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.

Cook County’s investment is the first outcome of the Cook County Equity Fund’s recommendation to pursue place-based, community-driven and sustainable economic development.

COOK COUNTY — (June 22, 2022) Last week, the Cook County Board of Commissioners approved a partnership with United Way of Metro Chicago to support a place-based investment strategy – the Transforming Places Pilot Program.

COOK COUNTY — Today, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle was joined by Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry and Avik Das, Executive Director of the Justice Advisory Council, to announce the first set of awards for the Cook County Gun Violence Prevention and Reduction Grant program.

The Metals Hub brings Southland metal manufacturing firms together to diversify and grow their customer base.

COOK COUNTY — (June 17, 2022) Today, Cook County and the Southland Development Authority (SDA) announced the launch of the Metals Hub, an initiative to establish a collaborative network of metals, machinery and equipment (MM&E) manufacturers committed to collectively pursuing new business opportunities. The Metal Hub’s goal is to strengthen and grow the preeminent manufacturing companies located in South Suburban Cook County.