An Illinois task force that recommended cutting costs and paper by posting notices online, along with additional suggestions for consolidating local government operations, can thank Lake County for playing a part.
When Gov. Bruce Rauner created a task force last year via an executive order, Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor wrote a memo introducing possibilities for mandate alterations.
“I want to thank the task force for listening to our suggestions and ideas for improving local government,” Lawlor said. “We appreciate the state taking steps to remove any obstacles and encouraging local governments to take the lead in tackling these issues. Lake County has already made significant progress in reducing costs by making cuts and implementing efficiencies through sharing services and joint purchasing.”
Specific areas fleshed out by Lawlor and submitted by Lake County included changing document requirements so that public notices could be posted online and digitally archived as well as instituting worker’s compensation law reforms. Additionally, Lawlor suggested expanding DuPage County’s pilot consolidation program to Lake County.
“The report is a powerful example of what can happen when we work together,” Lawlor said. “As part of our 2016 Legislative Program, Lake County is asking state legislators to advance several pieces that focus on consolidation and unfunded mandates.”
Additional goals for Lake County cover improvements in several sectors, from inmate welfare and jury duty compensation to the Round Lake Sanitary District. Lake County intends to follow through on these initiatives during 2016.
Alerts Sign-up