Today, the Cook County Board of Commissioners approved a balanced $8 billion FY2022 budget which equitably addresses the County’s ongoing pandemic response efforts while not increasing taxes or cutting critical services. The unanimous 17-0 vote approving the budget follows a month of departmental hearings, commissioner questions and public meetings.

We are pleased with Fitch Ratings decision to upgrade Cook County’s ratings from A+ to AA- with a stable outlook. Furthermore, S&P also moved the outlook for the County to stable from negative and Moody’s reaffirmed its rating as well. We appreciate the recognition of our improvement in operating results, work to increase reserves, sound financial management, notable improvement in pension funding and work to stabilize our Health System’s finances.

As residents set clocks back one hour this weekend, the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) urges residents to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. It’s one of the simplest and least expensive things residents can do around their home and it could save lives.

The Cook County Board of Commissioners approved funding this week to further transportation projects and initiatives led by the County’s Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH). These are vital projects that boost economic development, build up regional transportation and improve quality of life throughout Cook County.

Rehab Project

The Cook County Department of Revenue (DOR) and Bureau of Technology (BOT) were recently awarded a 2021 LocalSmart Award for Local IT Innovation of the Year by StateScoop Magazine for their work to modernize County operations through the Integrated Tax Processing System (ITPS) project.  

County President and Commissioners Remember Deceased Cook County Residents at Ofrenda in the Cook County Building

Eight rabid bats have been found so far this year

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) has released an interactive map of locations where bats who tested positive for rabies were found in Cook County. So far this year eight rabid bats have been found. The Halloween-themed map is designed to raise awareness about rabies prevention.

ERA 2 will provide assistance with rent, utilities, and other housing expenses for residents in suburban Cook County

(Cook County, IL) — Today, President Preckwinkle reminded suburban residents in need of rental and utility assistance that the application window ends today. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA 2) was launched earlier this month to support residents of suburban Cook County who are at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability due to the pandemic.

ERA 2 will provide assistance with rent, utilities, and other housing expenses for residents in suburban Cook County

Program Is Part of the County’s Project Rainbow to Address Learning Loss  Caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic