January 30, 2026
Lake County Government News
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Public Wi-Fi Access Coming to Downtown Waukegan
Lake County and the City of Waukegan have approved an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) to provide free, high-speed public Wi-Fi to Waukegan’s downtown corridor. The project is Lake County’s first municipal public Wi-Fi partnership.
Using federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, Lake County will construct the network this spring and be responsible for maintenance through December 31, 2026. After this date, the network will be owned and operated by the City of Waukegan.
Leaders Discuss Legislative Initiatives at Annual Breakfast
Lake County recently partnered with the Lake County Municipal League in hosting our annual legislative breakfast, in which we met with elected federal and state officials and local municipalities to discuss shared issues, new initiatives and policy opportunities.
This event is an opportunity for the County to address legislation it supports and funding opportunities for its capital priorities. These priorities will improve public safety, reduce traffic congestion, enhance water and sewer service and address other important local issues. Learn more about Lake County’s legislative priorities by viewing the 2026 Legislative Program.
Use the Warming Center Finder to Get Relief from the Cold
As the temperatures drop, residents who do not have access to heat can utilize a warming center. View our Warming Center Finder to find a warm place you or someone you know can go.
Before going, please call in advance to confirm availability and hours.
Things To Do in Your District
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See Visit Lake County's Guide to Winter Festivals
Lake County is shedding the winter blues this season with a robust lineup of winter festivals and community events. Local municipalities and businesses have curated family-friendly experiences for all ages, including the highly anticipated February Flavor Festival.
Check Visit Lake County's guide to Winter Festivals to see why the region remains a premier destination for Midwest winter recreation and seasonal entertainment.
Forest Preserve News
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Profiles in Excellence Returns for Black History Month
Origin stories come to life through performance and storytelling at the 43rd annual Profiles in Excellence event, set for 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1 at the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago.
Held in recognition of Black History Month, the free program for all ages features playwright and educator Ted Williams III and highlights from the musical 1619: The Journey of a People. The event will also honor two Waukegan residents, Frank Pettis and Leila Glover for their lasting contributions to the community. Learn More »
$600,000 Grant to Boost Gurnee Preserve
The Lake County Forest Preserves received a $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development program. Funding will improve access at Lake Carina Forest Preserve in Gurnee.
The project will upgrade parking, trails and restrooms. It also includes a new ADA-compliant parking lot, accessible trails to the lake and fishing pier, a kayak and small-boat launch and a new overlook. Learn More »
Grant Woods Expansion Approved
The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of about 0.82 acres to expand Grant Woods Forest Preserve.
The $37,000 acquisition along Route 59 supports long-term conservation and improves the continuity of the preserve. Local leaders and residents said the small addition will strengthen an already valued natural area. Read More »
Stormwater Management News
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Save the Date for HOA Workshop and Vendor Expo
The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) is excited to host the 2026 Homeowners Association (HOA) Workshop and Vendor Expo on Wednesday, February 25 at the University Center of Lake County, 1200 University Center Drive, Grayslake. This will be a hybrid event.
Vendor Expo: starts at 3:30 p.m. and is available to in-person attendees only
HOA Workshop Presentations: start at 5:30 p.m. and is available to attend in-person or via Zoom
This event is for HOAs and property owners who are responsible for maintaining detention ponds, wetlands, natural areas, and other drainage infrastructure to learn how to best care for these areas. The Vendor Expo will include maintenance, engineering, and ecological consulting companies who will provide educational information. The HOA Workshop presentations will feature knowledgeable speakers and experts to share more. Grants and funding opportunities will also be discussed.
This event will be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Anyone needing special assistance should contact Sharene Gould Dulabaum at sgoulddulabaum@lakecountyil.gov at least one week prior to the event.
Register for the in-person HOA Vendor Expo and Workshop
Register for the online HOA Workshop
Visit SMC’s HOA Workshop web page for more information
Job News
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Explore Education Careers at Job Fair Feb. 28
The fifth annual Lake County Educator Job Fair will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. Feb. 28. Participants can explore teaching and non-teaching education careers while meeting with multiple hiring districts in one location.
The job fair will be at a new location this year, the Lake County Regional Office of Education, 1905 W. Field Court, Lake Forest.
Register 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.
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.
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 about 211, the free, confidential one-step resource that connects Lake County residents to the services they need.
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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