The Lake County Board elected its leadership including a change at the top of the Forest Preserves Board. Commisioner Jessica Vealitzek will serve as president and Commissioner Gina Roberts will serve as vice-president.
Vealitzek, who has a long track record of dedication to environmental protection, was nominated by Commissioner Jennifer Clark. Similar is Roberts who has been a reliable voice for our resources here in Lake County. There were not any no votes for either of the two.
In her post vote speech Vealitzek said, “We know that connecting with nature helps clear our minds and ease our pains. For those less moved by the very real but somewhat intangible benefits, preserving land also makes good economic sense. A primary desire of home buyers is access to open space. Businesses that locate in Lake County know their workforce will have the quality of life they desire. Local governments–and taxpayers–know that preserving wetlands means less flooding of homes and communities.”
Vealitzek also cited the recent passage of the $155 million dollar referendum approved by the voters for land aquistion and habitat protection as a testament to our collective valuing of our natural resources here in Lake County.
Roberts also spoke and expressed her eagerness to stand with Vealitzek towards protecting our environment. “I look forward to contributing to meaningful initiatives that will benefit our environment and community for years to come.
I am grateful for this opportunity!” said Roberts.
With the incoming Trump administration, there is much uncertainty on multiple fronts. It remains to be seen just how much dedication there is from the federal government towards maintaining environmental protection.
“We may not be able to control the federal government, but we can continue to honor this lovely corner of the world and do our best to protect it, to make sure that residents are part of a thriving ecosystem, a mutual aid society of healthy air, land, and water,” said Vealitzek. “To do our children proud. We
have a lot of good work ahead of us, and we have much to look forward to.”
As residents of Lake County, we are in good hands with Commissioners Vealitzek and Roberts leading the Forest Preserves Board.