(COOK COUNTY, IL) — Today, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced upcoming dates for Cook County’s fourth annual Racial Equity Week. With virtual and in-person events scheduled from September 12 through September 16, this year’s theme “Many People, One Goal” reflects the breadth and depth of the County’s diverse inhabitants and the desire for a thriving, safe and just county for all.

Invest in Cook grant program improves transit, pedestrian and bicycle paths as well as road and freight transportation across Cook County

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle joined the County’s Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH) today to announce the list of 43 projects that will receive funding under the 2022 ‘Invest in Cook’ grant program. A total of $8,985,634 will be distributed across 39 municipalities and three townships to fund two transit, 16 pedestrian, 11 bicycle, one freight and 13 road projects.

Landlord and tenant users of TransUnion® SmartMove® are now in compliance with the Just Housing Amendment (JHA) of Cook County’s Human Rights Ordinance because of proactive improvements made to the screening tool by TransUnion®. As of June 16, 2022, SmartMove®, a popular screening tool used by Cook County small landlords, includes the two-step screening process outlined by the JHA.

The Cook County Board of Commissioners approved funding today for transportation-related projects and initiatives led by the County’s Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH). These vital projects boost economic development, build up regional transportation and improve the quality of life throughout Cook County.

COOK COUNTY — For three years in a row, the Center for Digital Government (CDG) named Cook County one of America's Top 10 Digital Counties with a population of more than one million. The 2022 award identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services, encourage collaboration and shared services or enhance cybersecurity.

New initiative supports residents who lack internet access

Residents who don’t have internet access can now attend virtual court appearances from the Cook County Law Library. The library is offering residents free computer access to attend virtual court appearances. This initiative is available for residents who lack internet access or who do not want to attend hearings from their home.

The County’s Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security offers firework safety tips and resources for residents

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) is encouraging families to plan ahead to enjoy a safe Fourth of July holiday.

Hazards commonly associated with this holiday include extreme heat, fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking.

The boom, crackle and pop of Fourth of July fireworks as well as other outdoor elements can present potential hazards for pets this holiday weekend. To ensure pets remain safe and healthy during the weekend festivities, Cook County’s Animal and Rabies Control recommends pet owners take the following precautions.

Fireworks

Crain’s Chicago Business recently recognized Cook County’s Chief Sustainability Officer Deborah Stone as a notable leader in sustainability.

Notes potential future fiscal challenges while highlighting smallest gap since taking office

COOK COUNTY, IL — Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle today released the preliminary forecast for the County’s Fiscal Year 2023 showing a projected gap of $18.2 million. This represents the County’s smallest budget gap since President Preckwinkle took office over a decade ago.