Dear Neighbors,
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I hope this finds you, family and friends enjoying the warmer weather. On Saturday, I was excited to attend the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener’s annual seed expo at the College of Lake County. I saw a large flock of Sandhill Cranes chortling in the sky, a sure sign that spring is around the corner.
We gave away thousands of seeds and offered countless gardening and landscaping tips. It was great to see so many green thumbs out in force. Thanks to the University of Illinois Extension’s Carolina Schottland and dozens of exhibitors and volunteers from the Round Lake Garden Club to Grow Lake County and our host the College of Lake County.
 This past week I was also in Washington. I joined my colleagues and our legislative team to lobby for federal dollars, but as you can imagine, this year is profoundly different. We were playing defense trying to protect federal programs and dollars awarded to us last year.
National politics now is a sargasso sea of uncertainty as communities such as ours fear the loss of federal programs from agricultural research to veteran health care. We’re especially concerned about the potential loss of a $19 million grant for the Cedar Lake Road Realignment Project, a vital safety and economic development project.
Although the money was awarded last year by the U.S. Department of Transportation, in Washington speak it wasn’t “obligated.” That means we don’t know if or when we’ll receive these promised funds. As you know, billions of dollars in federal program dollars are being cut, “on pause” or being “reviewed” by the new administration.
Nevertheless, we visited every one of our congressional offices including Reps. Foster, Quigley, Schneider and Schakowsky. We met in person with every representative except for Rep. Schneider, whom we will meet with at a later date
As chair of the County Board’s Legislative Committee, I asked the same question but received no definitive answer. What can we do to protect funds that help our communities in so many ways? So many programs and fine public servants from the VA to the U.S. EPA are losing their jobs with little coherent rationale.
Your state and federal tax dollars come back to our community in so many ways. Some $67 million in federal funds goes to our Lake County Health Department alone. Services range from mammography to immunizations. Half of this agency’s budget comes from various federal grants. We will continue to fight for every federal dollar promised to Lake County.
In addition to funds needed to support essential needs like highway safety and clean water systems, federal dollars help our partner agencies aid those who need help the most. Before I went to Washington, I asked dozens of local leaders ranging from school district superintendents to social service agencies how the loss of federal dollars will hurt people in our community. Here’s a sampling of what they told me:
- People who are suffering from substance abuse and homelessness will be hurt. “Janie” was trapped in a repetitive cycle of being temporarily housed, moved and shuffled around to unsafe living conditions. She was homeless and her children were placed in foster care. She received help through Nicasa’s Family Advocacy Center and is now working and with her children again. Half of this agency’s budget comes from federal grants.
- Lake County’s homeless population is rising and may increase. At the end of last year, the Lake County Coalition for the Homeless reported a stunning 50% increase in homelessness. People like “Stan,” who was suffering from a substance abuse disorder, received rehab services and is acquiring the skills he needs to maintain stable housing. Lake County has received millions of federal dollars to address our growing housing affordability problems.
- Schools may not be able to provide services to special needs students. “Shari” was born with Down's Syndrome and was enrolled in District 46’s Early Intervention program. She’s now is in high school. Superintendent Dr. Lynn Glickman tells me “If we lost funding for Early Intervention, the transition program -- or any special education program -- our children would lose the therapies that are foundational and critical to their development.”
(Note: I’ve changed names to protect individuals’ privacy).
Although no one has a clear idea on what’s going to happen in Washington, along with my colleagues, we will keep fighting for federal dollars that directly support people in our community. In the interim, keep sending letters and calls to Rep. Schneider and our senators. Tell them your stories of how federal programs are helping you, your family and friends.
 Forest Preserve News
As an author myself, I relish interesting and useful books. The “Lake County Seed Collection Guide” is an illustrated book for those interested in growing native plants. It features nearly 600 plant species organized by season, habitat and plant structure. Designed for all levels, it includes color photos and descriptions, making seed identification accessible.
Kelly Schultz, a stewardship ecologist at the Forest Preserves, worked with my neighbor, Dale Shields, a seasoned restoration volunteer, to create the guide. Dale’s photos capture the beauty and uniqueness of seeds, complemented by Kelly’s straightforward descriptions. It is an essential guide to forbs, grasses and hundreds of other plants needed to restore our gardens, yards, prairies and wetlands.
The Preservation Foundation of the Forest Preserves (I am a board member), recently approved a $7,000 grant for additional printing and distribution of the guide. It’s available to buy at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum gift shop in Libertyville or online. The guide also highlights which invasive plants and seeds to avoid. It’s an incredible resource for every serious gardener, professional or volunteer restoration steward.
In Other News
Finally, I was thrilled to be invited back by Round Lake High School students to talk about lobbying state government, which is something I do on a regular basis for Lake County. Thanks to this energetic group of students, their advisors Doug Barnshaw and Nick Miller and the talented teachers, administrators and school board members who support them. Democracy thrives when all voices are engaged and heard.
As always, it’s my honor to serve you. If you have immediate needs for county services, please call 2-1-1.
Be Well.
Sustainability News
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Recycle Right with New Recycle Coach App
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County introduces the new Recycle Coach education app, bringing local waste and recycling information directly to Lake County residents.
Lake County residents can access the Recycle Coach tool at swalco.org, and input an address to receive customized waste and recycling information specific to where they live. Several municipalities will have viewable collection, program and event calendars and receive updates on service changes.
Learn more about Recycle Coach
Lake County Government News
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Apply for Summer Youth Employment Program
The Summer Youth Employment Program, which is funded by the Lake County Board, will provide meaningful work experiences in various worksites for about 175 young people this summer. To qualify, applicants must live in Lake County and meet age requirements. Applications are due by April 15. Learn more
Ready To Boost Your Digital Skills?
There’s still time to join free digital skills programming this month at the Job Center of Lake County. Programming includes walk-in digital skills support for beginners, resume workshops and computer lab time. Digital Navigators help community members with using technology like computers or smartphones and accessing resources online.
View the full calendar of events
Learn more about Lake County’s Digital Navigators
Chicago Area Named Top for Corporate Relocation for 12th Year
It’s a big win for Lake County and counties across the Chicago area! Site Selection Magazine has ranked the Chicagoland region as the #1 metro in the U.S. for corporate relocation and expansion, a title held for the 12th consecutive year.
Lake County is committed to collaborating with our communities, businesses and community organizations to expand our businesses, create jobs that attract high-quality talent and drive economic growth. Let’s keep the momentum going. Learn more
Forest Preserves News
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Explore Spring Horizons Magazine
Talk about a leap of faith! Just one day after hatching, tiny wood ducklings (Aix sponsa) take a daring plunge from their tree nest—sometimes from heights of 60 feet— to start life on the water.
This incredible moment takes center stage on the spring cover of Horizons magazine. Dive into the latest issue to learn more about wood ducks and explore a variety of topics, from conservation and wildlife to trails, recreation and local history. Horizons is a free quarterly publication from your Lake County Forest Preserves. Read Online »
Officers Honored for Life-Saving Action
Congratulations to Forest Preserves’ Ranger Sgt. James Harrison and Round Lake Park Police Officer Brittany Fears for their quick and courageous actions. While on patrol, they responded to an accident with a woman trapped inside a car on fire.
The officers used the fire extinguishers from their cars to put out the fire that was under the vehicle’s hood. The victim had a compound fracture and was unable to move on her own. The officers helped her until paramedics arrived, likely saving her life. Learn More »
Free Admission for Food Donations
For the third year, the Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville is holding a food drive during spring break. Visitors will receive free admission with the donation of at least one non-perishable food item or toiletry per person.
The food drive takes place during special spring break hours from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, March 24 through Friday, March 28 except for Thursday, March 27, when it closes at 8 p.m. The collected items will benefit the Libertyville Township Food Pantry. Read More »
Transportation News
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My Daily Travel Survey is Underway
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is launching a survey called My Daily Travel to better understand the travel needs of residents in northeastern Illinois.
As travel behaviors change and technologies evolve over the next few years, planners will use this survey data to guide future transportation investments and prioritize improvements.
At least 4,000 households in northeastern Illinois are expected to participate in the survey over the next year. Households will receive an invitation by U.S. mail to participate in the survey. Invited households may complete the survey online, over the phone, or through a smartphone app rMove.
Lake County Appoints Gary Gordon to Metra Board of Directors
Gary Gordon has been appointed to represent Lake County on the Metra Board of Directors, replacing Melinda Bush, who resigned from the Board in January.
A Lake County resident for 22 years, finance professional and regular Metra commuter, Gordon brings a wealth of skills and experience and will be a strong asset for the Board. The Metra Board of Directors is made up of 11 members representing the six-county Chicago metropolitan area. Learn more
View IDOT Progress in Annual Report
The Illinois Department of Transportation annual report showcases the department's work and progress throughout 2024 in improving one of the of the most diverse, multimodal transportation systems in the nation. Access IDOT's 2024 Annual Report.
Health News
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Health Department Offers Reduced Well Water Testing Rates
In observance of National Groundwater Awareness Week, the Lake County Health Department is offering a reduced well water testing fee for homeowners who use well water as their primary source of drinking water.
Now through March 21, the normal $25 fee for testing for bacteria and nitrates will be reduced to $20. Learn more about well water testing
2024 Annual Report
The Lake County Health Department is excited to announce the release of its 2024 Annual Report. The annual report captures program achievements by the numbers while also showing a timeline of accomplishments and recognitions.
View the report
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Treasurer's Office News |
Free Financial Literacy Workshop
Join Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim for a free financial literacy workshop from 10 a.m. to noon March 29 at the College of Lake County Lakeshore Campus in Waukegan. Join an insightful seminar designed to inform you about best financial practices. Register to attend
Job News
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Providing Skills for Justice-Impacted Individuals to Return to Labor Force
Revive Lake County is a program that provides additional guidance and assistance to individuals having difficulty obtaining or retaining employment due to a record of arrest or conviction.
This three-week program provides individuals the skills needed to ensure success in the labor force. If interested in applying, fill out an interest form by March 29.
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.
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.
Community Events & News
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Income Tax Return Help for Seniors
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides free tax assistance volunteers who are trained and certified by the IRS to help prepare basic income tax return preparation for low-and-moderate-income taxpayers aged 50 and over now through April 15.
Discover the Top 10 Things to Do in March
This month, communities are hosting a slew of programs and events to get residents and visitors ready to welcome spring. Whether you're looking to stay cozy indoors or take advantage of the warming temps outside, everyone is guaranteed a great time this month. Check out Visit Lake County’s guide to the top 10 things to do in Lake County in March.
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 after July 8, 2024 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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