August 20, 2024
Lake County Government News
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Help Close the Digital Divide. Join the Digital Equity Coalition
Aimed at increasing digital skills, access to devices and resources for residents, a new Digital Equity Coalition was created. Interested residents and organizations who want to help address the digital divide are invited to join the coalition. The group will hold its first in-person meeting in September.
The coalition is part of the Lake County Digital Growth Initiative, created to better understand the current state of high-speed internet service and digital equity in the county and implement solutions for improvement. Learn more by reaching out to broadband@lakecountyil.gov.
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Annual Report Highlights County’s Fiscal Responsibility
Lake County’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) provides a detailed and transparent overview of the County’s financial condition, performance and activities. The Fiscal Year 2023 ACFR, which was completed in May and is available online, references Lake County's strong financial position, detailed breakdowns of revenue and expenditures, an overview of significant capital projects, the audit process and the County's future outlook. Learn more
Things To Do in Your District
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Take A Road Trip with A Twist! Play Road Trip Bingo
Check out Visit Lake County’s interactive Road Trip Bingo Card! Capture iconic landmarks, indulge in local flavors and create memories. If you score a bingo, submit your entry to be entered to win a prize thanks to Visit Lake County. The deadline to enter is Sept. 10. View the rules
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Transportation News
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NEW: Pay for Ride Lake County Fares with Ventra App
Those who use Ride Lake County, the borderless countywide paratransit service, can now use the Ventra mobile app to pay for their trips. Riders certified for ADA Paratransit who have already been using Ventra to pay for Pace bus trips can immediately begin paying for their Ride Lake County trips through the app.
Riders using Ride Lake County who are not certified for ADA Paratransit will need to obtain a Ventra card and establish a Pace TripCheck Account before being able to pay for their trip fares through Ventra. View detailed instructions on paying for trips with Ventra.
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Free Rides for K-12 Students Aug. 26
All elementary, middle and high school students across Lake County are eligible for free rides on Pace, Metra and CTA on Aug. 26. The three transit services are continuing the back-to-school tradition so families can start the academic year on a positive note. Kindergarten through twelfth grade students attending any public or private school, as well as an accompanying adult, can ride buses and trains for free from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more
Property Assessment News
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Property Assessment Notices Are Being Published
The Chief County Assessment Office will continue to publish tax year 2024 proposed assessment by township throughout August and into September. Publication dates once confirmed, listed by township can be found on the following website. If your township is currently not scheduled, please periodically check the website for updates.
Also, property owners concerned about missing the mailed notice can sign up for the CCAO's E-Newsletter which will alert the subscriber township by township as the information is published. Sign up for the e-newsletter
Treasurer's Office News
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Second Installment Property Tax Bill Deadline is Coming
The second installment of 2023 Lake County property taxes is due Sept. 5. Please note, you received one bill in May, and you will not receive another bill for the second installment. If you misplaced your second installment coupon, print a copy from the Treasurer's Office website by entering your PIN number or address.
There are convenient options to pay your property tax bill. These include paying online, by phone, by mail and at your local bank. Learn more about your payment options.
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Forest Preserve News
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Nature, Business Thrive in Lake County
The forest preserves in Lake County provide an allure for homeowners and businesses, offering picturesque natural settings and recreational opportunities that enhance quality of life. These green spaces not only boost property values but also create an appealing environment for businesses seeking to attract employees and customers. Executive Director Alex Ty Kovach oversees the second-largest forest preserve district in the state.
In a recent blog for Lake County Partners, he outlined an array of topics, including how the Forest Preserves started, a recent move to acquire about 18 acres to expand Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest and how businesses play a key role in preservation of open space. Read Blog »
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Hike Lake County Program Begins
Looking for a fresh way to embrace the fall season? The Forest Preserves invites you to tackle seven or more trails in its 26th annual Hike Lake County program. Lace up your walking shoes and take an opportunity to enjoy vibrant fall colors, cool breezes and the proven health benefits of spending time outdoors.
Complete at least seven of 12 designated walks by Nov. 30 and you'll earn a free commemorative shield for your walking stick or a zipper pull/dog tag. Each year offers a new lineup of trails, shields and zipper pulls. This season, the medallion fittingly showcases a periodical cicada. Learn More »
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Large Rookery to Join Lineup
The Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of about 41 acres in Antioch Township at its board meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 14. The property, situated east of Grass Lake Road, was acquired for $361,000. The new site is adjacent to Vern Thelen Park on its eastern border and lies just north of Grass Lake Elementary School.
The board’s planning committee reviewed a list of staff suggestions last week and made its decision. The full board of commissioners agreed and chose the name Lotus Country Conservation Preserve. The term “lotus country” has been associated with the Grass Lake area since the early 1900s when Lake County was a popular resort destination. Back then, one of the main draws was the extensive lotus beds, showcasing large, pale-yellow flowers that bloom in late July and early August. Learn More »
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Free Admission at the Dunn Museum
The Dunn Museum in Libertyville is celebrating the 147th birthday of its namesake, Bess Bower Dunn, by offering free admission Saturday, Aug. 24. Born in 1877, Dunn served as a county employee for more than six decades and was recognized as the county's first official historian for her dedication to preserving its early history. Her comprehensive collection is now housed at the museum, located at 1899 W. Winchester Road. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Read More »
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Sustainability News
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Take Advantage of Free Home Energy Savings Assessment
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus has partnered with ComEd, Nicor Gas, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas to assist you with saving energy. A free Home Energy Savings assessment will help manage your energy use and reduce monthly costs.
By participating in this offer, you’ll get free or discounted energy-saving products, plus personalized recommendations to help you save even more. To learn more, complete this online assessment, send email energy@mayorscaucus.org or call 312-201-4507.
State's Attorney's Office News
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Task Force to Enhance, Accelerate Analysis of Crime Data
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill creating a statewide Crime Data Task Force of law enforcement leaders and data experts to enhance and accelerate the analysis and publication of Illinois crime data.
The bill was sponsored by Lake County legislators, Mary Edly-Allen and Daniel Didech with the collaboration of Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart to increase the use of crime data. Currently, under the United States Department of Justice’s reporting system, statewide crime data takes months if not years to be released to the public. Learn more about the data task force
Sheriff's Office News
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Labor Day Traffic Safety Campaign
Now through Sept. 3, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office will participate in a Labor Day traffic safety campaign aimed at reducing impaired driving and other hazardous driving behaviors, such as distracted driving and failure to use seat belts. The Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies across Illinois to support this statewide effort.
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Coroner's Office News
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Coroner’s Office is Recognized with Life Changer Award
The Lake County Coroner’s Office received the 2024 Life Changer Award for Outstanding Teams from the Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Network organization, recognizing its valiant efforts to make an impact on organ and tissue donation.
Last year, the Coroner’s Office and Gift of Hope expanded their ability to work together by collaborating on an initiative that allows Gift of Hope to access electronic information related to a deceased person more efficiently. This pivotal change allows Gift of Hope to connect with families and coordinate tissue and organ donation when this is the intention of the loved one or their next of kin. Learn more
Health News
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Health Department Provides Convenient Access to Services
 Did you know the Lake County Health Department offers more than just primary care services? The Health Department is proud to offer a number of services to Lake County residents, including access to behavioral health, disease control, environmental health and prevention services.
Look through the Directory of Services, which is available in English and Spanish, to find more information, a map of our locations and tips on staying healthy.
Get Help
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Use 211 to Get Connected to the Help You Need
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 live person in English or Spanish when you call. The 211 team will also interpret more than 150 other languages. Learn more
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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.
Take a virtual tour to learn about the services the Job Center provides, and view the full Job Center calendar to learn about upcoming events and resources.
Check Hire Lake County
Visit Hire Lake County for information about job opportunities and businesses vetted by the Job Center’s business service team.
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Watch County Board and Committee Meetings
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The public is welcome to attend all 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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