Dear Neighbors,
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As we turn the colorful corner into fall, I hope this finds you, family and neighbors well.
Our latest big project -- Ride Lake County -- passed by the County Board on Tuesday, was years in the making. I was proud to support this consolidation of the many Paratransit ride services offered by a multitude of agencies.
What will Ride Lake County do? First of all, it will offer borderless service between townships (and into eastern parts of McHenry County) to anyone who can't access conventional transportation due to disability or mobility issues. You can get to stores, doctors and other services through PACE shuttle buses. |
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The new service will charge tiered fares: $2 for zero to five miles; $4 for five to 10 miles; and $6 for more than 10 miles. I advocated for the lowest-possible fares to make these rides affordable. Note: Lower-income riders may qualify for lower fares under an RTA program.
The new service, which we hope to get running by May 1 of next year, is designed to handle some 60,000 trips annually. We're not sure of the final cost of the program, which could range from $640,000 to $1 million a year to the county. We're asking for federal funds to offset most of that cost.
Ride Lake County wouldn't have been possible without the great administration and leadership of the Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) and support of our current board. Thanks to all who made this happen. I was proud to vote for this new program.
In other transportation news, as part of a long-term program to improve multi-modal transportation, LCDOT has greenlighted engineering for a new bike path from Third Lake (Sextant Drive) to Almond Road. This will eventually connect the Washington Street path from Hainesville Road to the Woodland Middle School campus. It's much needed. We're working to connect existing paths and trails so that bikers and walkers can safely get from one area to another. This section was a priority.
A Hainesville Road path from Rollins Road to Washington is also being designed. It's been funded by the state legislature.
Public Works
Also on the engineering drawing board are two projects for the Gages Lake/Wildwood area. The water tower will be modernized and a water main replaced, most likely in the next two or three years.
On the west side of our district, the Stormwater Management Commission is awaiting state funding for a floodwater relief project for the Haryan Farms/Highland Lakes area. It's ready to go as soon as Springfield sends us a check to begin construction.
Local Events
I'm happy to note the return of the Grayslake Craft Beer Festival, which was cancelled last year due to the pandemic. A stunning variety of beers and ales will be offered along with food and entertainment off Whitney Street and Center streets in downtown Grayslake on Saturday, Sept. 18.
The largest such event in Lake County, the Beer Fest is sponsored by the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce and the Exchange Club (I'm a member). Come on by to say hello. I'll be volunteering when the event opens. We'll be raising money for local college scholarships. Suds for students!
Speaking of fermented hops, the Lake County Forest Preserves Beer Garden at Independence Grove is moving into its "Septemberfest" mode with musical events on Thursday nights, starting at 4 p.m. Even if you don't drink beer or ale, the wonderful staff has placed mini-fire pits on the beach, so if gets a little chilly, you can enjoy the autumn air.
If you want to get out and sample our splendid Forest Preserve trails, our Hike Lake County Challenge is in full swing. Brogan, my faithful trail buddy, insists on hiking all of the trails, but you only have to walk the equivalent of seven of them (some count as two) to earn a free medallion, walking stick shield or zipper pull. I told Brogan his hiking medal is for "dog of the year." He doesn't believe me but is enthusiastic about walking every possible trail. They become more stunning in autumn.
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This year, we'll also be doing the "Ruck March" to raise money to prevent veteran suicides, which is a troubling problem for countless men and women who've served this country so selflessly. Please learn more by visiting my webpage to support the Grayslake-based Lake County Veteran and Family Services Foundation.
We need to support veterans and their families. In the last month, four Lake County vets have committed suicide, one of whom I knew. This is an extremely disturbing trend that we hope to address every way we can. The Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County has several resources available. If you know a vet who's struggling, please have them contact our VAC.
Be well and enjoy the most beautiful season of the year. If you haven't gotten a COVID shot, all of our county clinics and pharmacies offer them (see below).
I am available to speak at any community event. If you have an immediate need for county services, please call 2-1-1.
Warmest Regards,
John Wasik
Lake County Board District 6
John Wasik Webpage
Lake County Government News
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Temporary Open Burning Restrictions Are Extended in Unincorporated Lake County
On September 14, the Lake County Board extended the current temporary landscape waste open burning ordinance until January 1, 2022. The current restrictions allow open burning in unincorporated areas from sunrise to sunset only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The extension also permits open burning from sunrise to sunset on any day of the week if the burning occurs at least 500 feet from the nearest habitable structure.
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Some unincorporated areas are also subject to their local fire protection district's open burning rules, which may be more restrictive. Learn more about open burning regulations.
This temporary ordinance has been in place for much of 2021 while the Lake County Board explores options and alternatives for permanent restrictions on open burning and consolidated waste hauling services (including landscape waste) in the unincorporated areas. Learn more and share input, questions, and concerns directly to the County’s project team through this interactive website.
Winchester House Farewell Ceremony Celebrates 150 Years of Care
The Lake County Board, Winchester House Advisory Board, local officials and members of the community gathered at Winchester House in Libertyville to say farewell to the beloved skilled nursing care facility, which served the vulnerable elderly and disabled individuals in Lake County for more than 150 years. Winchester House is scheduled to be taken down this fall. The Lake County Board will consider future use for the property at a later date. Watch this video to see the farewell ceremony.
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Youth Gain Meaningful Experience Through Summer Youth Employment Program
The Summer Youth Employment Program wrapped up another exciting summer as more than 191 youth gained meaningful work experience while earning a paycheck. Funded by the Lake County Board, this program was offered in a hybrid format this year with an option for youth to work at a physical location or to participate in an online Work Readiness Bootcamp. Learn more |
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Prepare to Protect. Here’s Steps to Follow
Severe weather can approach quickly. As Lake County recognizes September as National Preparedness Month, remember these steps that you can do now to keep you and your family safe.
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Lake County COVID-19 Update
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Learn Different Quarantine Options for Unvaccinated Students, Staff
Providing students with in-person learning opportunities in a healthy and safe environment remains the highest priority. The Lake County Health Department explains there are different quarantine options for unvaccinated students and staff who are exposed to COVID-19.
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Students and staff who are fully vaccinated with no symptoms do not need to quarantine or be restricted from school or extracurricular activities. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that fully vaccinated individuals test three to five days after an exposure to a positive case. However, if an individual becomes symptomatic, they will need to isolate immediately.
Quarantine Guidelines for Students and Staff in English
Quarantine Guidelines for Students and Staff in Spanish
Get Help
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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. Speak to a live person in English or Spanish when you call. The 211 team will also interpret more than 150 other languages. Learn more
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Other Resources For Help
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Rental Assistance: Lake County’s program for renters provides needed relief to those who need help making past-due or current rent and utility payments. Learn more
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Back to Business (B2B) Grant Program: B2B grants of $5,000 to $150,000 are available to small businesses hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants can cover operational losses, staff and more. Apply for the program.
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Food for Families in Need: Northern Illinois Food Bank operates a traveling food pantry that delivers nutritious food directly to those in need and coordinates pop-up food markets across Lake County. Find food
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Help for Veterans: The Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County can help veterans and their families with a variety of issues, including financial help, survivor spousal benefits, burial arrangements and more. Call 847-377-3344.
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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. Learn more
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Mental Health First Aid Training: The Lake County Health Department offers free Mental Health First Aid training classes. Register here.
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Employment Resources
The Job Center of Lake County has partnered with local employers to help connect jobseekers with local companies that are hiring. Check out these Job Center events and resources:
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Program Is Now Available to Provide Heating Assistance
Low-income residents may apply for grant assistance to help pay for natural gas, propane, electric bills and furnace assistance through the federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). LIHEAP/PIPP heating assistance will run through May 31, 2022 or until funds have been exhausted. Learn more
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Public Works News |
Fall Hydrant Flushing Begins Sept. 20
Lake County Public Works will conduct its semi-annual water hydrant flushing program beginning Sept. 20, weather permitting. The process will be performed daily, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., per the hydrant flushing schedule and will continue until all water mains throughout our water systems have been flushed. The anticipated completion date is Oct. 22.
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During and immediately after flushing, you may notice a slight discoloration of your water due to the disturbance in the water main. This is not harmful and will dissipate after a short time. Please avoid doing laundry during periods of flushing in your area to prevent staining of clothing. After flushing, we recommend running cold water for several minutes to clear your pipes. Signs will be posted in each area before the start of hydrant flushing.
Health News
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Do You Need Help or Know Someone Who Does? Support Is Available
Suicide affects every race and ethnicity, all socioeconomic groups, and all ages from youths to seniors. But suicide can be preventable by raising awareness. As Lake County recognizes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, it is important to know there are places to seek help. Many organizations offer services at little or no cost. Learn about these support services if you need help.
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State's Attorney's Office News |
New Data Dashboard Gives Better Understanding of Justice System
The public can now explore data trends within the State’s Attorney’s Office and the County’s criminal justice system using a new data dashboard, allowing a better understanding of the criminal justice system process. The data will include criminal case filings, arrest and charging information, jail admissions, and employee demographics of the State’s Attorney’s office. Learn more
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Workforce Development News |
Workforce Development Board Unveils New Website
The Lake County Workforce Development Board has unveiled a new website, providing a portal to the Board’s vital workforce and economic development roles and directing businesses and job seekers to resources available via the Job Center of Lake County. Learn more about the Workforce Development Board through new social media pages on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
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Treasurer's Office News |
Calling All Middle School Students! Enter Annual Art Contest
Sixth through eighth grade students are invited to show off their original works of art by entering the Treasurer Office’s third annual Art Contest. This year's theme is Nature. All student artists must live in Lake County. Artwork will be accepted through Nov. 19. Learn more |
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Forest Preserves News
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Rare Hummingbird Spotted
A rare hummingbird, reportedly seen only once before in Illinois, was spotted at the backyard bird feeder of Jeanna Cristino, graphic designer and editor of Horizons magazine for the Forest Preserves. Word got out among the birding community that a Mexican violetear (Colibri thalassinus) was hanging out in Cristino’s Mundelein yard.
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About 100 avid birders went to see the emerald green hummingbird, previously known as a green violetear. The species is most often found in areas from Mexico to Nicaragua. In an effort to promote the mission of the Forest Preserves, Cristino collected donations for the Preservation Foundation, the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Learn more»
Beer Garden Expands Hours
Nightly entertainment will vary every Thursday, weather permitting. Fire pits and free firewood are available on a first-come, first-served basis for use along the lakefront. S'mores kits are also available for purchase. In addition, the Beer Garden is open 1 to 9 p.m. Fridays, and 12 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Learn more»
Birding Hot Spots
If you enjoy bird watching, you won’t want to miss this upcoming program. “Birdwatching Hot Spots” takes place 12 to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 25 at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest. All ages are welcome to attend and look for waterfowl, raptors and other migratory species. This event is free.
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Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available. Registration is not required. Park in the main lot and follow signs to the bird watching observation location. Learn more»
Community Events & News
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Explore Fall Colors and Cooler Weather in Lake County
Fall is the best time of year to explore Lake County. No matter what you like to do outdoors, there are many places to see fall colors on full display. Check Visit Lake County’s Fall Outdoor Guide and plan your fall adventure.
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Virtual Walk Planned for Suicide Awareness and Prevention Sept. 25
Join the ninth annual 5K Walk for Awareness and Suicide Prevention, hosted by the Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 25. Held virtually this year, the goal of the walk is to support the task force’s mission to prevent suicide and promote mental health awareness through outreach events, professional training and community education. Learn more
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Watch All County Board and Committee Meetings
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All Lake County board and committee meetings can be viewed on 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 also 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. |
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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. Here are links to the most recent board and committee meetings, including the video recordings and agendas:
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