Lake County Government News
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Share Your Perspective on the Future of Health Care
The Lake County Health Department will co-host a community listening session focused on safety net healthcare with the Illinois Department of Public Health and Healthcare and Family Service. The meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 14 at the Lake County Health Department, 3rd Floor Board Room, 3010 Grand Ave., Waukegan.
Residents, especially those using the Medicaid program or uninsured, are invited to provide feedback about what the community needs and their experiences with the healthcare system.
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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Native Plant Sale
Fill your garden with plants that belong there. The annual Native Plant Sale takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 16 and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 17 at the North Bay Pavillion at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville.
An expanded selection of native flowers, forbs and grasses makes it easy to support pollinators and create a healthier landscape at home. As you shop, connect with experts and gather practical gardening tips and ideas. Learn More
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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