Dear Neighbors,
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Happy New Year to all in the 19th District of Lake County. I am looking forward to an incredibly productive year ahead!
First off, I am very excited to share that Lake County Public Works finally got the final approval from the federal EPA to upgrade the Pekara water system. So now we are trying to move as quickly as possible to bring Lake Michigan water your way. Over the next two to four months public works will be flushing out the pipes one last time and once that process is complete the system will be changed over to Lake Michigan water. We will keep the Pekara community informed of the county’s progress.
As chair of the Planning, Building, Zoning and Environment Committee, I am thrilled that the County Board is moving forward with an Urban and Community Forest Plan. This plan has been in the works for a while and now it is finally time to roll it out. Sustainability planning is a big goal in our new Strategic Five-Year Plan.
The plan includes a long-term vision for a connected tree-canopy over the next 10 years. We are hoping many of our municipalities will join in and support this project. Learn more about the plan and how it will help our county environmentally below.
Everyone should feel free this coming year to reach out with any issue or concerns that the county can assist you with. I am always here to be an advocate for my constituents. If you want to learn more about what has been happening in your county government, please attend my upcoming virtual townhall on Thursday, Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. You should have recently received a postcard in the mail with details. You can sign up to join the virtual town hall by using this link.
Best,
Lake County Government News
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Lake County Joins America 250 Celebration
This year, the nation will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. To honor this milestone, the Lake County Board approved a resolution on Jan. 13 supporting the Illinois America 250 Commemoration and is encouraging communities across Lake County to plan and participate in local events leading up to and culminating on July 4, 2026, as the county celebrates America’s 250th anniversary.
More information about scheduled activities will be announced in the coming weeks. Residents can stay informed about Lake County’s America 250 events and activities by visiting lakecountyil.gov/America250.
County Board Moves Forward with Urban and Community Forestry Plan
Lake County continues to be a leader in forward-thinking sustainability planning with the Board's recent approval of its newest initiative, the Lake County Urban and Community Forestry Strategic Plan.
Outlined in the plan is a long-term vision for a thriving, connected tree canopy that will be established over the next 10 years by following strategic goals and priorities for Lake County government, while also guiding efforts across municipalities, park districts, nonprofit partners and community members throughout the county.
Looking Back at County’s Major Economic Wins
Lake County is celebrating 2025 as its strongest year of economic growth yet and looking back at the major wins. From $633 million in direct investment and thousands of new and retained jobs, to major expansions in key industries and community-building initiatives, the impact speaks for itself.
Read Lake County Partners’ Year in Review to see how we helped attract and retain business, strengthen our workforce, expand housing opportunities and elevate the community while planning for 2026.
Transportation News
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County Board Approves New Projects Slated for 2026
The Lake County Board approved two transportation improvement projects slated for construction this year that are designed to enhance safety and non-motorized connectivity.
New bike and pedestrian paths will be installed along Washington Street in the Gurnee area, and a new roundabout will be constructed at the intersection of Deep Lake Road and Depot Street in Antioch.
County Clerk's Office News
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Guidance Issued on Recent USPS Operational Changes Impacting Vote by Mail
The Lake County Clerk's Office is issuing important guidance regarding recently implemented changes by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that may affect voters who plan to use vote by mail for upcoming elections.
As part of nationwide adjustments to postal operations under the USPS "Delivering for America" plan, the Postal Service has clarified how postmarks are applied to mail pieces, including vote by mail ballots. Under updated guidelines, the date printed on a postmark may reflect when mail is first processed at a USPS facility rather than the date it was deposited in a mailbox.
This adjustment, which took effect in the middle of the 2025 holiday season, could mean that mail pieces, including vote by mail ballots, may receive a later date stamp than the date on which the voter mailed them.
Learn how this will affect Lake County voters and recommendations by the County Clerk’s Office.
Digital Growth Initiative News
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Start the New Year Learning Basic Digital Skills
Residents can now sign up for basic digital skills courses taking place in February at Zion-Benton Public Library and the Round Lake Area Public Library.
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.
Round Lake Area Public Library Course: February 9 to 25
Zion-Benton Public Library Course: February 10 to 26
Registration in advance is required. To register, use the links above or reach out to Lake County Digital Navigators by calling (847) 377-3442 or emailing digitalnavigators@lakecountyil.gov.
Forest Preserves News
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Turn Holiday Trees into Trails
Real holiday trees can get a second life this winter through the Lake County Forest Preserves’ tree recycling program. Undecorated trees dropped off at designated preserves are turned into wood chips used on trails and landscaping, reducing waste and supporting natural areas.
Drop-off sites are open daily from 6:30 a.m. to sunset through Feb. 1. Yard waste and commercial drop-offs are not accepted. Find locations »
 
Treasurer's Office News
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Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program
Senior citizens may defer part or all of their property taxes on their personal residence if they qualify for the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program.
The deferral is similar to a loan against the property's fair market value. Deferred amounts are borrowed from the state, who then pays the tax bill to the County Collector's Office. Interest on the amount paid by the State accumulates and a lien is placed on the property for all deferred tax payments and interest.
Applications are now being accepted and must be received in the Lake County Treasurer’s Office by 5 p.m. March 1. Visit the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program web page for more details and a printable copy. You may also contact the Treasurer’s Office to get a mail application.
Health News
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Test Your Home to Protect Your Family from Radon
Radon cannot be seen, tasted or smelled, yet it is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in the U.S., claiming 21,000 lives every year. The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center recommends that residents test the radon levels in their homes and apartments, especially during the winter, when radon levels are highest.
Learn more about radon and how to request a short-term test kit through the Health Department.
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Sheriff's Office News |
Lake County Jail Passes Inspection and Audit
Sheriff John D. Idleburg is pleased to announce the Lake County Jail passed its most recent inspection and audit conducted by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC). The detailed inspection of the Lake County Jail took place on September 23, 2025. During the annual inspection, IDOC auditors thoroughly inspect more than 330 different categories.
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.
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.
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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