Dear Neighbors,
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In recent weeks, I’ve been getting numerous questions about Grayslake’s T5 data center, which is under construction. Please note: This is not a project that Lake County approved since it was within the incorporated village limits of Grayslake. When completed, the 400-acre-plus complex will be comprised of 20 buildings. It was fully approved by the Grayslake Village Board.
Responding to inquiries from neighbors, the Lake County Board as well as County staff are considering how these facilities might be best regulated in the future. As I write this, there are no specific laws on the state or federal level governing these projects. This is what we are carefully examining .
- We are considering amending our Unified Development Ordinance to cover data center development, which governs new construction in unincorporated Lake County. We may see a draft amendment next month or in July at our Planning, Building Zoning and Environment Committee, of which I'm a member. They'll present impacts, best practices and key elements.
- After review and possible approval by the committee, county staff will draft a proposed text amendment and schedule a public hearing before our Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
- We'll also seek a resolution authorizing a 120-day maximum hold/deferral on county data center applications, which would take effect when or if the County Board adopts the ZBA resolution. We already have a deferral clause in our county ordinances that puts a hold on specific new projects that would be impacted by new amendments to our development ordinance.
I know this sounds really bureaucratic, but the bottom line is that we'll intensively vet new ordinances so that we have adequate time to discuss, review, revise proposals and hear public comments. On complex subjects like these, our building and planning team always does a thorough, thoughtful review.
There’s one other big consideration that Lake County is eyeing. The data center is adjacent to the headwaters of Mill Creek, which runs through the center of Grayslake and flows into Third Lake. The massive excavation of the T5 complex will displace or fill nearly 16 acres of wetland.
Will filling in a wetland create flooding downstream in Grayslake or Third Lake? No one knows for sure, although it may negate a recent wetland preservation site near the confluence with Third Lake. Completed last year, the Mill Creek project helped avoid flooding along Linden Road during the heavy rains a few weeks ago. I was thrilled to help obtain the funding for this green infrastructure site. We’re already seeing the benefits of restoring a natural wetland, which also serves as an in-ground forest preserve nursery for wetland plants. An acre of wetland can absorb some one million gallons of floodwater.
Lake County’s Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) has been tasked by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to review project plans and perform periodic inspections of the T5 site. As an agency responsible for regulating inland wetlands and streams, the Army Corps typically has final say on issuing a permit for wetland filling and mitigation for Waters of the United States. Under federal law, developers must provide adequate wetland mitigation elsewhere to compensate for the loss of wetland capacity. Ideally, the mitigation should be within the same watershed, which in this case is the Mill Creek/Des Plaines River watershed.
The illuminating part of this Army Corps process is that it adds another level of transparency to this project. It requires a public notice and comment period. This is what the Army Corps stated in an April 17 letter to T5 and SMC:
“Opportunity will be given for other agencies and the general public to provide written comments on the project for a period of 30 days. Following the close of the comment period, this office will review the comment letters received, as well as your responses to the letters, conduct a public interest review, and prepare the appropriate environmental documentation. A determination will then be made concerning issuance or denial of your permit. This process is usually completed within 90 to 120 days, if no objections are received. Delays may result if significant issues need to be resolved.”
The Army Corps is also requesting a “soil erosion and sediment control plan” be submitted by T5, which will be reviewed by SMC. Other details such as construction drawings and information as to “the area to be impacted, the acreage of impact and whether the impact is temporary or permanent” are requested.
"I've contacted the village enforcement officer to initiate coordination on the development review,” Kurt Woolford, the executive director of SMC, told me when I asked him how this matter will proceed.
In other words, a detailed comprehensive land impact study is needed if wetlands are affected. Although T5 is working with a local engineering consulting firm, I know from experience, this work takes time. In the interim, more details on how this project will impact local flooding will be made publicly available. I will share more information when I receive it.
In Other Local News
Springtime is also seeding the road work season in our area. Fairfield Road from Nippersink Road to Illinois Route 60 will be resurfaced. Please be careful when driving through this corridor. We apologize for any inconvenience.
The County also has received good news from our partners at Pace, the suburban bus system. The Round Lake On-Demand service is being doubled, while Route 565, serving the Grayslake campus of the College of Lake County, is adding additional trips. Visit our county web page to learn more about Pace.
I was proud to be on hand to dedicate the new Gages Lake Water Tower. Championed by our Public Works Department, led by Director Austin McFarlane, the new tower will provide back-up storage for the Wildwood/Gages Lake community. I was happy to support this project.
 Forest Preserves News
One of the highlights of the spring season is the annual Forest Preserves' native plant sale. Held Saturday, May 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville, you’ll find an astounding array of plants that thrive in our area. Starting a pollinator or rain garden or just want to naturalize your yard? This is the place to go.
Choose from a variety of plant species, including vibrant flowers, hardy forbs and native grasses. Learn about eco-friendly practices that benefit your home, wallet and community. Experts will be available to answer questions and offer guidance. Prices vary and inventory is limited, so come early. Don’t forget to bring boxes to transport plants. If you can’t make the sale in person, you can also shop online.
 If you have a chance, make plans to visit the special exhibition, “For the Love of Pollinators” at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville.
It’s an ecstatic fusion of natural art and education regarding the thousands of pollinators in our ecosystems. Planting pollinator-friendly plants in our yards is one approach to offsetting the impact of global warming, habitat loss and overdevelopment.
I toured the exhibit a few weeks ago with members and supporters of the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. The exhibit closes May 31.
 I am honored to serve you. If you have an immediate need for county services, please call 2-1-1. You can reach me directly at JWasik@lakecountyil.gov.
Be well,
Lake County Government News
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Public Hearing: Meadowview Material Transfer Facility
Lake County residents are invited to attend a public hearing on the proposed Meadowview Material Transfer Facility in Grayslake, adjacent to the Countryside Landfill. Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. submitted an application seeking local siting approval that includes a new approximately 31,000-square-foot transfer facility with sustainability features, a 3,500-square-foot public recycling center and the ability to process up to 1,000 tons of waste per day.
The public hearing will take place from 2 to 4:30 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. May 18 at the University Center of Lake County, Rooms 142–144, Grayslake. If you'd like to learn more about the project, attending the beginning of the hearing is the best way to hear directly from the applicant and their experts.
Parking is available from Washington Street only. Access from Brae Loch Road will be closed due to construction.
Learn more and view hearing details
Free, High-Speed Public Wi-Fi Coming to North Chicago
Lake County and the City of North Chicago have approved an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) to provide free, high-speed public Wi-Fi to North Chicago’s downtown corridor.
Using federal American Rescue Plan Act funds, Lake County will construct the network this year. After construction is completed, the network will be owned and operated by the City of North Chicago.
Help Us Plan for Future Roads, Paths and Transit
The Lake County Division of Transportation invites you to participate in the Phase 2 Virtual Open House for Envision 2050, our plan that will guide how we invest in transportation projects through the year 2050. Visit the Virtual House and provide input through Friday, May 15.
What to Do After the Floodwater Recedes
Floodwater may be gone, but the risks aren’t. When floodwater reaches your property, it often leaves behind more than damage. Floodwater can contain sewage, bacteria and contaminants, while also creating the perfect conditions for mold growth.
If your property was affected by flooding and you are now beginning to clean up, check these resources to guide you towards the right steps and help prevent bigger problems later.
America 250 Independence Academy Update
Lake County’s America 250 Independence Academy has successfully reached its halfway point. This program is designed to help residents learn how local government works and how the principles of the Declaration of Independence continue to shape the services we provide to our communities today.
This week, participants attended the County Board Meeting to see the democratic process in person. In previous sessions, County staff have spoken with participants about the history of Lake County and an overview of County government. The Division of Transportation and Lake County Public Works staff led tours of their facilities and vehicles while explaining the work they do to maintain roads and provide water and sewer services safely.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office provided participants with a presentation and tour of their facility, highlighting the more than 500 sworn and civilian team members who serve Lake County through law enforcement, corrections and community engagement.
In the remaining sessions, residents will learn about public health from the Health Department, elections and records from the County Clerk’s Office and outdoor public spaces from the Lake County Forest Preserves.
Stay informed about Lake County’s America 250 celebration by visiting its America 250 website.
Support Local Veterans. Operation Dropbox is Underway
Lake County is again proud to partner with McHenry County to join the Operation Dropbox donation drive, and we are asking for your help to support local Veterans and their families.
Bring your donations of canned goods, pantry goods, household items or other personal items to a list of participating locations throughout Lake County. Donations will be taken until May 31.
View the list of items to donate
Use the Operation Dropbox Donation Site Finder
Important Updates from the Sheriff’s Office
There is so much news happening within the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
Marine Unit Begins Patrolling
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit has resumed patrolling Lake Michigan waters in Lake County. Marine Unit deputies also patrol the Chain O'Lakes boating area as well as the Fox River. The team conducts boat safety checks, responds to emergencies and enforces the law on the waterways.
Meet K9 Brek
Meet the County’s newest K9, Brek, who is assigned to the county correctional facility with Corrections Officer Michael Mazurkiewicz. K9 Brek, a multipurpose K9, will play an important role in keeping our jail safe, with a primary focus on detecting illegal drugs and other contraband in incoming property and housing areas.
School Resource Officer Program Receives Recognition
The Sheriff’s Office also received recognition from the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO), honoring Deputy David Puma and the agency’s School Resource Officer (SRO) program.
School Resource Officers are embedded in school communities across the county, serving not only as law enforcement professionals, but as mentors, educators and trusted adults.
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Forest Preserves News
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Brews & Views is Back on May 29
Spend a spring evening by the lake at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville with tastings from local breweries, live music, food and great views from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 29.
- Chuck Wilson performs acoustic ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m.
- Bluewater Creek brings Americana, funk and rock from 6 to 8 p.m.
Punch cards are $30 and include 10 tastings, a souvenir glass and a small bite from Relish Café. No registration is required, and parking is free. Read More
From Canopy to Ground Layer
Learn how to turn your yard into a thriving pollinator habitat during a free virtual program with award-winning author Heather Holm from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 21.
Sponsored by USG, the presentation explores how native trees and plants support bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. Participants will learn about “soft landing” habitats, which use layers of native plants beneath trees to provide food, shelter and nesting areas for pollinators throughout their life cycles. The program also includes practical tips for home gardens and managed landscapes. Get Ticket
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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