April 27, 2026
Dear Neighbors,
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First off, I want to congratulate Maureen Riedy for an amazing 22-year career with Lake County. Maureen, who will be retiring shortly, has led Visit Lake County proudly with her wonderful team and has really shined a light on our county in unimaginable ways. Tourism in our county has increased significantly under her leadership, and she will be greatly missed.
We have many fine establishments in the county, including hotels, restaurants, entertainment and a great amusement park, besides our incredible forest preserves that offer low-cost beauty and entertainment for sure. Our Beer Garden at Independence Grove Forest Preserve will be opening up for a new season on May 1.
I want to congratulate Lake County Partners on hosting “The Big Event” last Friday, which celebrated the county’s economic success and discussed future plans to help continue bringing more businesses to our area. Kevin Considine and his team continue to work diligently in the U.S. and abroad to attract new companies and work in tandem with the county board to put all of the important pieces in place to make the county palatable to business entities.
 The Lake County Forest Preserves also will host weekly concerts at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. starting June 9 and running through Aug. 4. Entrance is $20 per vehicle after 4:30 p.m. on event nights. The lineup features tribute bands playing music by the Rolling Stones, Beatles and Fleetwood Mac. View the concert listing and information about this year's performers at the Forest Preserves' website. The concerts grow more popular each year. Don’t miss out on a fabulous night outdoors.
As the weather improves, make sure you check out the large array of programs and services our forest preserves offer through the summer. The Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area would be a nice choice to check out our new construction at this location. This preserve also has lovely trails to enjoy. Make sure to take advantage of this lovely weather!
Best,
Lake County Government News
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Send Your Photos! Help Capture Lake County’s Story for America 250
As part of America 250 in Lake County, we invite you to help tell our county’s story through photos, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States and the history that defines Lake County.
To help do that, you’re invited to take the Lake County Self-Guided History Tour, an interactive map featuring a selection of historic landmarks and locations across the county. While the map doesn’t include every significant site, it’s a great starting point for discovering and exploring Lake County’s rich history, and it can serve as inspiration for photo submissions.
Visit a historic site, snap a photo and submit it to help showcase Lake County’s history as part of the America 250 initiative.
Learn more about the Lake County Self-Guided History Tour
Lake County Leads with New Sustainable Model Ordinance Program
Lake County is building on its commitment to sustainability with a new program designed to make a difference in our communities.
The Sustainable Model Ordinance Engagement Program will help municipalities, park districts, townships and other partners adopt environmentally friendly policies more easily by offering proven examples and best practices compiled within the Sustainable Model Ordinance Inventory.
Lake County is committed to protecting the environment we all share. As one of the six priorities in the County’s Strategic Plan, sustainability isn’t just a goal, it’s a responsibility. By leading by example and working together, we’re building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for our communities.
Learn more at lakecountyil.gov/sustainability.
Artificial Intelligence and the Lake County Workforce
Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities are evolving quickly as new tools, models and workplace applications are released. Their impact on specific jobs, industries and skill needs can shift rapidly.
Lake County Workforce Development recently developed and released a report titled, “Artificial Intelligence and the Lake County Workforce.” Among its findings, the report states that AI will not eliminate most careers, but it is changing what employers expect and what skills command a premium. Workers who practice using AI now, before employers require it, are best positioned for long-term success. The report also explores how organizations such as Job Center of Lake County who assist job seekers can meet the changing needs by developing training to be practical, role-specific and built around responsible AI use.
Read the Lake County Workforce Development report
Be Informed to Be Flood Ready
Flooding can occur across Lake County from rivers, intense rainfall, shoreline conditions, and stormwater system limitations. Even properties outside mapped floodplains can still experience flooding. The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) encourages residents to understand their local flood risk and how watersheds and development conditions can influence flooding. Reviewing FEMA flood maps or Lake County maps can help with this.
Residents can also take simple actions to reduce damage if flooding ever occurs on their property. This includes elevating utilities, maintaining drainage paths, directing water away from foundations, installing backflow protection, and ensuring sump pumps are functioning properly. Learn more about flooding prevention and awareness by visiting our website or reading FEMA’s Protect Your Property From Flooding brochure.
First 2026 Household Chemical Waste Mobile Collection
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) will host their first Household Chemical Waste (HCW) Mobile Collection event of the year on May 16 at the Vernon Hills Metra Station, 75 E Highway 45.
Appointments are required, and the event will run from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Scan the QR code in the flyer or use this link to make an appointment. Visit SWALCO.org to view a complete list of accepted materials.
Lake County Announces 2026 Construction Program
The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) announced a $98 million 2026 program focused on maintaining and modernizing County roads, paths and bridges. This means it will be another busy construction season in Lake County, with approximately 30 projects scheduled for 2026.
See all the 2026 projects
New Climate Roadmap Released for the Chicago Area
Lake County is part of a new regional climate action plan led by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), aimed at tackling the 152 million metric tons of greenhouse gases generated by our region each year, with 5% of emissions coming from Lake County.
The plan covers 70 strategies to reduce emissions, improve public health and strengthen the economy across 13 counties in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. Read more about the Comprehensive Climate Action Plan for Greater Chicago.
Learn with Northstar and Earn a Laptop!
At the end of March, Lake County’s Digital Growth Initiative hosted a laptop distribution event for residents who met certain requirements and completed Northstar Digital Literacy learning at a participating site.
Northstar participants use the online learning platform to improve their basic digital skills, such as sending emails, accessing telehealth and using Microsoft tools! The program is available in English and Spanish and can be completed on phones, tablets and computers.
Eligible residents in Lake County are invited to enroll in Northstar Digital Literacy to improve their digital skills!!
Partner sites include:
- Community Center of Catholic Charities
- Family First Center of Lake County
- Highwood Library & Community Center
- Lake County Housing Authority
- Mano a Mano Family Resource Center
- Round Lake Area Schools District
- Waukegan Public Library
Lake County organizations are invited to apply for a Northstar license to help provide in-person or online learning opportunities to improve digital skills through ready-to-go lesson plans, online learning accounts and proctored assessments.
Start your Northstar journey today! Residents and organizations can email broadband@lakecountyil.gov for more information.
 Residents and Lake County staff at the March 31 Northstar Laptop Distribution Event.
Providing Resources to Find Your Career Pathway
Lake County Workforce Development actively engages with the community, helping residents access valuable resources and discover career opportunities. Through recent collaboration with the local chamber of commerce, students and community organizations, the team is strengthening connections that empower residents to build meaningful career paths.
 Among the community events Lake County Workforce Development recently attended are: clockwise from top left, Grant Community High School Career Fair; YouthBuild interactive tour and presentation; the Breaking Barriers Summit hosted by the Lake Zurich Area and Libertyville Mundelein Chambers of Commerce; and the Tech Campus Career Fair.
Unlock Career and Hiring Opportunities with Job Center of Lake County
Watch this video to discover the in-person and virtual resources available to both job seekers and employers through the Job Center of Lake County.
From personalized job search support and career training to internships and hiring solutions, explore how these services can help you take the next step toward success. Don’t miss out on the tools and opportunities designed to move your career or business forward.
Forest Preserves News
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Volunteers Make It Happen
Volunteers help keep Lake County’s forest preserves thriving all year long. Last year, 1,241 volunteers contributed more than 21,000 hours supporting restoration, education and community programs.
Some focus on improving habitats, while others help grow fresh food or share knowledge with visitors. Their efforts strengthen both the land and the community. Learn More
Concert Lineup Released
The Concerts in the Plaza lineup has been released, and summer nights at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville are set. Nine Tuesday evening shows run June 9 through Aug. 4, featuring everything from the Beatles and Rolling Stones tributes to country and reggae.
A special patriotic performance by Wayne Messmer will help mark the nation’s 250th anniversary on June 30. Concerts begin at 7 pm at Millennia Plaza overlooking the lake. Read More
Beer Garden Reopens May 1
The Beer Garden at Independence Grove reopens Friday, May 1, with lakeside seating and a rotating selection of Lake County craft brews. Opening day features an early Cinco de Mayo celebration with mariachi music from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
The season also includes Brews & Views on May 29, a relaxed tasting event with local breweries, live music and food. Fire pits and scenic views make it an easy place to settle in and stay awhile. Read More
The Man Behind Lincoln’s Waukegan Stop
Who helped plan Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Lake County? The story leads to Waukegan, where attorney Henry William Blodgett met with Lincoln at his home before he became president.
During that meeting, he urged Lincoln to take a stand against slavery. Blodgett’s influence left a lasting mark on Lake County history. Learn more in this DunnTV video. Watch Here
Watch All 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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