Public Meetings - Lake County, Illinois

The Rules Committee of the Lake County Board met on October 10, 2025, under Chair Roberts to consider several amendments to the County Board Rules of Order and Operation Procedures. After nearly three hours of debate, the committee approved a number of changes including modifications to electronic attendance notifications, association membership review, and travel training approval, while rejecting proposals on ethics commission referrals, agenda approval process, and staff decorum. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1 (four minutes) was approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 8.2 – Ethics Commission Recommendations (Failed): Member Kasman proposed amending section 3D and V12 to send Independent Ethics Commission recommendations directly to the County Board, bypassing the Finance Committee. Supporters argued it removes politics; opponents said the current committee process is appropriate and that the board is also political. Motion failed on a roll call vote (2 ayes: Kasman, Cunningham; 4 nays: Clark, Peterson, Roberts, Schlick). - Item 8.3 – Agenda Approval Process (Failed): Kasman proposed inserting committee chair involvement and majority decision among county administrator, committee chair, and board chair for agenda disputes. Supporters said it prevents one person holding up items; opponents argued the current chair authority works well and that this change was unnecessary. Motion failed (2 ayes: Kasman, Cunningham; 4 nays: Clark, Peterson, Roberts, Schlick). - Item 8.4 – Electronic Attendance Reason (Passed): Member Maine proposed requiring the reason for a member's electronic attendance to be stated at the meeting. Staff noted it could be done operationally, but the committee voted to add it to the rules. Voice vote: all in favor, motion carried. - Item 8.5 – Association Membership Review (Passed): A staff-proposed amendment to require the county administrator to present an annual review of association memberships to the Finance Committee during budget hearings, with final board action. Voice vote: all in favor, carried. - Item 8.6 – Travel and Training Approval (Passed after amendments): Kasman proposed changing approval authority from the board chair to the county administrator for board member travel and training. After extensive debate, the committee approved (3-2) an amended version: county administrator approval, limited to one time per fiscal year, and as budget allows. A subsequent motion to require an objective rubric failed. The change also allows board members to book their own travel and seek reimbursement. - Item 8.7 – Staff Decorum and Courtesy (Failed): Kasman proposed two new sections requiring that members refrain from interrupting countywide elected officials, department heads, and staff, and allow staff to correct erroneous assertions before the next member speaks. Opponents argued it was unnecessary and that existing Robert's Rules suffice. Motion failed (1 aye: Kasman; 3 nays: Cunningham, Peterson, Roberts). - Item 8.8 – Full Rules Amendment Adoption (Passed): A resolution incorporating all approved amendments (8.4, 8.5, 8.6) and various administrative cleanups (electronic minutes, VAC committee assignment, electronic attendance marking, travel reporting, staff as parliamentarian, public comment handling, executive session notes, etc.) was moved by Kasman. An amendment by Cunningham to provide travel cards (not P cards) for board members' travel expenses passed (3-1). The final resolution then carried on a roll call vote (3 ayes: Cunningham, Peterson, Roberts; 1 nay: Hart). Key Outcomes - Approved: Electronic attendance reason notice (8.4), association membership review process (8.5), travel/training approval by county administrator with one-per-year budget limit (8.6), and full rules amendment adoption including travel card provision (8.8). - Rejected: Direct board referral for ethics recommendations (8.2), agenda approval majority process (8.3), staff decorum protections (8.7). - Next meeting scheduled for May 8, 2026.

The Financial and Administrative Committee of the Lake County Board met on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. A quorum was present. The meeting covered the consent agenda, several substantive resolutions, a budget overview, and an executive session. One agenda item (8.20) was removed due to an Open Meetings Act posting issue and referred to the County Board. Consent Calendar - Items 8.1 through 8.29 (excluding 8.20, 8.19, and 8.21, which were pulled for discussion) were approved unanimously by voice vote. Item 8.20 was removed from the agenda because the amended posting did not meet the Open Meetings Act requirement; it was added to the County Board agenda for October 14, 2025, with concurrence from the committee chair. Discussion Items - 8.19 – Emergency Appropriation for State's Attorney's Office: A joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $21,200 from the State's Attorney’s Office Money Laundering Fund to pay salary and fringe costs through the remainder of fiscal year 2025 for the Conviction Integrity Unit Director. Chief Deputy Joe Gerbitter explained that the position was previously grant‑funded and that this appropriation bridges a gap until a budget modification for the Illinois Innocence Project grant is approved. Member Maine questioned the use of a special revenue fund and the policy of retaining a position when a grant lapses; County Administrator Sutton noted the office chose to use its custodial funds to avoid a service gap. The item was approved by voice vote. - 8.21 – Intersection Improvement Change Order: A joint resolution appropriating $921,000 from the quarter‑percent sales tax for transportation funds and approving Change Order No. 4 in the amount of $1,294,769.65 for the Winchester Road at Illinois Route 83 intersection improvement. County Engineer Shane Schneider reported that the contractor discovered a larger peat bog than anticipated, requiring additional soil mitigation. He noted that IDOT agreed to provide an additional $1 million to share the cost. Approved by voice vote. - 8.30 – Polling Place Accessibility Grant: A resolution accepting a $250,000 Illinois State Board of Elections grant for ADA improvements at 18 North County, the building housing the County Clerk’s office. Clerk Vega said the grant will fund new ramps and repaving, making the building fully accessible for voters with disabilities. Director of Facilities Carl Carr described the two new ramps on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and County Street. Approved. - 8.31 – Fire Alarm Replacement Project: Approval of a job‑order contract not to exceed $350,000 for replacing the fire alarm system at the Mundelein Branch Courthouse. Director Carr noted the system is at end of life and parts are no longer available. Approved. - 8.32 – Multi‑Agency Facility Design Services: A resolution authorizing a $1,184,559 agreement with FGM Architects for pre‑design and schematic design of a multi‑department facility in Libertyville for the Sheriff’s Office, Coroner’s Office, and County Clerk. Director Carr stated that schematic design will be complete by February 2026, with construction possible by mid‑2027. The project is preliminarily budgeted at $25–30 million. Member Maine commented on the challenge of moving functions out of Waukegan. The item was approved with one vote in opposition (specific member not identified in the transcript). - 8.33 – Circuit Court Clerk Operations Fund: A resolution to create a separate fund for circuit court clerk fees. An amendment by Member Clark (to clarify statutory references and remove the words “special revenue”) was adopted. CFO Regina Tuzak and Budget Director Mike Wheeler explained that the fund will increase transparency on how fee revenue is used. The fund had already been established as a bank account in 2024 with about $500,000; the resolution formally creates the accounting fund. Approved as amended. - 8.34 – Budget Development Policy Updates: A resolution amending Finance Policy 3.5 for the FY2026 budget. Changes include: (1) vacant positions not actively recruited will be eliminated; (2) non‑union wage increases set at a minimum of 1.75% and a maximum of 4% (departmental lump sum not to exceed 3%); (3) wage tables increase by 1.75%. Approved. - 8.35 – Director’s Report: Administrator Sutton announced that Moody’s reaffirmed Lake County’s AAA credit rating on September 15, 2025. No action required. - 8.36 – Tax Bill Printing Contract: A resolution authorizing a contract with Data Integrators of Fredericksburg, Virginia for printing and mailing real estate tax bills for the Lake County Treasurer’s Office, at an estimated annual amount of $34,270 with renewal options. Treasurer’s representative Stephen stated that the previous vendor, Master’s Touch (bid $48,000), was not selected; the new vendor met all requirements. The contract includes e‑bill services; about 3,000 of 260,000 taxpayers currently receive bills electronically. Approved. - 8.37 – FY2026 Recommended Budget Presentation: Administrator Sutton presented a high‑level overview of the recommended $673.4 million budget (2.2% increase over FY2025). Key points: operating funds stable with a 1% property tax increase; property taxes make up less than one‑third of revenue; personnel and benefits are 42% of spending; 41 new program requests totaling $10.6 million (12 recommended); a scenario using half the allowable property tax extension (PTEL) results in a 3.6% levy increase, adding about $9 to the tax bill for an average home valued at $330,000. Budget meetings are scheduled for October 21–22, 2025, with County Board approval planned for November 18. - 8.38 – Destruction of Executive Session Recordings: Committee action to permanently destroy executive session recordings from October 8, 2008 through February 2024 (F&A Committee) and October 2, 2018 through September 22, 2022 (Inactive Ethics & Oversight Committee), as permitted by the Open Meetings Act and recommended by the State’s Attorney’s Office. Approved. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items (8.1–8.29, minus pulled items) approved. - Individual resolutions 8.19, 8.21, 8.30, 8.31, 8.32, 8.33 (as amended), 8.34, 8.36, and 8.38 were approved. Item 8.32 had one vote in opposition. - Item 8.20 was referred to the County Board for October 14, 2025. - The committee entered executive session to discuss personnel, property sale/lease pricing, insurance claims/risk management, and to review executive session minutes from September 4, 2025. - Next meeting: Budget hearings on October 21–22, 2025.

The committee met on October 8, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Member Paul Frank participated electronically with a qualifying reason and a physical quorum present. The meeting included a consent agenda, a major discussion on a proposed demolition of a dangerous building, and approvals related to executive session recordings and minutes. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was moved by Member Schlick, seconded by Member Knižnik, and approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Demolition of Dangerous Buildings at 9865 West Logan Court, Zion, IL: Eric Wagner, Planning Building and Development Director, along with Building Official Eva Donov, presented a joint resolution authorizing the emergency demolition of a vacant, collapsed single-family residence (approximately 1,196 square feet), a detached garage (approximately 500 square feet), a dilapidated fence (approximately 120 linear feet), and cleanup of junk and debris. The property, in unincorporated Zion and within Member Roberts’ district, has been subject to code enforcement since 2021; the owner has failed to comply. The structures are open, uninhabitable, and pose an immediate hazard to the community, with tall weeds concealing the buildings. The estimated total cost for demolition and cleanup is approximately $40,000, including $13,440 for the house, $7,500 for the garage, $2,500 for the fence, $4,000 for site cleanup, $5,000 for asbestos abatement (if needed), and $2,000 for utility disconnect and permits. Funding is available through the finance department. The process follows Illinois statute (55 ILCS 5/5-111), which allows a “fast track” demolition. After committee and board approval, the State’s Attorney will notify the property owner and lien holders, giving 30 days to remediate or contest the action in court. If no action is taken, the county will contract demolition. Staff have been unable to contact the former owner; the property has been forfeited for back taxes. Staff have identified two tax buyers; one has indicated no objection, and the other (an LLC) is being contacted. The county intends to file a judgment lien to recover costs. Member Frank expressed concern about tax buyers profiting while the county pays, but supported the approach and confirmed that a lien would be placed. Member Compost asked about the possibility of a property owner showing progress within 30 days; Director Wagner indicated the county would work with a bona fide plan. The demolition method will be determined by a contractor (likely through the county’s job-order contracting program or a local contractor), with county oversight to ensure safety and compliance with construction and demolition debris recycling requirements. Member Schlick suggested future consideration of recapturing administrative costs and questioned the lien process with tax sales; staff clarified the lien would attach to the property and tax buyers would be informed. Member Wasick (the district representative) strongly supported the action, noting the property has been a longstanding safety and nuisance concern for neighbors. The committee voted unanimously to recommend the resolution to the full county board. - Destruction of Executive Session Recordings: The committee approved a motion to authorize the permanent destruction of inactive executive session recordings for the Planning, Building, Zoning, and Environment Committee from June 3, 2008, through November 3, 2015, in accordance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act. The motion was made by Member Schlick, seconded by Member Wasick, and passed unanimously. - Executive Session: The committee moved into executive session to discuss a personnel matter (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1)) and to review executive session minutes (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21)). A roll call vote approved the closed session: Chair Altenberg (Aye), Member Compost (Aye), Member Frank (Aye), Member Knižnik (Aye), Vice Chair Peterson (Aye), Member Schlick (Aye), Member Wasick (Aye). After the closed session, the committee approved the executive session minutes from September 25, 2024, on a motion by Member Knižnik, seconded by Member Schlick, unanimously. Key Outcomes - Demolition Resolution (8.2): The committee voted unanimously to forward the joint resolution authorizing demolition of dangerous structures at 9865 West Logan Court to the full county board. The resolution will also be considered by the Finance and Administration Committee the following day. Staff will provide notice to property interest holders; if no compliance or court action occurs within 30 days, the county will proceed with demolition and place a judgment lien on the property. - Destruction of Recordings (8.3): Approved unanimously. - Approval of Executive Session Minutes (11.1): Approved unanimously. - The meeting adjourned until October 22, 2025.

The Lake County Public Works and Transportation Committee met on October 8, 2025, at 8:30 AM via Zoom with in-person attendance. The meeting was called to order by Chair Clark, with a quorum present. The committee addressed consent items, the director's report on a lead service line issue, multiple resolutions for speed zone changes, engineering contracts, and a long-range transportation plan update. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1: Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Item 8.4: Fall 2025 Adopt-a-Highway program approved. Committee noted 79% adoption with 33 renewing groups and 13 new groups. Discussion about possibly changing the ordinance to allow year-round sign-ups without bi-annual committee approval; staff will bring back proposed amendments. - Item 8.10: Agreement with Graham C. Stores Company for property at 221 West Rollins Road regarding underground storage tank cleanup; authorized with a $100,000 bond requirement. - Item 8.13: Appropriation of $806,400 for maintenance supplies and $206,000 for de-icing materials for FY2025-2026. - Item 8.15: Destruction of executive session recordings from January 27, 2010 through November 29, 2023, and other dates, approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Lead Service Line Replacement (Item 8.2): Director Austin McFarlane reported that an inventory of water mains found one lead service line. The property owner is not willing to replace it. Due to this, monitoring requirements increased from 10 samples every three years to 20 samples every six months, costing an estimated $5,000 annually (up from $400). Replacement cost is $10,000–$15,000. The committee supported moving forward with replacement, pending homeowner agreement. Vice Chair Main noted that using staff labor has an opportunity cost. - Winchester Road/IL 83 Intersection Improvement (Item 8.3): Change order 4 for $1,294,769.65 due to discovery of additional unsuitable soil (peat bog) during construction. The state has verbally agreed to cost-share an additional $1 million. The project is 75% complete and expected to finish by end of 2025. Committee approved the change order. - Speed Zone Changes: - Item 8.5: Drury Lane (Avon Township) – reduced from 35 mph to 30 mph for 0.043 miles south of Rollins Road, based on speed study and township request. - Item 8.6: Oak Spring Road (Libertyville Township) – reduced from 35 mph to 25 mph, consistent with adjacent sections. Vice Chair Main noted safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists. - Gauges Lake Road Engineering (Item 8.7): Approved $3,237,837 contract with GFT Infrastructure for phase one engineering on Gauges Lake Road from US 45 to IL 21, and US 45 from Center Street to Washington Street. Study will include intersection improvements, school traffic, and non-motorized connectivity to College of Lake County. Discussion included e-bike safety on trails; Chair indicated a future conversation on trail regulations. - Russell Road Roundabouts (Item 8.8): Awarded $7,219,900.69 contract to Campanella & Sons for roundabouts at Russell Road/Kenosha Road and Lewis Avenue. Construction planned for 2026 with 90-day closures per roundabout. Includes 6-foot bike lanes between roundabouts. - Change Order for Russell Road Engineering (Item 8.9): Approved $53,379 increase for additional utility relocation and detour planning. - Cedar Lake Road Resurfacing (Item 8.11): Approved $636,741 contract with Baxter & Woodman for resurfacing 3.25 miles from Montreville Road to Hart Road, including drainage upgrades, guardrail, ADA ramps, and traffic signal replacement at Rowlands. - Butterfield Road Bike Path (Item 8.12): Approved supplemental appropriation of $30,000 for right-of-way costs to complete non-motorized improvements from Gregg's Parkway to Gulf Road. - Director's Report: - Darrell Road corridor roundabouts opened September 26, 2025, and received national roundabout corridor of the year award from ITE. - Envision 2050 long-range transportation plan: 750 survey responses received; virtual open house runs through October 21, 2025, at LakeCounty2050.com. - Executive Session: Held to discuss personnel and closed session minutes (items 10.1 and 10.2). Key Outcomes - Approved: Lead service line replacement (conditional on homeowner agreement), change order for Winchester Road, speed zone reductions on Drury Lane and Oak Spring Road, engineering contracts for Gauges Lake Road and Cedar Lake Road, roundabout construction contract for Russell Road, change order for Russell Road engineering, supplemental appropriation for Butterfield Road bike path, Adopt-a-Highway program, environmental cleanup agreement, maintenance material appropriation, destruction of executive session recordings. - Approved: Executive session minutes from February 5, 2025 and August 6, 2025. - Next Steps: Staff to bring back proposed ordinance amendments for year-round Adopt-a-Highway sign-ups; future committee discussion on e-bike and scooter regulations on trails. Next meeting is a joint budget hearing on October 22, 2025.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on October 7, 2025, but the official meeting date is recorded as October 8, 2025, per the administrative record. The Lake County Legislative Committee convened to review its draft 2026 legislative agenda, receive updates on state and federal issues, and consider new legislative initiatives. The meeting included reports from lobbyists on the Illinois veto session and the federal government shutdown, presentations by SWALCO on environmental bills, and discussions on several proposed bills regarding masking, tourism funding, solar energy, microplastics, and grid modernization. Key votes included approval of support for masking bills (state HB4086 and federal H4176) and a motion to destroy old executive session recordings. Consent Calendar - Motioned and seconded to approve consent agenda (passing previous meeting minutes). Passed unanimously. Discussion Items - State Update (Springfield) – Derek reported on the upcoming veto session (October 14-30). Key issues: budget (4% holdback ordered by Governor, $1.12 billion identified), mass transit funding (deficit dropped from $711 million to $200 million due to revenue collections and fiscal actions, but long-term need remains), and pensions (a $62 billion bill unlikely to advance). The mass transit bill may be split between reform (veto session) and fiscal solutions (2026). - Federal Shutdown Update – Greg Bales reported the federal government shut down October 1. Congress passed only 3 of 12 appropriations bills. A clean continuing resolution passed the House but lacks 60 Senate votes; Democrats seek extension of ACA premium tax credits. Active duty military pay may expire October 15. The administration is requiring agencies to prepare reduction-in-force plans, which may lead to permanent job eliminations. No Lake County grants have been paused or terminated so far. - Draft 2026 Legislative Agenda – Matt Myers presented the draft, including state initiatives (FOIA reform, PTAB hearing locations, Illinois Homes Tax Credit Act, local health protection grant funding, decriminalizing homelessness, Waukegan coal ash removal, solid waste agency, missing middle housing, EV fire standards, railway safety, broadband, heavy truck weight limits, and gun violence prevention). Topics of importance include bird-friendly building design (to remain). Three new initiatives were added: mattress recycling, volunteer lake monitoring program restoration, and engineer licensing reform. - SWALCO Legislative Program – Walter Willis presented bills for 2026: (1) Food scrap diversion (SB1397/1398) – supporting market development and mandatory diversion; (2) Household hazardous waste producer responsibility (SB1394/HB1893); (3) Mattress recycling – new bill to add an eco-fee similar to carpet (carpet bill stalled); (4) Plastic bag bill – SWALCO opposes the current SB1827 (which bans plastic bags after 3 years, with a static 10-cent fee on paper bags and no fee on reusable bags) because it does not change consumer behavior significantly and gives retailers windfall profits. SWALCO proposes an escalating fee on all bags to drive down usage, with revenue shared with local governments. Committee consensus: add mattress bill as item of interest, monitor plastic bag bill. - Engineer Licensing Reform – Chair Hart proposed a bill to allow graduates of engineering technology programs (e.g., from HBCUs) to sit for the professional engineer exam, addressing a national engineer shortage. Nine states (including Illinois) restrict this. Committee directed staff to research further. - Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program – Chair Wasick requested restoring IEPA funding (formerly $30,000–40,000/year) for volunteer monitoring of cyanobacteria in lakes. Committee agreed to add as an item of interest. - Masking Bills – Discussion of state HB4086 and federal H4176 (No Secret Police Act), prohibiting law enforcement from wearing masks while interacting with the public, requiring name/badge numbers. Debate centered on officer safety vs. transparency and accountability. Some members expressed concerns about threats to officers, while others emphasized the need for transparency, especially regarding federal ICE operations. Roll call vote: 3 ayes (Roberts, Velitzek, Chair) and 2 nos (Vice Chair, Schleck). Motion passed; committee will support both bills. - Tourism Fund Diversion – Member Casmin presented SB2053/HB3100, which would freeze the annual transfer of hotel/motel tax revenue to the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority (ISFA) at $77.9 million (current level) instead of allowing 5.615% annual increases through 2033, redirecting future growth to tourism marketing. Committee requested additional research on fiscal impact and sponsor information before a vote next month. - Solar Energy Bill – HB4141 (or similar) would prohibit local governments and HOAs from banning residential solar installations. Discussion: The county already has permissive solar policies and SolSmart Gold status. Concerns were raised about preemption of local control, particularly regarding large-scale solar farms. Committee voted to support. - Microfiber Filter Bill – HB1370 would require new residential washing machines sold after January 1, 2030 to include a microfiber filter. Committee expressed support. - Powering Up Illinois Act – SB2196 would require large utilities to upgrade grid capacity for electrification, reduce interconnection delays, and improve workforce readiness. Committee expressed support. - Route 53 Greenway – Added as an item of interest to monitor ongoing discussions between IDOT, IDNR, and Forest Preserve. Key Outcomes - Passed (roll call): Support for state HB4086 and federal H4176 (masking bills) – 3 ayes, 2 nos. - Passed (voice): Motion to destroy old executive session recordings from 2013-2016 (RRL Committee). Unanimous. - Consensus to support: HB1370 (microfiber filters), SB2196 (Powering Up Illinois Act), HB4141 (solar bans prohibition). - Consensus to add as items of interest: Mattress recycling bill, volunteer lake monitoring program restoration, Route 53 Greenway, and plastic bag bill (monitor). - Direction for further research: Engineer licensing reform, tourism fund diversion bills (SB2053/HB3100). - Next steps: Staff to incorporate changes and bring final 2026 legislative agenda for adoption at next month's meeting.

The Lake County Health and Community Services Committee met on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 8:32 AM. The meeting covered approvals of minutes, amendments to the HUD Annual Action Plan, a presentation on the successful closure of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, acceptance of multiple health department grants, a workforce development subaward, an update on opioid settlement funds, and destruction of executive session recordings. Members also discussed the impacts of the federal government shutdown on county services. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 22, 2025): Motion by Member Cunningham, second by Member Kasman. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - 8.2 – Joint Resolution Approving First Amendment to PY2025 HUD Annual Action Plan: Dominic Strazo, Community Development Administrator, presented a proposal to reallocate approximately $200,000 in CDBG funds from an unsuccessful Low-Income Housing Tax Credit project (Full Circle Communities in Waukegan) to two acquisition projects (Community Partners for Affordable Housing/SEPA and Clearbrook) and a sidewalk replacement project in Zion. The reallocation is driven by a March 1, 2025, timeliness test. Home dollars remain with the original project for a 2026 tax credit reappraisal. Member Kasman abstained due to board membership with PADS. Motion passed. - 8.3 – Presentation on Completion of Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA): Director Eric Wagner and Dominic Strazo presented a detailed overview of the program, which ran from December 2020 through September 2025. Key statistics: Initial $20 million from ERA1, plus additional reallocated funds; total program costs $35 million; 11,000+ applications received, 56% funding rate; nearly 5,000 households assisted (over 12,000 residents); 38,000 months of rental assistance paid; and 40 units of permanent affordable housing created in Lake Villa. The program uniquely built its own infrastructure rather than deferring to the state, partnering with 8 townships and multiple nonprofits. Members expressed strong praise and appreciation for staff's work. Questions raised about geographic breakdown and potential for permanent eviction prevention funding. No formal action required. - 8.4–8.11 – Joint Resolutions for Health Department Emergency Appropriations: The committee voted together on eight resolutions accepting additional funding from the Illinois Department of Public Health and other sources. Total amounts ranged from $6,250 to $413,800. Programs include communicable disease, immunizations, environmental health, WIC outreach, youth substance use prevention (SUPS), child and family connections (early intervention), better birth outcomes, IGRO coordinated intake, opioid overdose prevention (naloxone distribution), and TB direct observation therapy. No new staff hired. Motion to approve all together passed. - 8.12 – Joint Resolution for Workforce Development Subaward with College of Lake County (CEJA): Director Jennifer Sereno presented a state-funded Climate Equitable Jobs Act initiative. Since January 2025, over 600 inquirants, 275 applications, 96 individuals enrolled, 86 completed a four-week bridge program, and 33 transitioned into technical training (energy audit, home inspector, EV repair, HVAC). 25 individuals have found employment. The resolution authorizes an emergency appropriation of $697,862 and adds three full-time positions. Motion passed. - 8.13 – Presentation on Lake County Opioid Settlement Funds: Opioid Coordinator Ashley Watson provided an update. Total expected settlements: $9.25 million (excluding pending Purdue Pharma). Received $4.5 million to date. Expenditures through August 2025 included personnel, contracts for strategic planning and school curriculum, and $533,000 allocated to a grant program with seven grantees. First quarter (August) data: 16 individuals received case management, 81 harm reduction services, 48 started medication-assisted recovery, 30 received recovery support services. Plans include renewing grants for a second year, opening a new grant cycle, and holding focus groups with persons with lived experience. Discussion included metrics, causal vs. correlative evidence, and spending timeline. No formal action. - 8.14 – Destruction of Executive Session Recordings: Assistant County Administrator Dan Hall recommended destruction of executive session recordings from October 2, 2012, through February 26, 2019, per Illinois Open Meetings Act. Motion passed. - Federal Funding Impacts (County Administrator's Report): Members discussed concerns about the federal government shutdown. Health Department Director Chris Hoff noted WIC funding is secure through October but uncertain beyond; daily CDC reports and infectious disease calls have been suspended. Community Development's Dominic Strazo stated current funds continue to flow but communication with HUD field staff is disrupted. Workforce Development's Jennifer Sereno reported active grants remain accessible but one grant on a dual federal fiscal cycle is frozen; training tuition and wages may be paused if shutdown continues. - Executive Session: The committee voted to enter executive session to discuss a personal matter (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1)) and to review closed session minutes (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21)). Motion passed by roll call. After returning, they approved executive session minutes from September 24, 2024, and August 5, 2025. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: September 22, 2025, consent agenda approved. - Approval of HUD Annual Action Plan Amendment (8.2): Passed (Member Kasman abstained). - Approval of ERA Presentation (8.3): Informational; no vote. - Approval of Health Department Grant Resolutions (8.4–8.11): All eight approved together. - Approval of Workforce Development Subaward (8.12): Passed. - Approval of Destruction of Executive Session Recordings (8.14): Passed. - Executive Session Minutes Approval: September 24, 2024, and August 5, 2025, approved. - No Other Formal Decisions: Opioid settlement update (8.13) was informational. - Next Steps: Federal funding impacts will be monitored; budget planning for potential cuts will continue.

The Lake County Law and Judicial Committee met on October 7, 2025, at 11:50 AM. Chair Cunningham presided with a physical quorum present. The committee considered several resolutions related to contracts, grants, and personnel matters, all approved unanimously. The meeting concluded with member remarks about recent hate symbols in a district and expressions of inter-board collaboration. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items 8.5 – Juvenile Health Care Contract (Well Path LLC) The committee authorized a contract with Well Path LLC (Nashville, TN) in a base annual amount of $491,160 for healthcare services at the Lake County Hughes Juvenile Detention Center and the PACE resident program. Lisa Wolf (Finance Director, 19th Circuit Court) and James Edwards (Director of Juvenile Probation and Detention Services) presented the item as a continuation of existing services. They noted that 23 vendors were solicited, three responded, and Well Path was selected based on services and price. The contract is for two years with one-year renewals. In response to a question about out-of-town vendors, staff confirmed the corporate base is Nashville but local staff are residents. The motion passed unanimously. 8.6 – Inmate Medical Care Contract (Well Path LLC) The committee authorized a contract with Well Path LLC for inmate medical care at the Lake County Jail in an estimated annual amount of $4,657,248. Katie Latis (Contract Manager, Sheriff’s Office) explained the current contract expires November 30, and the Sheriff’s Office visited Kenosha County Jail to evaluate an alternative vendor, ultimately determining Well Path was a better fit. The contract includes 24/7 coverage, a fixed annual cost for two years, and has enabled on-site dialysis and physical therapy, reducing external transports. The jail received Well Path’s Facility of the Year award in 2023. The cost increase from the previous contract is approximately $34,100, including a 3% wage increase. The motion passed unanimously. 8.7 – Intergovernmental Agreement for School Resource Officer (Beach Park School District) The committee authorized an intergovernmental agreement with Beach Park School District for part-time contracted police services in the amount of $52,065.13. Jim Chemnik (Sheriff’s Office) and the Sheriff presented the item as a renewal. In response to a question about stopping the program due to staffing shortages, the Sheriff expressed strong support for the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, emphasizing that building positive relationships with students is critical. He stated he would place SROs in every school if resources allowed. The contract is for one year because Beach Park Middle School requested a full-time officer, but the Sheriff’s Office is waiting until staffing permits. Members commented on the importance of continuity and trust-building. The motion passed unanimously. 8.8 – Law Enforcement Camera Grant The committee accepted a grant from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board in the amount of $54,432 for body-worn cameras. The grant funding offsets previously budgeted costs and will be deposited into the general fund. The motion passed unanimously. 8.9 – Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Grant The committee authorized an intergovernmental award with IDOT for a STEP grant estimated at $237,950.59 for 2026. Staff clarified that the grant has been awarded but not yet loaded into the state portal, so approval is contingent upon final acceptance. The grant funds overtime for high-visibility traffic enforcement during six required campaigns to reduce fatalities and serious injuries. The motion passed unanimously. 8.10 – Emergency Appropriation from Money Laundering Forfeiture Fund The committee authorized an emergency appropriation of $24,200 from the State’s Attorney’s office money laundering forfeiture fund to pay salary and benefits for the part-time Conviction Integrity Unit (CIU) Director for the remainder of fiscal year 2025. Joe Gravitter (Chief Deputy of Administration) explained the office is awaiting approval of a budget modification to become a subgrantee of the Illinois Innocence Project CIU grant, expected by end of November. The motion passed unanimously. 8.11 – Reallocation of Contractual Funds to Full-Time Employee (Children’s Advocacy Center) The committee authorized a headcount increase at the Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center by reallocating contractual funds to one full-time employee for a mental health worker position. Carrie Flanagan presented the request, noting the position will provide on-site therapy for children after forensic interviews to address a waiting list. No additional county funding is required; funds are reallocated from an existing VOCA grant. The motion passed unanimously. Approval of Executive Session Minutes The committee approved two sets of executive session minutes from November 7, 2023 and November 28, 2023, by separate motions, both passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All resolutions (8.5 through 8.11) were approved unanimously. - The committee approved executive session minutes from two dates in 2023. - Member remarks included thanks to the Sheriff’s office for a quick response to swastika graffiti on road signs over the weekend, and expressions of collaboration and mutual support among board members, particularly between Member Altenberg and Chair Cunningham.

The Lake County Board convened on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 9 a.m. The meeting included special recognitions, public comments, and several resolutions. Key discussions focused on a joint resolution for emergency medical dispatch training and the county's response to federal immigration operations. Consent Calendar - Items 7 through 35 were approved unanimously after removing item 13 (reappointment of Jennifer Mashad to the Long Grove Fire Protection District, which was later approved separately with one abstention). Special Recognitions - Dulce Ortiz: Recognized for her advocacy on immigrant rights and environmental justice. Dulce Ortiz appeared via Zoom, thanking the board and noting the bittersweet nature of the award given current federal immigration policies. - Joint Statement with City of North Chicago: Read by Member Campos, the statement addressed federal immigration operations at Naval Station Great Lakes, affirming that local law enforcement will not participate in federal immigration enforcement and that Lake County remains a welcoming community. - Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Proclaimed September 2025. Statistics shared: over 49,000 annual suicide deaths in the U.S. (one every 11 minutes), 12.8 million adults contemplate suicide annually, firearms used in 50% of suicides, and suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-14. Lake County saw a 5% decrease in suicides in 2024 (79 deaths) and a 21.6% decrease through July 2025. The Coroner's office emphasized safe gun storage. - Workforce Development Month: Proclaimed September 2025. The Lake County Workforce Development team was recognized for its role in connecting job seekers and employers. - 30th Anniversary of Lake County Health Department as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC): Celebrated 30 years of service. In 2024, the FQHC served 32,095 unique patients across 113,189 visits at nine locations. - Safe Gun Storage Month: Proclaimed September 2025. Statistics: over 80% of K-12 school mass shooters stole guns from family members, firearms are the leading cause of death for children ages 1-19, and 76% of unintentional shootings involving children used unsecured guns. The new Illinois Safe Gun Storage Act was noted, but speakers urged gun owners to also secure firearms in vehicles. Chair's Remarks - Chair Hart presented a

The Lake County Board's Financial and Administrative Committee met on September 4, 2025, to approve a consent agenda, consider several resolutions, and receive presentations on health insurance and other operational updates. All members were present. The meeting included a consent calendar, regular agenda items, an executive session, and adjournment. Consent Calendar - Items 8.1 to 8.23 (excluding 8.21) were approved unanimously. These were routine items including approvals for contracts, reports, and other administrative matters. - Item 8.21 (Presentation of FY2024 schedule of income and expenses for sanitary sewer systems) was pulled from the consent calendar and subsequently postponed indefinitely by a motion, as the presentation had already been made in the committee of origin. Discussion Items - 8.24 - Contract Modification for Lawn Care Services: The committee approved a $23,250 contract modification with Yellowstone Landscape to add annual field mowing and monthly perimeter cutting at the Libertyville campus. Director Carl Carrard stated the work would control invasive weeds. Member Clark expressed strong support, noting the campus is overdue for better maintenance. Member Maine added a note about balancing landscaping with environmental concerns. The motion passed unanimously. - 8.25 - Job Order Contract Quarterly Report: Director Carl Carrard presented the quarterly report. Key statistics: 20 job orders this fiscal year, total value $3.1 million, average $157,000 per order. Local participation was 23%, minority-owned subcontractor participation 15% (up significantly), and women-owned at 1.5%. The report was accepted without a vote. - 8.26 - Resolution Amending Video Gaming Revenue Policy: The committee approved an increase to the top-line allocation from $800,000 to $825,000, with the additional $25,000 directed to 211 information and referral services. The administrative allocation was set at $47,500. Dominic Streso explained that software cost increases drove the change. The motion passed unanimously. - 8.27 - Resolution on FY2026 Tax Levy Estimate: The committee approved a tax levy estimate of $188,647,298, using the full 2.9% CPI increase allowed by PTEL, though the balanced budget will assume only 1.45%. County Administrator Patrice Sutton noted that new growth has helped reduce the tax rate since 2020. Member Maine questioned whether new development necessarily increases costs. The motion passed unanimously. - 8.28 - Single Audit Report: CFO Gina Tuzak reported that the county's single audit for FY2024 had no federal award findings. Federal expenditures were $77.3 million (up from $67.2 million), largely due to ARPA spending. The report was noted without a vote. - 8.29 - Emergency Appropriation for Liability Insurance Fund: The committee approved a $4 million emergency appropriation from the risk fund balance to cover claims and settlements exceeding the FY2025 budget. Risk Manager Eric Osinski noted large settlements from legacy workers' compensation claims and a recent civil suit. Discussion centered on budgeting methodology and actuarial reserves. The motion passed unanimously. - 8.32 - Resolution Authorizing Line Item Transfer for Environmental Cleanup: The committee approved a $2 million transfer from Monsanto settlement funds to support superfund site cleanup and economic development activities. Deputy County Administrator Matt Myers explained that specific use would be vetted and brought back to the committee. Member Clark advocated using remaining settlement funds for PFAS contamination. Member Kasmin asked for the legal authority reference. The motion passed unanimously. - Presentation on Health Insurance for FY2026: HR Director Darcy Edcock and benefit consultant Nithi Patel presented on health insurance trends. Key data: PPO renewal increase of 10.1% (reduced to 9.6% with Encircle RX program), HMO increase of 4.2%. GLP-1 drug usage among IPBC members increased 757% in one year. Proposed changes include consolidating part-time employee eligibility tiers (changing from two tiers to one, 12-29.99 hours, with a 50/50 premium split) and distributing HSA funds per paycheck instead of lump sum. A new Encircle RX program for weight loss drugs would require BMI criteria and lifestyle engagement. Extensive member discussion raised concerns about access barriers, privacy, and effectiveness. Several members requested more data on the program's impact and alternatives before proceeding. No vote was taken on the presentation. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar (items 8.1-8.23) approved. - Item 8.21 postponed indefinitely. - Item 8.24 (lawn care contract) approved. - Item 8.26 (video gaming revenue policy) approved. - Item 8.27 (tax levy estimate) approved. - Item 8.29 (emergency appropriation) approved. - Item 8.32 (Monsanto fund transfer) approved. - Health insurance proposals and GLP-1 program deferment for further analysis; no decision made. - Executive session conducted to review closed session minutes; minutes from August 7, 2025, were approved, and no minutes were released. The committee will explore a standard process for reviewing recordings. - Meeting adjourned; next meeting scheduled for October 9, 2025.