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SHOWING 151–160 ENTRIES
151
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Cook County Health Committee Special Meeting on CTE Awareness - April 14, 2026

A special meeting of the Cook County Health and Hospitals Committee was called to order at 2:00 PM on April 14, 2026. The meeting focused on Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) awareness and a resolution (26-0649) requesting the Cook County Department of Public Health and Cook County Health to develop CTE awareness programs, facilitate referrals for athletes, and support related state and federal actions. The committee heard powerful personal testimony from families, advocates, and medical experts, and heard updates from the health department on current educational efforts. Consent Calendar - Approval of remote participation: Motion by Commissioner Britton, seconded by Commissioner Scott, passed with 12 ayes and 5 absent members. - No additions to the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Liz Nicholson spoke as the wife of a former NFL player with Alzheimer’s and suspected CTE. She expressed full support for the resolution and thanked Commissioner Stamps and Jameer Atkins for bringing the issue to the county level. She noted that NFL players are four times more likely to develop ALS and that CTE can only be diagnosed post-mortem. - Bob Ryder, president of the Chicago Federation of Labor and finance chair of the Cook County Health and Hospital System, spoke as a former football athlete. He emphasized that CTE can occur regardless of the number of concussions and urged protections for youth athletes, industrial workers, and families. - Ann Johnson, a 30-year educator and advocate with the Concussion and CTE Foundation, spoke about the importance of concussion education and protocols in youth sports. She described the benefits of team sports but stressed the need for coaches and parents to recognize concussion symptoms and prioritize safety over toughness. - Kenneth Newman, a longtime soccer referee, raised concerns about inconsistent concussion training among coaches in youth football programs and the lack of athletic trainers at many high schools. He urged the committee to ensure schools comply with state laws on AEDs and concussion recognition. Discussion Items - Commissioner Tara Stamps introduced the resolution (26-0649) and gave an emotional personal account of her two sons, now ages 23 and 24, who played football. She described noticing behavioral changes in her sons after head trauma, including depression and rage, and noted that she has already lost three of her sons’ friends to suicide before age 25. She called for urgent action to protect young athletes from repetitive head injuries and the pressures of NIL deals and the transfer portal. - Dr. Chris Nowinski, a behavioral neuroscientist and CEO of the Concussion and CT Foundation, presented remote testimony detailing the science of CTE. He explained that CTE is a progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by repetitive head impacts, not necessarily concussions. He cited data showing that among football players, every thousand hits increases CTE risk by 21%, and that more than half of those with careers over 10 years have the disease. He advocated for flag football before age 14 and informed consent for parents. - Dr. Joshua from the Cook County Department of Public Health provided an update on current efforts: adding CTE information to the department’s website, a fact sheet for school health staff, a webinar with school nurses on May 15 (with Dr. Nowinski invited as a speaker), and outreach to park districts through newsletters. - Commissioner Miller noted that her cousin, a Super Bowl Bear and now a rehab physician, advises against youth tackle football. Commissioners Dagnan, Kevin Morrison, Daly, McCaskill, and Trevor all expressed strong support for the resolution and thanked Commissioner Stamps for her advocacy. - Commissioner McCaskill raised concerns about youth sports starting as early as age six (e.g., Pop Warner), noting that helmets can be heavy for small necks and that repetitive head impacts in soccer also pose risks. - Commissioner Trevor highlighted the disproportionate emphasis on sports over academics at Division I universities and criticized the pressure on athletes to sacrifice their health for scholarships. Key Outcomes - The committee voted on the motion to defer item 26-0649 (the CTE resolution). The chair declared the ayes have it, with the motion passing. [Exact vote tally was not recorded verbatim beyond the chair’s declaration.] - The meeting was adjourned by motion of Chairman Daly, seconded by Commissioner McCaskill, with all members present voting in favor (5 members absent). - The next regular meeting is scheduled for the following day.

PUBLIC HEALTH 80% · IMMIGRATION AND NATURALIZATION 7% · PROCEDURAL 6% · YOUTH PROGRAMS 5%
152
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Cook County Health and Hospitals Committee Meeting – April 14, 2026

The Health and Hospitals Committee of the Cook County Board convened on April 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The meeting began with a roll call establishing a quorum, followed by approval of the previous meeting's minutes and a deferral of a COVID-19/RSV/measles update. The primary focus was a detailed presentation on the Medicaid Impact Work Group's efforts to mitigate the effects of federal policy changes (HR 1) on Cook County residents' health coverage. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Item 26-119): The minutes from the March 10, 2026, Health and Hospitals Committee meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote. Motion by Vice Chair Naya, seconded by Commissioner Trevor. Public Comments & Testimony - No public speakers were registered for the meeting. Discussion Items - COVID-19, RSV, and Measles Update (Item 23-3815 – Deferred): Dr. Kieran Joshi of the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) presented an update on respiratory virus activity, noting minimal to low activity at the end of the season. A new COVID-19 variant, nicknamed "Cicada," was highlighted for its many mutations but no evidence of current immune evasion. Dr. Joshi reported that CCDPH held 22 vaccination events, administering nearly 2,000 vaccines to over 1,200 residents this season—an increase from last year. A measles case in March 2025 involved 19 contacts, with two individuals quarantined; a press release had been shared. On federal updates, Dr. Joshi noted that the Secretary of Health had replaced the 17-member CDC advisory committee with appointees lacking vaccine science backgrounds, but a federal judge later reversed the new panel's recommendations. Professional societies (AAP, AAFP, etc.) are now the trusted source for vaccine guidance. Commissioners asked about insurance coverage alignment and the impact of doctor recommendations. The item was deferred by voice vote (motion by Vice Chair Naya, seconded by Commissioner Trevor). - Medicaid Impact Work Group (Item 23-0202 – Deferred): Dr. McKay, Kathy Chan (Director of Policy, CCH), and Alex Normington (Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, CCH) presented on the projected impacts of HR 1. Key points: - Starting October 1, 2026, legal immigrants (refugees, asylees, victims of domestic violence) lose Medicaid eligibility—an estimated 10,000 people statewide, with Cook County numbers unknown. - Starting January 2027, ACA expansion adults (at or below 138% FPL) must renew coverage twice a year and meet work requirements (80 hours/month of work, education, or volunteering). - During the post-COVID unwinding, administrative churn caused coverage losses; the work requirement pilot in Arkansas (2018) led 18,000 to lose coverage, 97% of whom were still eligible. - Cook County Health's payer mix has shifted: Medicaid dropped below 50% (as of February 2026), uninsured rose to 25%, and charity care budgeted at $380 million for 2026 (up from $134 million in 2022). CCH now provides over 40% of all charity care in Cook County. - Potential 400,000 Illinoisans could lose coverage, with a $280 million negative impact on CCH's bottom line (plus $200 million/year from DSH cuts delayed to October 2027). - The Medicaid Impact Work Group, convened in September 2025, includes over 60 organizations (health systems, FQHCs, plans, public health, businesses, academics, community groups). Three subgroups: Communicate & Educate, Coalition Building, and Innovate & Create. - A new micro-site, getmedicaidfacts.com, launched April 10, 2026, with information in six languages (English, Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Polish, Ukrainian) and an unbranded communications toolkit for partners. - Commissioners raised concerns about charity care sustainability, state-level advocacy, coordination with Illinois agencies (HFS), outreach to suburban and Southland communities, and integration of wellness and self-care strategies. Chairman Lowry suggested the Legislation & Intergovernmental Relations Committee update the board on state and federal lobbying efforts. - The item was deferred by voice vote (motion by Vice Chair Naya, seconded by Commissioner Vasquez). Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of March 10, 2026, unanimously. - Deferred item 23-3815 (COVID-19/RSV/Measles update) to remain in committee. - Deferred item 23-0202 (Medicaid Impact Work Group) to remain in committee. - Multiple commissioners pledged to help disseminate getmedicaidfacts.com resources and engage their networks. - Chair Lowry noted the Providence scholarship fund application deadline is April 19, 2026, and announced the upcoming departure of Craig Williams (CCH executive) effective May 15, 2026, to become CEO of Spear Memorial Hospital in Massachusetts. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 2:20 PM.

MEDICAID/INSURANCE 45% · PUBLIC HEALTH 16% · INSURANCE/MEDICAID 16% · HEALTH EQUITY 8%
153
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Cook County Finance Subcommittee on Workers' Compensation Meeting - April 14, 2026

A meeting of the Cook County Finance Subcommittee on Workers' Compensation was held on April 14, 2026, at 11:30 AM. The meeting was called to order by the Chairman with all members present (Commissioners McCasco, Marita, Trevor, Vasquez, and the Chairman). The agenda had no changes, and one public speaker addressed the subcommittee. The meeting approved minutes from March 10, 2026, and a series of recommended settlements, then adjourned. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval (Item 26-1150): The subcommittee unanimously approved the minutes of the meeting of March 10, 2026. Motion by Commissioner Trevor, seconded by Commissioner Merida. No discussion; all in favor. - Settlements Approval: The subcommittee unanimously approved a list of 19 settlements as recommended by the State's Attorney, including items 26-1034, 26-1959, 26-1092, 26-1937, 26-1094, 26-1060, 26-1047, 26-1036, 26-0945, 26-1023, 26-1035, 26-1093, 26-1048, 26-112, 26-1090, 26-0950, 26-1080, 26-1091, and 26-1026. A transposition on page two was corrected for item 26-0959 (noted as 260959). Motion by Commissioner Trevor, seconded by Commissioner Vesquez. All in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - George Blake Moore: Mr. Moore expressed concerns that the workforce is changing and that Black workers are being displaced. He argued that bilingual workers (e.g., those speaking Spanish, Hindi, Jamaican Creole) have an advantage because they cooperate and send money back to their home countries. He stated that the Black workforce often lacks bilingual skills and has forgotten its heritage. He also criticized “black thieves in high places” and urged self-preservation, stating, “we have to be a part of this workforce.” Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimously approved without discussion. - Settlements Approved: Unanimously approved all 19 listed settlements. - Adjournment: Motion by Commissioner McCaskill, seconded by Commissioner Marita, carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 39% · PROCEDURAL 35% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 26%
154
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Business and Economic Development Committee Meeting – April 14, 2026

The Business and Economic Development Committee of Cook County met on April 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Present were Commissioners Britt, Laurie, Miller, Moore, Marita, Kevin Morrison, Sean Morrison, and the Chair, with Chair Gaynor excused. The committee approved minutes, two property tax incentives, and an ordinance amendment to extend and reform incentive classifications. Public Comments & Testimony - George Blake Moore, the only registered speaker, criticized the lack of economic development in Black communities. He stated that Black residents “don’t tend to your business” and “support everybody … buy from everybody, but you don’t fail to nobody.” He asserted that Black people are consumers, not producers, and that others (referencing “illegal Mexicans and whoever”) achieve economic development because they “are about the money.” He also claimed that when outsiders move into Black neighborhoods, it is “to move you out of your neighborhood.” Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (Item 26-1143): The minutes of the March 11, 2026 meeting were approved by voice vote with a motion and second. - Two 6B Property Tax Incentives (Items 26-0914 & 26-0915): A resolution for Shanley Pump & Equipment (or its designee) in Arlington Heights and a resolution for 1090 Pratt LLC in Elk Grove Village were bundled and approved by voice vote. Both are in the 15th district. - Ordinance Amendment (Item 26-0936): An ordinance amending the Cook County Real Estate Assessment Classification Ordinance (Chapter 74, Article 2, Division 2) was presented. The amendment extends the life of incentive classifications set to expire in 2027, updates sections 7463, 7465, 7468, 7470, 7473, and 7475 to require applicants to attest to compliance with prevailing wage requirements and disclose redevelopment agreements. It removes outdated provisions, revises renewal timelines for Class C incentives (allowing renewal in years 10 through 12), sunsets the Class 7 incentive, directs new commercial projects to Class B, eliminates the unusual Class 8A incentive, and updates Class 8 eligibility to include properties with five or more years of delinquent taxes acquired from government entities. It also revises Class 8 micro eligibility to align with IL Edge tax credit recipients and requires triannual reassessment. The ordinance takes effect June 1, 2026. The amendment was passed by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Votes: All items were approved unanimously by voice vote, with no dissenting votes or abstentions noted. - Next Steps: The ordinance amendment will take effect June 1, 2026. No further business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 69% · PROCEDURAL 31%
155
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Forest Preserve District of Cook County Board Meeting - April 14, 2026

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County Board met on April 14, 2026, at 4:30 PM CT. The meeting included a land acknowledgement, approval of a consent calendar honoring retiring Police Chief Teresa Odom, recognizing Earth Day and Brookfield Zoo volunteers, public testimony, reports from Superintendent Bianchi and the Conservation & Policy Council, and unanimous approval of committee recommendations. Consent Calendar - Item 26-0229: Resolution celebrating the career and honoring the retirement of Chief Teresa Odom, who served 35 years in law enforcement (Chicago PD, Cook County State’s Attorney security, Forest Preserve Police Chief since 2021). Commissioners praised her leadership in model policing, mental health initiatives, and community engagement. Chief Odom thanked the board and her officers. - Item 26-0235: Proposed resolution recognizing April 22, 2026 as Earth Day for the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Commissioner Naya highlighted Earth Day events (e.g., April 18 celebration at Sock Trail Woods Central, April 22 stewardship). - Item 26-0245: Resolution recognizing Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s volunteer program during National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 19–25, 2026). Commissioner Aguilar noted over 260 volunteers, including a 50‑year volunteer milestone. Zoo representatives and volunteers were present and thanked the board. - The consent calendar was approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - George Blake Moore testified, expressing strong criticism of procurement and contracting practices, alleging that black residents are not benefiting economically despite having black elected officials. He called it a “plantation mentality” and a “one‑party system.” The board received his comments without response. (One speaker, three minutes allowed.) Discussion Items - Superintendent’s Opening Remarks: Superintendent Bianchi reported on spring activities: volunteers contributed 78,000 service hours in 2025 (valued at $2.7 million); 14 days of prescribed burns covering nearly 6,000 acres; stocking of 5,300 pounds of rainbow trout and expected production of 250,000 fingerling walleye; a new floating wetland habitat prototype; and the Chicago Conservation Leadership Corps receiving over 200 applicants for 40 positions. He also highlighted that volunteer hours can satisfy SNAP requirements, thanks to Commissioner Britton’s collaboration. - Conservation & Policy Council Report: Brandon Hayes (appointed October 2025) reported on two agenda items: (1) Forest Preserve Experience Program, funded by ARPA dollars, a five‑week paid summer program engaging high school students in ecological restoration; (2) Invest in Cook grant to design engineering for closing gaps in the Salt Creek Greenway Trail System (connecting Brookfield, Lyons, Riverside, North Riverside). He expressed support for both items. - Item 26-0188 (Forest Preserve Experience Program): Superintendent Bianchi noted the program’s decade‑long partnership with Friends of the Forest Preserves and Housing Authority of Cook County, providing first jobs and nature exposure for youth. - Commissioner Scott’s request: Comment on Item 26-0140 (easement at Whistler Woods) related to Joe Louis Golf Course clubhouse; asked that expansion of the clubhouse for banquet/conference use be placed on a future agenda. Superintendent said they would look into it. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar: Approved (voice vote). - Item 26-0118 (Conservation & Policy Council report): Deferred to a later meeting. - Item 26-0197 (Intergovernmental agreement with Evanston for refuge collection at Perkin Woods): Approved. - Item 26-0195 (County auditor’s report on law enforcement time & attendance): Referred to audit committee. - Item 26-0140 (Easement request to IDOT at Whistler Woods): Referred to real estate committee. - Item 26-0142 (Easement to IDOT at Willow/Hibbert Road, Winnetka): Approved. - Item 26-0194 (Partnership agreement amendment with Chicago Horticulture Society): Approved. - Item 26-0196 (Calendar of events, April 14 – May 4, 2026): Approved. - Item 26-0200 (Contract with Arlington Power Equipment for mowers): Approved. - Item 26-0201 (Contract with Mower Works for electric mowers): Approved. - Item 26-0188 (Contract amendment for Forest Preserve Experience Program with Friends of the Forest Preserves): Approved. - Item 26-0202 (Contract amendment for facilitation/management coaching pool): Approved. - Item 26-0207 (Contract amendment with Red Wing Brands for protective footwear): Approved. - Items 26-0028, 26-0187, 26-0205, 26-0208 (Procurement and disbursement report, vehicle steering committee annual report, workers’ compensation report, land use request report): Received and filed. - Labor Committee: Approved extension of collective bargaining agreement with FOP for sergeant unit (Item 26-0144). - Rules Committee: Approved Journal of Proceedings of March 10, 2026 (Item 26-0216). - Finance Committee: Approved bid recommendation for FabX Technology LLC for Sandridge Nature Center (Item 26-0206); approved litigation and workers’ compensation recommendations; received and filed corporate fund analysis (Item 26-0102). - Audit Committee: Received and filed open recommendation report (Item 26-0161). - Real Estate Committee: Approved license requests for ComEd at Red Gate Woods (Item 26-0167) and Dundee Road, Palatine (Item 26-0168); approved easement request for IDOT at River Road north of Foster Avenue, Schiller Park (Item 26-0169). - Adjournment: Motion carried.

PARKS AND RECREATION 29% · PROCEDURAL 23% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 23% · ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 11%
156
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Real Estate Committee of Forest Preserve of Cook County - April 14, 2026

Meeting called to order at 9:40 AM. All members present except Commissioners Gaynor and Stamps (excused). No remote participation. No public testimony was registered. Consent Calendar - Approval of Committee Minutes (March 10, 2026): Moved by Vice Chair Moore, seconded by Commissioner Sean Morrison. Approved by voice vote (all ayes). Discussion Items - Item 26-0167 – ComEd License (95th Street & Archer Avenue, 17th District): Proposed license for ComEd to locate, operate, and maintain 1,806 feet of new cables. Term: 10 years. Superintendent noted the line is 100% within the road right-of-way, with no trees impacted. Moved by Vice Chair Moore, seconded by Commissioner Sean Morrison. Approved by voice vote. - Item 26-0168 – ComEd License (Dundee Road, Palatine, 14th District): Proposed license for 482 feet of cable, term 10 years. This is an IDOT road reconstruction project; ComEd must relocate its line. Eight trees will be impacted. The work will help maintain sidewalk connectivity. Commissioner Brennan (in whose district the project lies) expressed support and asked when the Forest Preserve last reviewed its license fee structure. Lisa Lee, Chief Attorney, responded that the Code of Ordinances includes a built-in escalator but that the board has not recently assessed whether the escalator is still appropriate. Commissioner Brennan asked that the fee structure be reviewed, without urgency. Moved by Vice Chair Moore, seconded by Commissioner Britton. Approved by voice vote. - Item 26-0169 – IDOT Easement (9th District): Request to grant a permanent easement and a temporary easement (5 years) to IDOT. Superintendent described the project as addressing safety issues related to potential collapse of the Des Plaines River retaining wall, including riprap, a new sidewalk, and other improvements. Approximately 16 trees will be impacted; IDOT has agreed to pay mitigation fees. Commissioner Trevor asked whether the easement would further the Des Plaines River Trail project; the superintendent responded that it would not. Moved by Vice Chair Moore, seconded by Commissioner Trevor. Approved by voice vote. Key Outcomes - All three items (license requests and easement) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The committee directed staff to review the license fee structure (though no specific timeline was set). - Meeting adjourned following a motion by Vice Chair Moore, seconded by Commissioner Marita, with all in favor.

PROCEDURAL 59% · ENGINEERING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 41%
157
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Finance Committee of the Forest Preserve of Cook County - April 14, 2026

The Finance Committee of the Forest Preserve of Cook County met on April 14, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. The meeting included a roll call, approval of remote participation, approval of prior minutes, and consideration of bundled agenda items including a construction contract for Sand Ridge Nature Center improvements and a financial report. Actions Taken - Roll Call and Remote Participation: The committee approved remote participation for Commissioner Morita with a motion by Vice Chair Kevin Morrison, seconded by Commissioner Daly. The motion passed with 15 ayes; Commissioners Gaynor and Stamps were excused. - Approval of Minutes: The committee minutes from March 10, 2026 (Item 26-0217) were approved by voice vote. - Bundled Items (Motion): The following items were bundled in a single motion by Vice Chair Kevin Morrison, seconded by Commissioner Daly, and passed by voice vote: - Item 26-0206: A proposed bid recommendation from the Department of Planning and Development authorizing a construction contract with Fablex Technology, LLC, Chicago, Illinois, for improvements to the Sand Ridge Nature Center in South Holland, Illinois. The project includes updating the kitchen used for ambassador animal food preparation and upgrading the main entrance for accessibility. Superintendent noted the work is long overdue and beneficial. - Item 26-0203: Recommendations of the Finance Subcommittee on Litigation. - Item 26-0204: Recommendations of the Finance Subcommittee on Workers' Compensation. - Item 26-0102: A receive-and-file report from the Department of Finance and Administration: the Corporate Fund Analysis of Revenue and Expenditure for January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026. Discussion Items - Financial Report (Item 26-0102): Damon presented the report. Revenues were approximately $10,167,168 (10% of budget). Revenue on a cash basis was approximately $4.8 million below the prior year through February, primarily due to a later due date for the second installment of 2025 and first installment of 2026. Non-tax revenues were approximately $544,000 above the prior year due to license agreement collections. February expenditures were approximately $7,721,401 (8% of budget). Year-to-date revenues exceeded expenses by approximately $2.4 million. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioner Sean Morrison noted a negative balance of $93,000 in the interest section year-to-date compared to budget. Damon explained that collections for interest were lower than the prior year due to fluctuating rates and balances. Superintendent and Director of Planning and Development Chris Slattery confirmed the Sand Ridge Nature Center project is expected to take 360 days from issuance of notice to proceed, with work starting this summer. Key Outcomes - The bundled motion for items 26-0206, 26-0203, 26-0204, and 26-0102 passed by voice vote. - The contract for Sand Ridge Nature Center improvements will proceed after board approval, legal review, and insurance documentation. - The meeting adjourned by motion of Commissioner Brand, seconded by Commissioner Scott.

PROCEDURAL 47% · PROCUREMENT 37% · FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY 16%
158
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Labor Committee of the Forest Preserve of Cook County – April 14, 2026

The Labor Committee of the Forest Preserve of Cook County met on April 14, 2026, at 9:15 AM (local time). The committee had a quorum with Commissioners Aguilar, Degnan, Laurie, Moore, and Kevin Morrison present; Commissioner Stamps was excused; Commissioners Miller and Vasquez were absent. No public comments were registered. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the September 17, 2024, Labor Committee meeting was moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Moore, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - Resolution 26-0211 – Extension of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council (Sergeant Unit) General Superintendent Adam Bianchi summarized the proposed agreement: a 2% raise retroactive to January 2026, an additional 2% raise in July 2026, and a 4% raise on January 1, 2027. A one-time lump sum payment of $2,500 will be paid within 45 days of Board approval. The agreement also modifies how sergeants bid for vacation and work schedules. Chief Attorney Lisa Lee confirmed no other changes. Deputy Chief Attorney Natalie Sanchez noted that the Forest Preserve is still extending contracts with Local 700 Teamsters, has completed negotiations with trades and FOP for police, and anticipates beginning negotiations with SEIU in May 2026. The motion was moved by Commissioner Moore, seconded by Commissioner Aguilar, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approval of the minutes from September 17, 2024. - Approval of Resolution 26-0211, extending the collective bargaining agreement with the FOP Sergeant Unit through the terms described. - The committee adjourned on a motion by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Degnan.

PERSONNEL MATTERS 100%
159
APR 14, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Finance Subcommittee on Litigation of the Forest Preserve District - April 14, 2026

The Finance Subcommittee on Litigation of the Forest Preserve District met on April 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM (local time). The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. The subcommittee voted to allow remote participation, entered executive session to discuss pending litigation, and later returned to open session to approve a bundle of items before adjourning. Executive Session - Vice Chair Lowry moved, seconded by Commissioner Marita, to enter executive session pursuant to subsection C(11) of the Illinois Open Meetings Act to discuss litigation pending against the preserves in Cook County State Court. The motion passed unanimously. All non-members and non-counsel exited. - After the executive session, the subcommittee returned to open session on a motion by Vice Chair Lowry, seconded by Commissioner Degnan (who was marked present for open session). Key Outcomes - Remote Participation Approved: A motion to allow remote participation was made by Commissioner Lowry, seconded by Commissioner Sean Morrison. The roll call vote: Commissioners Laura, Marita, Sean Morrison, Trevor, and the Chairman voted aye. Commissioners Dagnan and Stamps were absent. Motion carried (5-0). - Bundle of Items Approved: A bundle motion, moved by Commissioner Lowry and seconded by Commissioner Degnan, approved items 0220, 0221, 0225, 0226, and 0227 as "received and filed." The roll call vote: Commissioners Degnan, Lowry, Marita, Sean Morrison, Trevor, and the Chairman voted aye. Commissioner Stamps was excused and absent. Motion carried (6-0, one excused). - Adjournment: A motion to adjourn was made by Vice Chair Lowry, seconded by Commissioner Trevor. The motion passed unanimously.

PENDING LITIGATION 56% · PROCEDURAL 44%
160
MAR 12, 2026 · COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS · BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Cook County Board Meeting Recognizes Doula Day, Agriculture, and Community Leaders on March 12, 2026

The Cook County Board of Commissioners convened on March 12, 2026, for a regular meeting that included public testimony, recognitions, and the adoption of consent calendar items. The meeting began with a land acknowledgement, followed by public speakers addressing maternal health, community violence intervention, and local agriculture. Commissioners also honored the 105-year-old Estelle J. Long family, celebrated Women's History Month, and recognized Centro San Bonifacio for 35 years of service. Public Comments & Testimony - Brenda Solorsano (Manager of Policy and Advocacy, Family Focus) and Heidi Pearson (Director of Marketing and Communications, Family Focus) spoke in support of Resolution 260867, commemorating World Doula Day and Doula Week in Cook County. Solorsano emphasized that doulas help ensure mothers and birthing people are heard, respected, and treated with dignity, and noted that national research indicates a higher risk of birth complications for Black and brown parents. She thanked Commissioner Miller for spearheading the first Doula program at Cook County Health. - Bona Hainson (Cook County Farm Bureau) spoke in support of Resolution 260952, recognizing National Agriculture Day, and expressed interest in forming a partnership with Cook County to support local food access. - Dennis White (public speaker) criticized Democratic commissioners for not being present, and argued that ICE enforcement should not be called inhumane, citing attacks by undocumented immigrants on American citizens. He called for stricter immigration enforcement. - Dr. Sandy Norman (violence intervention worker) urged commissioners to fund community violence intervention (CVI) programs, noting that many grassroots organizations doing the work do not receive adequate support. She emphasized that she walks blocks, stands on corners, and gets guns off the street, and asked commissioners to use their power to help communities. - Taiwan Sims described a personal legal case involving a police report filed March 22, 2023, an order of protection that was denied, and a parental allocation case going to court on March 19, 2026. He alleged a pattern of abuse and urged commissioners to take action. - Lisa Julin did not appear when called. - Zoe Lee, Jessica Jackson, and George Blakemorne were listed as following speakers, but their testimony was not recorded. - A later speaker (unidentified) criticized Commissioner Daly for leaving and Commissioner Preckwinkle for not being present during public testimony, and alleged corruption and election rigging. The speaker also argued that only women can have children and criticized the term "birthing parent." Presentations & Recognitions - Commissioner Degnan acknowledged the 100th anniversary of the Shannon Rovers, a pipe and drum band known as ambassadors of Chicago and immigrants. - Commissioner (unidentified) honored the Estelle J. Long family: Estelle J. Long lived to be 105 years old, was a Rosie the Riveter who riveted C-54 transport fuel tanks at age 24, worked 40 years for the City of Chicago (starting at the Board of Health and ending in the Comptroller's Office as an accountant), and was a civil rights advocate who fought for integration at her high school prom and against "Willis wagons" in Chicago Public Schools. Her family spoke about her advocacy for youth and community. - Commissioner Degnan presented a Women's History Month tribute, acknowledging the fight for equality, the underrepresentation of women in government and leadership, and the gender wage gap. She noted that for the first time in history, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has a woman majority, and praised the women on the board as diverse, courageous, resilient, and highly accomplished. - Commissioner Basket honored Centro San Bonifacio for 35 years of service on the Northwest side, providing health care access and support to Latino migrant families. The executive director and founder accepted the recognition, stating that Latinos belong in Cook County and are here to stay. Consent Calendar - Commissioner Lowry moved approval of the entire consent calendar, seconded by Commissioner Britain. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote. - Commissioner Trevor moved and seconded a separate motion (item not specified), which also carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. - Resolutions 260867 (World Doula Day and Doula Week) and 260952 (National Agriculture Day) were supported by public testimony and presumably adopted, though no separate vote was recorded. - No other substantive decisions or votes were recorded in the transcript. Adjournment - The meeting adjourned following the consent calendar votes.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 24% · PUBLIC SAFETY 17% · PROCEDURAL 14% · RACIAL EQUITY 13%
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