A key point of contention was the proposal to allow ATVs on the CJ Ramstead Trail. Residents voiced strong opposition, citing environmental degradation, noise pollution, and negative impacts on the local tourist economy. Don Petri, a resident, emphasized that ATVs would detract from the tranquility many visitors seek in natural settings, referencing a survey by The Nature Conservancy that found 72% of Americans value peace and quiet in protected areas. Petri argued that ATVs could pollute wetlands, calling the proposal unsustainable and likening it to “putting lipstick on a pig.” He mentioned that ATVs leak fuel and transmission fluids, posing a risk to the environment.

Additional public comments echoed these concerns. Heather and Jake M. wrote a letter warning about the potential harm to wetlands and increased noise and pollution. Caitlyn Kimel, a Ph.D. in ecology, criticized the lack of data on ecological impacts, stating that recreational noise could disrupt animal behavior and biodiversity. Kimel emphasized the need for more detailed financial and environmental planning before making any decisions.

Robert F. Kimmel, a professional engineer and ATV rider, questioned the necessity of expanding ATV access, noting that current routes already accommodate them. He argued that widening the trail could increase speeds and compromise safety. Mike Hofer and Kate Kellenberger also opposed the proposal, stressing that motorized travel would eliminate non-motorized exploration opportunities and make the trail impassable during rainy weather.

The board acknowledged the need for further study and community input before proceeding. A motion to further study the proposal within a committee of the whole format, allowing for more extensive public involvement and feedback, failed narrowly. Subsequently, a motion to request that the state Department of Natural Resources amend the master plan for the CJ Ramstead North Shore State Trail was introduced and passed, contingent upon receiving letters of support from user groups.

Another topic was the regulation of cannabis retail licenses. Commissioners debated the appropriate limit for registrations, with discussions revolving around whether to reduce the limit from 14 to 7 or even fewer. The ordinance would need to be republished, requiring another public hearing before a vote could take place if any changes were made.

Public comments highlighted concerns about cannabis use among youth and the fairness of the lottery system for cannabis licenses. A speaker clarified Cook County’s drug testing policies, noting that there are separate policies for all employees and commercial drivers. The general policy prohibits employees from being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on duty, with no random testing for non-commercial drivers.

Concerns about out-of-state applicants potentially obtaining licenses through the lottery system were raised. Commissioners discussed the need for a careful evaluation of the ordinance to protect public health while considering the business community’s welfare. A motion to reduce the number of cannabis registrations from 14 to 7 was supported, and a public hearing was set for September 24th.

In other business, the board approved the renewal of a disposal pit agreement with the United States Forest Service, extending it to June 15, 2029. They also amended an airport grant agreement to extend the spending deadline to January 25, 2026. Additionally, the board approved a resolution to accept an ITRB Revenue Bond Grant, combining projects for a transfer station facility and Harbor View Apartments affordable housing.