August 19, 2025
Dear Neighbors,
|
Please join me for a Ninth District Community Meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, September 19 at the Boys & Girls Club, 724 S. Genesee St., Waukegan.
It is my pleasure to serve as your representative on the Lake County and Forest Preserve Boards. I have proudly served on the Lake County Board for over 20 years and was elected by my peers as Vice Chair in 2018. I hope you will make time to attend this great event.
You can hear from County department staff about services and programs, recent improvements and future projects. There will also be an opportunity to submit your questions to be answered by County staff.
Lake County Government News
|
Lake County ARPA Projects in Action
1.9 million meals. 6.5 million pieces of PPE. $22.2 million invested in water and sanitary sewer upgrades. These numbers are just a few examples of how Lake County has allocated $135.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
Learn how these investments are making an impact in our communities
Digital Growth Initiative News
|
Don’t Miss Upcoming Digital Skills Programs
Residents can sign up for basic digital skills courses at the Zion-Benton Public Library and the North Chicago Public Library happening September through December 2025.
Participants will explore computer basics - like identifying parts of a computer, logging on, accessing an email and other beginner skills. These courses are “Learn to Earn” courses, meaning residents who meet certain requirements may earn a laptop to take home after completing all course dates.
View a full schedule of class dates on the Zion-Benton Public Library website and the North Chicago Public Library website. Registration in advance is required. Reach out to Lake County Digital Navigators to register for programming:
CALL 847-377-3442
EMAIL digitalnavigators@lakecountyil.gov
VISIT lakecountyil.gov/4930
Treasurer's Office News
|
Second Installment Property Tax Bill Due Sept. 4
Remember, the second installment of your property tax payment is due on Sept. 4. There are convenient options available, including the free eCheck feature, by mail, by phone and at your local bank.
Learn more about the payment options
State's Attorney's Office News
|
Attend Gun Violence Prevention Initiative Town Hall
The Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative (GVPI) will be hosting a series of town halls where you will have the opportunity to learn about what the GVPI is, their mission, the programs and services offered to Lake County residents and goals.
The GVPI welcomes you to participate to provide feedback, ask questions and engage with the GVPI so that we may continue to serve Lake County in an effective way.
Think About Secure Firearm Storage
As children across Lake County return to school, it is important to remember that unlocked and easily accessible firearms can turn curiosity into catastrophe. Responsible storage isn't just a precaution. It’s a commitment to protecting children from preventable tragedy, suicide and violence.
The Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative is committed to promoting responsible firearm ownership and safety. Through education, outreach, and partnerships with local and state organizations, the GVPI promotes secure firearm storage to reduce firearm homicides, firearm suicides and incidental shootings in Lake County.
Health News
|
Helping Those Struggling with Opioid Use
Every year, the Lake County Health Department acknowledges August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), sharing information on the tragedy of drug overdose death and raise awareness that drug overdose is preventable.
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use, there is help. The Lake County Health Department has naloxone and other overdose prevention resources available for community members. Find resources
Sustainability News
|
Reuse and Recycle Rally
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County is partnering with Deerfield, Bannockburn, and North Shore Unitarian Church for a Reuse and Recycle Rally from noon to 3 p.m. Aug. 24 at North Shore Unitarian Church, 2100 Half Day Road, Deerfield.
This is a free event to bring accepted household items, which will be reused, recycled and donated. Up to six banker boxes of confidential documents also can be brought to this event to be shredded.
Compost Bin, Rain Barrel and Accessories Sale
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County is holding a compost bin, rain barrel and accessories online sale now through the end of the day Aug. 27 unless supplies sell out sooner. The pick-up dates will be Sept. 4 and 5.
Forest Preserves News
|
Hike Lake County is Back!
Hit the trails and explore Lake County in a fresh way. The 27th annual Hike Lake County program runs through November 30. Complete seven of 12 designated hikes and earn a free commemorative medallion featuring a great horned owl. Dog-friendly walks include a keepsake tag for your pup.
Pick up a Travel Log (English or Spanish) to track your walks—available online or at select locations. Guided hikes with a naturalist are also offered this season. Learn more »
|
Board Endorses Land Purchases
The Lake County Forest Preserves’ Board of Commissioners authorized two significant acquisitions to protect nature.
In Winthrop Harbor, $4.59 million will purchase 120.8 acres along Lewis Avenue to create a new forest preserve, featuring wetlands, open space and scenic views next to the Robert McClory Bike Path. Near Round Lake, $3.59 million will add the 143.6-acre Wilson Road Livestock property to Kestrel Ridge Forest Preserve. Learn More »
Fort Sheridan Cemetery Expansion Approved
The Lake County Forest Preserves approved a $610,000 sale of 4.7 acres to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to expand Fort Sheridan National Cemetery.
The land, part of Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest, will be used to install columbaria for cremated remains. It includes two parcels, one east and one west of the existing cemetery. Proceeds from the sale will support the Every Acre Strong campaign led by the Preservation Foundation, helping us care for Fort Sheridan—forever. Read More »
Museum Earns Top Honors
The Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville has earned reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, placing it among fewer than 3% of museums nationwide to hold this distinction.
The honor recognizes the museum’s commitment to excellence, education and community service, following a rigorous review process. Operated by the Lake County Forest Preserves, the Dunn Museum showcases Lake County’s history and serves as a vibrant cultural hub for residents and visitors. Read More »
Education News
|
Providing Free Books to Children
All Lake County families can enroll in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, thanks to the Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation. This program delivers free, high-quality books each month to children from birth to age five, regardless of income. Learn how to enroll
County Clerk's Office News
|
New System Helps Residents Access Land Records
The new integrated records management system for the Lake County Clerk’s Office Recording Division, implemented in partnership with GovOS, is live. This milestone marks a major advancement in modernizing the office’s operation, streamlining how land records are accessed and managed across the county.
Lake County residents and recording customers will benefit from modern, intuitive searching of land records and historical documents and easily accessible online search and ordering tools. Learn more about the new records system
Veteran News
|
Serving as Fearless Champion for Veterans
Keeyawnia “KC” Hawkins, a County Veterans Service Officer with the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County (VACLC), has been named the recipient of the prestigious Ann Knowles Distinguished CVSO Award by the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers.
Since joining the VACLC in 2023, Hawkins has become recognized as a leader in veteran advocacy, known for her ability to cut through bureaucratic red tape and provide clear, effective guidance to veterans navigating the complexities of the benefits claims process.
Read more about Keeyawnia Hawkins
Learn more about the VAC
|
Coroner's Office News
|
Coroner’s Office Receives Reaccreditation
The Lake County Coroner’s Office has received reaccreditation by the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners (IACME). The Lake County Coroner’s Office self-submitted to this process for the purpose of ensuring the operating policies, procedures and practices are within international guidelines.
The completion of this process, which is for five years, indicates professionalism and compassion by the office.
Get Help
|
Call 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.
Neighbors,
|
I thank you for taking the time to read the latest edition of my e-newsletter. I encourage you to check out the community news and events listed below. If you have any questions or concerns, please call me at 847-721-1563 (cell) or email me at mcunningham@lakecountyil.gov.
Thank you,
Mary Ross-Cunningham
Vice-Chair, Lake County Board
Ms. Cunningham, County Board Vice-Chair and Forest Preserve Commissioner, serves on the following committees:
| Lake County Board |
Lake County Forest Preserves |
Law & Judicial, Chair |
Diversity & Cultural Awareness, Chair |
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Chair |
Gospelfest, Chair |
Public Building Commission, Vice-Chair |
Operations |
Rules |
Rules, Vice-Chair |
Health & Community Services |
|
Other Appointed Positions:
|
National Association of Counties (NACo)
- Vice Chair of Community, Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee
- Member of Veterans Committee
|
- Member of Membership Board
- Member Ambassador Board
- Regional Director, Northeast Region
|
|
Lake County Community Health Center Governing Council
|
Lake County Health Department Personnel Committee, Chair
|
|
Lake County Workforce Development Commission
|
Housing and Community Development Commission
|
|
Lake County Domestic Violence Council
|
Lake County Sexual Assault Coordination Committee
|
|
Waukegan School District 60 Policy Review Board, Member
|
Urban Muslim Minority Alliance, Board Member
|
Community Events and News
|
Check Visit Lake County’s Labor Day Weekend Guide
Labor Day weekend is almost here, and Lake County is packed with ways to celebrate. From classic festivals and live music to last-chance adventures, there's no shortage of fun.
Check Visit Lake County’s Labor Day Weekend guide to find ideas to make unforgettable memories before the seasons change.
Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
|
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.
| 
