Public Meetings - Lake County, Illinois

The Planning, Building, Zoning, and Environment Committee of Lake County, Illinois, met on April 8, 2026, at 5:00 AM (UTC) to consider several items including a presentation on the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) comprehensive climate action plan, a new sustainable model ordinance engagement program, an emergency appropriation for a flood risk assessment project, and amendments to the unified development ordinance for logistics facilities. The meeting was held in person with remote attendance options via Zoom, and a quorum was present. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - CMAP Comprehensive Climate Action Plan for Greater Chicago – Jesse Altman, policy analyst from CMAP, presented the plan, noting that the 13-county region produces about 152 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent annually, driven primarily by buildings and transportation. The plan sets a target of 80-85% reduction in emissions by 2050 compared to 2005 levels. Six core actions were highlighted: clean and modernize the grid, improve building efficiency, transition to clean heat, reimagine mobility (reduce VMT by 5% by 2035 and 16% by 2050), electrify vehicles (100% of new light-duty EVs by 2035), and decarbonize industry. Committee members discussed the role of data centers, the need for state-level legislative support, and the potential for Lake County to adopt stretch codes. CMAP and county staff will explore further collaboration. - Sustainable Model Ordinance Engagement Program – Robin Halgram, Sustainability Programs Manager, presented a program design to catalog and promote adoption of the county's sustainability regulations by other public entities. The program includes a master inventory of sustainable model ordinances (SMOs) hosted on the county website, notification of public partners, surveys to gauge interest, assistance with adoption, and tracking of adoptions. The inventory is ready for immediate upload. Committee members expressed strong support, noting that the program will serve as a communications tool and help municipalities adopt similar regulations. - Emergency Appropriation for Nippersine Creek Project – Sharon Osterby, water resources professional from SMC, presented a joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $41,043.83 for a structure-specific risk assessment in Grant Township and the Fox Lake area, funded through FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and administered by IEMA. The project was originally requested in 2024 but funds were not carried over. The committee voted to approve the motion. - Ordinance Amending UDO for Logistics Facilities – Eric Wagner, PBD Director, and Natalia Fick, planner, presented amendments to Chapter 151 of the Lake County Code to establish specific standards for logistics facilities. The amendments add definitions for logistics facilities and warehouses, differentiate between small (≤50,000 sq ft) and large (50,000 sq ft) facilities, impose setbacks for loading docks (250 ft from sensitive land uses for small, 500 ft for large), require operational and environmental impact analyses for large facilities, and mandate enhanced landscaping and transition areas. The ZBA approved the draft with one modification to clarify that logistics facilities are not data centers. The committee voted to approve the ordinance and forward it to the county board for final action on April 14, 2026. - Future Work on Data Centers – Eric Wagner informed the committee that a report on data center regulation best practices is expected in May or June 2026, given ongoing developments at the state and national levels. Key Outcomes - Vote on Item 8.4 (Emergency Appropriation for Nippersine Creek Project): Motion carried by voice vote (all in favor). - Vote on Item 8.5 (UDO Amendments for Logistics Facilities): Motion carried by voice vote (all in favor). The ordinance will proceed to the Lake County Board for final action on April 14, 2026. - Next Meeting: The committee's next scheduled meeting is April 29, 2026.

The Health and Community Services Committee met on April 7, 2026, with a physical quorum present. Member Sarah Knijznick participated electronically due to work reasons. The committee approved several resolutions related to opioid settlement funds, HUD action plan amendments, and video gaming grant funding. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously (motion by Member Kasbin, second by Member Dan Forth). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items Opioid Settlement Fund Grant Renewals (Resolution 8.2) - Assistant County Administrator Ruth Ann Hall presented a joint resolution approving $405,000 in program year 2026 opioid settlement fund grants. Of the seven original grantees from the previous year, six agreed to renew for a second year after staff monitoring showed programs needed more time to fully implement. The seventh grantee was allowed to continue with original funding and may reapply in a future cycle. The remaining $295,000 of the $700,000 budgeted will be offered in a fall grant cycle for new programs. Member Kasbin commended Opioid Coordinator Ashley Watson for her dedication and passion. The resolution passed unanimously. Opioid Settlement Funds for Health Department Services (Resolution 8.3) - Ruth Ann Hall and Michelle Esser (Health Department) presented a joint resolution allocating $292,672 in opioid settlement funds to the Lake County Health Department for stabilizing and sustaining substance use disorder services for uninsured residents. The funds will cover gap funding between state reimbursement cycles, which ran out this month. Services include outpatient substance abuse programs, child/adolescent outpatient programs, withdrawal management, and two rehabilitation programs. Any unused funds will be reprogrammed. The resolution passed unanimously. HUD Annual Action Plan Amendment (Resolution 8.4) - Community Development Administrator Dominic Strezzo presented the fourth amendment to the program year 2025 HUD Annual Action Plan. The amendment switches the funding year source for HOME funds between two projects: the North Point Development in Gurnee (which is moving faster) and the Midlothian Manor project in Lake Zurich. The change puts older 2022 funds into the sooner project to avoid additional costs and regulatory requirements. Member Kasbin suggested creating a template of best practices from the North Point project for future developers. The resolution passed unanimously. Video Gaming Grant Funding Recommendations (Resolution 8.5) - Dominic Strezzo presented the program year 2026 video gaming grant funding recommendations totaling $841,100, with an emergency appropriation of $16,100 from the video gaming revenue fund balance. The application round received 18 applications, the most ever. The Behavioral Health Advisory and Recommendation Committee (ARC) scored the applications and held a public hearing in March. Member Kasmin recused herself due to a conflict of interest with PADS Lake County. Chair Hart noted that video gaming revenue has increased every year and expressed concern about the societal costs of expanded gambling, but noted that the county has allocated a significant portion of funds to gambling addiction services. The resolution passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda unanimously. - Approved resolution 8.2 (opioid settlement fund grants - $405,000) unanimously. - Approved resolution 8.3 (opioid settlement funds for health department services - $292,672) unanimously. - Approved resolution 8.4 (HUD action plan amendment) unanimously. - Approved resolution 8.5 (video gaming grants - $841,100 plus emergency appropriation $16,100) unanimously. - Next meeting scheduled for April 28, 2026.

The Lake County Technology Committee met on April 3, 2026, at 8:30 AM. The meeting was called to order by Chair Kasman, with a physical quorum present. Member Altenburg participated remotely due to an emergency. The committee approved several contracts and renewals, received updates on the digital equity program and the ERP implementation, and discussed IT procurement challenges. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1 – Consent agenda was approved by unanimous vote (motion by Roberts, second by Kasbin). Discussion Items - Item 8.2 – Joint Resolution for AV Upgrade – Authorized a contract with CTI Itasca, Illinois, for $49,419 to upgrade audio/video components in the Lake County Division of Transportation (DOT) main conference room. DOT Director Shane Schneider explained the current system is pre-pandemic and the upgrade will allow any user to plug in and access AV technology across platforms (Zoom, Teams, WebEx). Member Frank asked about standardization across county conference rooms; CIO Chris Blanning noted the vendor is used throughout the county and upgrades are prioritized as needs arise. The resolution passed unanimously (motion by Frank, second by Kasvin). - Item 8.3 – Joint Resolution for Oracle Cloud Support Renewal – Authorized renewal of Oracle Cloud environmental support services with TD Synnex DLT Solutions (Herndon, VA) for $247,640.88. CIO Blanning and Applications Manager Mike Buslana explained this covers infrastructure support (servers, databases, security patching, 24/7 monitoring) for the BOSS ERP system. The renewal is through May 2026, and the goal is to decommission BOSS after the new ERP goes live. Member Roberts questioned future renewals; Blanning stated they hope this will be the last. The resolution passed unanimously (motion by Kasbin, second by Roberts). - Item 8.4 – Joint Committee Action for Tyler Technologies Modification – Approved a contract modification with Tyler Technologies (Yarmouth, ME) for up to $85,005 to convert Crystal Reports to Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services for the Energov permitting system. Crystal Reports will lose support in October 2026. Mike Buslana noted no change for end users; only report creators will see a training curve. Vice Chair Kasmin requested a future overview of all Tyler systems used by the county. The action passed unanimously (motion by Kasvin, second by Frank). - Item 8.5 – Joint Resolution for Cisco Smart Net Services Renewal – Authorized renewal with LogicCallus (Downers Grove, IL) for $423,841 to support network switches, routers, and other infrastructure. The contract includes security patches, hardware replacement, and tiered support levels. The resolution allows up to a 10% annual increase; CIO Blanning explained that the 10% is a cap, not a guaranteed increase, and current chip shortages (partly due to AI data centers) are driving price trends. The resolution passed unanimously (motion by Roberts, second by Kasvin). Broadband & Digital Equity Update - Digital Equity Manager Kay Crandall and Coordinator Kim Lunt reported on the Digital Growth Initiative. Key highlights: - Public Wi-Fi project with Waukegan: equipment orders underway, community outreach aligned with Rebuild Waukegan initiative. - Device distribution: 41 laptops awarded on April 1 through the NorthStar program; a two-day event planned for June 26–27. - New digital navigator Jermaine Hilton joined the team. - Monthly metrics (February 2026): 343 residents served over 324 sessions, 95 devices distributed. Cumulative over 1,200 devices since January 2025. - Digital Equity Coalition meeting on March 19 had 33 attendees from 17 organizations. Member Kasmin provided opening/closing comments. - NorthStar usage: average 95 unique learners per month, 220 assessments, 53% pass rate, 81.1% average score. - Vice Chair Kasmin and Chair Hart praised the program’s impact. Chair Hart noted over 90% of jobs require digital literacy, and the program helps address the labor gap. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Implementation Update - CIO Blanning reported that use cases (12–13 main processes) have been completed, achieving alignment on how to standardize processes. Over 30 work streams have started, involving more than 100 subject matter experts. All-hands meetings are now held to review risks and actions via a RAID log. - The target go-live date is December 1, 2026 (to align with fiscal year start and ARPA funding deadlines). The change order is not yet signed, but the project is currently rated green (technically yellow due to the unsigned change order). - Blanning highlighted challenges: decoupled processes and resistance to change from some departments, causing “spinning cycles” on alignment rather than building the system. He stressed that change management is the primary difficulty, not technology. Chair Hart, Vice Chair Kasmin, and Chair Clark expressed strong board support for standardization and urged departments to get on board, noting the cost of maintaining legacy systems (like BOSS) and the opportunity cost of delays. They offered to help with change management if needed. Director’s Report - CIO Blanning announced that two more security policies will be brought forward next month, developed collaboratively with the policy advisory team. - The AI Governance Advisory Team is meeting regularly, approving common AI software, and will now review whether to update the evaluation process for new AI agents. The team is also working on an AI roadmap. - Help Desk Manager Eric Frederickson provided an update on PC refresh: Due to chip shortages (AI data centers driving up memory and storage costs), laptop prices have risen 50% since last fiscal year (from $1,250 to $1,700). To avoid further increases, Frederickson accelerated purchasing and will have bought all required computers by the end of next week. He noted that extending the replacement cycle (currently 4 years) is a consideration, but older hardware may not support Windows 11. The county manages about 1,500 computers through the help desk, with other departments (courts, health, sheriff) managing their own. CIO Blanning emphasized collaborative efforts to standardize procurement (e.g., Dell consolidation) and build trust among IT departments. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (Items 8.2–8.5) and the consent agenda were approved unanimously. - The committee endorsed the digital equity program and received updates on upcoming events. - The ERP project is proceeding with a target go-live of December 1, 2026; CIO Blanning committed to transparent reporting on alignment challenges. - The committee acknowledged the proactive PC purchasing strategy to mitigate cost increases. - The next meeting is scheduled for May 1, 2026.

The Financial Administrative Committee met on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 8:00 AM. A quorum was present. The meeting covered a Lake County Partners economic development update, discussion of budget policies for FY2027, an emergency appropriation, and a request to use the federal funding contingency fund. Consent Calendar - Items 8.1 through 8.5 were approved unanimously by voice vote (motion by Member Clark, second by Vice Chair Park). No items were pulled. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Lake County Partners Update (8.6): President and CEO Kevin Cotonight reported four wins in Q1 2026, including a $575 million investment by AbbVie (350 new jobs) at its North Chicago campus and an $80 million expansion by Bath Concepts in Libertyville (retaining 400 jobs, adding 100). He presented labor force data showing the county’s labor force remains about 12,000 below its 2019 pre-COVID level, a gap unique among Chicagoland counties. The pipeline remains strong, including a potential large solar panel manufacturer project continuing due diligence. Discussion also covered workforce participation, automation risks, and housing affordability as a key factor. - Budget Policy Discussion (8.10): Staff presented proposed changes to three budget policies (3.5, 5.1, 3.6) for FY2027. A key change is moving from two levy scenarios (half CPI and full CPI) to a single scenario set at half the allowable CPI. Committee members debated whether to use half CPI or full CPI; the consensus leaned toward full CPI to keep pace with inflation, but the final policy will be determined after department feedback. Other changes included clarifications on reorganizations, capital thresholds, and electric vehicle procurement prioritization. No action was taken; policies will return next month. - Emergency Appropriation – Liability Insurance Fund (8.11): Risk Manager Erika Ossinski explained the actuarial reserve process and the need for a $2 million emergency appropriation from the fund balance (Fund 206) to cover expected settlements exceeding the $800,000 budgeted for FY2026. The motion was approved unanimously. - Federal Funding Contingency Fund Request (County Administrator’s Report): Administrator Patrice Sutton and Dominic Srizzo from Community Development presented a request to use the new federal funding contingency fund to bridge a HUD funding gap for the Continuum of Care (CoC) homeless assistance programs. The county typically passes through about $3.5 million annually; a lawsuit over HUD’s new rules has delayed payments. The request was for approximately $513,000 to cover 60 days for service providers to maintain leases and services, with clawback provisions if federal funds are later restored. Committee members expressed strong support, noting alignment with the fund’s intent. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (8.1-8.5): Approved unanimously. - Contract Modification – Yellowstone Landscape (8.7): Approved unanimously. The modification adds lawn care and landscape services for the Rock facility, including retention pond maintenance, with a focus on native plantings and minimal herbicide use after initial establishment. - Job Order Contract Modification – AGAE (8.8): Approved unanimously. The $365,000 modification (to a total not-to-exceed $1,165,000) covers unforeseen asbestos removal and additional HVAC and hallway work in the county building basement, offset by savings from other projects. - Emergency Appropriation (8.11): Approved unanimously. $2 million from Fund 206 fund balance for settlement payments. - Reclassification (11.1): Approved unanimously. Position 29052 in Transportation reclassified from Engineer Grade 10 to Senior Engineer Grade 12 with a pay increase to the new minimum. - Executive Session Minutes (11.2): Approved unanimously. - Budget Policy Direction: The committee indicated a preference for a single budget scenario using full CPI, with further feedback to be incorporated through a department review process. Final policy action is expected in May. - Federal Contingency Fund: The committee expressed support for using the fund to provide 60-day bridge funding of up to $513,000 for CoC providers, with clawback provisions. Staff will proceed with implementation. - Public Art Consideration: Member Clark requested up to two hours of staff time to explore options for public art at the Libertyville campus, particularly the prominent corner, potentially in conjunction with the 250th anniversary and landscaping plans.

The Lake County Public Works and Transportation Committee met on April 1, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. via hybrid format (in-person and remote). The meeting covered a Metro update, a sewer disposal agreement amendment, a presentation on ordinance amendments, and the creation of a Special Service Area for the Del Mar Wood Subdivision. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1: The consent agenda was approved by voice vote (motion by Kasbin, second by Roberts). Public Comments & Testimony - Virtual Comment (deferred to Item 8.5): Brian Scalender reserved the option to speak on Item 8.5 but declined to comment at the time. - In-Person Comment (Item 8.5): Bob, representing the Del Mar Woods Sanitary District, expressed support for consolidation and asked about using the proposed SSA to fund stormwater management in addition to sanitary sewer maintenance. He noted the district never had stormwater responsibility and wanted to ensure the SSA could collect funds for stormwater. Discussion Items - Item 8.2 – Metro Update: Gary Gordon (Lake County’s Metro board representative) and Jim Dorwinski (Metro CEO) presented an update. Key topics included: - Metro’s service lines, ridership recovery (system-wide averaging 188,000 weekly riders, with some lines like UP North at 100% of pre-pandemic levels; NCS only at 70% due to freight railroad issues). - Challenges with dispatching on tracks not owned by Metro, particularly on the Milwaukee District North and North Central Service lines, where CPKC and CN restrict adding even pre-pandemic service. - Bridge program: 210 bridges identified for repair/replacement, requiring $160 million annually. Current funding shortfall. - Transition to NITA (Northern Illinois Transit Authority) with new board composition, a potential quarter-percent tax increase starting June 1, 2026, and a shift to a regional rail model (more frequent, off-peak service). - Battery-powered Stadler train sets (first in U.S.) and the Rock Island regional rail pilot. - Union Pacific/Norfolk Southern merger interest and the need for Lake County to file a letter of interest by April 30. - Fox Lake sub bridge 318 project (adding a siding to improve capacity) expected to start construction late 2026. - Item 8.3 – Joint Resolution: First Amendment to Sewer Disposal Agreement with North Shore Water Reclamation District: Director McFarland presented the extension (10 years) with a 20% rate increase (from $274 to $329). The amendment was approved by voice vote. - Item 8.4 – Presentation and Discussion: Amendments to Water, Sewer, and Pretreatment Ordinances: Engineering Supervisor Brittany Sloan reviewed major changes driven by USEPA requirements for a formal pretreatment program. Key updates include clarifications on service pipes, pretreatment for auto repair shops (triple basin device) and dental offices, and establishment of local limits and categorical standards for industrial users. The ordinance will be brought back for a vote at the next meeting. Discussion included staffing needs for pretreatment coordinators (Member Hunter advocated for more FTEs). - Item 8.5 – Ordinance Proposing Creation of Lake County Special Service Area (SSA) 18 – Del Mar Wood Subdivision: Deputy County Administrator Matt Myers and Steve Rice presented. The SSA will replace the existing 1970s sanitary district, fund immediate repairs and lining of sewer pipes (estimated $600,000), and provide for ongoing maintenance. Assessment: $675/year per household for 10 years, then lower perpetual assessment for maintenance. Public comment from Bob addressed stormwater inclusion. The proposing ordinance was approved; a public hearing will be held at a future committee meeting. Key Outcomes - Item 8.2: No formal action; update received. Committee members noted the importance of understanding Metro’s track ownership challenges and committed to file a letter of interest on the UP-NS merger. - Item 8.3: Motion carried unanimously to authorize the first amendment to the sewer disposal agreement with North Shore Water Reclamation District, including a 20% rate increase. - Item 8.4: No vote; discussion only. The ordinance amendments will be presented for action at the April 8, 2026 committee meeting. - Item 8.5: Motion carried unanimously to pass the proposing ordinance for SSA 18. A public hearing will be scheduled; the sanitary district will be dissolved once the SSA is established. Public works will begin phase one maintenance (cleaning/root control) in 2027, with lining work expected in 2029. - Next Meeting: April 8, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.

The Lake County Board met on March 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. The meeting was called to order by Chair Hart. Several special recognitions were presented, public comments heard, and multiple resolutions approved. Key actions included approving a remote work policy, committing $2 million for economic development, and creating a federal funding contingency reserve. Special Recognitions & Presentations - A proclamation celebrating the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. was read by Vice Chair Cunningham. Board members expressed appreciation for his civil rights work. - March 2026 recognized as Women's History Month, read by Member Belitsik. - March 2026 recognized as Problem Gambling Awareness Month, read by Chair Hart. Elizabeth Thielen of Nicasa spoke about gambling addiction prevalence, citing 21,000 affected Lake County residents, 400+ establishments with 2,300+ video gaming terminals, and $166 million lost. Board members discussed the need for education and state funding for prevention. - March 18 recognized as National Public Defender Day, read by Member Roberts. Lake County Public Defender Gregory Tixay expressed gratitude. - March 15-21 recognized as National Agriculture Week, read by Member Peterson. Lake County has 302 farms, 30,000+ acres, and 7,168 jobs. - Presentation of Lake County's America 250 initiative, including a video and announcement of the Lake County Independence Academy (civics education program for 25 residents, starting April 22, 2026). Board members praised the video and civic engagement efforts. Public Comments - Brandon Ewing, representing the Lake County Juneteenth Celebration Committee, invited the board to participate in the Juneteenth parade and festival on June 20, 2026, in Waukegan. He requested county sponsorship/partnership. Last year welcomed more than 3,000 people. - Dave Wilms, a resident and retired teacher, informed the board that federal tax incentives for solar are disappearing in the first week of July 2026. He encouraged the county to initiate solar projects before that deadline to capture 30-50% cost coverage. Chair's Remarks - Halsey Village site: Navy preparing for demolition phase 1 (starts June 2026, 4-5 months). County and Navy collaborating; F&A committee to hear approval at April 30 or May 7 meeting. Navy expects Pentagon approval by May 8. - Meeting with Senator Duckworth: discussed Halsey Village and federal grant cuts (behavioral health). Illinois gives more to federal government than it receives; Attorney General Raoul fighting for funding. County administration creating contingency plan. - Chicago region named 1 U.S. metro for corporate relocation (13th year) and Chicago voted 1 best big city (9th year) by Condé Nast Traveler. Consent Agenda (Items 7-38) - Approved by roll call (18 ayes). Member Hunter recused from Item 18. Item 38 (remote work policy) was removed to finance agenda but later approved under regular agenda. Regular Agenda - Item 39: Ordinance increasing number of liquor licenses for two new businesses. Approved without objection. - Item 41: Resolution approving MOU with CMAP (Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning) to advance the Housing Lake Coalition. Approved. Board members thanked staff and urged municipal participation. - Item 42: Resolution authorizing two new assistant public defender positions for a consolidated domestic violence courtroom, estimated cost $135,000 for FY2026. Approved. Discussion included need for future budget process transparency. - Item 43: Resolution authorizing a senior victim specialist for State's Attorney's Office for same courtroom, estimated cost $64,000. Approved. - Item 44: Intergovernmental agreement renewal for sanitary sewer and water supply services to the Village of Grays Lake (dating to 1985). Approved. - Item 45: Resolution adopting a program design for the Lake County Green Business Program. Approved. Board members praised the initiative. - Item 38 (reconsidered): Resolution approving a remote work policy. Approved. Member Maine raised equity concerns about employees who cannot work remotely. Chair Frank noted the policy standardizes administration. - Item 46: Resolution committing $2 million from economic development opportunity funds (from Monsanto settlement) for environmental cleanup/site preparation at 1831 N. Pershing Road, Waukegan, for Solarge's solar panel manufacturing development. Approved. Board members expressed excitement for the project. - Item 47: Resolution authorizing property conveyance to IDOT for Route 83 improvement. Approved by roll call (19 ayes). - Item 48: Resolution approving an emergency appropriation of $2 million from general fund balance to establish a federal funding contingency reserve. Approved. Board members emphasized continuity of services amid federal funding uncertainty. Member Remarks - Member Maine discussed the 'donor' concept: Illinois is a donor state to the federal government. He noted that Vernon Township contributes 13% of the county's EAV, 30% more than its population share, making it a donor township to Lake County. He asked for awareness of these disparities. - Chair Hart clarified her earlier statement: Illinois is a donor state, but her point was that the Trump administration is targeting Illinois politically to take away funding, not about deserving more. She expressed pride in Lake County's ability to support others. Member Casman echoed that the federal targeting is unprecedented and causing chaos. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned until April 14, 2026.

The Lake County Board's Financial and Administrative Committee met on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 8:31 a.m. The committee addressed unfinished business, a consent agenda, and several resolutions including a new remote work policy, a federal funding contingency reserve, and a $2 million economic development commitment. The meeting adjourned after executive session and action on settlement and minutes. Consent Calendar - Items 8.1 through 8.18 were approved en bloc by a single motion (motion by Member Peterson, second by Member Volitzik). No items were pulled. - Item 8.19 (temporary staffing services) was approved after discussion. The county received 61 proposals from 155 solicitations and will award contracts to four firms to provide administrative, professional, and credentialed temporary employees. - Item 8.20 (emergency appropriations for FY2026 carryovers of projects and grants) was approved. - Item 8.21 (emergency appropriation of $265,570.49 from the IMRF fund balance for pension expenses) was approved. The CFO explained the shortfall resulted from lower-than-budgeted vacancy savings due to strong retention and a compensation study. - Item 8.22 (emergency appropriation of $2,540 from the State’s Attorney Money Laundering Fund for personnel costs) was approved. - Item 8.23 (emergency appropriation of $16,500 from the Recorder Automation Fund for personnel expenses) was approved. Discussion noted the fund is used for employees directly performing recording functions; the county has reduced staffing from 12 to 8 over three years. Members requested further information on fund usage and revenue sources. - Item 8.24 (Director’s Report) – Acknowledged the list of line-item transfers approved in February and the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Unfinished Business: Item 7.1 – Public Defender Staffing for Domestic Violence Courtroom – The committee revisited a resolution authorizing two new principal public defenders for a consolidated domestic violence courtroom, costing approximately $135,000 for the remainder of FY2026. The Public Defender confirmed the funding is available from unfilled positions. The State’s Attorney’s Office will request a victim specialist (appearing on consent agenda). The positions will be added to the FY2027 budget. Approved unanimously. - Item 8.25 – Annual Facilities and Construction Update – Director Carl Crown presented an overview of projects supporting the county strategic plan, including the DEPC Juvenile Center renovation, the ROC facility, a solar project, and space management. The Navy demolition project (105 East Illinois Route 83) is complex; the county will act as prime contractor with Navy funding. The employee parking garage and landscaping contracts are forthcoming. The committee discussed future space planning, including the sheriff’s office and coroner’s relocation. - Item 8.26 – Property Conveyance to IDOT – Approved a resolution authorizing conveyance of a strip of land at 105 East Illinois Route 83 in Mundelein to IDOT for the Route 83/60 improvement project, including bike paths and sidewalks. The county will retain access and parking; temporary easements are for construction. - Item 8.27 – Tax Abatement for DCEO Energy Transition Grant – Approved an ordinance abating $587,516.86 of the county’s property tax levy for tax year 2025, funded by a state grant for communities impacted by the Zion nuclear plant closure. The abatement will reduce the overall levy, benefiting all taxpayers. Legislation to prevent future levy reduction is already signed by the governor. - Item 8.28 – Federal Funding Contingency Reserve – Approved a resolution appropriating $2 million from the general fund balance to establish a contingency reserve for federal funding interruptions. The reserve is intended for the health, community development, and workforce development departments. Access requires verification of interruption, demonstrated operational need, and a plan for replenishment. The reserve covers up to 60 days of gap funding; any long-term solution must come back to the committee. - Item 8.29 – Remote Work Policy – Approved a resolution adopting a new remote work policy. The policy allows remote work as an operational option when it fits the role, but is not guaranteed. It requires department head discretion with county administrator oversight for consistency. A separate directive provides more detailed standards (e.g., days per week). Discussion touched on equity between remote and on-site employees, stipends, distance limits, and cybersecurity. The policy will replace the existing alternate work arrangement policy. - Item 8.30 – Economic Development Opportunity Fund Commitment – Approved a resolution committing $2 million from the Monsanto settlement fund to SoLarge for environmental cleanup and site preparation in Waukegan. The commitment is contingent on SoLarge selecting Lake County by May 1, 2026; otherwise the funds revert to the economic development opportunity fund. Key Outcomes - 7.1 Approved – Two new principal public defenders for domestic violence court, FY2026 cost $135,000, funded from unfilled positions. - 8.19 Approved – Four temporary staffing agencies selected for general administrative to professional positions. - 8.20 Approved – Emergency appropriations for FY2026 carryovers. - 8.21 Approved – $265,570.49 emergency appropriation for IMRF pension expenses. - 8.22 Approved – $2,540 emergency appropriation for State’s Attorney Money Laundering Fund. - 8.23 Approved – $16,500 emergency appropriation for Recorder Automation Fund personnel expenses. - 8.26 Approved – Property conveyance to IDOT for Route 83/60 improvement. - 8.27 Approved – Tax abatement of $587,516.86 for DCEO Energy Transition Grant. - 8.28 Approved – $2 million federal funding contingency reserve established. - 8.29 Approved – Remote work policy adopted. - 8.30 Approved – $2 million commitment to SoLarge for Waukegan site cleanup, contingent on site selection by May 1, 2026. - Executive Session – Held to discuss claims, risk management, and closed session minutes. Action items 11.1 (settlement authority case 22102 W001) and approval of minutes from January 29 and February 5, 2026, were approved. The committee adjourned at approximately 10:30 a.m. and will next meet on April 2, 2026.

The Planning Building Zoning and Environment Committee met on March 4, 2026, at a time not specified but commenced in the morning with Chair Altenberg presiding. Member Kenizhnik participated electronically due to a medical reason and was eligible to vote. No public comments were made. The committee approved two resolutions and received a presentation on the Housing Lake initiative. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was moved by Member Campos, seconded by Member Schlick, and passed unanimously with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items 8.2 – Resolution Adopting Program Design for Lake County Green Business Program - Robin Holgram, Sustainability Programs Manager, presented the final design for the program, which will recognize businesses with sustainable features, practices, and planning. The program uses a free online verification tool and internal staff review. Businesses must certify truthfulness; rewards can be rescinded for false claims. - Member Wasick questioned verification methods, noting the honor system for some claims. Holgram explained that certain items require artifacts (e.g., photos of EV chargers, invoices for renewable energy certificates). - Member Frank suggested that the recognition ceremony, initially proposed at County Board meetings, should be an asterisk to avoid overcommitting time. Holgram noted the resolution mentions a ceremony with the Board Chair but could be flexible. - Member Schlick requested future updates on the branding toolkit and emphasized that certification is not an endorsement. - Chair Hart thanked Holgram for research and noted the program aligns with the board’s values. - The resolution passed unanimously. 8.3 – Joint Resolution Authorizing Emergency Appropriation of $155,159 for Meadow View Material Transfer Facility Siting Application - Ruth Ann Hall, Assistant County Administrator, explained that Waste Management filed a local siting application for a material transfer station adjacent to the Countryside Landfill in Grayslake. The $155,159 includes a $150,000 filing fee and $5,159 in legal fee reimbursement, paid by Waste Management under a host agreement approved in January 2025. - The funds must be appropriated to cover county expenses for review and public hearing. The public hearing is set for Monday, May 18, 2026, at the University Center of Lake County, from 2:00 to 4:30 PM and 6:00 to 9:00 PM, with possible continuances through May 21. - Member Wasick, whose district includes the proposed facility, asked why it was an emergency appropriation. Patrice (budget) clarified that the revenue was received now and must be appropriated before spending. - Karen Fox, State’s Attorney, explained the hearing process: objectors may file forms, and the hearing officer (John McCarthy, an independent third party) will present recommendations to the board. County staff and members cannot discuss the application due to quasi-judicial roles. - The resolution passed unanimously. Presentation on Housing Lake Summit Highlights and Next Steps - Eric Wagner, Planning Building Development Director, and Dominic Streso, Community Development Administrator, provided an update on the Housing Lake Coalition’s Phase 1 work, which culminated in a February 2026 summit. The coalition, involving over 175 stakeholders, addressed a countywide housing gap: projected shortage of over 11,000 market-rate units, 1,200 affordable senior units, and 6,700 affordable family units by 2027. - A video showcased the collaborative approach, emphasizing four pillars: policy and regulatory reform, funding and financing tools, partnerships and development capacity, and communications and education. - The “Call to Action” document distills the work into a digital resource with strategies, an engagement toolkit, and next steps. An MOU with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) for implementation was recommended by the HCS committee and will go to the County Board. - Members praised the effort. Member Wasick and others discussed alternative housing (e.g., container homes, modular construction, 3D printing). Member Keniznik shared examples from East St. Louis and a Lake County business (SI Container Builds). Member Peterson suggested better branding for container homes. Member Volicek emphasized education and trust-building. - Chair Altenberg noted the importance of partnership between staff and elected officials to maintain momentum. Dominic Streso – Healthy Homes Program Update - An appropriation of $2 million from the state was received for HVAC improvements at eligible rental properties (six units or less, tenant income below 80% AMI, about $96,000 for a family of four). The application window opened March 2 and closes April 2, 2026. Funds must be spent by July 2027. Key Outcomes - The resolution adopting the Lake County Green Business Program was approved unanimously. - The resolution authorizing the emergency appropriation of $155,159 for the Meadow View Material Transfer Facility siting application was approved unanimously. - No vote was taken on the Housing Lake presentation; it was informational with a recommendation for future action. - The Healthy Homes Program update was noted; applications are being accepted. - The meeting adjourned until April 1, 2026, at a time corresponding to the next regular meeting.

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the Lake County committee met to consider several budget adjustments and intergovernmental agreements. The meeting was held in person with remote participation via Zoom for members Danforth (due to WIC-related reasons) and Vice Chair Roberts (due to illness). A quorum was present. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. No public comments were made. The chair offered remarks expressing continued prayers for Reverend Jesse Jackson's family and noted that the county sent a proclamation to the family. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (Item 8.18.6) was moved by Member Ma, seconded by Member Peterson, and approved without opposition. Discussion Items - Item 8.7: Consolidated Domestic Violence Courtroom – Public Defender’s Office (Estimated cost: $135,000 for FY2026 remaining): The public defender’s office requested two additional felony assistants to staff a new consolidated domestic violence courtroom, as ordered by the chief judge in November 2025 (after the budget was approved). The request was previously sent back by the Finance and Audit (F&A) committee for further vetting. County Administrator Patrice Sutton reported that on February 9, 2026, all judicial partners (circuit clerk, court security, state’s attorney) were consulted; only the public defender and state’s attorney identified needs related to this change. Several members expressed concerns about the timing of the request, noting that it was not included in the original budget. Members Peterson and Hart emphasized the difficulty of adhering to the budget when such changes occur after approval. Member Moore (who spoke via a raised hand) and Chair Cunningham supported the request, citing the need to move cases and serve the public. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 8.8: State’s Attorney’s Office – Victim Specialist (Estimated cost: $64,000 for FY2026 remaining): The state’s attorney requested one additional victim specialist to staff the new domestic violence courtroom. The state’s attorney explained that the office currently handles approximately 188 victims per specialist and needs a dedicated specialist for the sixth felony courtroom. The specialist would be assigned to consult with victims as required by the Illinois Victims’ Bill of Rights and to facilitate warm handoffs to social services. The state’s attorney noted that the office hopes to absorb the cost through savings and is not requesting additional funding at this time, only a headcount authorization. Members asked about the role of victim specialists and case processing times. Vice Chair Roberts asked whether centralization would speed up cases; the state’s attorney responded affirmatively, noting that specialized courtrooms can improve disposition times for victims and other cases. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 8.9: 19th Judicial Circuit Court – Technology Modernization Grant (Amount: $50,000): Carl Waller and Lisa Wolfe from the 19th Judicial Circuit presented a funding agreement from the Supreme Court of Illinois for court technology modernization. Funds will be used to replace the paging system in Kids’ Corner, upgrade equipment for pretrial services (including Microsoft Surface tablets), replace older computers in the juvenile detention educational program, and upgrade interpreting devices. The grant is not a county expense but an acceptance of external funds. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 8.10: Sheriff’s Office – Intergovernmental Agreement with Tech Campus (Estimated annual amount: $123,949.97): This is a renewal of a fourth contract for police services with Lake County Tech Campus District No. 849. The sheriff’s office confirmed it is a renewal and has been reviewed by the state’s attorney, risk management, and finance. The motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved: $135,000 for two additional felony assistants in the public defender’s office to staff the consolidated domestic violence courtroom. (Unanimous) - Approved: Authorization for one additional victim specialist headcount in the state’s attorney’s office for the new domestic violence courtroom, with no immediate funding request. (Unanimous) - Approved: Acceptance of a $50,000 grant from the Supreme Court of Illinois for court technology modernization. (Unanimous) - Approved: Renewal of the intergovernmental agreement with Lake County Tech Campus for police services at $123,949.97 annually. (Unanimous) No executive session was held. The next meeting is scheduled for March 31, 2026.