting me to speak recently. I relish these opportunities to hear your concerns and serve you better.
As always, it’s my honor to serve you. If you’d like me to speak at your community organization, you can contact me at JWasik@lakecountyil.gov. If you need immediate assistance from the county, please call 2-1-1.
Be well,
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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 August 11, 2024, requires bird-friendly design as part of new construction or major renovation of non-residential development in unincorporated areas of Lake County. These projects must use at least 80 percent bird-friendly glass on their exteriors from ground level to 100 feet high. This ordinance also applies to non-residential accessory structures such as free-standing glass walls, accessory storage buildings, glass-enclosed gazebos and pavilions and similar structures.
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Sustainability News
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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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Roundout Train Robbery
“Examining the Roundout Train Robbery 100 years Later,” is the name of a program taking place from 2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, June 15. There are virtual and in-person options. The in-person program takes place at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville.
One hundred years ago on June 12, 1924, the largest train robbery in United States history took place near Rondout, Illinois. Learn more about the details surrounding this infamous historic crime with guest speaker Bob Storozuk, Milwaukee Road Historical Association curator and Museum Educator Nicole Stocker. Get a ticket »
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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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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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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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