July 22, 2022 
Joliet - At Wednesday’s Monthly Board Meeting, Board Members approved the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Annual Action Plan, set to take effect Oct. 1, 2022, and run through Sept. 30, 2023.  
Will County receives annual grant allocations from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME), and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). 
The overarching purpose of the CDBG, HOME and ESG programs is to assist low-income and moderate-income families and households, which are those that earn less than 80% of the area median income. The funds will be used to pursue three guiding principles: provide decent housing, create sustainable living environments and create economic opportunities. 
“We are committed to helping families find homes in inclusive, resilient communities, with functioning infrastructure and a fiscally responsible plan for a more prosperous future,” said Will County Board Speaker Mimi Cowan. 
As the lead entity, the Will County Community Development Division is responsible for establishing the Consolidated Plan as well as the on-going administration of the CDBG, HOME and ESG programs on behalf of Will County. 
“We need to invest in the future of our residents, this requires continued and appropriate improvements,” said Will County Board Member Tyler Marcum, who Chairs the Land Use & Development Committee.  
The Community Development Division utilizes a fair housing initiative called We WILL Build Equal Opportunity Housing & Communities, which prioritizes community development, education and outreach. Strong, sustainable and inclusive communities include diverse housing options, grounded in a safe environment and connected to a network of healthy food options, health care, education, jobs, transportation and open space. By focusing on housing, the mission is aligned with HUD, which seeks to utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life. 
The County works closely with financial institutions, contractors, developers, businesses, non-profit agencies, volunteers, the local Continuum of Care and other governmental entities to effectively administer funding and carry out the goals of the Consolidated Plan. Success will be measured by accessibility, affordability and sustainability. 
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Denver – Will County Board Member, Denise Winfrey, will be sworn in as President of the National Association of Counties (NACo) on July 24, 2022, in Denver. Founded in 1935, NACo serves 3,069 counties across the Unites States.  NACo is the voice for county government in Washington, D.C. and advocates for critical issues effecting local communities. 

NACo aims to strengthen America’s counties by forging multisector relationships and collaborating at both the state and federal level. The increased support allows for policy advancement at all levels of government. NACo also provides cutting edge forums for peer networking and knowledge exchange, optimizing tax payer dollars. In addition to hosting conferences throughout the year, NACo provides countless educational resources online to assist decision makers with a variety of topics, from agriculture and broadband internet to transportation and Veteran’s Affairs.  

“Will County now has a seat at the big table,” said Winfrey.  “This is a first, for me personally, and for Will County. I will be the third president of NACo from Illinois, and the first from Will County.” Previous NACo presidents from Illinois include Angelo D. Kyle of Lake County and John H. Stroger of Cook County. 

“I am so proud of my friend and District 8 seatmate, Denise Winfrey,” said fellow Will County Board Member Herb Brooks Jr. “The two of us go a long way back together and it has been inspiring to watch Denise on this journey. To think, we have gone from working together at home in Joliet, to the national stage here in Denver. The truth is, Denise is a fighter, there is absolutely no stopping her. She is well on her way to changing the world, and we are all grateful for it. I am honored to be included in this special day.” Brooks will perform the swearing in ceremony, meanwhile Winfrey’s granddaughter, Logan, who has been alongside her grandmother on the path leading to the NACo presidency, will hold the Bible.  

“My parents wanted us to understand the importance of being involved in our community,” said Winfrey, whose parents were incredibly active in the community and worked hard to get the first Black person appointed to the Will County Board. Winfrey fondly remembers sitting in the backseat of the car with her two brothers, assembling candidate packets, while her mother drove and her father walked door-to-door. “This will be the first time in over 40-years that a Black woman will lead NACo, and it’s only the second time in NACo’s 80-plus year history. It’s a big deal,” Winfrey added. 

Winfrey began her formal government service in 2003, serving as Collector for Joliet Township. Following the passing of former Board Member David Evans in 2009, Winfrey was appointed to the Will County Board. While serving at the county, former Board Member Frank Stewart and current Board Member Jim Moustis, who was Speaker at the time, approached Winfrey about an organization called NACo, and as they say, the rest is history. 

Winfrey made NACo her mission, never missing an annual conference or legislative conference. Eventually, Moustis brought forth a resolution from the Will County Board in support of Winfrey for the NACo Board.  In July 2020, Winfrey was elected Second Vice President of NACo, securing her future roles as First Vice President in 2021, and ultimately President of the organization in 2022.  

“Watching Denise rise to become President of NACo has been a real honor. I still remember when we first discussed this opportunity with Denise,” said Will County Board Member Jim Moustis. “The County has supported her throughout this journey, having her serve in this position will continue to bring a bright spotlight on the importance of Will County to our region, state and the nation.”   
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Winfrey was the first woman to serve as Will County Board Speaker, followed by interim County Executive after the passing of County Executive Larry Walsh in 2020. In the past, she has served on numerous local boards and organizations including the Center for Independent Living, CASA of River Valley, Silver Cross Hospital Board and the City Center Partnership. Winfrey has also served in many capacities within NACo, including her service as Vice Chair of NACo’s Community Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee and a Vice Chair of the Large Urban Counties Caucus. She has been a member of the Women of NACo, the National Organization of Black County Officials, the Membership Committee and the NACo Board of Directors. She is also a graduate of NACo’s High Performance Leadership Academy and County Leadership Institute. 
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JOLIET – The Will County Board continues to work diligently on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) distribution. As of July 14, 2022, the Board has received 17 applications from Townships and 22 applications from Fire Protection Districts. Informational meetings were held for Libraries and Parks representatives, and a letter of intent surrounding infrastructure was distributed to 253 groups. The first disbursement of funds could begin the week of July 25, 2022.

Speaker Mimi Cowan noted the progress made at Thursday’s Executive Committee meeting, “We look forward to approving applications and supporting key initiatives around Will County. We are dedicated to delivering American Rescue Plan Act funds to those organizations and communities that need it most.”

Park Districts, Municipalities, Special Recreation Associations

Throughout the pandemic, Park Districts proved to be an integral community partner as a hub for meal distribution, recreation and outdoor community space. Due to low enrollment, facility closures and class cancellations, Park Districts, Municipal Parks and Special Recreation Associations experienced a loss in revenue while continuing to support residents.

The Executive Committee discussed funding for Park Districts and Libraries at the July 7, 2022, meeting and the Board allocated on a per capita basis to park districts with a minimum allocation amount of $25K to each entity.

“Most of the conversation regarding fund allocation was held at committee meetings,” said Speaker Mimi Cowan. “With the per capita distribution model, the funding is distributed based on population and need across the County. We also wanted to ensure that smaller communities received a meaningful allocation to address critical needs.”

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds were approved for Park Districts, Municipal Parks Departments and Special Recreation Associations. Each organization was allocated a specific funding amount, eligible for ARPA purchases, programs or projects. The next step will be for these organizations to formally submit applications that will be reviewed and then funds can be distributed.

Libraries

“Libraries were invited to attend an informational meeting this past week. We want to make sure everyone’s questions are answered. We must remember, if it is serving the Will County residents, it’s good opportunity,” said Minority Leader, Mike Fricilone.

Libraries provided significant support throughout the pandemic by offering a safe learning environment with free access to WI-FI. About $1.375M of ARPA funding has been allocated towards libraries, with each eligible library guaranteed a minimum of $20K. Fund allocation for each district was evaluated using the total daytime population.

Public Safety

Public Safety funds, of which municipal fire, law enforcement, 911-dispatch and EMA stakeholders are eligible to apply, will be the first competitive ARPA grant. For each application, Board Members will first consider the potential impact and then make an informed decision. A total of $2.75M is available for distribution.

Majority Leader, Meta Mueller said, “I will be looking closely at the applications in order to understand how the applicants are going to better serve the entire community.”

Health

During the pandemic, the Will County Health Department stopped charging for a portion of services, forfeiting expected revenue. At the Executive Committee on July 14, 2022, the Board allocated more than $7.8M in ARPA funding for the Will County Health Department to support administrative, information technology, human resources, behavioral health and family health initiatives.

The Board has set aside $30M in total for the health pillar and established a list of criteria to consider when reviewing application eligibility. Allocating funds towards behavioral health, violence prevention and food stabilization, as well as improving health services and access remain a priority.
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The County Board will continue to refine health related agenda items in August, in addition to beginning a formal discussion of economic development and workforce training opportunities. Next, the Board will shift focus and work on building a stronger foundation to support sustained growth in workforce, job creation and overall infrastructure.

June 13, 2022 
JOLIET – The Transportation & Public Works Committee is committed to improving transportation corridors for motorists to move safely and efficiently throughout the county. Committee Chair, Joe VanDuyne, is proud to announce the following updates: 
 
Route 6 Partnership 
An Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) has been reached between Joliet, Channahon and Will County to work with the Illinois Department of Transporation (IDOT) on a collaborative transportation project. The information gathered in the Moving Will County project stressed the importance of supporting both economic development and communities by creating an effective truck route network to help ease congestion. 
The first step is a Phase I study on U.S. Route 6, between I-55 and Houbolt Road. Following completion of the study IDOT, Will County and the municipalities will pursue federal and state infrastructure funding. 
“The teamwork demonstrated throughout this project has been remarkable. We are committed to finding a sustainable balance, clustering freight and development to complement communities and environmental resources.” said Joe VanDuyne, Transportation & Public Works Chair. 
 
Wilmington-Peotone Resurfacing 
The Public Works & Transportation Committee approved the resurfacing of 4.74 miles on Wilmington-Peotone Road, from east of IL Route 53 to east of Martin Long Road.  
The $1.15 million project will be paid for using Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds and is expected to begin July 2022, with an estimated completion in September 2022.  
“During construction, the roadway will remain open with periodic lane closures with flaggers,” according to Will County Department of Transportation Director, Jeff Ronaldson. 
 
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June 10, 2022 
JOLIET – The Will County Executive Committee is continuing to allocate American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. At yesterday’s committee meeting, the Board considered allocation for the “Unmet Needs” pillar which encompasses townships, fire protection districts, park districts, libraries and municipal parks. Previously, the Board approved funds for townships, fire protection districts and the Will County Forest Preserve.  
“We continue to press forward with funding plans and are eager to get these federal dollars to groups providing front line services for our residents,” said Speaker Mimi Cowan.  “We are seeking input from the community on how to best allocate these funds and look forward to releasing ARPA dollars in the coming weeks.” 
Will County’s ARPA consultants met with townships and fire protection district representatives this week to discuss eligible funding opportunities and review the application process.  A total of $3.5 million has been allocated to townships, while $2.5 million has been allocated to fire protection districts.  
Minority Leader, Mike Fricilone, stated, "I attended the meetings with both the townships and fire protection districts this week and I am confident that many will be submitting applications very soon. The County Board is doing our due diligence to make sure these critical funds are distributed appropriately. We want to get these dollars out into the community as soon as possible.” 
“Bringing necessary resources to Will County residents remains our focus,” said Majority Leader Meta Mueller. “I am committed to ensuring underserved populations benefit from ARPA funding. Clean, safe drinking water is not a luxury.” 
Applications will be reviewed to confirm eligibility and compliance. Funding is expected to go out soon thereafter.  Fund disbursement could begin as early as August 1, 2022. 
Next steps for the County Board include further discussions surrounding healthcare, economic development strategies and county governmental services.  These topics will be discussed over the next few months with applications to be made available soon.  
 
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June 10, 2022 
JOLIET – Between June 6 – 9, 2022, there were 10 opioid-involved deaths in Will County. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), "from June 2 - 7, 2022, multiple opioid overdoses (fatal and non-fatal) have occurred in collar counties, surrounding Cook County.”  
Will County Coroner Laurie H. Summers indicated that majority of these overdose deaths have been due to cocaine mixed with fentanyl. IDPH said the following in a statement, “Coroner interviews with those knowledgeable about drug use circumstances suggest those who died thought they had purchased cocaine and were social (not regular) users.” 
IDPH added, “If taking illicit substances, there are precautions that can be utilized to reduce risk for fatal and non-fatal overdose. Consider testing the substance for fentanyl using fentanyl test strips. Carry naloxone and do not use substances alone. Also, be aware that more than one dose of naloxone may be required to reverse an overdose, especially when synthetic opioids are involved.” 
“We understand this is a troubling time and want people to know there is help,” said Public Health & Safety Chair Rachel Ventura.  “The Will County Rapid Response Team is ready to distribute Narcan and fentanyl testing strips to anyone who wants or needs it. The Rapid Response Team is also available to help individuals who are ready for treatment. Narcan can be found in most micro pantries and is frequently restocked in hot spots. Time is of the essence to save lives right now.” 
Substance Use Initiatives Director, Dr. Kathleen Burke, oversees the Rapid Response Team. Dr. Burke can be reached at 708-205-5782 or kathleenburke@willcountyillinois.com. 
As of 2:30 p.m. on Friday, June 10, there was one additional case pending in Will County. 
 
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June 1, 2022 
JOLIET –   
The Will County Board formed a Diversity and Inclusion Committee in November 2020, to review the effectiveness of recruiting, planning and decision making to employ, retain and promote a diverse workforce.  
As reflected in the 2020 census, Will County’s population continues to grow and become more diverse. County Board Member Margaret Tyson, of Bolingbrook, who chairs the Diversity and Inclusion committee said, “Will County is a diverse community, and we want county government to accurately reflect the diversity in our workforce and in those we do business with.” 
Will County hired consulting firm Carmona Strategic Solutions to help guide the initial steps of creating a diversity master plan.  The firm is collecting data to assist the County Board, County Executive and other stakeholders as they determine if there is a need for future change. This includes reviewing Will County’s biannual Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) report, finding areas for opportunity and addressing policies and procedures affecting diversity and inclusion throughout the Will County government.  
“We are reviewing current county demographics to identify where we stand and what our target should be,” said County Board Member and vice chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee, Denise Winfrey, of Joliet. Denise is also National Association of Counties (NACo) First Vice President. 
Next, the county plans to send a questionnaire to all Will County employees to identify the organizational culture. This will assist in determining if there are any reinforced shared beliefs and values that shape employee perceptions, behaviors and understanding.  
Updates will be presented at the July committee meeting.  
 
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