September 3, 2025
ALERT! Second Installment Property Tax Bill Due THURSDAY, September 4!
There are convenient options available, including paying by mail, by phone, at your local bank, and the free eCheck feature, by mail, by phone and at your local bank. Learn more about the payment options
Dear Neighbors,
We've all heard the mantra that Illinois has more units of government than any other state in the country. In Lake County, we are doing our part to eliminate or consolidate redundant or outdated taxing bodies to dissolve those entities which may exist for one specific reason, such as a drainage district. To date, we have eliminated:
- Lake Bluff Mosquito Abatement District
- Round Lake Sanitary District
- Fox Lake Hills Sanitary District
- Seavey Drainage District
- Beach Park Drainage District
- Lakes Region Sanitary District
- Slocum Lake Drainage District
- Avon Fremont Drainage District
We have also consolidated the East and West Skokie Drainage Districts into the newly formed Skokie Consolidated Drainage District and started the process to eliminate the Southlake Mosquito Abatement District, which is the only remaining mosquito district in the county. Local control is important, and I believe that issues that impact residents in a specific area are best managed by elected officials in an open meeting.
Late last month I was happy to sign an Intergovernmental Support Agreement with the US Navy that paves the way for one of the largest housing demolition projects in the Navy’s history. Through the agreement, Naval Station Great Lakes can now use Lake County’s job order contract services for demolition and other work. This approach streamlines the process for awarding and completing routine projects, reducing costs by leveraging shared contracts and economies of scale.
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The IGSA will help facilitate the demolition of the 89-acre Halsey Village site. Once home to 351 housing units for Navy personnel and their families, approximately 70% of the homes were deemed uninhabitable and condemned for several years. I am proud to have worked with the City of North Chicago, the NSGL and our federal legislators to draw attention to this site, which has now been vacated. The homes will be demolished and the US Navy will begin to evaluate the land for future military needs. We look forward to working together for potential development opportunities that will benefit the entire area.
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Regarding the Naval Base, I want to thank the Suburban Bus Program Pace, which has launched a pilot project to bring weekend service closer to the Naval Base, giving our sailors greater transportation access. Pace is currently conducting a systemwide network restructuring project to better align suburban bus service with post-pandemic travel patterns.
Congratulations to Lake County Partners, led by Kevin Considine, on being named one of the Top 10 Counties in the United States for economic development. Since then, Abbvie announced that it is investing $195 million to expand its manufacturing facility in the City of North Chicago. This expansion will increase production of medicines and create high-quality jobs, further cementing Lake County's status as a premier hub for biomanufacturing. Kevin recently attended our Financial & Administrative Committee to given an economic developent update; click here to watch the presentation (start at Minute 2).
As always, it is an honor and a privilege to represent you on the Lake County Board and the Forest Preserve Board. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.
Sincerely,
 Sandy Hart
Lake County Board District 13
Sandy Hart Web Page
Lake County Government News
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September 20: Household Chemical Waste Mobile Event in Lake Forest
The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County will host a Household Chemical Waste mobile event in Lake Forest on Saturday, September 20. This event will run from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM at the Lake Forest Municipal Services Parking Lot (800 N Field Drive, Lake Forest). Thank you to Lake Forest for hosting!
Accepted materials include:
- Batteries
- CFL bulbs
- garden chemicals and pesticides
- oil-based paints (NO LATEX...check out our new services on the website!), and varnishes, as well as other household chemicals.
Click here for a detailed list, or make an appointment here, if necessary.
Stay Healthy When Outdoors: Be Aware of Mosquitoes and Tick Risks
As residents go outside to enjoy these beautiful fall days, please protect yourself against mosquitoes and ticks. The Lake County Health Department recommends:
- Drain: Drain standing water from items around your home, yard, and business.
- Defend: When outdoors, use an EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, 2-undecanone, or IR3535 and reapply according to label directions.
- Dawn to Dusk: Protect yourself all day and night, and wear repellent outdoors during these prime times for mosquito activity.
- Dress: Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed toe shoes when outdoors to cover your skin.
- When coming in from outside, be sure to check your clothing and skin for ticks. If one is found, use tweezers to remove it.
Environmental Remediation for Key Commercial Site in North Chicago
This Friday we are celebrating the start of the environmental clean up of a 31-acre parcel in North Chicago, thanks to a 2023 federal grant acquired by Congressman Brad Schneider. This site, located across from Naval Station Great Lakes, is on a key economic corridor on Sheridan Road and, after cleanup, will be ready for development. The space is anticipated to be a job-producing, vibrant, mixed-use, commercial and industrial park. Attracting new commercial activity in North Chicago would provide new economic revenue, jobs, and recreation choices for residents.
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Lake County ARPA Projects in Action
$17.4 million for public safety. $7.2 million for mental health services. $22.2 million invested in water and sanitary sewer upgrades. These are just a few examples of how Lake County has allocated $135.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds received from the federal government in 2021. The Board prioritized immediate needs, supporting food assistance programs, emergency housing and other direct services to help stabilize those most impacted by the pandemic.
Learn more about the projects implemented across the Lake County.
Keep Your Guns Out of the Hands of Children
As children across Lake County return to school, it is important to remember that unlocked and easily accessible firearms can turn curiosity into catastrophe. A 2025 law strengthens safe storage requirements in homes where a firearm could be accessed by a minor, an at-risk person, or someone otherwise prohibited from using firearms.
The Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative is committed to promoting responsible firearm ownership and safety. Through education, outreach, and partnerships with local and state organizations, the GVPI promotes secure firearm storage to reduce firearm homicides, firearm suicides and incidental shootings in Lake County.
September is Safe Gun Storage Month, and in 2024 I demonstrated how easy it is to access a firearm from a biometric locked safe. Spoiler alert: about four seconds. Check it out at Minute 12 on this video.
Responsible storage isn't just a precaution. It’s a commitment to protecting children from preventable tragedy, suicide and violence.
Attend Gun Violence Prevention Initiative Town Hall
The Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative (GVPI) will be hosting a series of town halls where you will have the opportunity to learn about what the GVPI is, their mission, the programs and services offered to Lake County residents and goals.
The GVPI welcomes you to participate to provide feedback, ask questions and engage with the GVPI so that we may continue to serve Lake County in an effective way.
Lake County Ranks in Top 10 Nationally for Economic Development
I’m thrilled to share that Lake County has been named one of the Top 10 Best Counties in America for Business by Site Selection Magazine. This honor reflects our continued efforts to grow a strong local economy while keeping Lake County a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. They cited Lake County’s aggressive investment, job creation, rapid industry expansion and valuable proximity to the City of Chicago, already named the top U.S. metro for corporate relocation, for this recognition. Through strong partnerships with state and local leaders and a laser-focused commitment to a reliable infrastructure, skilled talent, top-ranked education and a high quality of life, Lake County is building a community where businesses thrive and residents succeed. Learn more
2024 Marks Record-Breaking Investment, Job Growth, Surge of Innovation
Lake County Partners has shared its 2024 Annual Report, a powerful snapshot of the growth, collaboration and innovation that defines Lake County as a premier destination for business and talent.
Thanks to leadership and support, 2024 marked a year of historic progress, with $251 million in capital investment, 541 new jobs and 667 retained jobs directly resulting from our work. View the 2024 Annual Report
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Unincorporated Residents Eligible for Flood Insurance Premium Discounts
Property owners residing in unincorporated Lake County may be eligible to save an average of $273 a year on their flood insurance policies. This results in a potential annual total savings of $149,604 overall for residents across the county. Property owners should contact their flood insurance agent to obtain individual savings information.
Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS) program, residents within unincorporated Lake County – who meet certain requirements – are eligible for up to 20% savings on flood insurance premiums.Since 2008, Lake County has participated in the CRS program and received favorable ratings, saving property owners thousands of dollars on their policies. Learn more
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Regional Facility to Strengthen Preparedness and Response
After more than a decade of planning and coordination, regional 9-1-1 consolidation partners and federal, state and local officials gathered to celebrate the completion of the Lake County Regional Operations and Communications (ROC) Facility, a central hub that will strengthen 9-1-1 services and emergency response across the county. Watch this video to learn more about the ROC
Housing Lake Coalition to Address Regional Housing Challenges
Lake County has launched a ground-breaking regional coalition - Housing Lake - that begins an ambitious six-month initiative to expand housing options across all income levels.
Rising housing costs and limited inventory are pricing out our workforce, including teachers, healthcare professionals, young families, and long-time residents. When people cannot afford to live where
they work, the ripple effects impact economic vitality, school enrollment, and community connections. The coalition recognizes this as not just a housing crisis, but a comprehensive community challenge requiring a coordinated response.
Housing Lake will convene seven strategic sessions over six months, culminating in a county-wide Housing Summit in February 2026. The process includes:
- Assessing current housing realities and future needs across Lake County
- Identifying barriers to meeting housing needs and opportunities for progress
- Creating an implementation roadmap with clear responsibilities and timelines
- Engaging communities to build support around a shared vision for housing
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Lake County Board Unites with Counties Nationwide to Push Key Resolutions
Lake County was proud to have several Board Members represent us at the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference in Philadelphia. This was a chance to bring our residents' priorities to the national stage. From advocating for stronger railway safety to expanding affordable high-speed internet, we made sure Lake County's voice was heard. Learn more
What's Coming to Lake County Roads and Bike Paths
The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) has launched an interactive dashboard to share detailed information about projects in its newly updated 2025-2030 Transportation Improvement Program.
The five-year program adopted by the Lake County Board includes a wide range of infrastructure improvements designed to maintain and modernize Lake County’s transportation system. You'll find major upcoming projects like the Cedar Lake Road Realignment and Patriot Path, as well as many other improvements such as new roundabouts, pavement resurfacings, culvert replacements, bridge repairs and traffic signal modernizations. The program will:
- Maintain more than 900 lane miles of county highways
- Enhance safety and mobility for all users, including motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists
- Support economic development
- Limit environmental impact and reduce carbon emissions
Learn more
Robert McClory Bike Path Construction Begins
We are so fortunate to have hundreds of miles of bike paths all over Lake County! The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) has begun work on an improvement project from Route 137 north to the state line to improve the Robert McClory Bike Path for all users, whether they're biking, walking or running.
The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) considers non-motorized travel a high priority. Whenever possible, bike paths are added during a reconstruction project, and bike-friendly shoulders are added where appropriate during resurfacing projects. LCDOT works with municipal agencies and other partners to look for opportunities to connect the dots and fill the gaps in the non-motorized network. Overall, Lake County has more than 550 total miles of trails and bikeways connecting forest preserves and communities.
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Helping Those Struggling with Opioid Use - Drug Overdose is Preventable
Overdoses are the leading injury-related cause of death in the United States, and opioids—mainly synthetic opioids like illegally made fentanyl, referred to as "counterfeit pills"--are currently the most represented in overdose deaths. August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), and the Lake County Health Department and the Lake County Opioid Initiative are raising awareness that drug overdose is preventable.
Counterfeit pills are dangerous because they typically appear as pharmaceutical pills but often contain illegally made fentanyl and illegal benzodiazepines or other drugs, with or without people's knowledge.
People can help reduce the risk of counterfeit pill overdose by:
- Only taking pills prescribed to them
- Being aware that pills bought illegally might contain highly potent drugs
- Using fentanyl test strips (FTS), small strips of paper that can detect the presence of fentanyl in all different kinds of drugs (cocaine, meth- amphetamine, heroin, etc.) and drug forms (pills, powder, and injectables)
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use, there is help. The Lake County Health Department has naloxone and other overdose prevention resources available for community members. Find resources
Helping Those Who May Have a Mental Health Crisis
Did you know that the Lake County Health Department has a Mobile Response team to respond to residents experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis?
Learn more about this Health Department team of specialists that go out into the community to help those in crisis by watching this video.
Visit the Health Department's Mobile Response Program web page to also learn more about this program, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Don’t Miss Upcoming Digital Skills Programs
Residents can sign up for basic digital skills courses at the Zion-Benton Public Library and the North Chicago Public Library happening September through December 2025.
Participants will explore computer basics - like identifying parts of a computer, logging on, accessing an email and other beginner skills. These courses are “Learn to Earn” courses, meaning residents who meet certain requirements may earn a laptop to take home after completing all course dates.
View a full schedule of class dates on the Zion-Benton Public Library website and the North Chicago Public Library website. Registration in advance is required. Reach out to Lake County Digital Navigators to register for programming:
CALL 847-377-3442
EMAIL digitalnavigators@lakecountyil.gov
VISIT lakecountyil.gov/4930
Regional Office of Education Launches LakeEd
LakeEd, a publication produced by the Lake County Regional Office of Education (LCROE), will keep you informed about the state of education in Lake County. In the inaugural edition, read about:
- LCROE has collaborated with MagicSchool AI to provide cost-savings access to county schools.
- A partnership with ReferralGPS will break down barriers and expand access to behavioral health care across all 51 school districts.
- Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library launches, providing free books to children from birth to age 5.
Sylvan Lake Dam Rebuilt for a Safer Future
After years of planning and collaboration, the Sylvan Lake Dam in Mundelein has been fully reconstructed to address critical infrastructure needs and protect local waterways and natural resources.
Watch this video as officials from the Fremont Township Highway Department, Lake County Stormwater Management Commission, federal legislators and Lake County Board Members joined area residents to celebrate the completion of the newly rebuilt dam.
New System Helps Residents Access Land Records
The new integrated records management system for the Lake County Clerk’s Office Recording Division, implemented in partnership with GovOS, is live. This milestone marks a major advancement in modernizing the office’s operation, streamlining how land records are accessed and managed across the county.
Lake County residents and recording customers will benefit from modern, intuitive searching of land records and historical documents and easily accessible online search and ordering tools. Learn more about the new records system.
Job Center of Lake County is Your Career Solution
The Job Center of Lake County is instrumental in delivering services to job seekers via a wide range of programs and services to help you transition careers, identify job opportunities and connect with employers. Upcoming events include:
View the full Job Center newsletter to learn more about upcoming events
Check Hire Lake County for information about job opportunities and businesses vetted by the Job Center’s business service team.
Serving as Fearless Champion for Veterans
Keeyawnia “KC” Hawkins, a County Veterans Service Officer with the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County (VACLC), has been named the recipient of the prestigious Ann Knowles Distinguished CVSO Award by the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers.
Since joining the VACLC in 2023, Hawkins has become recognized as a leader in veteran advocacy, known for her ability to cut through bureaucratic red tape and provide clear, effective guidance to veterans navigating the complexities of the benefits claims process.
Read more about Keeyawnia Hawkins
Learn more about the VAC
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Thank You to K9 Boomer for His Service to Lake County
K9 Boomer honorably served the Lake County Sheriff’s Office as an explosives-detection and patrol K9, partnered with Deputy Brian Kilpatrick. Throughout his career, which began in May 2017, Boomer was a critical asset to both local and federal law enforcement operations.
From tracking fleeing suspects to locating missing children in dangerous conditions, K9 Boomer saved lives and helped apprehend dangerous individuals. He conducted countless deployments searching for explosives at the scenes of bomb threats and was deployed to check for explosives at nationally attended events across the Midwest.
Retiring last June, K9 Boomer’s legacy will live on in the safety he provided and the countless lives he impacted.
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Coroner’s Office Receives Reaccreditation
The Lake County Coroner’s Office has received reaccreditation by the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners (IACME). The Lake County Coroner’s Office self-submitted to this process for the purpose of ensuring the operating policies, procedures and practices are within international guidelines. The completion of this process, which is for five years, indicates professionalism and compassion by the office.
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Forest Preserve News
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Hike Lake County is Back!
Hit the trails and explore Lake County in a fresh way. The 27th annual Hike Lake County program runs through November 30. Complete seven of 12 designated hikes and earn a free commemorative medallion featuring a great horned owl. Dog-friendly walks include a keepsake tag for your pup.
Pick up a Travel Log (English or Spanish) to track your walks—available online or at select locations. Guided hikes with a naturalist are also offered this season. Learn more »
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Board Endorses Land Purchases in Winthrop Harbor and near Round Lake
The Lake County Forest Preserves’ Board of Commissioners recently approved the creation of a new preserve in far northeastern Lake County and the expansion of Kestrel Ridge Forest Preserve near Round Lake.
In Winthrop Harbor, the purchase of 120.8 acres along Lewis Avenue creates a new forest preserve, featuring wetlands, open space and scenic views and borders the Robert McClory Bike Path.
In Grant Township, the purchase of 143.6-acres will add to the Kestrel Ridge Forest Preserve will protect wetlands, forests and scenic vistas, enhance wildlife habitat and strengthen the Millenium trail corridor for future maintenance and improvements. Learn More »
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Fort Sheridan Cemetery Expansion Approved
The Lake County Forest Preserves approved a $610,000 sale of 4.7 acres to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to expand Fort Sheridan National Cemetery.
The land, part of Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest, will be used to install columbaria for cremated remains. It includes two parcels, one east and one west of the existing cemetery. Proceeds from the sale will support the Every Acre Strong campaign led by the Preservation Foundation, helping us care for Fort Sheridan—forever. Read More »
Forest Preserves Join State Tree Task Force
Restoration Ecology Manager Matt Ueltzen has been appointed by Gov. JB Pritzker to a new 19-member task force focused on identifying and protecting Illinois’ most significant trees. The Illinois Legacy Tree Program Task Force met for the first time on July 23 and will develop a statewide framework to recognize trees with ecological, cultural or historical value.
Representing the Lake County Forest Preserves, Ueltzen joins experts from across the state. “It’s an honor to help shape how Illinois protects these living landmarks,” he said. The task force will meet quarterly and deliver a final report to the Illinois General Assembly by mid-2028. Read More »
54 Miles, One Day, One Trail
Last fall, Cook County resident Scott Drews ran the entire 54.5-mile Des Plaines River Trail in a single day—starting in River Grove and ending 12 hours later at Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth.
“I find nature meditative, and I’m a fan of the Forest Preserves,” he said. “They’re a precious gift.” He especially enjoyed the 31-mile stretch through Lake County, where the trail winds through prairies, woodlands and scenic preserves. Learn More »
Museum Earns Top Honors
The Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville has earned reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, placing it among fewer than 3% of museums nationwide to hold this distinction.
The honor recognizes the museum’s commitment to excellence, education and community service, following a rigorous review process. Operated by the Lake County Forest Preserves, the Dunn Museum showcases Lake County’s history and serves as a vibrant cultural hub for residents and visitors. Read More »
National Recognition Earned
The Lake County Forest Preserves received two national awards from the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials.
The Ryerson Education Center in Riverwoods was honored for its energy-efficient design and environmental education programs. The 2,900-square-foot net-zero energy facility serves 25,000 students annually. The Periodical Cicadas campaign was recognized for its creative public outreach during the 2024 emergence. The effort engaged over 10,000 people locally and reached 213 million worldwide through media and online content. Read More »
Visit Lake County's Photo Contest! See the Snapshots That Stole the Show
Thank you to all the residents and visitors who entered Visit Lake County’s fifth annual Let’s Snap Lake County Contest. Check this year’s honorable mention recipients and winners.
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
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 Street, 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.
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