Cook County Offices Under the President Closed January 6, 2014

Due to the severe winter storm, cold and hazardous travel conditions, Cook County employees under the jurisdiction of the Office of the President – except those performing essential services required to provide for the public health and safety of our residents or are required for the continuity of government functions - are instructed to stay home on Monday, January 6, 2014. Regular County operations are expected to resume on Tuesday, January 7, 2014. County employees with questions should contact their Department Head or Bureau Chief for more information. Cook County remains committed to the continuation of essential government functions during this emergency situation. The Cook County Transportation and Highways Department, the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM), Facilities Management, Animal Control and the Medical Examiner's Office are among the Departments that will assist in the continuation of services.  All other non-essential offices will be closed and services are expected to resume on January 7, 2014. The DHSEM Duty Desk has been, and will remain, fully operational.  The DHSEM is working with local, state, non-profit and private sector partners to address areas of concern. Entities requiring county resources or assistance should contact the duty desk at 312.603.8185.  More information regarding cold-weather preparation efforts and tips can be found at www.cookcountyhomelandsecurity.org. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle requests that the separately elected officials of Cook County and the independent Health and Hospitals System engage in measures to ensure the continuity of all essential services and if feasible, instruct staff who are not required to perform essential services to remain home on Monday, January 6, 2014.  Health care services will be available as directed by the independent Health and Hospitals System and the various Cook County Hospitals shall remain open. The health system can be reached at 312-864-1111. President Preckwinkle encourages drivers to stay off the roads where possible and remain home during this inclement weather.