March 1 Cook County Board Meeting

Like many Cook County Board meetings lately, this one was short and agreeable. Comparatively few questions were asked by commissioners and the votes were not contentious. Done before 11:30!

Homeland Security--Project Shield Update

This large grant-funded project is complete through phase 3. Further work has been halted due to Federal investigations into the use of the grant money. The head of Project Shield stated that "What is now in place is working." Not all Cook County municipalities have chosen to get on board with this project. Delays in the past were due to lots of new technology, legality issues regarding cameras, etc. It was not clearly stated when this project would be complete; it began in about 2003. Comm. Sims suggested a commissioner field trip to "sit in" the new police vehicles that contain the new system.

Risk Management--New Insurance Policies

Lisa Wallick, director of Risk Management, presented information on the county's new Comprehensive Insurance Program. Among changes are that property insurance was added, some coverage was doubled but saved money, expenses were reduced, all policies will be reviewed each year. Since the county is self-insured, the county would spend $40,000,000 in claims before the insurance kicks in. Several commissioners commended Lisa Wallick on the process used to obtain this insurance and that it came in under budget.

Resolution to the Illinois General Assembly

This resolution asked the General Assembly to change the recently passed law that required all seniors to apply for senior discounts on property taxes every year. The request is to return to a one-time application with the county tracking deaths, sales of homes, etc.

It was again difficult to follow parts of the meeting because many last-minute amendments/changes were passed out to the commissioners, but not the audience. Also the finance agenda was not available so the audience had no knowledge of the topics voted on during that meeting.