June 26, 2025
Lake County Government News
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Use the Cooling Center Finder To Seek Relief from the Heat
The National Weather Service is predicting hot, humid conditions through this week across Lake County.
If spending time outside, stay hydrated, wear light clothing and take breaks in the shade or indoors. For updated weather information, visit the National Weather Service Chicago.
Use Lake County's Cooling Center Finder to help find a cooling center near you and get relief from the heat. Before you go, please call the location to ensure it is open.
 
Transportation News
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Heat and Humidity Are Perfect Recipe for Pavement Buckling
Extreme heat and humidity can cause pavement to buckle, and it's been happening more frequently across the Midwest this week. Please stay alert, avoid driving over damaged pavement and safely pull over if needed.
Report any pavement issues on Lake County-maintained roads by using this form.
Learn more about pavement buckling by watching this video prepared by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
Regional Day Pass Is Launched on Ventra App
CTA, Metra, and Pace have announced the new Regional Day Pass, providing unlimited rides on all three services for one day. This new discounted pass is available to all riders and includes a Metra Day Pass and unlimited rides on CTA and Pace for 24 hours.
Learn more about the Regional Day Pass
Forest Preserve News
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Board Approves 48 Acres for Expansion
The Lake County Forest Preserves Board approved the purchase of two land parcels totaling 48 acres to expand Ray Lake and Half Day forest preserves. The larger, 38.7-acre Sidhu property near Wauconda holds high ecological value and will help protect water quality and wildlife habitat. A second 9.3-acre parcel near Vernon Hills secures important wetlands and full ownership of a portion of the Des Plaines River Trail.
Both acquisitions are funded by a 2024 bond issue dedicated to land preservation. Read more »
Family Donates True Family Tree
A centuries-old bur oak tree that served as the heart of one family’s memories has been donated—along with 2.5 surrounding acres—to the Lake County Forest Preserves. Linda Raymond, whose family made countless memories beneath the tree’s wide canopy, said the donation ensures the land will be protected.
Located in Newport Township, the parcel borders Dutch Gap Forest Preserve and once hosted a hobby farm. Read more »
Plan Your Next Fishing Outing
Discover the definitive guide to fishing in your Lake County Forest Preserves. The resource features detailed bathymetric maps of 17 major fishing locations, species commonly found in each lake and expert tips from staff on gear, lure selection and the best times to fish.
The guide is also available in Spanish. Whether you're casting from shore or venturing out by boat, this guide will help you make the most of your time on the water. Learn more »
Craft Brews Celebrate Heroes, Villains and Local Flavor
Two new limited-edition beers—Heroes and Villains—launched at the Beer Garden at Independence Grove, inspired by the upcoming superhero-themed exhibition at the Dunn Museum. Created in collaboration with Harbor Brewing Company, the bold brews reflect the personalities of comic book legends.
The blueberry and cherry-infused golden ales will be available in cans exclusively at the Beer Garden and Harbor’s taprooms. The collaboration brings together art, flavor and local craft beer for a creative twist on summer sipping. More information »
Sustainability News
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Household Chemical Waste Collection July 19
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County will host a Household Chemical Waste (HCW) mobile collection event from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. July 19 at Lakes Community High School, 1600 Eagle Way, Lake Villa.
Common HCW products include, but are not limited to, cleaning products, oil-based paints/varnishes, flammable liquids, automotive products and garden chemicals. When disposed of improperly, such as pouring them down the drain or disposing in the garbage, these products can contaminate the groundwater and harm the environment.
SWALCO provides Illinois residents with this free opportunity to dispose these products properly. Appointments are required to attend a collection event.
Learn about the types of materials accepted at this mobile collection
Learn more about the HCW events and schedule an appointment
Share Your Feedback to Help Address Climate Impact
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is working with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission to create a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the greater Chicago region by 2050.
To get feedback on challenges that your community may be experiencing, such as higher energy bills, more frequent heat waves and dangerous flooding, CMAP asks you to complete this brief questionnaire.
The Comprehensive Climate Action Plan for Greater Chicago will identify key actions needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It will build on previous climate action plans from across the region, creating a coordinated strategy to reduce emissions and address climate impacts in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
Stormwater Management News
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Bangs Lake Project to Create Proper Drainage
The Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) and the Village of Wauconda celebrated the start of construction on the Bangs Lake Outfall Improvement Project on June 6.
This project provides infrastructure improvements to 4,000 feet of storm sewer and channels leading from Bangs Lake to IL Route 176 to create proper drainage and manage high water levels for the lake. It was funded by a $30 million grant awarded to SMC by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to complete regional stormwater infrastructure projects.
Watch this video to learn more about this project
Health News
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Operation Dropbox Donation Drive Sets New Records
The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH), in partnership with the Lake County Health Department (LCHD), is proud to share the results of the sixth annual Operation Dropbox donation drive.
Together, the two counties set new records for the Operation Dropbox program, with a combined total of 132 organizations and 11,427 pounds of donations, the highest in the program’s history.
This year marked the program’s expansion into Lake County, bringing a new level of regional collaboration and community involvement to support local veterans and their families.
Learn more about this year’s donation drive
Sheriff's Office News
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County Honors Law Enforcement Heroes
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office held their annual Police Memorial at Lincoln Plaza in Waukegan. The event honored 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
Meet K9 Enzo
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is excited to introduce its newest four-legged team member, K9 Enzo!
Specially trained and certified in Electronic Storage Detection (ESD), Enzo uses his incredible nose to locate hidden electronic devices, such as phones, USB drives, and memory cards that may contain critical digital evidence.
Enzo recently completed intensive training at Jordan Detection K9, where he earned his certification and quickly became known for his drive, determination and enthusiasm (especially for tennis balls). His specialized skills will support investigations aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and bringing offenders to justice.
You can follow Enzo’s journey and see him in action on the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page or on Instagram at @esdk9enzo.
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Thank You K9 Duke for Your Service
Sheriff John D. Idleburg is proud to announce the retirement of K9 Duke after ten years of dedicated service to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
On June 17, members of the Sheriff’s Office and K9 handlers from across the region gathered to give K9 Duke a heartfelt walk-out ceremony, honoring his decade of commitment.
He officially clocked out for the last time and rode home with his human partner, Deputy Dwight Arrowood. K9 Duke will now enjoy a well-earned retirement filled with love and relaxation alongside the Arrowood family.
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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
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.
State's Attorney's Office News
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County Receives Champion of Victims’ Rights Award
Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart and Chief of Victim Services Jacqueline Herrera Giron, along with the entire Victim Services Division, were honored with the Champion of Victims’ Rights award from Marsy’s Law for Illinois.
The recognition highlights their leadership and their ongoing commitment to supporting crime victims and enforcing Marsy’s Law in Lake County. The office is viewed as a statewide model for victim-centered practices, including hosting the largest annual victims' rights awareness event in Illinois.
Read the full press release
Community News and Events
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Discover Farmers Markets in Lake County
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.
Family Fun, Fourth of July Style
Lake County is preparing for a vibrant series of Independence Day celebrations, offering residents and visitors a range of activities, including elaborate fireworks displays, traditional parades and lively festivals.
Check Visit Lake County’s Fourth of July guide to help plan your holiday celebration.
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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