"Mary's energy, passion and accomplishments over more than two decades of public service were extraordinary," said Sandy Hart, Lake County Board Chair. "She never gave up, asked tough questions and held us accountable to the people we serve. While there is a tremendous void on the County Board without her, I know the greatest way we can honor Mary's remarkable legacy is for others who share her heart for public service to step forward and continue the work she cared so deeply about."
According to Illinois law, the Lake County Board Chair shall appoint someone to fill the vacancy within 60 days with the advice and consent of the county board. The appointee will serve until the end of this county board session, Dec. 6, 2026.
State law requires that the individual appointed to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the term shall be:
- At least 18 years old and a legal voter with a valid voter registration in Lake County. No individual may serve if their right to vote has been permanently revoked or temporarily revoked during the appointed term of office.
- A resident of Lake County for at least one year preceding the next election (November 3, 2026), and a current resident of District 9.
- Of the same political party as the seat’s predecessor when she was elected. This is determined by an individual’s declared party affiliation at the most recent primary vote. Accordingly, the Chair is required to appoint a Democrat to this vacancy.
An Ad Hoc Chair’s Advisory Committee will be formed to assist in the selection process.
Residents of District 9 who are interested in serving on the Lake County Board and meet the criteria are encouraged to submit their resume, letter of interest, a proof of residency (driver’s license, property tax records, utility bills, etc.) and any other supporting materials they wish to include (such as letters of recommendation) via email to countyboardoffice@lakecountyil.gov, or via U.S. mail to:
Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart
Lake County Board Office, 10th Floor
18 North County St., Waukegan, IL 60085
Additional documentation may be required to ensure full compliance with State law.
The deadline to apply is July 24, 2026, at 5 p.m.
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