Public Meetings - Lake County, Illinois

The Lake County Legislative Committee met on March 3, 2026, at 1:00 PM via hybrid format. Chair Wasek called the meeting to order, with remote attendance available via Zoom. The committee approved the consent agenda and received updates from state and federal lobbyists on legislative priorities, budget impacts, and pending bills. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the minutes of the previous meeting was made by Jessica, seconded by Kevin, and carried by voice vote. Discussion Items - Remarks on NACo Conference: Chair Wasek thanked attendees of the annual NACo legislative conference in Washington, D.C., noting meetings with staff of Reps. Chikowski and Quigley, Rep. Bill Foster, and Senator Dick Durbin. Topics included health care, infrastructure funding, attainable housing, and data center regulation. - State Legislative Update (Mike and Derek): Derek reported that the Illinois General Assembly is in a slow period, with most activity expected after the March 17 primary. Governor Pritzker proposed a FY2027 budget solving a $2.2 billion deficit through revenue adjustments ($1 billion increase) and expenditure cuts ($1 billion). Proposed revenue measures include a social media platform fee, casino tax adjustments, corporate tax changes, and a $60 million Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) adjustment that reduces the percentage distribution by 0.2% (from 6.48% to 6.28%), affecting both municipalities and counties. Derek highlighted Senate Bill 3646, filed by Senator Mike Perferrio, which would expand veterans assistance commission (VAC) authority, allow multi-county VACs, provide new taxation authority, establish arbitration, and create civil causes of action against counties for unmet funding requests. Derek described this as a potential massive expansion of county liability. - Member Questions on State Legislation: Member Kevin questioned the LGDF exposure; Derek confirmed county exposure is limited to unincorporated areas. Member Paul asked about Iseico's engagement on SB 3646; Derek noted conversations with Senator Perferrio are planned. Member Sandy noted the existing VAC bill cost Lake County over $20 million annually and expressed concern that SB 3646 would allow veterans to sue the county if VAC assistance is insufficient. Derek indicated SB 3646 is potentially the number one financial liability bill this session. - Member Adam Schlick requested updates on housing and impact fee legislation; Mike noted leadership is limiting bills with fee increases, but amendments could appear near the end of session. Chair Wasek asked about co-sponsors for priority items (FOIA, PTAB relocation, SWALCO bills). Mike reported progress on FOIA bills with Rep. Biddic, SWALCO bills filed (plastic bags, household hazardous waste, food waste), and an EPR bill for auto fluids that appears to have consensus. Chair Wasek also inquired about the volunteer lakes management program, toxic coal ash bill, decriminalizing homelessness, healthcare funding, and PTAB remote hearing provisions; Derek noted most are stalled or awaiting committee assignments post-primary. - Federal Legislative Update (Scott and Clayton): Scott reported that community project funding deadlines are being coordinated with members of Congress. Clayton noted an impasse over DHS funding continues, worsened by recent presidential actions. The House and Senate are in session but focused on other issues. - Matt Update on SB 2941: Matt noted SB 2941 (Senator Adrian Johnson) would mandate a 50-50 split of RTA core percent sales tax between public safety and transportation, impacting current funding. No movement yet; discussions ongoing. - County Administrator's Report: None. - Member Remarks: Member Paul thanked Chair Wasek and Deputy Administrator Myers for leadership during the NACo conference. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (minutes) was approved unanimously. - The committee received updates and will continue monitoring SB 3646, SB 2941, and other priority legislation as the General Assembly resumes activity after the March 17 primary. - Next meeting scheduled for April 7, 2026.

The Lake County Technology Committee met on February 27, 2026, at 8:30 AM via Zoom and in person. Chair Clark called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance. Committee members present: Altenberg, Cassman, Clark, Frank, Peterson, Roberts. Member Dan Forth was absent. The meeting covered several technology resolutions, a policy adoption, and an update on the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) project. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1 – Consent Agenda: Approved by motion by Frank, second by Altenburg, with no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Chair's Remarks: Chair Clark reported that several members attended the NACo conference and learned about AI, data centers, and other technology topics. - Item 8.2 – Joint Resolution – Court Technology Modernization Grant: Lisa Wolf, Director of Finance for the 19th Circuit Court, presented a $50,000 grant from the Supreme Court of Illinois. Funds will be used for: upgrading the kids' corner paging system (currently not designed for the court tower), implementing surface tablets for pretrial services (replacing clipboards and paper to automate data collection and reduce errors), replacing computers at the juvenile detention facility’s education program, and updating language interpreting devices for courtrooms. Wolf noted that last year's grant was $1.3M, but future grants are expected to be smaller due to tightened budgets. The resolution also includes an emergency appropriation. Approved. - Item 8.3 – Joint Resolution – Oracle BOSS Application Support Contract Renewal: Chris Blanding (CAO) and Mike Maslan (Applications Manager) presented a renewal contract with TD Sinex of Herndon, Virginia, for $310,032 to support the legacy ERP system (BOSS). The contract covers functional support, quarterly patches, and configurations for legislative changes (e.g., no tax on overtime). The vendor will also assist with data conversion for the new Workday system and support BOSS during decommissioning. Questions arose about how long two systems must run; that decision is pending based on audit and data accessibility needs. Approved. - Item 8.4 – Joint Resolution – Network Hardware Replacement Project: Eric Carlson (CTO for Legon) presented a contract with Logic Hallis of Downers Grove, Illinois, for $306,654 to replace end-of-life network switches that were not replaced during a previous refresh. The new hardware will meet security patching standards. Approved. - Item 8.5 – Joint Committee Action – Contract Modification for Patching Software: A contract modification with SHI of Somerset, New Jersey, for $38,066 to add a secure remote access tool to the existing patching platform. This will consolidate multiple remote support tools into one, reducing security risks (e.g., attackers exploiting remote software) and improving operational efficiency. Approved. - Item 8.6 – Joint Resolution – Acceptable Use Policy: Chris Blanding and Eric Carlson presented a modernized acceptable use policy, replacing a policy last revised 10 years ago. The policy was developed collaboratively with IT leaders across the county, using the State of Illinois’ NIST-based policies as a foundation. It applies to anyone connecting to the Lake County network, including vendors. Discussion focused on socialization and enforcement: members suggested requiring employees to sign off, using AI-generated quiz questions, and creating a tutorial with questions for each section to ensure understanding. Blanding noted that the county uses a “carrot method” (reminders, training) rather than cutting off network access. The policy will be included in onboarding and training programs. Approved. - Item 8.7 – Joint Resolution – Identification and Authentication Policy: This IT security policy sets standards for unique user IDs, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and privileged account management. Developed similarly with county IT groups, it is an internal governance policy not requiring user sign-offs. Members noted that such policies are important for network security and insurance compliance. Approved. - Director’s Report – ERP Project Update: Chris Blanding provided an update. The project is in the use case alignment phase, working across county departments to streamline processes ahead of workstream configuration. A governance charter has been distributed to over 100 project members, defining goals and decision-making. The go-live date, previously penciled for September 1, 2026, may be pushed back by 4-8 weeks to allow time for alignment and rework. A final decision is expected within the next week. Collaboration remains strong. The project is still on track for its funding deadline. Key Outcomes - All items (8.1 through 8.7) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The committee adopted the new Acceptable Use Policy and the Identification and Authentication Policy. - The ERP project go-live date may be delayed; a final decision is expected by early March 2026. - The next meeting was scheduled for April 3, 2026.

The Lake County Public Works and Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. via hybrid format. The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Maine, with a quorum present. Member Clark participated electronically due to illness. The committee approved several resolutions and heard updates from the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and county staff. Consent Calendar - Minutes from February 4, 2026: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered on items not on the agenda. Discussion Items RTA Presentation (Item 8.2) Zachary Braun (Government Affairs Associate) and Katie Peterson (Mobility Outreach Coordinator) provided updates: - Ridership: Regional transit ended 2025 with 12.3 million more rides than the previous year. CTA had a 1% increase and is at 78% of pre-pandemic levels; Metra recorded 38 million rides (8% year-over-year increase); Pace bus ridership decreased by 3% to 16.4 million rides, at 67% of pre-pandemic levels. - Capital Program Oversight: $11.2 billion in projects detailed in the semi-annual report. - NITA Transition: The new Northern Illinois Transit Authority will consolidate fares, enhance safety, and assume planning responsibilities from service boards. - Fox Lake TOD: Zoning code updates to advance transit-oriented development around the Fox Lake Metra station are underway, implementing the downtown master plan. - Mobility Management: The Access pilot program (reduced Metra fares for SNAP recipients) is extended through December 31, 2026. A new portal (Portal 2.0) allows applicants to update info, change photos, and upload documents without restarting. Committee members requested Lake County–specific ridership data for Metra and Pace, and asked for coordination with county planning departments on transit-oriented development. A discussion highlighted the historical lack of bus connections to train stations in Round Lake and Fox Lake, which the county is working to address through road projects and interagency collaboration. Intergovernmental Agreement with Grays Lake (Item 8.3) Director Austin McFarlane presented a joint resolution authorizing a retail sanitary sewer and water supply IGA with the Village of Grays Lake. The agreement adds parcels (shaded in red) to the county’s Wildwood water system, with the county providing retail services (direct billing and infrastructure). The village approved the IGA on February 3, 2026. Committee members questioned connection fees and capacity limits; member Hunter noted that the agreement (page 17) explicitly requires connection charges at the county’s standard rates. The resolution passed unanimously after clarification. Ecological Restoration Contract (Item 8.4) Director Shane Schneider presented a low-bid contract with Semperfi Land Inc. of Yorkville for $9,780 to maintain native landscaped areas (wetlands, detention basins, roundabout islands) covering 101 acres (up from 50 acres in 2015). The work includes invasive species management. The bid was narrowly lower than a competitor; Semperfi has performed similar work for the county. Approved unanimously. Motor Fuel Tax Funds for Ice Control Salt (Item 8.5) The committee approved appropriation of $2 million in MFT funds for the 2026–2027 winter season, based on an estimated need of 16,000 tons of salt. The county coordinates joint bids with over 60 local agencies. Current contract price is $90/ton; the 10-year average annual usage is 13,000 tons. The county uses beet juice to reduce salt application by about 20%. Approved unanimously. MLK Drive Engineering Contract (Item 8.6) Approved an agreement with Civil Tech Engineering Inc. for phase two design of improvements to Martin Luther King Drive (Commonwealth Avenue to IL Route 137) at a maximum cost of $370,093.78. The project includes replacing a deteriorating box culvert and resurfacing the road east to Sheridan Road. The western portion will be resurfaced in summer 2026. Approved unanimously. Speed Zone Reduction on Wadsworth Road (Item 8.7) The committee established a 35 mph speed zone (reduced from 45 mph) on Wadsworth Road from US Route 41 to 1,400 feet east, in Newport Township. The change responds to crash history, pedestrian activity (bike trail crossing), and previous safety improvements (roundabout, access consolidation). The reduction aligns with the speed limit east of 41 into downtown. Approved unanimously. Deerfield Road Right-of-Way Supplemental Appropriation (Item 8.8) Approved a supplemental $1 million in MFT funds for right-of-way acquisition on Deerfield Road (Milwaukee Avenue to Saunders Road). The project will widen the road to three lanes, improve the intersection at Milwaukee Avenue, and install a bike path and sidewalk. Of 39 required parcels, only a few remain. The original 2003 appropriation was based on estimates; actual settlement costs require the supplement. The Des Plaines River Trail will be temporarily closed under the bridge during repairs for safety. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All resolutions passed unanimously (items 8.2–8.8). - Committee requested staff to obtain Lake County–specific ridership data from Metra and Pace. - Director McFarlane to provide sample customer fees and connection charge details for the Grays Lake IGA. - Member Wasick reported that the Surface Transportation Reauthorization is being marked up in Congress; county will identify potential earmarks. - Member Kasman shared updated Pace ridership data (system-wide 3.5% year-over-year increase, 72.7% of 2019 levels) and will forward to the committee. The next meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2026.

This meeting of the Lake County Board Committee was called to order at 1:00 PM on February 24, 2026, under the chairmanship of Chair Cunningham. The committee received two key presentations: an update on the employee Belonging at Work survey by Dr. Adrian Carter of Fountain CEO Carter Development Group, and an update on supplier diversity data by Purchasing Manager Eva Alberon. Several routine actions and discussions took place. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the consent agenda (item 8.1), including meeting minutes, on a motion by Member Campus and second by Chair Hart. All members voted in favor. Discussion Items - Belonging at Work Survey (Item 8.2): Dr. Adrian Carter presented an update on the employee engagement survey, which closed on February 20, 2025, with a 55% participation rate. The survey covered inclusion, training, communication, community engagement, psychological safety, workplace well-being, opportunities for advancement, readiness for change, and organizational culture. Dr. Carter highlighted initial data: 24% strongly agreed that Lake County values them as an employee, 35% somewhat agreed, 18% somewhat disagreed, 18% strongly disagreed, and 4% were unsure. He noted that treating unsure responses as negatives yields about 40% who do not feel valued. Similarly, 23% strongly agreed and 41% somewhat agreed that Lake County’s stated values are reflected in daily workplace culture, leaving 36% who partially or fully disagree. The next steps include deeper analysis, focus groups, and a training session on psychological safety for government leaders scheduled for April 14, 2025. Committee members discussed the ability to disaggregate data by department, work location, hybrid/remote status, and the importance of understanding why employees feel undervalued. Dr. Carter explained that cross-tabulation and analysis of open-ended comments will provide further insights. - Supplier Diversity Data (Item 8.3): Eva Alberon reviewed the supplier diversity program, including compliance with the 2022 public act mandating collection and publication of vendor demographic information. The county uses the B2G Now system to track classifications: woman-owned, veteran-owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises. Over three fiscal years, the largest spend category was woman-owned businesses. The county has increased its percentage of spending with diverse vendors year over year. Notable vendors include major construction firms, temporary services (Salem Group), and IT vendors. The system also helps source new vendors; registration increased by 815 vendors this year, totaling 9,772. Committee members inquired about hosting a separate business opportunity meeting, and Ms. Alberon noted that Lake County partners with the College of DuPage for a reverse vendor fair on March 17, 2025, with over 200 diverse vendors registered. The purchasing division issues 60–80 procurements annually. Key Outcomes - The committee received both presentations for information and discussion. No formal votes were taken on the presentations. - The next meeting is scheduled for May 26, 2025. - The meeting was adjourned without further business.

February 10, 2026 – The Lake County Board convened at 9 a.m. with 18 members present, including two participating electronically (Member Schlick for work reasons, Vice Chair Cunningham due to illness). The meeting included employee recognitions, proclamations, public comments, a lengthy debate on the Responsibility and Firearms Legislation (RIFL) Act, and approval of several resolutions. Consent Calendar - Approved items 4–29 (routine approvals and resolutions) by unanimous vote, after removing items 13 and 14 for separate consideration. Employee Recognitions - Tiffany Cress (30 years, State’s Attorney’s Office): Recognized for work in gang/narcotics division, preparation of thousands of search warrants, and assisting in forfeiture of hundreds of thousands of dollars from drug dealers. - Lauren Kalsheim Rothenberg (30 years, State’s Attorney’s Office): Honored for prosecuting complex cases including violent crimes and the Highland Park Independence Day mass shooting. Proclamations - 211 Day in Lake County (February 11, 2026): Proclaimed by Member Hunter. United Way representatives noted that 211 has made over 448,000 connections to assistance since 2019, with 9,299 calls/texts in the past year. Board members praised the service as a vital community resource. - America 250 Kickoff: Deputy County Administrator Matt Myers announced an art and essay contest for K-12 students ("We the People, America Through My Eyes") and a social media series highlighting Lake County history. Public Comments & Testimony (Non-Agenda Items) - Dean Barker, Brian Jones, Jody Zitko, Ken Zitko (Unite for Freedom, Winnebago/Kane County residents): Presented a resolution calling for election integrity reforms, citing alleged irregularities in the 2024 general election. They urged the board to adopt a resolution to ensure a "legally valid 2026 general election." - Rayan Edwards (Lake County resident): Criticized DCFS and PADS (homeless services) following the death of an eight-year-old due to abuse, and called for a hospital in the county's largest city. - Spencer Elliott (Lake County resident): Requested cancellation of the Flock camera contract, citing privacy concerns and documented misuse of surveillance data. - Morgan Coghill (Mundelein): Opposed a proposed pipeline from Antioch to Wisconsin for a Microsoft data center, citing environmental and safety risks. - Alexander King Sophiakis (Lake County resident): Argued that election concerns are overblown, and suggested focusing on ranked choice voting and making IDs free. Board of Health Report - The Health Department's withdrawal management unit reopened at the end of January. The substance abuse program began delivering methadone guest doses to the Lake County Jail in January 2025 (72 referrals received since), preventing discontinuation of treatment for inmates. Evidence-based group treatment also started in the jail in January 2026. Discussion Items - Items 13 & 14 (HOME ARP Allocation Plan and HUD Annual Action Plan): Joint resolutions passed with one recusal (Member Kasman). - Item 31 (Healthy Houses Program): Emergency appropriation of $2 million from DCEO approved by roll call. - Item 32 (Disability Accessibility for 9th Judicial Circuit): Emergency appropriation of $14,000 approved. - Item 33 – RIFL Act (Responsibility and Firearms Legislation Act): Extensive debate over process and substance. Supporters (Member Kenisnik, State's Attorney Eric Reinhardt, and several board members) argued the bill would hold firearm manufacturers accountable for gun violence costs, fund community violence intervention programs, and complement existing county efforts (74% reduction in firearm homicides since 2022). They noted the bill had been amended to reduce the fund to about $50 million and that it aligns with the county's legislative agenda. Opponents (Members Hunter, Danforth, Hewitt, Maine, Peterson, Schlick) raised concerns about process (lack of advance notice, no agenda item at committee, outdated bill text online) and substance (tax on law-abiding gun owners, backdoor prohibition, unfounded statistics). Member Danforth challenged cost figures and called the bill a "power to destroy" via taxation. Some members objected to passing the bill without full board knowledge. Chair Hart and Member Wasick defended the process, stating the legislative committee acted within its rules and the full board had a week to review materials. The topic was also covered by the county's legislative agenda. Vote: 13 aye, 6 nay (Members Danforth, Hewitt, Hunter, Maine, Peterson, Schlick opposed). Motion passed. - Item 34 (Rollins Road/Wilson Road Intersection Improvements): Phase one engineering services agreement ($1.77M) and appropriation ($2.13M) approved by roll call. - Item 35 (Naming of County-Owned Property): Ordinance establishing a policy for naming buildings and structures, requiring future board action. Approved unanimously. - Item 36 (Sale of Two County-Owned Properties in Mundelein): Sale of 5.6 acres (former animal care facility) for $135,000 approved by roll call. Key Outcomes - RIFL Act support resolution passed 13-6. - Consent agenda approved (items 4–29). - Items 13, 14, 31, 32, 34, 36 all passed. - Ordinance for naming county property adopted. - The board adjourned to reconvene on March 10, 2026.

The Lake County Board's Financial and Administrative Committee met on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. The meeting included updates on economic development, voting procedures, budget carryovers, federal funding uncertainty, and an executive session on pending litigation. All committee members were present. Consent Calendar - Agenda items 8.1 through 8.16 were approved unanimously without discussion or comment. Discussion Items - Lake County Partners Update (Item 8.17): Kevin Considine, President and CEO, reported that 2025 was the organization's best year, with 1,800 new jobs (1,000 in manufacturing) and $633 million in direct capital investment. Most growth came from existing businesses. Three multifamily housing developments in Fox Lake and Libertyville were noted. Considine highlighted the annual budget: $1.5 million total, with $387,000 (26%) from the county. He previewed upcoming events, including the April 24th Big Event and a trade delegation to Germany. He also noted 3,000 housing units under construction or approved in Lake County, including over 400 affordable units. - County Clerk Update on USPS Changes (Item 8.18): Clerk Anthony Vega detailed three U.S. Postal Service changes effective January 1, 2026: postmarking now occurs only at the Carol Stream processing facility rather than local offices; pickup routes reduced from two to one per day; and extraordinary measures for election mail are no longer employed except for November general elections. These changes affect vote-by-mail ballots, as Illinois is a postmark state. Vega recommended voters return ballots early, use drop boxes, request manual postmarks, or surrender ballots at early voting sites. He noted that drop boxes are on county property under surveillance. He also mentioned efforts to inform voters via mail inserts and social media. - FY25 Carryover Resolutions (Items 8.19 and 8.20): Michael Wheeler, budget manager, presented Resolution 8.19 for $20 million in grant and project carryovers from FY25 to FY26. Resolution 8.20, presented by CFO Regina Tuzak, authorized line item transfers within departments to align budget with actual spending, with no net budget increase. Discussion included tracking recurring line item overages to improve future budget accuracy. - Emergency Appropriation for Sheridan Crossing (Item 8.21): A resolution authorized emergency appropriation of a $4 million HUD Community Project Funding grant for environmental remediation at Sheridan Crossing in North Chicago. Work is about to begin; the county acts as a conduit, ensuring compliance with HUD requirements. Additionally, it was noted that Congressman Schneider secured $1 million for the Lakeside Towers affordable housing project. - Reclassification of Positions (Items 8.23 & 8.24): The committee approved reclassification of a senior planner to assistant planning and zoning manager (Grade 8 to 14, $30,000 annual increase) and an info compliance specialist to info systems compliance lead (Grade 4 to 8, $3,000 annual increase, grant-funded). Both were discussed in prior executive session. - Sale of County-Owned Properties (Item 8.25): Resolution approved the sale of two parcels (5.6 acres) at 29278 Route 83 and 21010 West Illinois Route 60 in Mundelein, the former animal care and control facility, for $135,000 (above appraised value). The property has been for sale since 2018. - ERP System Implementation Update (Item 8.26): County Administrator Patrice Sutton and CIO Chris Blinding provided an update on the Workday ERP project, which is 100% ARPA-funded. After a pause in fall 2025, the team is relaunching with a new governance framework and use-case approach to align countywide processes. A change order for $1,088,925 (26% increase over the original $4.128 million implementation contract) will extend the timeline to Q4 2026. The total project budget remains $13.5 million, with the change order absorbed within ARPA funds. Future customization and annual updates were discussed. - Status of Federal Funding (Item 8.27): Patrice Sutton presented on monitoring federal funding uncertainty. Staff convened a group from health, workforce development, and community development departments—three departments most impacted by federal grants (workforce development and community development are nearly 100% federally funded). Identified $26.9 million in active grants at risk out of $36.5 million total. Sutton proposed creating a safety net fund to allow orderly transitions when grants are abruptly terminated or reinstated. An example was given of a SAMHSA grant canceled then reinstated within 24 hours. Committee members expressed consensus to continue developing this approach, with discussions on policy changes and long-term priority setting. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 8.1-8.16): Approved unanimously. - FY25 Carryovers (8.19): Approved by voice vote. - Line Item Transfers (8.20): Approved by voice vote. - Emergency Appropriation (8.21): Approved by voice vote. - Reclassification (8.23 & 8.24): Both approved by voice vote. - Property Sale (8.25): Approved by voice vote. - ERP Change Order (8.26): No formal vote taken; update provided; administrator authorized to proceed within ARPA budget. - Federal Funding Safety Net (8.27): Committee consensus to continue developing the safety net fund approach; further details to be presented. - Executive Session: Motion to enter closed session to discuss pending litigation was approved (roll call: all present members voted yes). After executive session, the committee adjourned, with next meeting scheduled for February 26, 2026.

[Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on February 3, 2025, but the provided date for this summary is February 4, 2026. This discrepancy is noted.] The Lake County Legislative Committee met to discuss state and federal legislative updates, public comments on gun violence prevention, and proposed positions on specific bills. Key topics included the RIFL Act (Responsibility and Firearm Legislation Act), state legislation affecting local sales tax, federal appropriations and earmarks, and a proposed NACO resolution on local AI policy. The committee reached consensus to support the RIFL Act and to submit the AI resolution. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously via motion by Vice Chair Campos and second by Member Hunter. Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Anthony Douglas (surgical resident, University of Chicago) urged the board to pass a resolution supporting the RIFL Act. He cited 109 firearm injuries in Lake County in 2024 (estimated $92 million in direct/indirect costs) and a 41% drop to 64 injuries in 2025. He argued that firearm manufacturers should contribute to a fund for survivor services and violence prevention, noting that Illinois bears $20 billion annually in gun violence costs. - Jim McGrath (Barrington resident, representing Indivisible Illinois) expressed support for the RIFL Act, emphasizing that it does not regulate guns but holds manufacturers financially responsible. He highlighted Lake County’s leadership in innovative gun violence prevention. - Tiara Lemon (Gun Violence Prevention Initiative Director, State’s Attorney’s Office) shared experiences from trauma centers, describing how victims face crippling medical debt. She argued the RIFL Act is critical to fund survivor services and prevention programs like the GVPI and Lake County Peacemakers. - State’s Attorney Eric Reinhardt thanked the board for past leadership and noted independent data (IDPH, law enforcement, coroner, ShotSpotter) showing declining gun violence. He called the RIFL Act “pro-victim” and a way to shift costs from taxpayers to manufacturers without affecting legal gun owners. - Ashby Beasley (Lake County resident) testified virtually. She survived the 2022 Highland Park mass shooting with her son, who required extensive therapy costing over $70,000. She stressed that the RIFL Act would fund survivor services and prevent future violence. State Legislative Update - Derek (via Zoom) reported a slow start to the 2026 session, with the governor’s budget address on February 17 seeking to close a $2.5 billion deficit. About 5,000 bills are expected by the February 6 filing deadline. - Chair Wasnick raised concern about SB 2941 (Senator Johnson), which would require half of the RTA quarter-percent sales tax revenue to go to law enforcement. The county currently uses these funds for transportation. Derek and Mike will meet with the sponsor to discuss the bill; Chair Wasnick noted it could be a “technical correction.” - Mike reported progress on legislation addressing vexatious FOIA requests, with Representative Diddich committed to working with the county. Discussion Items - RIFL Act (Responsibility and Firearm Legislation Act) – After public comments, the committee discussed the bill. Members expressing support included Member Frank (called the federal liability shield unfair), Member Hunter (Jessica) (compared to tobacco settlements, questioned about pregnant women statistic), Member Compost (100% support, noted manufacturers should be held liable like other industries), Member Kenisnik (Sarah) (provided details on bill support: 41 co-sponsors in House, 24 in Senate, nearly enough votes; bill does not burden taxpayers or law-abiding gun owners; creates alignment between manufacturer interests and public safety; noted Cook, DuPage, and Champaign counties considering similar resolutions). Member Hunter (Kevin) expressed concern about lack of advance notice and wanted broader board discussion; he also questioned why ammunition wasn’t included and noted the product liability comparison to carpet manufacturers. Member Schleck and Member Volitzick asked about property damage and ammunition; Dr. Douglas explained that property damage would be too costly for manufacturers and that ammunition identification is unreliable. The chair noted that the committee can support bills via consensus and inform the full board. After discussion, the committee reached consensus to support the RIFL Act as a county position. (Note: The chair later said “We will discuss this again,” suggesting possible further review.) - Federal Legislative Update – Clayton Cox and Scott Binkley (McGuire Woods Consulting) introduced themselves and provided updates on federal appropriations. They reported that Lake County received three congressionally directed spending requests totaling $3.2 million: $1.092M for water system improvements, $1.092M for Antioch Township sanitary sewer improvements (both in interior bill, awaiting president’s signature), and $1.092M for Lakeside Tower rehabilitation (in THUD bill, passed hour before). They discussed the government shutdown situation and advised on strategy for protecting federal funds in the current political environment, including working through coalitions like NACO. Members asked about engagement with Representative Schneider’s office and the approach for a Democratic county under a Republican administration. - Proposed NACO Interim Policy Resolution on Artificial Intelligence – Matt explained that Member Clark submitted a resolution to preserve local authority to set AI policies without federal funding being withheld. Member Frank supported it, citing concerns about unregulated AI growth and the need for local guardrails. Member Compost asked for examples (e.g., employee AI usage policies). The committee expressed no objections, and the resolution will be submitted to NACO. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Support for RIFL Act: Committee reached consensus to support the bill as a county legislative position. The full board will be informed and may revisit if requested. - State bill SB 2941: Staff will meet with sponsor Senator Johnson to clarify intent; committee will monitor. - Federal earmarks: Three projects funded totaling $3.2 million; further appropriations cycle to begin soon. - NACO AI resolution: Submitted without objection. - Next meeting: Scheduled for March 3.

The Lake County Public Works and Transportation Committee met on February 4, 2026, at 8:30 AM. Chair Clark presided. Member Roberts participated electronically due to a work conflict. The committee approved several contracts and received updates on the Pactura water system conversion, Julie locate services, and the Envision 2050 long-range transportation plan. The meeting was held in a hybrid format. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1: Consent agenda was approved by unanimous voice vote (motion by Wasick, second by Casbin). Discussion Items - Item 8.2: Generator Replacement – Remington LRSD Lift Station (Joint Resolution authorizing contract with Buckeye Power Sales Co. Inc., Romeoville, IL, for $94,965). Director McFarland explained the generator had reached its useful life (typically 10-15 years). The committee discussed salvaging the old unit and efficiencies of newer natural gas generators. Member Wasick noted the replacement likely has a lower carbon footprint. The resolution passed unanimously. - Item 8.3: Director's Report – Pactura Water System & Wildwood Water Main Update. Director McFarland reported that the Pactura system began receiving Lake Michigan water on December 19, 2026, after a delay caused by new EPA regulations. Only a few complaints about elevated residual chlorine were received, and adjustments are being made. Additional lead and copper testing is required for about a year and a half. The project used ARPA funds. On the Wildwood water main, McFarland stated a secondary feeder main is being installed to supply Arbor Vista and Liberty Acres due to concerns about a 50-year-old existing main. The new main will allow the old one to be shut down for assessment. - Item 8.4: Julie Utility Locating Services (Joint Resolution authorizing contract with USIC Locating Services LLC, Indianapolis, IN, for $165,204, plus $20,600 in Julie fees, totaling $218,800 from quarter-percent sales tax). DOT Director Schneider explained the contract is required by state law for utility locates. Last year the county processed about 17,000 tickets. The committee discussed the efficiency of the service and the importance of public outreach to encourage residents to call 811 before digging. The resolution passed unanimously. - Item 8.6: Intersection Improvement Engineering – Rollins Road & Wilson Road (Joint Resolution authorizing agreement with Stanley Consultants Inc., Chicago, IL, for Phase I engineering services at a maximum cost of $1,773,869, appropriating $2,130,000 from quarter-percent sales tax). DOT Director Schneider said the intersection is about 30 years old with end-of-life traffic signals and pavement. Phase I will evaluate alternatives including roundabout, turn lanes, and bike path connections. Member Hunter noted a major sanitary interceptor runs under the road and coordination with Public Works is needed. The resolution passed unanimously. - Item 8.6 (repeated): Envision 2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan Update – Vision & Goals. Mike Clemens, Manager of Transportation Planning, and Kevin Carrier, Assistant County Engineer, presented revised vision statements and goals. The committee discussed two vision options: Option 1 ("sustainable, resilient transportation system") and Option 2 (more aspirational, including "safety is absolute, reliability is guaranteed, mobility is a right"). Most members (Clark, Maine, Hewitt, Casbin, Hunter) preferred Option 1, with suggestions to remove a dash, add something about fiscal responsibility and community responsiveness. Member Wasick liked parts of Option 2 but acknowledged it was dense. Members requested examples of how the adopted vision would affect project selection. The goals incorporate climate resilience throughout. Next steps include stakeholder meetings in early March, public engagement, and a draft plan with projects by late summer 2026. The non-motorized transportation policy update is also underway. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Generator replacement contract (Item 8.2) approved unanimously. - Julie locate services contract (Item 8.4) approved unanimously. - Rollins/Wilson intersection engineering contract (Item 8.6) approved unanimously. - Envision 2050 Vision & Goals: The committee expressed preference for Vision Option 1 with modifications. Staff will revise and bring back a refined version, including examples of how the vision will impact project decisions. The plan update will continue with stakeholder input and public meetings.

The Lake County Health and Community Service Committee met on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 8:30 AM. The meeting covered a range of new business items including emergency appropriations, grant acceptances, and an extensive discussion on the status of federal funding for county departments. The committee approved several resolutions and heard updates from department directors. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the December 2, 2025 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. Discussion Items - Item 8.2 – Emergency Appropriation for Environmental Review Record: The committee approved a joint resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $10,768.14 for completing an environmental review record. The funds were collected from agreements with agencies (e.g., Lake County Housing Authority, Jewish Community Centers of Chicago) to compensate staff time for reports they cannot perform. - Item 8.3 – Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) for HMIS: Approved a joint resolution accepting $4,069 from the Illinois Department of Human Services for grant administration and management of the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). The funds offset staff salary costs for the HMIS manager. Member Maine asked whether the budget had already accounted for this salary; Community Development Director Dominic Strezzo explained the grant is received annually but the agreement was executed late. - Item 8.4 – Healthy Houses Program Grant ($2 Million): Approved an emergency appropriation of $2 million from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) for the Healthy Houses program. The grant will reimburse private landlords for HVAC improvements in affordable rental properties (up to 6 units per property, tenants at or below 80% Area Median Income). Strezzo noted the tight timeline (expenditures by June 2027) and that readiness and income documentation will be key. The program will be promoted through the Lake County Coalition for the Homeless and the landlord workgroup. - Item 8.5 – Home ARP Allocation Plan Amendment (Permanent Supportive Housing): Approved the second amendment to the HOME-ARP allocation plan, allocating approximately $5 million toward a 24-unit permanent supportive housing project in Mundelein (partnership with PADS Lake County, Community Partners for Affordable Housing, and Lake County Housing Authority). The units will serve households below 60% AMI, with 15 units below 30% AMI. The project is contingent on state funding. Members discussed the need for larger units to serve families and aging populations; Chair Hart raised the potential impact of federal cuts to supportive housing funding, but Strezzo confirmed the project's pro forma is independent of those COC dollars. - Item 8.6 – Third Amendment to PY2025 HUD Annual Action Plan: Approved four reallocations: (1) $120,000 from Waukegan owner-occupied rehab to down payment assistance; (2) $200,000 from a Lake Forest senior project to a community land trust and the EB Lee Senior Apartment in Libertyville; (3) and (4) $200,000 from Liberty Arms roof repairs to an environmental remediation pool for the Healthy Houses program. - Item 8.7 – DCEO Workforce Innovation Grant ($119,123.05): Approved an emergency appropriation for a new grant to offset personnel costs for launching a new case management system. The lead trainer will work with career planners in Lake, McHenry, and DuPage counties. - Item 8.8 – HIV Screening Development Grant ($12,550): Accepted additional funding from the Public Health Institute of Metropolitan Chicago to support HIV screening and staff training in the substance abuse program. Member Maine asked about progress toward the 90-90-90 goals; Health Department staff agreed to provide updated metrics. - Item 8.9 – Children’s Advocacy Center VOCA Grant ($40,266): Approved additional funding to continue a bilingual senior therapist at the Children’s Advocacy Center. Data shows 79% of children show a reduction in trauma symptoms from these services. - Item 8.10 – Ryan White Part A Grant ($75,980): Accepted additional funding to purchase vaccines (Shingrix, Hep A, Hep B, HPV, meningitis) for HIV patients at the MMC clinic, which serves 377 clients (about 50% of the HIV population in the county). The clinic reports a 93% viral suppression rate. - Item 8.11 – Ryan White Part A Grant ($147,152): Approved additional funding to support two medical case managers and one non‑medical case manager for HIV clients, taking over services previously provided by Catholic Charities. - Item 8.12 – Update on Status of Federal Funding: County Administrator Patrice Sutton presented a plan to address the uncertainty of federal grants. Analysis of three departments (Health, Community Development, Workforce Development) identified $26.9 million at risk out of $36.5 million in current awards. The proposal includes a 60-day safety net costing $4.3 million to allow time for mitigation, client transition, or court reversals. The committee expressed general support for: (1) loosening the budget policy that requires immediate termination of grant-funded staff when grants end, to allow a safety-net period; (2) using contingency funds or reserves for an emergency appropriation; and (3) continuing to refine the prioritization framework. Directors from Health, Community Development, and Workforce Development described the chaotic nature of funding notices and the impact on staff and clients. Members stressed the need to protect life‑saving programs and to have a broader discussion about fund balance and priorities at the Financial & Administrative Committee. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda – Approved by voice vote. - Items 8.2 through 8.11 – All emergency appropriations and grant acceptances approved by voice vote (no opposition recorded). - Item 8.12 – Committee concurrence to continue developing a plan for a safety‑net fund and to review budget policy regarding grant‑funded staff. Further discussion on fund balance and levy policy will proceed to the Financial & Administrative Committee. The next meeting was scheduled for February 24, 2026.