Lake County Government News
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New Laws for 2025
Nearly 300 new laws took effect on January 1, 2025, covering a range of issues that will affect Illinois residents. These include:
- Most Illinois companies will have to include the pay scale and benefits to any new job posting.
- Gym memberships can now be canceled over the phone, online or via email.
- The Secretary of State will be able to issue mobile ID cards and driver’s licenses.
- It is illegal to create digital replicas of individuals via generative Artificial Intelligence without the consent of the recorded individual.
- Businesses will be required to notify customers at least three days before an automatic renewal that goes into effect after a free trial of 15 days or more.
View the complete list of Illinois laws
LakeComm Board Approves Hiring of Executive Director
The Lake Consolidated Emergency Communications (LakeComm) Member Board of Directors has appointed Jason E. Kern as the LakeComm Executive Director.
LakeComm, the new consolidated Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), is set to become fully operational in 2025. It will provide services to 30 agencies in Lake County. A PSAP is a 9-1-1 call center responsible for handling emergency calls for law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services. Learn more
Register to Volunteer for the Point In Time Count
Join the fight to help end homelessness by participating in the Lake County 2025 Point In Time (PIT) Count. Volunteers are needed the night of Wednesday, January 29 to search across Lake County to interview, count and offer assistance to people experiencing homelessness.
The data gathered during the PIT Count will capture a picture of what homelessness looks like on any given day, help coordinate services for people experiencing homelessness and provide organizations with the information needed to work towards the goal of ending homelessness in Lake County.
Register to volunteer
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Permanent PADS Shelter is Coming to Waukegan
Local officials recently celebrated the acquisition of a commercial building that will be transformed into a permanent shelter to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness or a housing crisis in Lake County.
PADS Lake County plans to modify the nearly 33,000 square-foot former Travelodge hotel located on Lewis Avenue in Waukegan to create a safe space to help those who find themselves unhoused in Lake County by providing them with a place to sleep, eat and receive assistance. The proposed new facility will offer over 60 rooms with 200 beds and communal areas for socializing.
The Lake County Board allocated $7.06 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to support this project, aimed at improving long-term housing security in the community. An additional $2 million in funding was provided by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Learn more
Transportation News
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Enroll to Adopt a Highway. Enrollment Runs to January 31
Volunteer with friends, family or coworkers to help pick up litter and debris along Lake County highways and bike paths. Participants adopt a section of a county highway and commit to cleaning it twice a year. View a map of available sections and apply to volunteer.
See Live Traffic Conditions This Winter
Before you get in the car and navigate the roads, use Lake County PASSAGE to see live traffic conditions taken from our cameras and our snow plows. Visit the PASSAGE website or download the Lake County PASSAGE app.
Qualified Candidates Sought for Metra Board Replacement
Qualified candidates are sought to fill the Metra Board of Directors seat, which was vacated by Melinda Bush, who resigned effective January 3. The Metra Board of Directors is made up of 11 members representing the six-county Chicago metropolitan area. They meet once a month to discuss various matters. The deadline to apply is January 17. Learn more
Public Works News
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Learn What You Can Do to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Freezing temperatures can potentially cause frozen pipes, which can be costly to repair. No matter the material, exposed pipes face the risk of freezing and bursting, causing significant damage. Protect your home this winter by taking the proper precautions. Learn more
Health News
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Staying Safe in Extreme Cold
January is forecasted to be much colder with the possibility of an arctic blast. When it is cold outside, your body can lose heat faster than it can be produced, leading to serious health problems such as hypothermia and frostbite.
It is best to avoid prolonged time outdoors in extreme cold. If you must spend time outside, dress yourself, your family and your pets appropriately. Wear layers of loose-fitting and lightweight clothing. Pets should be kept indoors as much as possible.
View the list of warming centers around Lake County if you or someone you know needs a warm place to get out of the cold.
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Check Radon Levels in Your Home This Winter
Radon gas builds up in homes over time and can’t be seen, tasted or smelled, making it easy for radon problems to go unnoticed.
The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center recommends that all residents test the radon levels in their homes and apartments during the winter season, when indoor radon levels are highest. Short-term test kits are available for $10, which includes return postage, laboratory analysis and interpretation by Health Department staff.
Watch this video to learn more about radon testing.
Sustainability News
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Make 2025 A More Sustainable Year. Here's Some Ways to Start
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) has easy ways to start your new year making more sustainable choices.
- Donate and divert responsibly. Did you receive new gadgets, electronics or clothes over the holidays? Recycle and donate your unwanted items. SWALCO offers electronics recycling, clothing and textile collection and the Reuse-A-Shoe Program.
- Learn how to backyard compost or participate in your community's curbside composting program. Deerfield, Highland Park, Highwood, Lake Bluff and Port Barrington residents can combine food scraps and yard waste year-round. Visit SWALCO's composting website to learn tips, and keep an eye out for events celebrating International Compost Awareness Week in May.
- Attend a SWALCO event, including recycling events and educational programs all year long.
Visit the SWALCO website to learn more about these programs and find resources to help you go green this year.
Forest Preserves News
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Winter Activities Offered
Experience the magic of winter in the Lake County forest preserves. From ice skating and sledding to peaceful cross-country skiing, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Before heading out, check our winter sports webpage for the latest updates. Step into your preserves and make this season unforgettable. Read Now »
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New Podcast Season Launches
Words of the Woods, the Lake County Forest Preserves’ award-winning podcast about nature and history, debuted its third season on Dec. 4. It’s available on all major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify: LCFPD.org/podcast
This season focuses on climate change. "It’s a global issue, yet many of its effects are local. Fortunately, so are opportunities to help mitigate and prevent it," said podcast host Brett Peto, environmental communications specialist at the Forest Preserves. Read Now »
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Chief Writes about Wellness
Kudos to our police chief, Ron Davis, for co-writing a story in Police Chief Magazine.
Police officers are essential to our safety, but the demanding nature of their work can take a toll on their well-being. The story highlights ways to create support systems that focus on every aspect of wellness. Learn More »
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Top Stories of the Year
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on moments that shaped the Lake County Forest Preserves. 2024 was a year of growth, connection and celebration.
Your preserves aren’t just landscapes, they’re pockets of serenity, offering habitats for wildlife, places for recreation and opportunities for education and discovery. Kim Mikus, media and communications specialist, writes about the top stories in 2024 in the Daily Herald. (readers may have to pay for content) Read More »
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Treasurer's Office News
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Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program
Senior citizens may defer part or all of their property taxes on their personal residence if they qualify for the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program. The deferral is similar to a loan against the property's fair market value.
Deferred amounts are borrowed from the state, who then pays the tax bill to the County Collector's Office. Interest on the amount paid by the State accumulates and a lien is placed on the property for all deferred tax payments and interest.
Applications must be received by the Lake County Treasurer’s Office by 5 p.m. February 28. Visit our Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program webpage for more details.
Education News
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Lake County Regional Office of Education Secures Prestigious $9.9 Million EIR Grant to Enhance Student Well-Being and Achievement
The Lake County Regional Office of Education has been awarded a $9.9 million grant under the highly competitive Education Innovation and Research Program. The five-year grant will fund an innovative program aimed at transforming student well-being, behavior and academic success in elementary schools across Lake County.
As one of 33 recipients nationwide this year, Lake County joins prestigious institutions in receiving funding for educational research and programming. Learn more
Job News
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Attend State of the Workforce Presentation
Gain valuable insights into the economic and workforce future of Lake County at a virtual workshop, the State of the Workforce from 1 to 2:30 p.m. January 29. Listen to insights about trends and job market conditions and learn about career support and training grants, including financial aid and career planning resources.
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.
Watch this video as the Job Center team guides you through the virtual and onsite resources available to job seekers through the Job Center partners. And view the calendar to learn about upcoming events and resources.
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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Sheriff's Office News |
Lake County Jail Passes Inspection and Audit
Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg announced the Lake County Jail passed its most recent inspection and audit conducted by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC). The detailed inspection of the Lake County Jail took place on September 17, 2024.
The IDOC inspection is conducted on an annual basis. During the inspection, IDOC auditors thoroughly inspect more than 330 different categories. Learn more about the inspection and audit
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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Mark Your Calendar for Flavor Fest
Lake County February Flavor Fest is back February 1 to 28. Mark your calendars for this taste-testing month-long event, organized by the Lake County Convention and Visitors Bureau that combines the Lake County Restaurant Week and Libation Trail initiatives. Check my upcoming newsletters and the Visit Lake County website to read more details about this month-long food frenzy.
Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
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The public is welcome to attend all Lake 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 meeting schedule.
Lake County Board and committee meetings are available to view online with English captions or subtitles (written translation into another language). Captions and subtitles are created automatically with artificial intelligence (AI) software. Access to automated captions and subtitles is being provided for viewer convenience and is not to be considered official transcription or translation of the meeting. Watch County Board meetings, including standing committee meeting
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