Lake County Gazette

Lake County representatives recently convened with officials from 40 other counties to deliberate on crucial policies during the Illinois County Lobby Day in Springfield. The event was organized by the Illinois State Association of Counties in collaboration with the United Counties Council of Illinois.

"We were happy to be part of this event as part of our advocacy of our legislative priorities," said Sandy Hart, the County Board Chair, according to a Lake County press release. "During the visit, we spoke with our legislators about the importance of safe firearm storage, increased protection of our wetlands and natural resources, and ​our overall legislative program."

According to another Lake County press release, Hart, along with Legislative Committee Chair John Wasik and board members Marah Altenberg, Paul Frank, and Gina Roberts attended a legislative briefing at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library. The briefing featured presentations by Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch, Senate President Don Harmon, House Republican Leader Tony McCombie, and Senate Republican Leader John Curran.

In a separate Lake County press release, it was noted that officials from Lake County and other participating counties visited the Illinois Statehouse to advocate for issues they deemed beneficial to their respective counties and interests.

A reception was held for county officials and state legislators where they had an opportunity to network and build relationships. According to yet another Lake County press release, board member John Wasik stated that they were able to meet most of the Lake County delegation in Springfield. Wasik described any chance to connect with them as an invaluable opportunity.