Public Meetings - Lake County, Illinois

The Lake County Public Works and Transportation Committee met on September 3, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. to consider a consent agenda, multiple transportation and public works resolutions, and receive updates from the RTA and on PFAS. All votes were unanimous. Member Maine participated electronically. Consent Calendar - Items 8.1 and 8.2 were approved unanimously by motion (Kasmin) and second (Hunter). No details provided on their contents. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - RTA Quarterly Update (8.3): Kate Peterson (Mobility Outreach Coordinator) and Zach Brown (Government Affairs) presented. Highlights: transit guides now online; RTA Board approved over $16 million in Section 5310 federal funding for 16 projects, including $1.75 million for Lake County (with matching local funds); the 2026 regional transit budget process is underway with $2.6 billion projected for operations; a one-time shift of $75 million in discretionary funds will not affect service; ADA paratransit action plan effective October 2025 caps rideshare/taxi access program rides at 30 per month (traditional paratransit uncapped); Transportation Tuesday webinar series begins September 9. Vice Chair Maine clarified the cap is only on rideshare/taxi access, not traditional paratransit. - CMAP Agreement (8.4): Director Schneider explained the annual renewal of the agreement for LCDOT to serve as planning liaison for the Lake County Council of Mayors, programming $11 million in federal funds annually, with reimbursement of $200,000 for staff time. Motion by Hewitt, second by Roberts. Carried. - Deerfield Road Bridge Rehabilitation (8.5): Joint resolution with Illinois Tollway for bridge repairs over I-94/I-294. County owns deck and above; Tollway owns beams down. County appropriates $1,854,000 from county option motor fuel tax for design and construction, with Tollway as lead. Construction expected summer 2026 with daily lane closures but bridge remains open. Motion by McCasman, second by Hunter. Carried. - Accessible Pedestrian Signal Project (8.6): Resolution to contract with Gowalt Hamilton Associates for engineering services at $363,941, appropriating $436,000 from quarter percent sales tax. Second standalone APS replacement; after this project 83% of 179 locations will be upgraded; remaining work over 3–5 years. Motion by Hunter, second by Kasbin. Carried. - Traffic Signal Maintenance (8.7): Contract with Mead Inc. for $1,487,143.71 for signal/street light maintenance from Dec 2025 to Nov 2026, plus $1,785,000 for electrical service. Shared services with six municipalities. Low-bid, one-year contract with two-year extension option. Motion by Hewitt, second by Roberts. Carried. - Cedar Lake Road Improvements (8.8): Agreement with V3 Companies for engineering services at $3,615,705, appropriating $4,340,000 from county option motor fuel tax. Three components: resurfacing from IL 60 to IL 120, intersection study at Town Line Road (signal or roundabout), and a new bike path connecting to Nippersink Forest Preserve and downtown Round Lake. Phase I and II engineering combined. Member Wasick noted the bike path should be on east side to connect Madrona Village. Motion by Hunter, second by Kasman. Carried. - Center Street/Atkinson Road Intersection (8.9): Phase I study with Christopher B. Burke Engineering at $1,526,891, appropriating $1,835,000 from quarter percent sales tax. Investigate turning lanes, signal upgrades, potential roundabout, and a multi-use path east to US 45. Utility restrictions will be vetted. Member Wasick suggested connecting north through Braylock forest preserve to CLC. Assistant County Engineer Kevin Carrier noted coordination with Grays Lake Road path project. Motion by Wasick, second by Kasman. Carried. - Truck Permitting Software (8.10): Renewal with Oxcart Permit Systems at no cost to county; fee per permit increases from $5 to $6. Used by 23 counties and 165 municipalities; improves compliance. Cybersecurity concerns addressed in prior Technology Committee. Motion by Hewitt, second by Hunter. Carried. - Director’s Report – Transportation (8.11): Schneider reported RTA recommended $1.75 million grant for Ride Lake County (50% of operating costs for 2025–2026), pending federal approval; Pace renewal agreement with no recommended changes, to return for adoption year-end. Kevin Carrier gave update on the long-range plan "Envision 2050": data collection phase ongoing with pop-up events, survey, public comment map; virtual public open house in early October; four phases (Discover, Develop, Decide, Deliver) with completion early 2027. Member Hunter raised signage issue at Route 59/Washington Street intersection after realignment – duplicate Washington Street signs causing confusion; staff to address. - Public Works CIP (8.12): Resolution adopting 2026–2030 capital improvement program. Director McFarland noted no significant changes from prior presentation. Motion by Hunter, second by Wasick. Carried. - Sewer System Financial Reports (8.13): Presentation of FY2024 income/expenses for four sanitary sewer systems. Baker Tilly representative Ryan O’Donnell explained audit process; all numbers in compliance. For information only. - Emergency Sewer Repair (8.14): Ratification of emergency procurement with Burger Contractors for $219,847.59 from fund 610 reserves for a break on the Southeast Interceptor at Salem Lake. About 40 feet of pipe replaced; remaining pipe under investigation due to age (60+ years). Staff noted three such breaks this year; proactive inspection plan underway. Motion by Hunter, second by Kasmin. Carried. - Waukegan Sewage Agreement (8.15): Restated 20-year intergovernmental agreement for sewage disposal along River Road. Approved by Waukegan City Council Aug 18. Motion by Hewitt, second by Kasman. Carried. - PFAS Presentation (8.16): Donahue & Associates (Nathan Cassidy and Han Ting Wong) presented findings. Drinking water: all samples below EPA MCLs (most under 2 ng/L; MCL is 4 ng/L) – no treatment needed now. Estimated 20-year costs for treatment (if needed): small systems $5M, medium $7M, large $10M. Wastewater and biosolids: no federal/state regulations yet; comparing to Wisconsin standards, Lake County effluent results were well below. Biosolids had PFOS+PFOA concentrations in middle tier of Wisconsin’s interim strategy, suggesting need for source reduction. Future regulations expected; source reduction (industrial and residential) is key. Staff developing pretreatment ordinance and sampling program. Members emphasized public outreach, potential labeling legislation, and the need for a pretreatment coordinator. Member Hunter urged funding for an FTE pretreatment coordinator. Discussion also covered federal funding opportunities and Illinois’s adherence to federal guidelines. - Director’s Report – Public Works: McFarland reported Aqua Illinois notified radium levels above MCL (5 pCi/L) in two water systems (Althorn Woods and Forest Lake); customers notified; Aqua working on correction; county plans to consolidate and move to Lake Michigan water in next few years. Also reminded committee of Mill Creek facility tour on Sept 12 at 9 a.m. - County Administrator’s Report: Administrator introduced Lacey Simpson (new assistant administrator) and Turk Skillbridge intern. Key Outcomes - All resolutions (8.4 through 8.15) and the consent calendar were approved unanimously. - The PFAS presentation was received for information; staff to continue monitoring, develop pretreatment ordinance, and pursue source reduction. - The committee expressed interest in forwarding legislative recommendations on PFAS labeling and standards to the Legislative Committee. - Staff will follow up on Aqua radium issue and provide updates. - Next meeting scheduled for October 8, 2025.

The Lake County Legislative Committee met on September 2, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The meeting focused on a broad overview of the upcoming 2026 legislative agenda, with discussions on state and federal updates, and presentations from county departments on proposed legislative priorities. No votes were taken on policy items, but committee consensus was sought to move draft proposals forward. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the previous meeting on June 3, 2025, were approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were listed on the agenda or made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Springfield Update: Mike and Derek reported that the Illinois legislative session has seen little activity since spring. The transit funding issue is expected to be delayed until January 2026, as a supermajority vote would be required for an immediate effective date and recent revenue (approximately $75 million for Metra) has bought time. The upcoming veto session in mid-October is anticipated to be light, but the budget for fiscal year 2026 will be challenging due to federal budget reconciliation cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. - Washington, D.C. Update: Greg reported that Congress returned from recess. The key issue is the September 30 deadline for fiscal year 2025 appropriations. A continuing resolution (CR) is likely, which would delay about $3 million in county projects. An executive order on grant-making gives political appointees more oversight, potentially impacting county grants. Another executive order targets jurisdictions with cashless bail, like Illinois, threatening federal fund withholding—though a recent court injunction in a similar case may limit its effect. - 2026 Legislative Program Planning: Matt outlined the process for developing the county’s 2026 legislative agenda. Department heads and elected officials submitted proposals, which were presented for committee input. Consensus was sought to move each item into a draft package for further review in October. - Affordable Housing (Planning, Building & Development): Dominic and Eric presented two items: (1) monitoring the state’s "missing middle" housing report, which includes 27 recommendations (e.g., extending tax credits, strengthening the Affordable Housing Planning and Appeals Act); (2) supporting a state tax credit program (SB0062) to mimic the federal low-income housing tax credit, with a proposed $120 million over six years, which could increase affordable housing projects in Lake County. Some members asked about allocation fairness across the state. Consensus was reached to move forward. - Health Department (Chris Hoff and Emily Galbert): Two proposals: (1) Increasing state funding for the Local Health Protection Grant by $10 million (to $31.1 million total) to cover core services like food inspections and disease control. Illinois currently ranks 40th in state public health funding. The state cut $5 million in FY25. (2) Monitoring federal policy changes that could strip healthcare coverage for thousands of Lake County residents (e.g., up to 24,000 losing health insurance, including 14,201 through Medicaid cuts). The health department, serving over 90% Medicaid patients, cannot absorb the surge. Consensus was reached to monitor these issues. - FOIA Reform (Betsy Brandon and Jana Phillip): Proposed adding provisions to the state FOIA law to address "vexatious requesters" and bot-generated requests. One individual filed 230 requests in 3.5 months. The proposal would allow public bodies to request the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Attorney General’s office to deem a requester vexatious, enabling cost recovery and exemption from response. Members strongly supported adding quantitative thresholds. Consensus to move forward. - Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Act (Robin Groom): Proposed support for a revised bill (HB 1284) requiring government units to purchase zero-emission passenger vehicles (except law enforcement) starting 2030. The bill no longer includes broader requirements like adopting California standards or impacting private businesses, which some members opposed. Others supported it as a step toward sustainability. Consensus was reached to monitor the final bill language. - Coal Ash Removal (Robin Groom): Proposed support for an amendment to the Environmental Protection Act requiring removal of coal ash from the Waukegan power plant site, rather than capping it. Members expressed strong support, noting it aligns with sustainable environment priorities. Consensus to move forward. - PTAB Hearing Locations (Bob Glucker, Chief County Assessment Officer): Proposed legislation to allow virtual hearings for the Property Tax Appeal Board (PTAB), reducing travel costs for local entities. A prior agreement with PTAB was broken, and a previous bill limited to Lake County failed. The new proposal is broader and has support from other counties. Consensus to move forward. - Decriminalization of Homelessness (Member Kasmin): Proposed supporting a bill to reverse the Supreme Court ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, which allowed criminalization of homelessness. The bill (HB 4142) died in the House Rules Committee in the previous session. Members expressed support, noting that homelessness is a public health issue, not a criminal one, and that arrests and fines are ineffective. Data from Dominic showed homelessness is trending upward, family homelessness is rising, and shelter waitlists are long. Consensus to move forward. - SWALCO Legislative Agenda (Matt): The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) is finalizing its legislative agenda, which will be presented at a future meeting. Key Outcomes - The committee reached consensus to incorporate all presented items (monitoring or active support) into a draft 2026 legislative agenda, which will be reviewed in October. - The committee accepted the State’s Attorney’s recommendation to keep two sets of executive session minutes from the old RRL committee confidential, without going into executive session. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:00 PM, with the next meeting scheduled for October 7, 2025.

The Lake County Board Rules and Open Meeting Act Committee met on September 2, 2025, at 17:12 UTC. The meeting included the approval of minutes, several grant and appropriation items for the 19th Judicial Circuit Court, a sheriff's office agreement for emergency medical dispatch services, and a state's attorney software appropriation. All items except one were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes of Previous Meeting: Approved by voice vote with no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - 8.5 – 19th Judicial Circuit Court Access and Visitation Program: Joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $50,000 from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services for renewal of the access and visitation program. Carl Waldorf, Executive Director, and Lisa Wolf, Director of Finance, explained that the program provides mediation, parent education, and supervised visitation for separated or unmarried parents. In state FY25, the program served 67 separate cases. The resolution was approved unanimously. - 8.6 – Redeploy Illinois Grant (Youth): Joint resolution accepting a $297,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Human Services for the Redeploy Illinois program, which provides community-based alternatives to state correctional facilities for youth. The program focuses on mentoring, counseling, and education. Approved unanimously. - 8.7 – Adult Redeploy Program: Joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $369,590 for the adult Redeploy Illinois program, offering community-based alternatives to prison for nonviolent offenders. In FY25, the program served 122 participants with 43 new enrollments. Approved unanimously. - 8.8 – Self-Represented Litigant Program: Joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $8,500 to support the 19th Judicial Circuit Court's self-represented litigant program. Funds will continue a live chat platform, add mobile standing desks in the law library, implement a tracking system for statistical reporting, and purchase Translate Live devices. In 2024, over 10,000 patrons were served. Approved unanimously. - 8.9 – Sheriff's Office Emergency Medical Dispatching (EMD) Agreement: Joint resolution authorizing a $100,281 agreement with Priority Dispatch Corporation of Salt Lake City, Utah, for a back-end database shared service hosted by the Lake County Emergency Telephone System Board (ETSB). The sheriff's office portion is $25,000; ETSB funds $74,000. The item was discussed extensively: - Jim Cherwick, Business Manager, Lake County Sheriff's Office, and Sharice Nichols, 911 Director, stated that the EMD system is a state mandate for all 911 dispatchers. The sheriff's office currently has a waiver (in place for at least three years) but seeks to implement EMD for redundancy and to be prepared if the waiver ends. The funds would come from delayed flock camera implementation. - Chair Hart expressed concerns about the expenditure, noting that the sheriff's office is not a member of the ROC (Regional Operations Center) and that the waiver's status is uncertain. - Member Danforth agreed, stating the item was a workaround and urging serious discussion about consolidation in the next budget cycle. He noted the ROC has redundancies and a backup in Lake Zurich. - Despite opposition, the motion carried with one dissenting vote (Member Peterson). - 8.10 – State's Attorney Computer Fraud Forfeiture Fund Software: Joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $30,000 from the State's Attorney's computer fraud forfeiture fund to pay for software costs (Magnet Axiom licenses, Monolith license renewal, and Celebrate Premium) for the remainder of FY25. Joe Gravitter, Chief Deputy of Administration, explained that a grant covering gray key software was not awarded, causing a $50,000 unplanned expense. A new grant application is pending, and FY26 budget includes funding for gray key. Approved unanimously. County Administrator Report - County Administrator introduced Turk Bias Gowin, a new SkillBridge intern from the Air Force, who will work with facilities on projects. This was his first day. Key Outcomes - Approved Consent Calendar: Minutes. - Approved (unanimous): 8.5 (Access and Visitation), 8.6 (Youth Redeploy), 8.7 (Adult Redeploy), 8.8 (Self-Represented Litigant), 8.10 (State's Attorney Software). - Approved (with one opposed): 8.9 (Sheriff's Office EMD Agreement). Member Peterson voted no. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 7, 2025.

The Lake County Health and Community Services Committee met on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. The meeting was called to order by Chair Park, with remote participation by Vice Chair Altenberg and Member Kniesnik. The committee approved a consent agenda and several resolutions related to environmental reviews, grant funding, waste treatment enforcement, and youth workforce programming. All items passed unanimously, with one member excused from voting on the final item. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was moved by Member Cunningham, seconded by Member Kasmin, and approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - 8.3: Joint Resolution Approving Agreement with North Chicago School District 187 for Environmental Review – Community Development Administrator Dominic Strozo presented the request for the county to perform an environmental review for the school district, which is a HUD grant recipient but not a responsible entity. The county will be reimbursed for time and materials. The committee approved the resolution. - 8.4: Joint Resolution Approving Extension of Intergovernmental Agreement with Lake County Housing Authority for Environmental Review Records – Similar to item 8.3, this resolution allows the county to perform environmental reviews for the Housing Authority across multiple projects over a one-year calendar year. The committee approved the resolution. - 8.5: Joint Resolution Accepting Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) from Illinois Department of Human Services ($32,776) for HMIS Administration – The grant will fund the county's Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) coordinator position. The committee approved the resolution. - 8.6: Joint Resolution Authorizing Intergovernmental Agreement with Village of Lakemore for Enforcement of On-Site Waste Treatment Provisions at Port of Sullivan Lake – Chris Hoff, Executive Director of the Health Department, introduced Deputy Director Mike Adam. The resolution delegates enforcement authority for Chapter 171 (on-site wastewater) to the Village of Lakemore for approximately 150 units at the Port of Sullivan Lake, a former RV park that evolved into permanent residences with individual holding tanks. Discussion included the nature of violations (overflowing tanks, illegal discharge), the voluntary HOA's lack of enforcement, and the ability to pivot if the agreement fails. The committee approved the resolution. - 8.7: Joint Committee Action Approving Contract Modification with North Chicago High School District 187 for Comprehensive Career Pathway Program ($137,900 with One-Year Renewal Option) – Director Serena presented the sixth year of the program, which serves 35 seniors annually. The program provides job readiness, career awareness, paid work experience, and has a 100% graduation rate, with 70-80% transitioning to post-secondary education. The committee approved the contract modification, with Member Cunningham excused from voting due to her service on the workforce executive board. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and agenda items were approved unanimously, with the exception of item 8.7 where one member was excused. - Lacey Simpson was introduced as the new assistant county administrator. - The meeting was adjourned after approximately 30 minutes, noted by Chair Park as one of the fastest meetings in two years.

The Lake County Technology Committee met on August 29, 2025, at 8:30 AM. The meeting covered consent items, a resolution for emergency medical dispatch software, a resolution for truck permit software, a detailed presentation on traffic signal technology, updates on the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, and a broadband/digital equity update. All motions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the consent agenda (Item 8.1) was made by Member Roberts and seconded by Member Dan Forth. The motion carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 8.2: Joint Resolution – Priority Dispatch Corp Agreement Bernard Melkov, IT Manager for the Lake County Sheriff's Office, presented a request to authorize an agreement with Priority Dispatch Corp of Salt Lake City, Utah, for a backend database as a shared service. The total cost is $100,281.95, with $74,000 funded by the Lake County Emergency Telephone System Board (ETSB) and the remaining $26,000 from Lake County. The system will provide emergency medical dispatch (EMD) protocols, currently absent at the Sheriff's Office, which operates under a waiver from the Illinois State Police. The waiver is expected to be rescinded, making EMD necessary. The software integrates with the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, guiding dispatchers through medical protocols and providing instructions while help is on the way. It will also enable backup for other dispatch centers in the event of an outage. Training for dispatchers is a three-day certification process. Discussion included questions about call transfers and the existence of multiple 911 centers in Lake County. Chair Clark expressed support, noting the importance of helping callers immediately. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 8.3: Joint Resolution – Oxcart Permit Systems Agreement John Nelson, Assistant County Engineer, presented an update to the 2018 agreement with Oxcart Permit Systems, LLC, for online permitting of oversized/overweight truck trips on county highways. The service is at no cost to Lake County; fees are charged to trucking companies. The updated agreement increases the service fee by approximately $1 per permit (e.g., from $5 to $6 for a $50 permit). The software is used by 165 municipalities and townships and 23 counties in Illinois. The system is entirely external to the county's network. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 8.4: Presentation – Lake County Passage and Traffic Signal Technology Ryan Legree, TMC Manager, and John Nelson presented an overview of the Lake County PASSAGE (Programmed for Arterial Signal Synchronization and Travel Guidance) system. The system began in 2003 with federal grants and now includes 314 miles of fiber optic cable connecting 677 traffic signals, 467 pan-tilt-zoom cameras, and connections to IDOT, Cook County DOT, the tollway, and municipalities. They explained the components inside a traffic signal cabinet: a controller (computer), malfunction management unit, video detection, preemption for emergency vehicles, battery backup, and accessible pedestrian signals. The traffic management center (TMC) in Libertyville uses software to monitor and control signals in real time, including an automated traffic signal performance measure (ATSPM) system for high-resolution data. They also mentioned adaptive signal control (trial on Butterfield Road), integration with police CAD, and public-facing tools (website, mobile apps, social media, email alerts, and Waze data sharing). Security is maintained through a separate network, firewalls, and regular CISA scans. Future plans include a connected vehicle demonstration project and expansion of fiber and cameras. Members asked about adaptive AI, coordination with other jurisdictions, and cybersecurity. The presentation was well received. - Item 9.1: Active Project Updates – ERP System Implementation Chris Blanding, CIO, provided an update on the Workday ERP implementation. End-to-end testing has been underway for five weeks and is concluding this week. Over 70 county staff are involved in testing. Bugs are being identified and sent to the integrator for fixes. Next steps include a payroll tenant build and parallel payroll testing. The target go-live date remains December 1, 2025. The project status is

The Financial Administrative Committee (FAC) of Lake County, Illinois, met on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 8:30 AM. Chair Frank was absent; Vice Chair Park presided. The meeting included a quarterly economic development update, approval of a contract modification for the DeKoven Juvenile Center electrical project, discussion of the estimated 2025 tax levy, and a detailed conversation about the use of $7.5 million in Monsanto settlement funds. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (Item 8-2-83) was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion by Member Clark, seconded by Member Hewitt. Discussion Items - Quarterly Economic Development Update (Item 8.4): Kevin Considine, President/CEO of Lake County Partners, reported several wins: - Lake County ranked 10 nationwide for economic development by Site Selection magazine, based on job creation, investment, and project activity. - AbVie is investing $195 million in its Sheridan Road/North Chicago plant, adding 50 new jobs. - Tough-Tite, a maker of PVC/sewer products, will expand in Gurnee, adding 70 new jobs and retaining 175 existing jobs, with a $75 million investment. - Flex, a contract manufacturer, has continued to grow, taking additional space in Vernon Hills. - Charles Hall Construction broke ground on Fox Lake Crossing Apartments, a new market-rate multifamily complex. - Year-to-date (mid-2025): 1,800 new jobs and over $500 million in capital investment. - The Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GSEP) will seek a one-year extension; it exceeded its goal of 150 regional decisions with 205 achieved. - Data center developer T5 has acquired land near the Medline distribution center in Grayslake for up to 8 million square feet of data center space, with ComEd building a new substation. - Considine noted that housing remains a critical workforce concern; one school superintendent reported teachers live in Wisconsin or with parents due to high local rents. - Contract Modification for DeKoven Juvenile Center (Item 8.5): Carl Carrar, Director of Facilities and Construction Services, presented a modification for $299,754.71 to address: - An electrical code update requiring grounding connection to the water main. - A safety issue (arc flash) due to ComEd mandating a transformer upgrade, which necessitates upsizing breakers. - The modification brings the total contract to $2,062,414.03 (24.2% above original). Work is critical to proceeding with the ARPA-funded DEPC project at the same site. The committee voted unanimously to approve. - Estimated Tax Levy FY2025 (Item 8.6): County Administrator Patrice Sutton explained that state law requires an estimated levy in September. The maximum increase under Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (PTELL) is 2.9%. The FY2026 budget development policy requires balancing with only half of that (1.45%). Staff recommended presenting the estimated levy at the maximum 2.9% as the most transparent approach, noting the actual levy can be reduced in November. The committee concurred. - Monsanto Settlement Funds (Item 8.7): Deputy County Administrator Matt Myers presented. Lake County received $7.5 million (the maximum allowable) from a nationwide class-action settlement over PCB contamination. Funds are currently in the general fund with no explicit use restrictions. Staff proposed reserving $2 million for superfund site cleanup and site preparation tied to economic development opportunities. The remaining $5.5 million would be held for future discussion. - Committee discussion revealed strong differences: some members (including Chair Hart, Member Hewitt) urged using funds to remediate long-stalled brownfields in lakefront communities (Waukegan, North Chicago, Zion), citing historic environmental injustice. Member Volitzek and others stressed the funds should prioritize water quality and environmental projects. Member Clark expressed concern that building factories would not improve water quality unless accompanied by strict pollution controls. Members Main and Peterson supported targeted, transparent use with a matching requirement to ensure local “skin in the game.” - The committee directed staff to bring an action next week to lock the $2 million specifically for superfund site cleanup (language to be defined), and to continue gathering input for a process to allocate the remaining $5.5 million. - Grocery Tax Discussion (Item 8.8): Staff presented that the state eliminated its 1% grocery tax effective January 1, 2026, but allowed local governments to impose it locally. Lake County currently budgets $6 million in municipal 1% sales tax from unincorporated areas, but only $155,000 of that is from grocery/food items. Staff recommended not implementing the local tax due to the small revenue and regressive nature. The committee agreed unanimously to take no action, allowing the current tax to expire at year-end. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Contract modification for DeKoven Juvenile Center electrical project approved ($299,754.71). - Direction to present estimated tax levy at the maximum 2.9% PTELL rate. - Staff to bring an action next week to reserve $2 million of Monsanto funds for superfund site remediation; process for remaining $5.5 million to be further developed. - No action on local grocery tax; current 1% state tax will expire as scheduled. - Unanimous approval of employee reclassification (position 37017) and settlement authority for case 23CV5945. - Meeting adjourned after an executive session (personnel matter and pending litigation).

The Lake County Board met on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 9:02 AM. The meeting was called to order with 18 members present. The agenda included public comments, special recognitions, consent agenda approval, a joint resolution for workforce funding, a renewal of a crime victim fund grant, a sheriff's fee schedule, a construction contract award, updates from Lake County Partners and on ARPA implementation, intergovernmental agreements, and a resolution to begin dissolution of the South Lake Mosquito Abatement District. Several votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Wayne Thorin discussed two transportation issues in Mundelein: the unsafe intersection of Route 60/83 and Hawley (citing 11 accidents from January 2019 to September 2024, 31% at night) and a speed limit reduction request on Route 176 west of Route 60/83. He asked for overhead lighting and a reduced speed limit of 40 mph. He thanked Jennifer Clark but expressed frustration with Adam Schlick's lack of response. - Brother Blanks (Founding Chief President of Black Abolition Movement) announced the first Lake County Taste of Africa event on August 16, 2025, from 12 PM to 7 PM at 801 McAllister Avenue, Waukegan. He noted the organization is celebrating its 30th anniversary and sought guidance on compliance for the block party. - Rayon Edwards addressed alcohol licensing, calling alcohol the number one drug, and criticized the PADS homeless shelter program, stating "Pads ain't doing nothing." He invited board members to the South Side Reunion at King Park on August 31, 2025. Discussion Items - Special Recognition: The board honored Helen Hammond Redding and Michael Redding Sr. for founding the Christopher D. Redding Youth Asthma Foundation. Since launching a mobile asthma van in 2023, the foundation has enrolled 26 schools, scheduled over 130 clinics, and served nearly 600 students in Waukegan, North Chicago, and Zion. - Chair's Remarks: Chair Hart reported on the Alliance for Human Services Legislative Breakfast (concerns over federal budget cuts impacting basic needs), the Lake County Housing Coalition's attainable housing task force (next meeting September 10), a ribbon cutting for Sylvan Lake Dam (rebuilt 100-year-old earthen dam with funding from Congresswoman Underwood), the Workday implementation (Project One Lake entering end-to-end testing), and an event with Governor Pritzker urging child vaccinations. - Employee Service Awards: The board recognized Wendy Anta Ramian Powell (35 years at the Lake County Health Department) and Paget Rollins (30 years at the State's Attorney's Office, plus 1 year as a temp). - Board of Health Report: Member Maine reported the first case of neuroinvasive West Nile virus in 2025, with higher-than-average positive mosquito pools. August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, and the health department has naloxone resources. An art show for National Recovery Month is set for September 9. Larry Mackey, Director of Environmental Health, was thanked for his upcoming retirement. - ARS Program Year 2025 Grant: A joint resolution accepting $8,516,791 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program was approved (motion by Altenberg, second by Frank, voice vote). - Lake County Partners Update: Member Hunter reported Lake County was named one of the top 10 counties for economic development by Site Selection magazine. Over five years, Lake County Partners has facilitated $1.33 billion in capital investment and 4,600 new jobs. A robust pipeline includes life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and housing. - ARPA Implementation Update: Deputy County Administrator Matt Myers provided an update on the $135 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds. All funds are contracted, with a spending deadline of December 31, 2026. Highlights: 53,000 nights of shelter, $7 million for mental health, 6.5 million units of PPE, almost 2 million meals, 4,000 trees planted. Administrative costs were 0.91%. The recovery plan is online at lakecountyil.gov/ARPA. Board members expressed pride in the strategic and compassionate use of funds. - Item 46 – Naval Station Great Lakes Agreement: The board approved an intergovernmental support agreement for demolition and installation support services, primarily to demolish Halsey Village (housing for military families). Chair Hart noted the dilapidated conditions and praised collaboration with the Navy. - Item 47 – North Chicago Environmental Remediation: A sub-recipient agreement with the City of North Chicago for environmental remediation at the Sheridan Crossing property was approved. Chair Hart thanked Deputy Administrator Myers and Member Kyle for leadership. - Item 48 – South Lake Mosquito Abatement District Dissolution: The board discussed a resolution to begin the dissolution process. Supporters (Frank, Clark, Hart) argued for local control, transparency, and efficiency, noting that most municipalities handle mosquito abatement themselves. Opponents (Maine, Peterson) raised concerns about disenfranchising unincorporated areas, lack of representation, and the short tenure of the current board. The motion passed, with Members Maine and Peterson opposed. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 2-39): Approved by roll call vote (18 ayes), with Item 21 removed. - Item 21 (Law and Judicial) – Renewal of Grant for Africa Center: Approved. Motion by Cunningham, second by Altenberg. Members Volitzik and Roberts recused. Passed with 19 ayes. - Item 41 (Health and Community Services) – Workforce Grant: Approved by voice vote. - Item 42 (Law and Judicial) – Sheriff's Fee Schedule: Approved by voice vote. - Item 43 (Public Works and Transportation) – Vernon Hills Pump Station Contract: Approved by roll call vote. - Item 46 – Naval Station Great Lakes Agreement: Approved by voice vote. - Item 47 – North Chicago Environmental Remediation Agreement: Approved by voice vote. - Item 48 – South Lake Mosquito Abatement District Dissolution: Approved by voice vote with two opposed (Maine, Peterson). - Item 49 – Board of Review Appointments: Approved by voice vote. The meeting adjourned. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2025.

The Lake County Board's Financial and Administrative Committee met on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:31 a.m. under Chair Frank's leadership. The meeting covered consent items, a major economic development presentation, several resolutions, and a proposal to dissolve the South Lake Mosquito Abatement District. Discussions included job creation, environmental sustainability, and local governance. Consent Calendar - Items 8.1 through 8.12 were approved unanimously, including routine approvals. Public Comments & Testimony - Economic Development Opportunity (8.14): Tom Mallard, representing Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham, expressed gratitude for the county's partnership consideration. He noted Waukegan lost 30,000 industrial jobs and committed $150,000 for site preparation at the Johns Manville site. - South Lake Mosquito Abatement District Dissolution (8.18): Multiple residents spoke: - Dean Mosher (Highland Park resident, former SLMAD trustee) urged dissolution, citing higher costs per square mile (three to four times more than neighboring towns) and loss of local control, referencing a 2013 aerial spraying incident. - Randy Merrill (Riverwoods Preservation Council) argued dissolution would increase costs for municipalities and homeowners, leading to less testing and more private, unregulated pest control. - Laura Trevino (resident) highlighted economies of scale, public health benefits, and the decennial committee's recommendation to retain the district. - Dr. Lester Raffaell (retired pathologist, SLMAD trustee) emphasized prevention of vector-borne diseases and urged preservation. - Sarah Merritt (Riverwoods Preservation Council) stressed the district's role in targeted, environmentally responsible mosquito control, protecting pollinators. - Chris Ford (trustee) noted the district has low taxes, a million dollars in reserves, and no debt, and argued dissolution would harm service. Discussion Items - Economic Development Opportunity (8.14): Derek Vandervorst (CEO, SoLarge USA) presented the company's lightweight, recyclable solar panels made without toxic materials, aiming to build a U.S. factory. The preferred site is the 110-acre Johns Manville brownfield in Waukegan, with potential for a net-zero facility and community solar. The company is competing with a Kansas greenfield site. Kevin Considine (Lake County Partners) facilitated. Committee members expressed strong support for continuing talks, noting alignment with county sustainability goals and the opportunity to revitalize an environmental justice community. Key points: the site requires cleanup cost support, zoning changes, and annexation of a borrow pit; SoLarge needs a decision by end of September 2025. The committee agreed to develop a specific proposal. - Pest Control Services (8.16): Discussion arose about the Orkin contract's use of rodenticides and their potential harm to wildlife. Members requested a review of alternatives before the one-year renewal, with direction to bring the renewal back to this committee for approval. - South Lake Mosquito Abatement District Dissolution (8.18): Assistant County Administrator Dan Hall explained the process: approving the proposing ordinance triggers an audit by the county finance department (30 days), then a public notice period allows a backdoor referendum. If no referendum, the board can pass an authorizing resolution leading to dissolution (6–18 months total). Members debated cost savings, local control, and the district's effectiveness. Some argued the audit only shows cash balances, not service efficiency. The committee heard that other Lake County municipalities manage mosquito control without a district. Key Outcomes - 8.13 Grant: Approved unanimously for $440,326.57 from the Illinois State Board of Elections for voter registration system maintenance. - 8.15 Naval Station Agreement: Approved unanimously for an intergovernmental support agreement to demolish housing at Halsey Village in North Chicago, with Navy funding and county oversight. - 8.16 Pest Control Contract: Approved with the condition that the one-year renewal will come back to the committee for review, and staff will explore less toxic alternatives. - 8.17 Sheridan Crossing Remediation: Approved unanimously for a sub-recipient agreement with North Chicago to manage $4 million in federal funds for environmental cleanup. - 8.18 Mosquito District Dissolution: Approved with dissent (Member Maine and Vice Chair Parekh opposed). The proposal moves to the full County Board; if approved, an audit will be conducted and further steps taken.

The Lake County Planning, Building, Zoning, and Environment Committee met on August 6, 2025, at 10:32 a.m. The meeting was called to order by the Chair, with members Campos, Frank, Kniznick, Peterson (Vice Chair), and Wassick present; Member Schlick was absent. The committee considered four resolutions directing the Zoning Board of Appeals to hold public hearings on proposed text amendments, and a memorandum of understanding regarding a development in the Route 173 corridor. All items were approved unanimously. The committee also received a director’s report on the county’s housing summit and approved recommendations for release of executive session minutes. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - 8.1 – Sustainable Development Incentives Ordinance: Staff presented a proposed point‑based system allowing developers to voluntarily incorporate sustainable practices (e.g., building electrification, EV readiness, geothermal, green roofs, solar) in exchange for density and dimensional incentives (increased density/floor area, reduced setbacks). Director Eric Wagner described it as a “carrot” to encourage innovation without mandates. The committee endorsed the direction and authorized initiation of a ZBA hearing. Member Frank inquired about gray water recycling; staff noted it is not permitted under Illinois plumbing code but could be considered for future legislative advocacy. The resolution passed unanimously. - 8.2 – Lighting Ordinance Update: Staff recommended a phased approach beginning with non‑residential dark‑sky regulations (shielding, reduced upward lighting) to complement existing bird‑friendly building design. The committee confirmed the general direction and authorized the ZBA hearing. Member Frank emphasized that the policy does not reduce total lighting but directs it properly, reducing impacts on wildlife and human health. The resolution passed unanimously. - 8.3 – Logistics Centers Regulations: Staff proposed new definitions, use types (small and large logistics centers), setback requirements, and a conditional use permit requirement for logistics facilities. The aim is to address impacts of modern e‑commerce‑driven distribution centers (traffic, noise, aesthetics, environment). Member Frank raised the possibility of also regulating data centers; staff indicated work is in progress but not yet ready. Member Kniznick urged prioritizing data centers given growing demand and the Great Lakes region’s appeal. Member Wassick asked about road impacts and carbon footprint; staff noted carbon cannot be directly regulated under Illinois law but road impacts will be addressed through performance guarantees. The resolution passed unanimously. - 8.4 – Route 173 Corridor MOU: Staff explained the 2006 Gateway Agreement among Lake County, the Village of Old Mill Creek, and the Village of Wadsworth, which expires in fall 2026. The agreement guides development within an 800‑acre area but has seen no development due to lack of sewer infrastructure (costing several million dollars). A developer has purchased a 15‑acre parcel in Wadsworth and proposes a truck sales business, but the current agreement’s land‑use designation (office/assembly) and requirement for public sewer/water prevent development. The proposed MOU would waive the agreement’s requirements for this specific parcel, allowing Wadsworth to process the rezoning and development review (with on‑site septic and well). The committee discussed the need to revisit the entire agreement and consider financial incentives. The MOU was approved unanimously, with the understanding that negotiations for a new 20‑year agreement will continue. - Director’s Report – Housing Summit: Director Wagner reported on the county’s housing summit, which attracted over 150 stakeholders (municipalities, nonprofits, developers, health care, etc.). The next meeting in September will focus on the housing supply gap: a deficit of 11,000 market‑rate units and 6,700 affordable units by 2027. A planner from Dane County, Wisconsin, shared insights on their regional housing planning process, emphasizing stakeholder diversity. The committee was encouraged to serve as ambassadors to maintain municipal participation. The report was received. - Executive Session Minutes Review: The committee voted to follow the State’s Attorney’s recommendations: release all executive session minutes for the Planning, Building, Zoning, and Environment Committee (two items) and keep all minutes for the inactive Planning, Building, and Zoning Committee (four items) confidential. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Resolution 8.1 (Sustainable Development Incentives) – Approved unanimously. Referred to ZBA for public hearing. - Resolution 8.2 (Lighting Ordinance Update) – Approved unanimously. Referred to ZBA for public hearing. - Resolution 8.3 (Logistics Centers) – Approved unanimously. Referred to ZBA for public hearing. - Resolution 8.4 (Route 173 Corridor MOU) – Approved unanimously. Authorizes execution of MOU by County Board, subject to approval by the Village of Old Mill Creek and Village of Wadsworth. - Executive Session Minutes – Approved to release/withhold as recommended by the State’s Attorney. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for August 27, 2025.