Dear Neighbors,
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Bring your confidential documents to be safely and securely shredded. Did you know 99% of paper in your household can be recycled?
A maximum of five banker boxes will be allowed until the truck is full. This event is open to residents. No businesses please.
I am thrilled to host this community event with State Senator Mary Edly-Allen, the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County and Zion Township. See you there!
Free Community Shred Event
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, August 2
Zion Township Center, 2816 Sheridan Road, Zion
Lake County Government News
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Regional Facility to Strengthen Preparedness and Response
After more than a decade of planning and coordination, regional 9-1-1 consolidation partners and federal, state and local officials gathered on June 27 to celebrate the completion of the Lake County Regional Operations and Communications (ROC) Facility, a central hub that will strengthen 9-1-1 services and emergency response across the county.
Use the Cooling Center Finder To Seek Relief from the Heat
It's summer in Lake County, and that means the chance that we can see dangerous heat and humidity.
If you don’t have access to air conditioning, consider going to a cooling center. 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.
Lake County Addresses Homelessness
The results from the most recent annual assessment of unhoused individuals in Lake County are now available. This assessment, called the Lake County Point-in-Time Count, is a count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night every January.
Watch this video to learn more about the Lake County Point-in-Time Count and the dedicated work by the volunteers and County staff to address homelessness in Lake County.
Resident Recognized for Community-Driven Change
The Lake County Board recognized Oscar Parham for his contributions to public service and community-driven change.
He has dedicated his life to service, becoming the Youth and Young Adult Mentorship Director at the Legacy Reentry Foundation in Lake County, offering guidance, hope, and leadership to young people navigating reentry and adversity.
Learn more about Oscar.
Transportation News
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What's Coming to Lake County Roads and Paths
The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) has launched an interactive dashboard to share detailed information about projects in its newly updated 2025-2030 Transportation Improvement Program.
This $865 million, five-year program adopted by the Lake County Board today includes a wide range of infrastructure improvements designed to maintain and modernize Lake County’s transportation system. Projects in the plan will move through various stages of development, from planning and design to construction in the coming years.
Learn more
Heat and Humidity Are Perfect Recipe for Pavement Buckling
Extreme heat and humidity can cause pavement to buckle. 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
Digital Growth Initiative News
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Build Basic Computer Skills Through No-cost Programs
The Lake County Digital Growth Initiative is hosting no-cost digital skills programs at libraries across the County this summer. If you are looking to build your basic computer skills, including using email, accessing telehealth, or using tools like Microsoft Word, or if you just need a refresher, these programs are for you! The programs are offered in English and Spanish and are designed to help residents feel confident using everyday technology. Classes will take place at:
Learn more about summer programming here, or click the links above to view a calendar of events at each library. Registration is required to participate.
There’s Still Time to Apply for a Digital Skills License
Want to help Lake County residents build essential digital skills? Apply for a Northstar Digital Skills License today.
Lake County’s Digital Growth Initiative has partnered with Northstar Digital Literacy to offer no-cost digital skills licenses for local nonprofit, educational and government organizations that provide digital skill-building programs to residents.
With a Northstar license, your organization can provide in-person or online learning through ready-to-go lesson plans, curricula and digital skills assessments.
Help ensure everyone in our community has the skills they need to succeed in today’s world. Apply for a license now! Email broadband@lakecountyil.gov to learn more or apply.
Treasurer's Office News
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Access Searchable List of Uncashed Checks
The Lake County Treasurer’s Office maintains a searchable list of uncashed checks. These are checks that were issued by Lake County and have not been cashed by the payee.
These outstanding checks have been issued by the Lake County Treasurer (Accounts Payable, Juror and Payroll) or the Lake County Collector (primarily property tax refund checks). Mirroring several neighboring counties and the Illinois Treasurer's ICASH system, the Lake County Treasurer “Uncashed Checks” log was created.
If the public wishes to request a replacement check, the Treasurer's Office provides instructions to request a new check that will be mailed to the recipient.
“This process has created more transparency, gets money back in the hands of intended payees faster, and lessened administrative burden across County departments – a win, win, win,” Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim said.
Visit the uncashed checks website to access the searchable list of uncashed checks and how to request a replacement check.
Sustainability News
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Certain Types of Batteries Now Taken at HCW Collections
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) has expanded its household chemical waste (HCW) accepted materials list to include a larger variety of household battery types.
SWALCO offers two options for HCW disposal, year-round collection events twice a month at its Gurnee facility and mobile events from May through September at various Lake County locations.
The next mobile HCW collection event will be July 19 at Lakes Community High School in Lake Villa. HCW events are free for Illinois residents, and appointments are required.
Share Your Feedback to Help Address Climate Impacts
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.
Reuse-O-Rama
Bring your hard-to-recycle items to the Reuse-O-Rama from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 19 at the Hainesville Village Hall.
Also, bring your confidential documents to be shredded. A maximum of four banker boxes per vehicle will be accepted. All items will be reused, recycled, refurbished or donated. View the full list of items that will be accepted
Forest Preserves News
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Summer Horizons Now Live
The summer issue of Horizons magazine is now online. The cover captures a storybook moment at Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve in Long Grove, where two white-tailed deer fawns stand together in the summer landscape. Their dappled coats help them blend into the sunlight-speckled forests and meadows.
Inside, discover the calming practice of forest bathing and the fascinating lifecycle of bumble bees in Lake County. This issue also includes upcoming programs, museum exhibitions and stories to inspire your next outdoor adventure. Learn more »
Exclusive Artwork Unveiled at the Dunn Museum
Legendary comic book artist Alex Ross unveiled two brand-new paintings—Harley Quinn and The Joker—created exclusively for the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. These iconic DC villains debuted with the opening of the Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains, a special exhibition taking place now.
What inspired Alex to draw comics in the first place? Turns out it was the Spider-Man character on the classic children's TV series, "The Electric Company," that lit the creative spark. Step inside his world in a behind-the-scenes interview: Read More »
Shifting the Narrative
Learn how to shift the way we share local history to better reflect women, people of color and underserved communities at a presentation from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 17. “Storytelling For Civic Pride: There’s More Here” takes place virtually.
Presenter Laura Sievert-Hesseltine will share practical ways to shift the narrative and explain why inclusive storytelling isn’t just about fairness—it’s also a smart investment in Illinois’ cultural and economic future. The event is free, but registration is required. Presented in partnership with Illinois Humanities and sponsored by USG.
To register »
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 »
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 »
Carved Cathedral Makes Chicago Debut
A hand-carved folk-art cathedral from the Dunn Museum in Libertyville is now on display at the Intuit Art Museum in Chicago. Crafted by Mundelein artist Charles Warner (1884–1964), the piece was inspired by his childhood in Poland. Intuit curators discovered it through the Dunn Museum’s virtual exhibit Color & Light: Charles Warner’s Miniature Cathedrals.
It’s featured in Catalyst: Im/migration and Self-taught Art in Chicago, which showcases work by 22 migrant and immigrant artists. The exhibit runs through January 11, 2026. This collaboration helps spotlight Warner’s story and raises awareness of the Dunn Museum’s collections. Read more »
Stormwater Management News
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Work Continues to Address Stormwater Infrastructure
The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) was awarded a $122 million appropriation from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to complete stormwater capital improvement projects and reduce flooding in hard hit communities countywide.
Half of the planned DCEO capital improvement projects are now funded, but there is still more work to be done.
Learn more about the efforts to address stormwater infrastructure
Health News
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Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus
A mosquito “pool” (batch of mosquitoes) sampled on June 24 at a Southlake Mosquito Abatement District trap in Highland Park has tested positive for West Nile virus. This mosquito pool is the first confirmed indicator of West Nile virus presence in Lake County in 2025.
Find prevention tips, including the 4 Ds of mosquito protection as well as information on West Nile virus at Fight the Bite Now.
Residents can also call the Health Department’s West Nile hotline at 847-377-8300 to report areas of stagnant water, report locations of dead birds, and obtain more information on the signs and symptoms of West Nile virus.
Follow These Tips to Swim Safely
Whether enjoying the waters at your local pool or your favorite beach, it is important to protect yourself from illness, prevent the spread of germs and practice safe swimming.
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 through the interactive map on the Health Department’s Beach Monitoring and Advisories web page, which is updated daily by 10 a.m.
Learn more about ways to protect yourself from illness at pools and water parks
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 6th 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
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Sheriff's Office News |
Strengthening Waterway Safety
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office announced a new public-private partnership with Nielsen Enterprises and Kawasaki to enhance waterway safety through the addition of two Jet Skis, now deployed with the Sheriff’s Marine Unit.
Thanks to Kawasaki’s national loan program in support of law enforcement and first responders, and through the assistance of Nielsen Enterprises, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office received two Jet Skis at no cost for use during the 2025 boating season. These high-performance personal watercrafts launched July 1 on Lake County waterways to support emergency response, water rescues and proactive safety patrols.
Learn more
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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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
Job News
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Workshops Help Veterans Transition to Career
The Off-Base Transitional Training (OBTT), provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, provides employment preparation, education, and opportunities that allow attendees to maximize their career potential.
The OBTT program is an opportunity for for Veterans, Veterans currently serving in the National Guard and Reserve, and their spouses. The next career workshop will be offered July 30.
Learn more about OBTT and register online to attend
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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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.
Get Ready for an Incredible July in Lake County
As the peak of summer heats up, it’s time to chase adventure. This season, let your journey lead you through the scenic beauty, rich history and outdoor charm of Lake County. Click here to dive into Visit Lake County’s Road Trips guide and keep scrolling for the top 10 can’t-miss experiences happening this July.
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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