Lake County Clerk News
July 2009
Voting Options Increase... Along With Costs to Taxpayers
In the February 2010 primary election, any voter in Illinois will be eligible to vote by mail. Senate Bill 2022 eliminates requiring a reason to qualify to vote absentee and authorizes "no excuse" absentee voting for everyone. Lake County voters may choose voting by mail as early as 40 days before an election or choose early voting in person beginning 22 days before each election.
This added convenience comes with a price in a time requiring fiscal restraint. The County Clerk is required to have sufficient ballots printed for each of the three options a voter may prefer. Ballot printing, testing, and delivery must be completed in advance of the time for voting. Printing costs will increase significantly, and postage for each ballot request is approximately $1.
Requests for absentee ballots must be processed within two business days. Based on histories in states with "no excuse" absentee voting, additional staff will be needed as absentee voting occurs during the timeframe for supporting early voting and preparing for the traditional Election Day. No earmarked funding source was included in the bill passed by the Illinois General Assembly.
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A Word with Willard
With the need of some county services on the increase, and revenues on the decrease, Barry Burton, Lake County Administrator, discusses the County's proactive steps for 2010 to be a financially secure year.
Maureen Riedy, President, Lake County, Illinois Convention & Visitors Bureau explains how you can take a vacation without leaving the county. Summer festivals, concerts, outdoor activities, and other cultural activities make Lake County a premier vacation destination.
Requesting Lake County vital records
You may order a certified copy of a birth, death or marriage record from the County Clerk's office. For fees, hours, and more information, visit our website.
Senior citizens can apply for property assessment freezes
Lake County senior citizens 65 years old or older whose income does not exceed $55,000 may qualify for a property assessment freeze, if the property is their primary residence. However, they must submit an application to the Lake County Chief County Assessment Office. The County Board approved extending the deadline from July 1 until August 31, 2009 at its July 14 meeting.
Taxpayers can visit the Chief County Assessment Office or any one of the 18 township assessor offices and pick up an application or ask questions. Completed application forms should be mailed to the Chief County Assessment Office, 18 North County Street - 7th Floor, Waukegan, Illinois, by August 31. For questions, residents can call the Chief County Assessment Office at (847) 377-2050. A list of township assessor offices and additional information is available at www.lakecountyil.gov/assessor.
Residents are encouraged to share this information with their senior parents, family members, friends and neighbors who may be eligible.
Opt out of receiving a printed county newsletter
To keep residents informed and county government transparent, the Lake County Board will mail a printed countywide newsletter this summer.
The Board recognizes that this mailing means investing tax dollars, but also recognizes the importance of providing information directly to residents. Instead of receiving a printed newsletter mail to your home, your can opt to receive an electronic version. Send your name, street address, and Email address to communications@lakecountyil.gov.
New email addresses and website
Please use our easy to remember link www.LakeCountyClerk.info to access the County Clerk's home page.
Need to find our office?
Visit our directions web page offering different information options including having a map and text sent to your cell phone with Internet access.
You are always welcome in the County Clerk's office.
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