November 24, 2025
Dear Neighbors,
I hope you and your family are safe and healthy and getting ready for the Thanksgiving holiday!
I’m very pleased that Lake County was recently recognized by the Civic Federation as a Consolidation Leader in the state of Illinois! We all know that Illinois has more taxing bodies than any other state in the country, and the Lake County Board has made it a priority to analyze those taxing bodies that we appoint members to see if there are opportunities for consolidation or elimination. Since 2017, our board and appointed trustees, in collaboration with local municipalities, have eliminated or consolidated seven special districts and are working on the elimination of two more. "The Civic Federation applauds Lake County’s efforts to reduce duplication of effort, cut costs, and streamline operations for the delivery of public services. Lake County’s success in eliminating unnecessary layers of government clearly demonstrates that consolidation is both desirable and possible."
Last week I attended the Midwest Veterans Closet's food drive, handing out groceries to over 300 veterans and their families. Recent changes to federal laws are projected to result in more families losing SNAP benefits, so we can expect the need for food to grow across the country, and of course here in Lake County too. I also visited the Boys & Girls Club in Waukegan to see the improvements they've made as a result of the ARPA grant from the Lake County Board. This grant, and others like it, would not have been possible without the funding from the previous administration, resulting in $135 million in infrastructure and service improvements across Lake County.
I recently attended the Veterans Treatment and Assistance Court (VTAC) graduation to celebrate two veteran graduates. The VTAC is a program that provides veterans involved in the justice system help and favorable alternatives. Through the VTAC, the court partners in this collaborative program work to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety by focusing on the underlying
problems that the veteran is encountering with treatment, support and structure.
On the economic development front, Lake County Partners (LCP) is closing out its best year ever, with 1,862 new jobs, 1,333 in retained jobs, and $603 million in direct capital investment. The majority of the business wins have been expansions of existing Lake County-based companies—a testament to the recognized benefits derived by being located and growing within Lake County.
Recent wins have included a groundbreaking for a new facility to support Belle Aire Creations’ continued expansion in Lake County. The manufacturer has invested in the community three times in recent years to support growth in Libertyville and Round Lake Park. Also, Fortune Brands Innovations opened its new headquarters in Deerfield with great news: it is two years ahead of its hiring goal, having added over 400 new hires.
As 2025 nears its close, LCP continues to manage a robust active project pipeline with concentrations in the advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and housing industry sectors.
As always, it is an honor and a privilege to represent you on the Lake County Board and the Forest Preserve Board. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns, and I wish you and your family a very happy and healthy holiday season.
 Sandy Hart
Lake County Board District 13
Sandy Hart Webpage
Lake County Government News
|
Free Training and Career Support for Dislocated Workers
If you’ve been laid off, are collecting unemployment or facing a company closure, Lake County Workforce Development can help you pivot with purpose.
Workforce Development can offer free tuition assistance for training in high-demand industries, credentials and licenses that open new doors and personalized support to help you move forward. Attend a virtual information session, available in English and Spanish, to get started.
Lake County Board Approves Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
The Lake County Board has approved a balanced $676.6 million budget for its Fiscal Year 2026 (December 1, 2025 – November 30, 2026). The operating funds, those that include most governmental services, are balanced at $390.2 million, a 1% increase over last year. Although residents receive their property tax bill from Lake County, only about 7% of the total bill actually goes to Lake County government.
This budget continues to deliver high-quality services while making intentional investments that advance our Strategic Plan. Guided by strong financial policies, the Board has approved a balanced budget that supports the plan's long-term priorities.
The County budget supports the departments and programs residents rely on every day, from law enforcement and the court system to health programs, employment and job training services and more. It also includes more than $100 million for infrastructure improvements. In 2026, projects like the Russell Road roundabouts, drainage improvements in the Carillion North Subdivision and critical upgrades to three Lake County Public Works wastewater treatment plants will move forward.
LakeComm’s New 911 Emergency Communications Center Goes Live
Lake Consolidated Emergency Communications (LakeComm) is now officially operational and is the largest in Illinois! The consolidation of 911 and public safety communications services for 30 police and fire agencies across Lake County into one unified system will reduce call transfers, improve response times, enhance coordination and interoperability, and provide a model for future advancements in public safety. This historic consolidation is located on our Libertyville campus at our new Regional Operations & Communication Facility.
Read the full news release to learn how LakeComm is setting a new standard for emergency communications in the region.
Sheridan Crossing Cleanup to Pave Way for Development
Lake County and the City of North Chicago have officially launched the Sheridan Crossing Remediation Project, a major step toward transforming a long-vacant, 40-acre property into a vibrant new development. Located at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Sheridan Road, directly across from Naval Station Great Lakes, the site has remained undeveloped due to soil contamination from former industrial use. Once the site is remediated, it will be redeveloped into a walkable downtown district, featuring multi-use buildings with commercial space on the ground floor and residences above. This project is expected to spur economic development and enhance the quality of life in North Chicago.
U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (IL-10) submitted the project under a federal initiative called Community Project Funding, enabling Lake County to secure $4 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to support this effort.
Lewis Avenue at Wadsworth Road Project is Complete
I was happy to be a part of the celebration to mark the completion of the Lewis Avenue at Wadsworth Road intersection improvement. This busy intersection sees nearly 40,000 vehicles pass through every day. To improve safety, traffic operations, several upgrades were completed, including new turn lanes and traffic signals, pedestrian signals with push buttons for safer crossings and an off-road path connecting the intersection to the regional Robert McClory Bike Path.
This project received $3.4 million in Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program (CMAQ) funding to improve traffic congestion at the intersection. These CMAQ funds covered 80 percent of the project's costs. Lake County and the Village of Beach Park partnered to fund the remaining 20 percent of this improvement.
FREE Basic Computer Skills Courses Offered Across Lake County
Today, people need reliable internet and online skills for important activities like paying bills, applying to jobs, accessing healthcare services and staying connected with friends and family.
In Lake County, not everyone has access to internet services, and some residents do not feel confident using technology. The Lake County Digital Growth Initiative (DGI) was created to better understand high-speed internet and technology access in the County and implement solutions for improvement.
The DGI is offering basic computer and digital skills courses across Lake County. Registration in advance is required and residents must meet specific eligibility requirements. Participants receive a certificate and laptop upon successful completion of the course. Classes are currently available in Waukegan, Zion, North Chicago, Grayslake, and Highwood. To sign up for a class, email digitalnavigators@lakecountyil.gov or call 847-377-3442.
This course will introduce Lake County IL residents to essential digital skills:
- Basic Computer Skills
- Internet Safety Basics
- Windows 11
- Email Basics
- Typing Practice
You must be able to commit to 12 hours of learning time in order to successfully complete the class.
|
LCP HOSTED 50+ PUBLIC SECTOR PARTNERS FOR ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
Feed the Cart, Lake County!
Meet Loop the Cart! He’s a little cart with a big appetite for your recyclables.
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County has partnered with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and other agencies to lead Feed the Cart, the largest recycling education campaign in Illinois’ history.
Visit the Feed the Cart website to learn more about the benefits to recycling, specific waste and recycling information in your community and ways to get the latest updates on recycling news, events and rules.
Help Shape the Next 25 Years of Transportation
The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) has launched Envision 2050, our next Long Range Transportation Plan. This plan will develop a vision of transportation in Lake County that is responsive to today's needs yet flexible enough to adapt to challenges over the next two decades and beyond.
With your input, Envision 2050 will establish a framework for infrastructure and mobility investments to provide all users the physical mobility they need to reach the economic mobility they seek. When completed the plan will identify transportation priorities, a list of projects and implementation strategies.
|
Celebrating 30 Years as Federally Qualified Health Center
The Lake County Health Department and Community Center marks three decades as a Federally Qualified Health Center, expanding access to high-quality, affordable health care regardless of a person's ability to pay.
What began as a single location has grown into a robust network of nine health centers across Lake County. In 2024, the Health Department served 32,975 unique patients and provided more than 113,000 visits, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of care for the County’s most vulnerable and underserved populations.
Take Precautions During Respiratory Virus Season
One way to monitor respiratory illnesses such as RSV, COVID-19 and the flu in Lake County is through the Lake County Health Department’s weekly Respiratory Reports. These reports track the flu, COVID-19 and RSV specifically within Lake County.
The reports can be a useful tool to help individuals stay informed and make the best decisions for themselves and their families, especially when traveling, gathering with family and friends or deciding when to wear a mask.
View the Health Department’s Healthy Lifestyle Lake County newsletter to learn more tips to prevent the spread and other helpful health information.
K9 Teams Excel at USPCA Region 19 Trials
Lake County Sheriff’s Office K9 teams recently participated in the United States Police Canine Association Region 19 Police Dog I Regional Trials in Sterling Heights, Michigan.
The competition drew 30 K9 teams from across the region, each demonstrating excellence in tracking, patrol, narcotics detection, cadaver detection and more. In this strong field, Lake County’s teams achieved outstanding results.
County’s 2025 Public Works Projects
This year, Lake County Public Works (L.CPW) is investing $15.3 million in a dozen projects that preserve, modernize and expand the water distribution and wastewater systems customers use every day. Major projects in 2025 include the Gages Lake Water Tower, Pekara Lake Michigan Water Connection, upgrades at the LCPW wastewater treatment plants and more.
Watch this video and visit our website to learn more about the projects LCPW is working on.
|
Sign Up for Public Works Alerts
Lake County Public Works is using a new mass notification system to notify customers of water main breaks, boil water orders, service disruptions and more. Don’t miss critical updates. Sign up to receive alerts by phone, text or email!
Keep Storm Drains Clear of Leaves. Follow These Tips
As the colorful autumn leaves begin to fall, don't forget your part in keeping leaves clear of storm drains. Storm sewers drain rainwater to prevent flooding. Leaves and grass clippings can clog storm drains, resulting in slow drainage, pooling water and in some cases, flooding. When large amounts of leaves are transported into waterways and watersheds it can also negatively impact the ecosystem.
Read the latest Mainstream newsletter to find tips to keep the drains clear and other helpful news from the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission.
|
Oh Deer! Watch for Deer on the Roads this Fall
While accidents can happen at any time of year, most deer-vehicle incidents occur between dusk and dawn through November and December. Drivers should slow down and stay alert to avoid deer-vehicle collisions this fall when traveling after dark.
Not all deer-vehicle accidents can be prevented, but drivers can reduce their chances of a collision by understanding basic deer behavior and being proactive. The Illinois Department of Transportation provides you these safety driving tips during deer-mating season.
Website Has A New Look
The Lake County Clerk of the Circuit Court website has a new look, featuring a modern, refreshed design with streamlined menus and improved navigation, making it easier to find what you need.
The website has new features, including an event calendar, news updates and popular links to help the public stay informed and connected with our office.
Get Help
|
Use 211 to Get Connected to the Help You Need
Families across Lake County have been navigating growing instability. These challenges are being felt in homes, schools, and neighborhoods throughout our community. For some, fear itself has become a barrier to seeking help.
If you need help finding food, healthcare, shelter, utility assistance or other services, call 211, text your zip code to 898211 or visit the 211 Lake County website 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 a free, confidential resource that connects Lake County residents to the services they need.
Forest Preserve News
|
Budget Supports Restoration, Sustainability, Public Safety
The Lake County Forest Preserves’ Board of Commissioners approved a balanced budget for 2026, described as “razor thin.” The plan focuses on protecting land and connecting people to nature while keeping property taxes well below 2009 levels.
Spending is down 22.8% from last year, reflecting reduced capital costs and continued fiscal discipline. Funded in part by the 2024 voter-approved referendum, the budget supports restoration, access, sustainability and public safety while maintaining a top Aaa Moody’s bond rating. Learn More »
Nature Playtime at Greenbelt
Build a bridge to nature with your young explorers from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, December 4 at the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago. This free, family-friendly program uses multisensory, imaginative play to support healthy brain and body development.
Adults learn the benefits of outdoor exploration while children experience the wonders of nature through their senses. Dress for the weather and meet behind the Education Wing. Extra clothes are recommended in case of mud or puddles. Adult supervision is required. Learn More »
Winter Bird Walk
Bundle up and join us from 8 to 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 18 at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest for a morning bird walk. We’ll scan the bluffs, shoreline and open fields for hardy resident birds and seasonal visitors that spend winter along Lake Michigan. This free program is open to all and no registration is needed.
Dress for the weather, as the walk is entirely outdoors. Meet at the Gilgare Road parking lot. Adult supervision is required. Pets are not allowed, except service animals. Learn More »
Upgrades Continue at Lakewood
Construction continues at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda as part of a master plan to improve access, sustainability and visitor experience. Several new features are open, including a 1.6-mile paved loop and fishing pier.
More improvements are on the way through 2027. Once complete, Lakewood will be better equipped to serve visitors for generations to come. Read More »
Solar Lights Extend Trail Hours After Dark
With the end of daylight saving time, some trails still shine after dark. Starting this week, illuminated routes at Old School Forest Preserve in Mettawa and the Winter Sports Area at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda let visitors keep walking well past sunset.
Solar lights guide the way, but bringing a flashlight or headlamp is recommended. The trails and nearby parking lots stay open until 9 p.m. daily through March 8. Learn More »
Beloved Children’s Book Art on Display
Step into the world of childhood imagination at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. Childhood Classics: 100 Years of Original Illustration showcases more than 100 works from beloved books including Where the Wild Things Are, Stuart Little and The Cat in the Hat. See art by Dr. Seuss, Maurice Sendak, Mo Willems and others who shaped generations of young readers.
Educational programs and family-friendly activities will accompany the exhibition, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. The exhibition runs through January 19, 2026.
Learn More »
Preserving Land, Expanding Access
Over the past 15 months, the Lake County Forest Preserves has taken important steps to protect sensitive natural areas, expand open space and improve trail connections for visitors. Supported by a $20.5 million limited bond, the Board of Commissioners approved several key land purchases.
Each acquisition strengthens the county’s ecological health while also creating more opportunities for people to explore and enjoy the preserves. Read More »
Double Win for Grassy Lake and Restoration Ecologist
Grassy Lake Forest Preserve in Lake Barrington earned Platinum accreditation from the Chicago Wilderness Alliance for its restoration work. Our Retired Restoration Ecologist Ken Klick also received the Force of Nature Award for his decades of leadership.
Volunteers Wes Wolf and Carol Hogan played a key role, contributing more than 20,000 hours caring for the land and inspiring others to get involved. Their dedication has helped rebuild vital prairie, wetland and woodland habitat for rare plants and wildlife. Read More »
Hands-on Program Builds Skills, Improves Preserves
The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC), a paid, hands-on program in the Lake County Forest Preserves for high school and college students, had a successful summer season with 26 participants. Over two months, five crews spread wood chips at off-leash dog areas, collected and planted seeds at the in Grayslake, replaced split-rail fences and cleared invasive species such as buckthorn, garlic mustard and sweet clover. Learn More »
Growing Strong Together
When people unite around a shared love of nature, incredible things happen. Thanks to donors, volunteers, staff, board members and neighbors, the Preservation Foundation, our charitable partner, is helping make your forest preserves healthier, stronger and more resilient.
Explore the 2024 Annual Report to see the impact of this support, shaping every acre for today and the future. Read More »
What’s All the B𝘶𝘻𝘻 About Bumble Bees?
From spring pollination to winter survival, these fuzzy flyers are busy all year long. Join President Jessica Vealitzek and Wildlife Ecologist Kathryn McCabe as they dive into the secret life of bumble bees through the seasons.
Watch Video »
Ray Lake Expansion to Boost Wetlands
The Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners approved adding 131 acres to Ray Lake Forest Preserve in Wauconda. The expansion connects vital wetlands, strengthens flood control and supports rare wildlife.
Restoring the area will improve water quality and save about $1.2 million in infrastructure costs. The project enhances both the environment and the quality of life for Lake County residents. Learn More »
Celebrate in Style, Naturally
Whether you’re hosting a wedding, family reunion or corporate retreat, the Forest Preserves' venues bring together the best of both worlds — breathtaking natural settings and the warmth of indoor comfort. The sites feature scenic views and memorable backdrops for your special day.
Celebrate surrounded by nature and supported by a team dedicated to making your event seamless from start to finish. Learn More »
National Communications Honors Earned
The Forest Preserves earned national recognition for its communications work, receiving two awards for its Words of the Woods podcast and one for Horizons magazine.
- Season three of the podcast won an Award of Excellence from the Public Relations Society of America–Chicago and an Honorable Mention in the PRNEWS Platinum Awards. Judges praised the professional production exploring climate change through local stories and expert voices.
- The winter 2024 issue of Horizons earned an APEX Award of Excellence for engaging writing, striking photography and thoughtful design, featuring stories on Lake County’s glacial history, shoreline restoration and local wildlife. Read more »
Community Events and News
|
Illuminate Your Holiday Season in Lake County
When the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, Lake County transforms into a twinkling wonderland of holiday light displays and festive cheer. Check out Visit Lake County's guide to the brightest events lighting up Lake County this winter.
Visit Lake County Shares Annual Report
As the official destination marketing organization and voice for tourism in Lake County, Visit Lake County leads initiatives that enhance our region's quality of life. Through strategic marketing efforts, they amplify the economic impact of tourism, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and enriching the cultural fabric of our communities.
Check Visit Lake County’s annual report to see all they are doing to elevate tourism, drive economic growth and enrich the quality of life across the County.
Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
|
All Lake County board and committee meetings can be viewed on lakecounty.tv and on cable television (Comcast channels 18 or 30, depending on where you live, and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99). The public also is welcome to attend all meetings in person at the Lake County Administrative Tower, 18 N. County Street, 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.
| 
