The County Board approved a balanced budget for fiscal year 2013 that is $2.6 million less than last year's budget, and $19.4 million less than it was in 2009 (prior to the recession).

The County Board voted to freeze the property tax levy for existing properties. What that means is that under state law, local governments can levy the same as the previous year, plus the CPI (consumer price index), or 5%, whichever is less. The Board could have increased the tax levy by 3% (this year's CPI, or $4.4 million), but voted to not take that amount. It's important to remember though that Lake County's portion of the tax bill is only 7%. The rest goes to other taxing bodies including: cities/villages, townships, and schools (which get the biggest piece, 68%). 

The Lake County Board adheres to strong budget policies that have allowed the County to manage challenging times, maintain fiscal stability and help protect the long-term fiscal health of the County. For example, the County has implemented efficiencies and new technology that helped cut personnel costs (the biggest piece of the budget).  Debt service is less than 3% of the county budget.

Lake County has also wisely invested in its infrastructure, both physical and technological, saving and planning for big projects in order to preserve these critical assets for the long-term.

Also, the County's investment in energy conservation is producing positive results. The County's utility budget is down by $1.3 million from last year.

Lake County continues to maintain AAA bond rating - the highest credit rating possible - from both Standard & Poor's and Moody's. This is an indication of the County Board's strong track record of fiscal responsibility.

If you are thinking about postponing your job search during the holiday season, think again. Many employers are thinking ahead into the New Year. Job hunters who double their search efforts during the holidays take advantage of standing out when others have stopped looking, and ensure they do not risk falling off an employer's radar screen.

Watch this Career Chat to learn about keeping the job search going through the holidays.

The Great American Smokeout was on Nov. 15, but it's never too late to be a quitter. Quitting smoking is hard, but with help, smokers can increase their chances of success. Here are the stories of two Lake County residents, Christine and Paul, who, with the help of the Lake County Health Department's "Tobacco Free Lake County" program, have become smoke free.

Watch now.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show

Through Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m.

The Grounds of the Cuneo Mansion

1350 N. Milwaukee Ave. (enter via Lakeview Parkway), Vernon Hills

A Lake County holiday tradition. Visit Northern Illinois' largest drive-through Holiday Light Festival held at the Cuneo Mansion and view thousands of twinkling lights, animated displays and holiday decorations. Open 6 to 10 p.m. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Enter from Lakeview Pkwy. Admission Monday through Thursday is $5 and on Friday through Sunday is $10. Watch a video or get more info.

The Velveteen Rabbit

Through Dec. 23, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, 1350 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills

Looking for something the entire family will enjoy? The Kirk Players are proud to present a wonderfully staged adaptation of The Velveteen Rabbit on Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23. This beautiful rendition of the beloved children's book by Margery Williams will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit. The story centers on a child who receives a stuffed velveteen rabbit for Christmas. The rabbit is shunned by many of the more expensive toys in the nursery, so the child befriends a stuffed skin horse who explains what it means to be "real." The child's love for the bunny makes the bunny real, and the child is able to overcome all fears. Join us in a magical event filled with enchantment, song and audience participation. Bring a toy for Toys for Tots and receive a free mug of hot chocolate. More info. 

Take an Evening Hike Along Solar Lighted Trails

With small solar lights to guide their way, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can now get some brisk evening exercise at Old School Forest Preserve in Libertyville, and along a hilly, scenic section of the Millennium Trail adjacent to the Winter Sports Area at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda. 

Though regular preserve hours are 6:30 a.m. to sunset, the illuminated trails and adjacent parking lots will remain open after sunset until 9 p.m., daily through March 9. Bicycle and equestrian traffic is not permitted on the lighted trails after sunset. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. 

To access the lighted trails, park at Lakewood's Winter Sports Area, located on the east side of Fairfield Road just south of Route 176, or at Old School's main entrance lot, located on the east side of St. Mary's Road just south of Route 176. Lake County Forest Preserve Rangers regularly patrol the areas.

Registration now open for 2013 Summer Camps

Sneak some learning into your child's summer adventures. Lake County Forest Preserves' Summer Camps meet the summer wishes of kids and parents alike. 

Registration for the 2013 camp season is now open with early bird discounts available through February 15, 2013. Programs fill quickly so enroll early. 

Choose a topic and age group that suits your child. Camps are offered for ages four through 15. Choose from nature exploration, fun on the farm, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, history, theatre, or arts and crafts. Four new camp topics have been added to the camp calendar, including animal tracking, dinosaurs, restoration and a special camp for families. 

Browse all available camps and register online, or call 847.968.3321 for details and to request a free camp brochure.

Dear Neighbor, 

I hope you find this information helpful.  Please continue to ask questions and suggest topics for the e-newsletter. 

With so much going on at all levels of government, don't hesitate to contact me with your questions and concerns regarding this or other issues.  You can reach me via email or on my cell at 847.971.0454.  

It is an honor to serve YOU on the County Board and Forest Preserve Board.

Sincerely,

Aaron Lawlor

Lake County Board Chairman

District 18 Representative