Cook County Historical Society Seeks Increased Funding Amid Preservation Challenges

Overview: The Cook County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 21, 2025, was highlighted by the Cook County Historical Society’s request for an increased budget. The society, celebrating its centennial, is seeking $79,000 for the upcoming year, a $7,000 increase from last year. This request reflects the society’s ongoing efforts to maintain operations and support newly hired professional staff with expertise in museum studies and historic preservation. The society’s president emphasized the reliance on volunteer support, which is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain, contributing to staff burnout and high turnover rates.

Cook County Proposes $6.65 Million School Bond Referendum with Matching Grant Benefits

Overview: The Cook County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 14 included a detailed presentation on a proposed $6.65 million bond referendum for Cook County Schools, aimed at construction and facility improvements. The referendum, if passed, would secure a $5 million matching grant from the ITRB, reducing costs for local taxpayers. The proposal highlights various enhancements, such as modernizing the Arrowhead Center for the Arts and installing artificial turf for the school’s athletic fields.

Cook County Board Examines Aggregate Mapping, Park Development, and Utility Easement

Overview: In a recent meeting on September 23, 2025, the Cook County Board of Commissioners addressed issues, including the Aggregate Resources Mapping Program, development plans for Sawtooth Bluffs Park, and the approval of a utility easement for expanding fiber optic services.

Cook County Commissioners Approve Sale of Superior National Golf Course Amid Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, the sale of Superior National Golf Course was a central topic, with the board approving a motion to sell the property to Brady Hatcher, owner of Golden Eagle Golf Course. The sale, which involves a price sufficient to cover existing bonds, agent fees, and legal costs, raised questions about tax implications, community access, and potential conflicts of interest.

Cook County Board Tables Construction Contract Over Bonding Concerns

Overview: During a special meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners on September 3rd, the board unanimously decided to table a construction manager contract for the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) project due to unresolved issues regarding bonding obligations. The commissioners expressed concerns about the absence of explicit bonding requirements in the contract with Johnson Wilson Constructors. The board determined that further review by the county attorney was necessary to clarify these obligations before moving forward.