Title
Joint resolution authorizing a funding application to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) for Lake County Regional Stormwater Management Projects Round 2.0 in the amount of $30,000,000.
Staff Summary
• $122,098,000 was appropriated in Public Act 102-0017 for Regional Stormwater Management Projects in Lake County, to be awarded by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). In 2022, DCEO awarded Lake County the first grant of $30,000,000 of the total appropriated funding for Lake County Regional Stormwater Management Projects 1.0.
• A second $30,000,000 grant for 16 new regional stormwater management projects in Lake County is under review by DCEO. Component project descriptions and locations are included in the Executive Summary and Location Map attachments.
• A final grant agreement from DCEO is anticipated this fall and must be executed by Lake County before December 31, 2024. The grant period is May 1, 2024, through April 30, 2026, and may be extended to December 31, 2026.
• No local match is required by DCEO, however additional funding will be provided by project partners to reimburse the Stormwater Management Commission for project administration.
• The Stormwater Management Commission will administer the grant, spend appropriated funds, and execute any and all agreements with partners related to this allocation and distribution of DCEO Funds for Lake County Regional Stormwater Management Projects Round 2.0.
Body
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Lake County is applying for Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) funds for 16 additional regional stormwater management projects in Lake County; and
WHEREAS, Lake County continues to experience significant challenges related to stormwater management, including increased frequency and intensity of rainfall events due to climate change, leading to flooding, property damage, and environmental degradation; and
WHEREAS, while the risks associated with increased rainfall and extreme weather events due to climate change are significant, effective mitigation efforts can substantially reduce the damage caused by flooding, thereby protecting residents, businesses, and the environment; and
WHEREAS, the effective management of stormwater is crucial for the prevention of flooding, protection of water quality, and preservation of public health and safety; and
WHEREAS, comprehensive stormwater management projects require substantial financial investment for the development and maintenance of infrastructure such as detention basins, storm sewers, green infrastructure, and erosion control measures; and
WHEREAS, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has made available an additional $30,000,000 for Lake County Regional Stormwater Management Projects 2.0, demonstrating a commitment to investing in the resilience and sustainability of communities in the region; and
WHEREAS, continued financial support from the State of Illinois is vital to address existing and future stormwater management needs, ensuring the protection of residents, businesses, and natural resources in Lake County; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake County Board that:
1. Acknowledgment and Appreciation: Lake County acknowledges the significant investment made by the State of Illinois in the first round of funding for 12 regional stormwater management projects and extends its gratitude to the State of Illinois and the State Legislative Delegation for their efforts in securing these funds and an additional $30,000,000 for the second round of projects.
2. Support for Continued Funding: Lake County strongly urges the State of Illinois to prioritize and continue providing additional infrastructure funding specifically for stormwater management projects within Lake County, leveraging the remaining $62,098,000 in appropriations in the state's capital budget for future Lake County projects.
3. Collaboration and Advocacy: The Lake County Board commits to working collaboratively with state officials, agencies, and other stakeholders to advocate for necessary funding and resources to effectively manage challenges.
4. Implementation of Projects: The Lake County Board pledges to ensure that any funds received will be utilized efficiently and transparently, prioritizing projects that deliver the greatest benefit in terms of flood damage reduction, erosion control, water quality improvement, and environmental protection.
5. Public Awareness and Engagement: Lake County will engage with residents and businesses to raise awareness about the importance of stormwater management, and the impact of funded projects on the community’s well-being and safety.
6. Acknowledgment of Local Efforts: Lake County extends its deepest gratitude to the Lake County partners for their unwavering support, dedication, and the resources they have provided, which have been instrumental in the planning, development, and successful implementation of stormwater management projects.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by this County Board of Lake County,
Illinois, that the Chair of the Lake County Board or their designee is hereby authorized to execute the necessary documentation to submit the grant application; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be sent to the Governor of Illinois, the Illinois General Assembly, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and other relevant state agencies and officials to underscore the critical need for continued infrastructure funding support for stormwater management projects in Lake County.
DATED at Waukegan, Illinois, on August 13, 2024.