April 24, 2026
Dear Neighbors,
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I was honored to attend the Lake County Partners' Big Event this morning with my colleagues from the Lake County Board and the Lake County Forest Preserve District.
Attended by business and civic leaders, this annual event is focused on the ways that we can strengthen, sustain and leverage the county’s community assets. This year, Lake County Partners invited keynote speaker Jon Roberts, from TIP Strategies, who took a deep dive into the strategies and initiatives that foster balanced development and community success.
Jon and his team were integral in the development of Lake County’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, which guides Lake County Partners' work plan to fuel economic growth.
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 the Job Center of Lake County, 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.
Dispose of Medications Properly at a Collection Box Near You
Dispose your old, unneeded and expired medications safely and anonymously at a drop-off location near you between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25 as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) holds its National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
There will be thousands of local drop-off locations nationwide. Proper disposal of unneeded drugs saves lives and protects the environment and our overall community. Find a collection site near you
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.
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 p.m. at Millennia Plaza overlooking the lake. 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
Neighbors,
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Thank you for taking the time to read the latest edition of my e-newsletter. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at pfrank@lakecountyil.gov or visit my Facebook page.
I encourage you to forward this update to others who may be interested in Lake County news. Residents who wish to automatically receive my bi-weekly newsletter can email me, or click the “Newsletter Sign Up” button at the top of the newsletter.
Thank you,
Paul Frank
Mr. Frank, County Board member and Forest Preserve Commissioner, serves on the following committees:
Lake County Board, 11th District:
| Financial & Administrative, Chair |
Technology |
| Planning Building Zoning & Environment |
Legislative |
Lake County Forest Preserves, 11th District:
| Planning, Chair |
Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves |
| Ethics |
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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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