Title
Special recognition of Maureen Riedy for her years of service as president of Visit Lake County.
Body
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
WHEREAS, Maureen Riedy has served 22 years as president of Visit Lake County; and
WHEREAS, since joining the organization in 2004, Maureen has been the driving force behind elevating Lake County as a premier destination to live, work, and visit; and
WHEREAS, under her visionary leadership, Visit Lake County evolved into a nationally recognized and professionally certified destination marketing organization, setting a gold standard in the tourism industry; and
WHEREAS, Maureen’s tenure has been marked by remarkable growth and innovation as she has guided the organization through a transformative rebranding in 2011, strengthened partnerships across 18 municipalities and more than 200 industry stakeholders, and championed early adoption of digital marketing strategies that positioned Lake County at the forefront of modern tourism promotion; and
WHEREAS, her impact is also reflected in the county’s economic success, demonstrated in 2024, as visitor spending reached $1.96 billion, generating significant local and state tax revenues and reinforcing tourism as a vital driver of economic opportunity in the region; and
WHEREAS, Lake County currently stands as the third-largest tourism economy in Illinois, which is a testament to Maureen’s leadership and long-term vision; and
WHEREAS, beyond these achievements, Maureen is widely respected for her professionalism, integrity, and collaborative spirit and has built an organization that will continue to thrive, leaving a legacy for the community and the industry.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOGNIZED, that the Lake County Board hereby honors Maureen Riedy for her 22 years of dedicated service to Lake County and its tourism initiatives.
DATED at Waukegan, Illinois, on April 14, 2026.