April 29, 2021
Dear Neighbors,
|
I hope this finds you and family well. I'm proud to say that the campaign to vaccinate everyone we can against COVID is moving forward with great momentum.
To date, more than 450,000 vaccine doses have been administered to Lake County residents. More importantly, all sites are open to anyone over age 16. More than a quarter of the county population is fully vaccinated, and we are averaging more than 6,000 shots a day.
Thanks to an increased supply and a new site at the old Sears/K-Mart in Round Lake Beach, we're able to do more. I was happy to tour the new facility when it opened last week. We also have capacity to give 2,500 shots a day at the fairgrounds and will open another new site in Zion soon. Please note: the one-dose J&J vaccine is available again at the Water Street site in Waukegan. |
|
 |
Of course, the next big challenge for us -- other than getting a shot to everyone who wants one -- is what health experts call "vaccine hesitancy." The reason to get the shot is simple: The more people who have the vaccine, the quicker we can end this pandemic and move on. So if you know neighbors, family or friends who don't feel they need the shot, tell them to do it for their family and community. We need to get everyone on board to beat this bug. As Yogi Berra once said, "it ain't over 'til it's over."
On the transportation front, be careful driving along Washington Street in Grayslake. The stretch from Lake Street to Route 45 will be resurfaced, so there will be some lane closures. As we enter the construction season, there are several road projects under way throughout the county. Check this interactive map to see where they are.
Okay, now for some summer fun. The Forest Preserve will be accepting applications for picnic shelter permits. But due to the ongoing COVID restrictions, then number of people allowed in the shelters will be limited.
As always, if you have an immediate need for food, rental, housing or other social services, please contact United Way of Lake County's 2-1-1 service.
I'm honored to serve you in any way and can speak before your local groups.
John Wasik
Lake County Board District 6
John Wasik Webpage
Lake County Government News
|
Your Input Wanted: Open Burning and Landscape Waste Disposal Options in Unincorporated Areas
Over the past two years, the Lake County Board Energy and Environment Committee has discussed alternatives to the open burning of landscape waste in the unincorporated areas to protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents. Currently, Lake County is the only county in the region that does not place restrictions on the burning of landscape waste in its unincorporated areas. |
|
 |
To better inform policy decisions, Lake County seeks to learn more about how residents are currently disposing of their landscape waste, what types of open burning restrictions they may like to see, and to gauge community interest in consolidated waste hauling services.
Feedback on this important issue is welcomed from everyone in the community. Learn more and provide your input at Lake County's interactive website.
Property Tax Bills Will Be Mailed in May; EBilling Option Will Begin Next Year
Property owners in Lake County will receive their property tax bills in early May. The first installment will be due June 7, and the second installment will be due September 7. There are many ways to pay your bill, including online and pay by phone. New this year, individuals may choose to pay by echeck without incurring an extra fee. Learn more |
|
 |
New Ebilling Option: Beginning with next year’s billing cycle, the Lake County Treasurer’s Office has announced that property owners may choose to take advantage of a new e-billing option to receive their property tax bills via email instead of receiving a paper bill. This will help save taxpayer money and is better for the environment! When you receive your property tax bill next month, you will notice a symbol with a registration code specific to your Property Index Number (PIN). Use the registration code to sign up, and all future tax bills will be emailed to you. Learn more
Learn More About Lake County’s Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Lake County Lake County Chief Communications Officer Arin Thrower recently talked with Lake County Community Development Administrator Brenda O'Connell about the new Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which offers rent and utilities support for renters in Lake County. Watch the video to learn about who can qualify, and how either renters or landlords can initiate the application process. |
|
 |
SWALCO’s Composting Program Helps Reduce Food Waste and Improve Soil
Last year, the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) received a federal grant to demonstrate the benefits of creating compost out of food waste. SWALCO distributes the compost it creates to local farms and community gardens, who use it to improve their soil. Watch the video |
|
 |
The SWALCO project is intended to develop a stronger, more vibrant circular economy for managing food scraps and other organic material like yard waste. It includes a compost to farmland/community garden demonstration study, strengthening the community gardening network, market development for compost, and education efforts to increase participation rates in the commercial and residential sectors. Learn more
Update: Adult-Use Cannabis Businesses in Unincorporated Lake County
Last week, the Lake County Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held public hearings on proposed zoning amendments that would permit adult-use cannabis businesses in unincorporated Lake County subject to certain restrictions. After the hearings, the ZBA recommended by a vote of 7-0 that the proposed amendments (with modifications) be approved. |
|
 |
Members of the Lake County Public Works, Planning and Transportation (PWPT) Committee are continuing to discuss the issue. They will meet again on Wednesday, May 5 at 8:30 a.m. The meeting is livestreamed at lakecounty.tv. Learn more and get updates on Lake County's new adult-use cannabis web page.
New Regional Superintendent of Education Appointed
At a special meeting on April 27, the Lake County Board appointed Dr. Michael Karner as the new Lake County Regional Superintendent of Schools. Karner is replacing Roycealee Wood, who has held the position since 2002, and recently resigned due to health reasons. Karner is an experienced educator who has spent most of his career in Zion, and currently serves as Principal of the Regional Safe School Program of Lake County. Learn more |
|
 |
Watch the Recording of Lake County’s April 21 Town Hall Meeting
Thanks to all community members who participated in last week's Virtual Town Hall meeting hosted by Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. Panelists discussed the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccine, Lake County's new Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program and other topical issues. Couldn’t make it? Watch the meeting here |
|
 |
Lake County Receives Government Finance Officers Association Award
Lake County recently received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). The award is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. Learn more
Lake County COVID-19 Update
|
It’s Easier than Ever to Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine
Lake County’s vaccine supply has increased substantially in the last two weeks, and new vaccine sites have opened. All people age 16 and up who live or work in Lake County are now automatically eligible to schedule a vaccine appointment at a Lake County vaccination site. It’s up to each of us now to get vaccinated so we can fully get back to the things we love. |
|
 |
Simply log in to your AllVax account, or if you haven’t yet registered, create a new account to make an appointment. People who have received a first dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines at another location may also schedule an appointment for their second dose at a Lake County vaccination site through AllVax.
-
Lake County’s largest vaccine site opened last week in Round Lake Beach, thanks to a partnership between the Lake County Health Department, Baxter and Curative, It is located at the site of a former K-Mart at 400 E. Rollins Road, and is open to anyone age 16 or over who lives or works in Lake County. At its full capacity, it will be able to administer up to 5,000 vaccinations per day. Schedule an appointment at cur.tv/lakeco.
-
New vaccination sites in Zion will also open next week, sponsored by Lake County Partners. Learn more about locations and hours in Zion
-
Capacity at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake increased to more than 2,500 walk-through appointments per day. Beginning May 5, expanded evening hours will be offered on Wednesdays until 7 p.m. Schedule your appointment through AllVax.
-
The Regional Vaccination Site at 102 W. Water Street, Waukegan, offers both drive-through and walk-through appointments. Schedule your appointment through AllVax.
Current COVID-19 Data
Vaccination Count: According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), as of April 28, there have been 465,197 vaccine doses administered to Lake County residents, and 193,820 residents have been fully vaccinated with two doses. View IDPH Vaccine Administration Data |
|
 |
Positivity Rate: As of April 25, the rolling 7-day average testing positivity rate in North Suburban Region 9, which includes Lake and McHenry Counties, was 4.1 percent. View Region 9 information
COVID-19 Testing
State-run COVID-19 testing sites, located in Waukegan (102 W. Water St.) and Arlington Heights (2000 W Euclid Ave.) are open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Testing at these sites is free. For more information, visit the IDPH website. |
|
 |
For information about additional mobile testing locations, click here.
Many healthcare providers in Lake County also have COVID-19 testing available. Please contact your provider or the facility to ask about testing criteria and appointment availability. Residents without a healthcare provider or insurance can contact the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center for an appointment at (847) 377-8800.
Stay Informed
Get the COVID-19 Weekly Newsletter: The Lake County Health Department sends out a weekly COVID-19 newsletter every Friday with the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccine, coronavirus in Lake County, how to protect yourself, and more. Stay informed--subscribe here
Get Help
|
Call 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. To receive general COVID-19 information via text message, text "COVID19" to 211211. For more information, visit 211lakecounty.org. |
|
 |
Many individuals and businesses continue to feel the economic impacts of the pandemic. Here are some additional resources:
-
Rental Assistance: Lake County’s new program for renters provides needed relief to those who need help making past-due or current rent and utility payments. Learn more
-
Food for Families in Need: Check out the Northern Illinois Food Bank calendar for a list of mobile food pantries and pop-up food markets planned for Lake County. Find food
-
Health Insurance: Anyone who needs health insurance may enroll through May 15, 2021 during the special open enrollment period through the Affordable Care Act. Depending on income, some people may qualify for subsidies to help reduce monthly premiums and other costs. Learn how to apply
-
Mental Health Support: The Lake County Health Department offers a free, 24/7 confidential hotline for those experiencing a mental health crisis or substance use issue. Call 847-377-8088 any time. Learn more
|
Employment Resources
Are you looking for a job during this challenging time of layoffs, furloughs, and hiring freezes? Here are some helpful resources from the Job Center of Lake County: |
|
 |
-
Job Search Resources in a Rough Market; Tuesday, May 11 at 1 p.m.: Are you seeking a job or transitioning careers? Get tips for seeking work during a time of social distancing. Review the Job Center’s online tools to help you land a job! Register here
-
Careers in the FBI; Thursday, May 13 at 10 a.m.: Attend this online event to learn about working for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) including the core competencies and minimum qualifications for positions. Highlighted occupations will include Special Agent, Intelligence Analyst, Forensic Accountant, Computer Scientist and Legal positions. Register here
-
Your Personal Brand & Resumes; Tuesday, May 18 at 1 p.m.: Regardless of your job title or field, you have a personal brand. Learn how to customize your resume and other written tools to help you land a great job! Register here
-
Find more workshops on the Job Center Calendar
-
Onsite Help: The Job Center has computers you can use for your job search. Face coverings are required and social distancing guidelines will be followed. To schedule an appointment, call 847-377-3450.
-
Get Hired Illinois: Get Hired Illinois is a single portal where individuals can access virtual job fairs, free online training, and current job listings.
Stormwater Management Commission News
|
Kurt Woolford Appointed Executive Director of LCSMW
Congratulations to Kurt Woolford, who has been selected as the new Executive Director of the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC). He has worked for Lake County since 2007, starting off as an engineer, providing program oversight to SMC's regulatory, engineering and flood response operations. |
|
 |
He has been a driving force behind Lake County's updates to the Watershed Development Ordinance (WDO), a countywide ordinance that sets minimum requirements for the stormwater management aspects of development within Lake County. He is dedicated to protecting, conserving and promoting the beneficial functions of water resources and green infrastructure. Learn more
Sheriff's Office News
|
Sheriff’s Deputies & K9 Dax Save Man’s Life
On April 19, Sheriff’s K9 Dax and his handler Deputy John Forlenza helped locate a man who had attempted suicide and was unconscious and not breathing. Another officer administered CPR until paramedics arrived, and was able to revive him. Read the full press release
The Sheriff’s K9 Team has become instrumental in the work of the Sheriff’s Office since the program was established in 2015. Learn more
|
|
 |
Forest Preserve News
|
Picnic Shelter Reservations
Picnic shelter reservations for 2021 will begin on Thursday, April 29 at 10 am. Due to COVID-19, maximum capacity is limited to 100 people. Groups may not exceed a shelter's posted capacity. Reservations and capacity limits are subject to change in response to ongoing COVID-19 safety protocols and public health guidelines. Refunds will only be issued if COVID-19 guidelines require the Lake County Forest Preserves to reduce capacity or suspend group gatherings and cancel your permit. |
|
 |
Purchase permits online, by phone or in person at the General Offices in Libertyville. To communicate with staff regarding customer service questions, call 847-367-6640 or contact us online. Learn more»
12 Virtual Programs Taking Place in May
Our educators are offering a bevy of popular virtual programs during the month of May. Searching for wildflowers, learning about Lake County history, or celebrating World Turtle Day are a few options provided virtually. In addition, a self-guided trivia walking program is also available. |
|
 |
Most programs require a ticket available on the LCFPD website. After registering, a Zoom link is emailed to participants no later than one hour prior to the start of the program. If participants don't receive a link, they should check their spam folder or email AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org with questions. Learn more at LCFPD.org/calendar. Browse all virtual education offerings and register online. Learn more»
Virtual Summer Camps Offered
|
An array of virtual nature and history summer camps are available through the Lake County Forest Preserves. Registration is open for the 2021 season.
The camps are designed to keep children safe while delving into Lake County’s nature and history. Campers will take part in live sessions with educators, then try outdoor and off-screen activities themselves. Farming, pondering plants, bugs, prehistoric Lake County, and fishing are included in the camp topics. The weeklong camps run from June 14 through August 6. For a full roster of virtual camps, visit LCFPD.org/camps. Learn more»
|
|
 |
Community Events and News
|
College of Lake County Virtual Plant Sale
The horticulture department at the College of Lake County is selling plants online through Monday, May 3 to help support its programs. All plants are grown by CLC students and staff. Sowing seeds and propagating plants to prepare for the sale began last fall and ramped up February through April to get crops sale ready. Purchasers may choose from herbs, annuals, perennials and hanging baskets of flowers as well as vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, tomatoes and squash. Native perennials are also available. After ordering, plants may be picked up at the Grayslake campus from May 6 to 14. You must schedule a pickup time in advance. |
|
 |
Learn more and order
What Happened in Committees?
|
All Lake County board and committee meetings are continuing to be conducted remotely. Meetings are live-streamed at lakecounty.tv and on cable television (Comcast channels 18 or 30, depending on where you live, and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99). The public is also welcome to view the livestream of all meetings in-person at 18 N. County Street, Waukegan, 10th Floor Assembly Room. |
|
 |
To maintain proper social distancing, the number of persons permitted to attend will be limited. Public comments can also be submitted by email and phone call. Learn more
To see a current schedule of board and committee meetings, click here.
All meetings are recorded, and are posted on the Lake County website. Here are links to the most recent board and committee meetings, including the video recordings and agendas:
|
