Cook County Health and Hospitals Committee
January 13,2026
Commissioners Hear Public Health and Disparities Reports
Quarterly Public Health Report

• Dr Kiran Joshi, Chief Operating Officer of the Cook County Department of Public Health presented the quarterly COVID-19, and infectious disease PowerPoint update. The U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) announcement made on Jan. 5 now recommends childhood vaccines for fewer diseases with some vaccinations recommended only for some high-risk groups or after consultation with a health care provider: Hepatitis B, RSV, Rotavirus, Hepatitis A, Meningococcal disease, Flu, COVID and the 2nd dose of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). 
• Illinois vaccine recommendations differ from the CDC and will be made by the IL Immunization Advisory Committee.  Insurance companies will pay for them (PA-104-0439 signed into law in December 2025 by Governor Pritzker). 
• The Cook County Department of Public Health will continue to follow Illinois childhood vaccination recommendations. Commissioner Degnen wondered how many parents will follow CDC vs IL vaccination recommendations.   (Item 23-3815)

Semi-annual Disparities Report

• Dr Kalyani Perumal, Chair Division of Nephrology at Cook County Health provided an update on kidney disease/treatment in Cook County.  Risk highest in African Americans, with 3.4 times greater risk, followed by Hispanics with a 1.5 times greater risk than overall population.  9 of 10 adults are unaware of their disease. Ambulatory nephrology care is provided at Stroger/Blue Island/Provident & Core Center as well as renal clinics. 
• Extensive questions from Commissioners.  Com. Stamps: “how do we get the word out, is there a checklist for potential kidney disease?” Response: diabetes and hypertension are primary risk factors. Primary healthcare teams must use screening labs: blood for creatinine and urine for protein. Avoid pain medications that can affect kidney, follow low salt, low fat diet and exercise.  
• Com. Aguilar: “is lack of early detection a part of high incidence of kidney disease in Hispanics?”  Response: kidney disease screening needs to start in high school.  
• Com. Vasquez: “are there plans to expand kidney screening & services to other communities?” Response: yes.  
• Com. Anaya asked about early detection for kidney disease.  Response: screen for family history of kidney disease, diabetes, polycystic kidney disease, hypertension, autoimmune disorders—if present considered “high risk”.  (Item 26-0433)

Observer:  Susan Kern, MD

Finance Committee
January 14, 2026
Preliminary FY2025 Results Show County Finished in the Black

• Syril Thomas, the County Comptroller, reported that on a preliminary cash basis, the County’s General Fund ended Fiscal Year 2025 with a positive $111.3 M, composed of $109.4 M more in revenues than budgeted and $1.9 M lower expenses than budgeted.  The higher revenues were primarily attributed to the County’s sales tax.  Mr. Thomas also reported that on a preliminary, cash basis the Health Fund ended FY2025 with a positive $81.6 M, composed of lower than budgeted revenues of $239.6 M, but lower than budgeted expenses of $321.2 M.  The Federal government cancelled $4 M in grants to the County. (Item 26-0585)
• Cook County Health provided a report for FY2025 on an accrual basis, which is deemed more accurate than cash.  That reflects an overall positive result of $82 M, with lower revenues than budgeted of $240M, primarily due to decreases in Medicaid enrollment and the resulting increase in charity care as a result of Illinois no longer covering some non-citizens.  However, actual expenses were $321 M less than budgeted, primarily due to staff vacancies and a reduced use of contract labor.  $3 M of the total $4 M in Federal grants that were cancelled impacted the Health Fund.  (Item 26-0583)
• The Finance Committee approved a county-wide contract with Lexis Nexis Vital Check Network to process payments to the County made with credit or debit cards across all offices from Feb. 1, 2026 thru Jan. 31, 2031.  Zahra Ali, the Chief Administrative Officer, said that the Dept of Revenue will cover all costs in its budget, but that overall, the County expects to bring in more revenues by allowing payments via credit and debit cards.  (item 26-0220)

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Audit Committee
January 14, 2026
2026 Audit Plan Approved

• Heath Wolfe, the County (internal) Auditor,  outlined the plan for audits during 2026 for Cook County Government and the Forest Preserve. This item had been deferred. Audit will utilize outside auditors for IT security audits, so more audits can be performed.
• Commissioner Gainer asked if the County needs to be prepared if the Federal Government investigates the County’s use of ARPA funds. She asked what percent of the $1.4 B in programs has been reviewed or audited, and is there an industry standard for number of audits for that amount of money.  Mr. Wolfe was not aware of a standard but would reach out to industry organizations for guidelines.  He also will provide the commissioners with the number of ARPA reviews and audits that have been done.
• Another issue is the Audit department staffing. Mr. Wolfe was hired 6 months ago. There are currently 9 openings and 23 filled positions.  There are three offers out on the openings. Mr. Wolfe has worked on the staffing.  Several job descriptions had to be rewritten.  He is utilizing industry job posting sites and his connections from previous positions.  Commissioner Gainer recommended using outside auditors to ensure good coverage of ARPA funds if necessary.  There will be a review of staffing after 3 months.  She recommended coming back to the Board for additional funds if indicated.  
• The audit plan was approved.  (Item 25-4392)

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Cook County Environmental & Sustainability Committee
January 14, 2026
Committee Reviews Environmental Justice Policy Framework Report

• The Environmental Justice policy framework started in 2019, involved a team including community voices.  Many public events were scheduled in order to include and engage multiple communities. 
• From the research informing the report, common themes are (1) Air quality (inconsistent monitoring and industrial emissions); (2) Water and flooding (lead contamination); (3) Climate resiience; (4) Green space and food access (increased tree planting); (5) Community engagement (education for youth and multilingual engagement); (6) Policy implementation; and (7) Other (utility costs).
• There were very few responses opposed to the county developing an environmental justice policy. 

What is next:

• Hire additional environmental justice staff
• More active engagement

Couple of notes:

• New hire: Tiffany Davis, Sr. Environmental Justice Specialist, from Colorado 
• Environmental justice public policy intersects with public health.
• The federal government declined the state’s request for federal funding for disaster relief related to the recent flooding. 

Observer:  Laura Davis 

Asset Management  Committee
Jan. 13, 2026
Contract to Analyze Preservation/Adaptive Reuse at Oak Forest Approved

• The Real Estate Department requested additional funds for the project that is evaluating if existing buildings on the Oak Forest Campus could be preserved and reused for County services.   The initial investigation identified 9 buildings that could be reused, with a potential savings of $61 M.   This request is to further analyze the potential use of those buildings.
• Commissioner Britten asked that the analysis include the potential revenue to the County by selling the buildings rather than rehabbing them.    
• The project was approved. (Item 26-0030)

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee
January 14, 2026
Committee Approves Appointments

• The Committee approved the appointment of 5 individuals to the Cook County Housing Authority Board. All appeared either in person or on Zoom and all had many years of various types of experience in Affordable Housing including finance, development, land use, and law.  
• The Committee also approved the appointment of 3 individuals to the Cook County Emergency System Telephone Board. Two of the three appeared online and both had law enforcement and emergency phone system experience. 
• Commissioners had no questions but did extend thanks for their willingness to serve on these volunteer boards.
• Appointments will be voted on by Cook County Board at their next meeting.

Observer - Cynthia Schilsky

Cook County Board of Commissioners Committee Meetings  
Nov. 18 & 19, 2025

Criminal Justice Committee
November 19, 2025

​Commissioners Approve Chicago-Cook County Violence Against Women Task Force

• With the Chicago City Council approving a companion resolution last week, the Committee voted to approve the creation of a Chicago-Cook County Violence against Women Task Force. (item 25-4095)
• The Taks Force is charged with providing recommendations to the City and County by July 1, 2026 for addressing domestic violence, which has had a huge surge in reported incidents over the past several years.
• Besides representatives from the County’s criminal justice officials, Commissioners Miller, Anaya, Degnen, and Gainer were appointed to the Task Force from the County’s side. Comm. Miller was the lead sponsor, and she said that this Task Force is an outgrowth of this Committee’s hearing last July during which many problems with the current government systems were identified.  

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Finance Committee
November 19, 2025

Finance Approves Up to $10.53 M to House Those on Electronic Monitoring with No Place to Go
The Committee voted to approve

• 5 items from the Justice Advisory Commission to provide housing and some additional services for those ordered to pretrial detention on electronic monitoring at fees ranging from $136 to $200 per night.  County only pays per night fees when people are actually housed. Placements at the different facilities are offered to those who have no place to stay.  (items 25-3544, -3545, -3546, -3547, and -3548)
• Grants totaling $2.3 M (with $100,000 remaining to provide additional support) to 5 community financial institutions to assist them in doing small business lending.  Funding for this program is from the Equity Fund.  In response to questions from Comm. Anaya, the 5 institutions were selected by an external panel of experts from a group of 10 after a Request for Qualification (RFQ) process resulted in 15 responses, of which 10 were found by the Bureau of Economic Development to have met the requirements.  Comm. Anaya asked that in the future, Commissioners be notified of similar RFQs.  (item 25-3953)

The Comptroller reported that through Sept. 30 

• The County’s General Fund has a net favorable balance of $123 M and, on a cash basis, the Health Enterprise Fund has an unfavorable balance of $33.7 M.  The State of Illinois owes the County $98 M, but that amount is trending downward.  
• In response to a question from Comm. Sean Morrison, CFO Tanya Anthony said that there has been $1.2M in reduced Federal funding to date.  Comm. Morrison and Chair Daley asked that future monthly reports identify any loss of Federal funding. 

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Legislative and Intergovernmental Relations Committee
November 19, 2025

Committee Extends Incentives for Landmark Buildings
Two ordinances dealing with the extension of tax incentives for certain classifications of property were approved by the Committee.

• The first ordinance amendment was an extension of classification incentives that were due to expire at the end of this year and extends the time frame until 2027. (Agenda Item 25-4178)
• The second amendment was for incentive renewal of Class L buildings. A representative from the Assessor’s office stated that this will allow for buildings with landmark status to continue to receive the incentive if certain parameters are met and municipalities agree with the extension of the incentive. (Agenda Item 25-4220)
• During public comment Ward Miller from Preservation Chicago and Kendra Parsons from Landmarks Illinois both spoke in support of renewing the incentives as they were important for restoration of landmark buildings. A representative from a Cultural Arts Center in Oak Park also spoke about how important an incentive was for allowing renovation of their landmark building so they now are able to provide free meeting space to the community. 
• Comm. Sean Morrison asked how long an exemption would be granted if renewed and the Assessor’s representative stated it would be for the same term as the original exemption was granted - mostly that is 12 years. He then stated that while he does support incentives as they are important for economic development he does caution that incentives should not be long term commitments. They are meant to provide owners a tax break to allow them to invest in properties so that they become economically viable and when they are they should no longer need the tax break.

Observer - Cynthia Schilsky

Asset Management Committee  
November 18, 2025

Commissioners Approve Purchase of 2 Buildings

• James Essex, Director of Real Estate Management, presented two proposals to buy buildings in which Cook County is leasing a major portion.   The department did the calculations on the cost of purchasing versus long term rental and determined these purchases will save the County money.
• The Commissioners approved both purchases.   The first was a building in Maywood currently occupied by the Sheriff and the Clerk of the Court (Item 25-4100).  The second was in Arlington Heights, currently occupied by County Health Services (Item 23-4101).

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Audit Committee    
November 19, 2025

Audit Finds Compliance with ARPA Requirements

• Heath Wolfe, County Auditor, presented a report of a review the Audit Department did on an ARPA project. The Rain Ready Plan is implementing green infrastructure projects to control rainwater in flood prone areas.   Mr. Wolfe explained that these reviews of ARPA projects are not audits; but to check that the projects are in compliance with ARPA requirements, and to suggest any needed management corrections.  They found that the monitoring process was adequate and the funds were being used as intended. (Item 25-4148).

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Cook County Board of Commissioners Committee Meetings
October 22, 2025

Finance Committee
Committee Approves $20 M Grant For Illinois Quantum Microelectronics Park

The Committee approved a $20 M grant to the University of Illinois for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on the former site of U.S. Steel on the southeast side of Chicago.  This grant will be used to provide the equipment necessary to keep the cryogenics facility cool.  The Secretary to the Board announced that there were about 100 written comments submitted opposing this proposal.  The Committee nevertheless approved the grant after addressing some of the concerns raised by commentators (Item 25-3761):

• Comm. Moore verified that (1) there are no plans to use water from Lake Michigan or the Calumet River to cool the equipment, (2) no dangerous chemicals will be put into the system and therefor there will be no chemical emissions or smoke, (3) there should be no health concerns raised by the facility.
• Comm. Trevor followed up on the fact that liquid helium and liquid nitrogen will be used, but like Fermilab in the western suburbs, there will be redundant safety features installed.  Even in the event that venting of helium and nitrogen would be necessary, she was assured that there will be no health risk to anyone nearby.
• Comm. Sean Morrison asked about the power supply.  Harley Johnson, Executive Director and CEO of the Park explained that it is not a data center so it will not require an extraordinary amount of energy to operate.  Further, there is sufficient power from the grid already existing.  
• Comm. Gainer had staff clarify exactly what the County’s contribution to the Park is: (1) this $20 M grant and (2) a Class A property tax incentive (previously approved) which reduces the percentage applied to the property assessment from 25% (the regular commercial percentage) to 10% (which is also what is applied to residential property).  
• Comm. Degnen pointed out that even with this reduction, there will be a significant increase in the property taxes paid at this property (well over the $20 M grant) which has stood essentially vacant for many years.
• Comm. Aguillar also pointed to the expected increased investment in the neighborhood with restaurants and other businesses to serve those working in the Park.
• Comm. Stamps expressed concerns about whether resulting increases in property values could negatively impact current residents and businesses.  Susan Campbell, Director of Planning & Development for the County, explained that Chicago was taking the lead on engaging the community as to how local residents and businesses can benefit.  Among other things, modules for the local schools and college have been provided on what quantum mechanics is and what job opportunities there are.
• Comm. Miller asked to be a co-sponsor and the item was approved with a vote of 13 ayes, 1 present (Comm. Vasquez) and 3 absent.

The Committee also approved the proposed allocation of $85.6 M of spending from the Equity and Inclusion Special Purpose Fund for 2026.  (Item 25-4003)  This approved allocation will be included in the proposed 2026 budget that the Board will be reviewing, amending, and approving in the coming weeks.  

• This allocation includes carrying over funds allocated but not spent in 2025 for several programs, as well as using 1/2 of the Fund’s balance of $64.4 M for (1) Transforming Places initiatives ($5 M), (2) restarting the Guaranteed Income Pilot ($7.5 M), and (3) the Justice Advisory Council for gun violence prevention programs in partnership with the State and Chicago ($20 M in addition to the carry-forward of $17.6 M).  
• Funds being carried over are for the Cannabis Business Development Program, the Land Bank, the Community Engagement Pilot Program, Health Equity in all Policies led by the Department of Public Health, the collaborative work to reform the County’s property assessment and taxation system, the implementation of a regional income-based fare model for the Fair Trans Pilot, the implementation of digital navigators as part of the Digital Equity Action Plan, the improvement of community health and resilience led by the Dept. of Environment and Sustainability, and  the implementation of a comprehensive equity-centered grantmaking strategy to promote capacity building training and resources for community-based organizations.
• In addition, the Justice Advisory Council is going to carry over $3.2 M and will be allocated $31.8 M from the General Fund in 2026 to continue addressing community safety through a holistic approach.
• Comm. Gainer asked that the Board be provided quantifiable results from the money allocated in 2025 in conjunction with the upcoming budget review.  The President’s Chief of Staff Lanetta Hayes Turner explained that the annual report for the Equity Fund is published in Feb., so the report for 2024 is the last one currently available.  Comm. Gainer said that the Commissioners needed updated info since they will be voting on the budget In November.  Comm. Degnen asked about the assessment of the initial 2-year pilot for the Guaranteed Income Program for 2023 and 2024.  Ms. Turner said that that assessment, being prepared by the University of Chicago, is not expected until the 1st quarter of 2026.  Ms. Turner said that the County will be able to utilize the information from the assessment in defining the parameters for the 2026 program.

The Committee also took action:

• Approving the reallocation of $1.242 M of ARPA funds from Rental Assistance and Wrap-around Services for Returning Residents to Domestic Violence Intervention and Support Services in order to ensure the ARPA funds are spent by the end of 2026.  (Item 25-3541)  Comm. Anaya and others want more information as to what monies are going toward domestic violence.  A one-page summary will be provided to them listing all the domestic violence funding under the auspices of all the County officials.  
• Approving the use of $3 M of Corporate funds for the continuation of the demonstration of single-family homes utilizing modular technologies.  (Item 25-3759)  This is in addition to the $12 M in the proposed 2026 budget, which comes from the expected revenues from selling the modular properties developed using ARPA funds in the past for 4 developments.  The County was only able to get 2 developers for the past, but Comm. Gainer said that under a new Request for Proposal, now that the program has a track record, more developers should be interested with the expectation that the development costs will be reduced.  
• Voting to receive and file the Revenues and Expenses Report (Item 25-3998) and CCH monthly report (Item25-4110).   Chair Daley asked whether there were any negative impacts from not having received revenues from the 2nd installment property tax bills that have yet to be sent out.  The answer was not for the County.  He also asked about whether there is any impact yet on the Federal government shut-down, and the answer was that CCH received lower DSH (Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital) Payments than expected.  Comm. Gainer asked for a plan from Cook County Health on dealing with the Medicaid changes that are to begin in 2027.  CCH says that they are planning on a $107 M reduction in reimbursements annually, and are working on a plan now to deal with that.  Comm. Gainer urged CCH to ramp up to help people stay on Medicaid with reminders and other help to complete the necessary paperwork.  CCH said that they are looking at technological solutions to help with that.

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Health & Hospitals Committee
Committee Approves CCH 2026-2028 Strategic Plan

Andrea Gibson, the Chief Strategy Officer for Cook County Health (CCH), presented the 2026-2028 Strategic Plan (Item 25-3864), which was approved by the Committee.

• Desire to replicate the better-than-expected results of Medicaid redetermination that occurred with County Care and implement system-wide ability to move more patients to health care coverage.  Currently only 10% of the patient population at CCH is covered by private insurance. 
• Strategic plan focuses on reducing time to hire to 90 days from the current time of 100 days. 
• Several Commissioners raised concern about length of time to secure primary care and specialty care appointments and what in the Strategic Plan has been put into place to address and reduce length of time to appointment.  Ms. Gibson had said that CCH hopes to reduce the wait times to no more than 30 days. 

The Committee also received an update on infectious diseases from Dr. Kiran Joshi, Chief Operating Officer of the Department of Public Health (Item 25-3815).

• With delays on the federal level, Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) convened the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee (ILIAC). ILIAC consists of about 20 experts in epidemiology, infectious diseases, pediatrics, internal medicine, public health, pharmacy, and related fields. Dr. Joshi is a member. 
• IDPH issued vaccine guidance after receiving recommendations from ILIAC, examining guidance from medical specialty societies, and reviewing Illinois and national respiratory illness data. That guidance differs from that of the federal government.
• The federal government shutdown means most Center for Disease Control (CDC) data updates are on pause.  In addition, 1 in 3 CDC staff have been laid off with 50% additional budget cuts expected in 2026
• As of now there has been five measles cases in suburban Cook County in 2025. Each measles case requires a resource-intensive public health response

Observer:  Susan Avila

Audit Committee
Audit Department Makes Changes in Response To Quality Assessment Review

Auditor Heath Wolfe reported on the status of the deficiencies reported on the Quality Assessment Review. Mr. Wolfe was appointed auditor on June 30, 2025. Item 25-3504 was received and filed.

• Each year the Audit Department’s process and procedures are reviewed by an outside audit firm.  RSM LLP did the audit for the 24-25 fiscal year.
• The deficiencies included reporting structure, position openings, and continuing professional education.
• Mr. Wolfe explained the remediations already done, including that the department now reports to the Board instead of President Preckwinkle, the open positions are being posted on multiple professional job sites, and continuing education has been instituted according to industry standards.
• Commissioner Degnen asked how the number of audits will be increased. Mr. Wolfe has a goal of 30 audits a year.  An outside auditing firm will be brought in shortly to supplement work on this year’s audits.

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Asset Management Committee
Commissioners Discuss the Construction Manager at Risk Projects

Earl Manning, Director of Capital Planning and Policy in the Bureau of Asset Management, answered Commissioners’ questions about projects managed by a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) and the department’s strategy on leasing space.

• Mr. Manning explained the report from the Real Estate Department on projects being managed by a CMAR.   This report was requested by the Commissioners when they approved the program. The specific report before the committee was the Stroger/Provident updating. The report included the projects, timeline, per cent completion, MWBE stats, and local hiring stats. Item 25-3717 was received and filed.
• Commissioner Degnen expressed concern that projects managed by a CMAR do not include enough work for the internal Cook County employees.  Mr. Manning said that some work is assigned to internal staff on projects and that is not included in the CMAR.
• Commissioner Scott asked if there should be a specific compliance manager for MWBE and local hires to ensure the CMAR is meeting the County’s standards.
• Separately, the department is in the process of leasing space in Maywood to allow some of the Sheriff’s operations in Maywood to be consolidated.  Commissioner Degnen asked what the long-term plan for the operations would be considering the County is spending money to update third party buildings.  Mr. Manning said they were in negotiations to buy the building. Item 25-3746 was approved.
• The annual ADA Improvement Report was received and filed, Item 25-3654.  The Department is working toward incorporating universal design in all buildings so all people can use them.

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Technology & Innovation Committee
Meeting did not take place because there was not a quorum in the Board Room.  There were several Committee members who wanted to participate virtually, but the Board Rules and State law require there be a quorum physically in the room to be able to conduct business.  In the absence of the Chair, the Vice-Chair confirmed with the Chief Information Officer that no items on the agenda needed to be voted on for final action by the Board on Oct. 23.

Observer:  Victoria Cerinich

Cook County Board Of Commissioners
Committee Meetings 
​June 10, 2025

Health and Hospital Committee
The Committee passed the resolution declaring maternal morbidity and mortality as a public health crisis.  IL Senator Leticia Collins and Representative Camille Lilly gave supportive public testimony. (Item 25-2301)

For the quarterly report for the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) (Item 25-2513):

• Denise Gilbert, Director of Nursing at CCDPH, reviewed public health nursing initiatives within the Department. Hearing and Vision screening had been on hiatus, but has been reactivated and provides screening and assistance in referral for follow up care. Data informs their work, and it is also available to the community.  
• CCDPH website contains the Community Health Atlas which provides comprehensive population, health behavior, disease, maternal child health, and injury data for residents of suburban Cook County, and CCDPH’s jurisdiction. 
• CCDPH nurses developed EveryMotherEveryChild.org website for every stage of pregnancy, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation with fact sheets. 

For the CCDPH’s semi-annual Disparities Report (Item 25-2612):

• There is a long, slow decline in vaccination coverage in suburban Cook County. Schools with vaccination rates that are lower than 91% are scattered throughout the County. 
• Action by CCDPH includes a focus where there is greatest need:  schools with vaccination rates between 82-88% (lowest protection) AND high a high ranking on the Social Vulnerability Index.  That Index quantifies the potential for a community to experience greater negative effects for external stresses on human health, such as disasters or outbreaks.
• CCDPH is establishing vaccine clinics, patient education and targeted communication via media and community partnership.

League Observer: Susan Avila 

Audit Committee
The Committee reviewed the Audit Report on the Housing and Resources for Justice Involved Individuals, which is an ARPA-funded pilot project. (Item 25-2747)

• The Justice Advisory Council (JAC) is managing the program that helps recently released people find housing and pay the first three months’ rent.   The program will also provide prorated support depending on the person’s income and effort for the rest of a one-year lease.  
• The original plan was to house 300 people but only 26 had been successfully served at the time of the audit. During the audit process it was noted that subrecipient agencies were not timely reporting metrics and payroll costs were not reported correctly.  Both had been corrected by the time the audit was completed. 
• The JAC determined that it needed to revise the program and provide more assistance in obtaining the housing. The JAC has added relocation coordinators that walk the participants through the search and paperwork. The JAC also found other agencies that could refer people.   Since last November, 56 people have been housed and the JAC is working with about 13 people a month.
• Since the program has less participants than planned, its budget has been amended and some of the funds have been diverted to other ARPA programs.  The JAC is investigating private grants to keep the program going beyond 2026.
• Commissioner Gainer suggested they also work with the Land Bank that has connections with contractors that build rental property.  

League Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Finance Committee

• There was just one item on the agenda:  Commissioner Sean Morrison’s proposed ordinance amendment proposing to add language to the Class 2-12 real estate classification, Item 25-2835.  Commissioner Morrison explained that there would be no vote on the item, but that this meeting was an opportunity to discuss the proposal.  After obtaining more information and further discussion, the Board could then decide whether to make any changes to the requirements for the Classification or leave it as is.  Accordingly, the item was deferred after discussion.
• Comm. Morrison said that he understood the intent of the 2-12 classification was to give small business owners who live above their business a tax break by taxing the entire property at the residential rate of 10 percent of the assessed value.  However, the current language of the ordinance for 2-12 classification does not require the owner to live at the property. In contrast, other properties under a different classification are split, with the portion that is commercial being taxed at 25% of the assessed value and the residential portion taxed at 10% of the assessed value.  
• Comm. Morrison’s proposal would add the requirement that the owner use the property as the principal place of residence, receive a homeowner’s exemption, and file a yearly declaration of eligibility for the 2-12 classification with the Assessor each year.
• Comm. Morrison said that his staff found there were almost 14,000 properties classified as 2-12 currently and that the staff looked at about 6900 and found that about 50% had tax bills going to entities other than the owners of the property.  He has estimated that an additional $171 M would be collected if the property was split between commercial and residential.
• The Assessor’s Office was represented by the Chief of Staff, Scott Smith, and the Chief Legal Advisor. Mr. Smith said that about 1/5 of the current 2-12 properties do have homeowners’ exemptions.  He said that typically these properties are assessed at $100,000 or less. There was concern about what additional workload the office might be expected to do if the 2-12 classification was changed.  The office will provide more information in response to Comm. Morrison’s questions.  
• Comm. Trevor expressed concern that other renters in the building might not be able to continue to afford to live there if the property taxes increased for the entire property as a result of the property having to be split between residential and commercial.  She said that there should be a transition plan in place should a change in the classification be made.

League Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Workforce Housing and Community Development Committee

• There was no discussion, but the Committee approved a proposed loan of $2.6 M from the HOME Investment Partnership Program to Carefree Development for the construction of Carefree Village, a 55-unit affordable rental housing for seniors located in Oak Forest.

League Observer:  Susan Gegory

Cook County Board of Commissioners
May 13, 2025

Asset Management Committee
The Bureau of Asset Management presented its annual report on the Build Up Cook Program, highlighting their work in underserved communities. The Committee also approved a resolution declaring indoor air and indoor environmental quality as a public health crisis.

• The Bureau is using ARPA (America Rescue Plan Act) funds to provide resources to underserved communities for badly needed infrastructure projects such as fire hydrant replacements and sewer and stormwater projects.
• The projects are managed by Asset Management staff, using County contractors.
• One project highlighted was being able to help the Village of Robbins when a supply water main broke. The Bureau of Asset Management worked with other Cook County Departments to get it quickly repaired.
• The Bureau is also using funds for workshops so that community employees develop the skills to manage projects and obtain financing through grants.
• The Bureau wants to continue the workshops beyond the ARPA funding to help communities find and obtain grants from State funding options.   It is anticipated federal funds for infrastructure projects will not be forthcoming.
• To read more about the Build Up Cook Program, see the County website, https://arpa.cookcountyil.gov/build-up-cook.   The report was received and filed. Item 25-1896.
• The Committee approved a resolution declaring indoor air quality as a public health crisis.   The Committee took action on this issue at its meeting last month when the Commissioners approved a contract with the University of Illinois to develop a process for evaluating the air quality in Cook County buildings. Item 25-2342.

League Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Health and Hospitals Committee
Aaron Galeener, Chief Administrative Officer of CountyCare, and Dr. Yvonne Collins, Chief Medical Officer of CountyCare (the Medicaid managed health plan operated by Cook County Health) presented a PowerPoint overview of CountyCare services. 

• Health Benefit for Immigrant Adults (HBIA) Medicaid program is being sunset by Governor Pritzker effective July 1, 2025 which will affect over 16,000 CountyCare members and approximately 32,000 statewide, likely to have a significant financial impact.
• Commissioner Aguilar, Stamps, Degnan, and Vasquez asked what threats to CountyCare Medicaid the current Congressional debate calling for Medicaid cuts were.  Galeener said federal Medicaid cuts might include work requirements, as well as decreased federal funding for those Medicaid recipients who are covered by the expanded Medicaid coverage provided under the Affordable Care Act (“ACA”) which provides 90% federal funding for this group of individuals vs 51% for traditional Medicaid recipients. He said this could impact over 100,000 CountyCare members and a potential loss of $100 million in revenue. ACA expansion programs have a trigger to sunset in Illinois if federal contributions fall below 90%, Galeener noted.
• Commissioner Degnan asked what programs CCH/CountyCare will need to cut?  Galeener said programs that are “value added” components of Medicaid in Illinois that are not required by Federal Medicaid.  He indicated that increasing redetermination of eligibility from once a year to 6 months might be implemented.
• CCH’s housing program as a social determinant of health is funding organizations who are engaged in locating shelter for CountyCare members who are homeless or live in a shelter. Flexible Housing Pool (CountyCare invested $5 million in 2020 and $3 million in 2025) and other CountyCare housing programs currently house 432  individuals.  Health outcomes for persons housed by this program show 33% reduction of inpatient stays, 19% reduction in ER visits, 22% reduction of jail registrations, 30% reduction in all cause mortality.  Commissioner S. Morrison questioned whether CCH should be paying toward housing-- not in the mission of hospital system.  Galeener commented that “we are a health care entity, need better solutions to housing  and need to transition them to more sustainable affordable programs”.  (Item 23-0202) motion to defer adopted.

League Observer: Susan Kern

Audit Committee
The Committee periodically follows up on open audit recommendations. Bill Carroll, Deputy Auditor, reported on the four audit items currently open.  The report was received and filed.  Item 25-2074.

• The oldest and most concerning item was a finding from the 2015 audit of the Clerk of the Court concerning the process on uncollected revenue on traffic court fines.   The audit recommended that the Clerk’s office make every effort to collect the fines before turning them over to a collection agency.  Once they are given to a collection agency, there should be closer monitoring of the revenue.
• In 2015 the uncollected amount was $3M and has increased since then.  Commissioner Sean Morrison pointed out that the collection agencies take 30%-40%.
• Mr. Carroll reached out to the new Clerk of the Court administration and is setting up a meeting with the Finance Manager. He will review their current process.  Commissioner Degnen asked to be included in the meeting. 

League Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Cook County Board of Commissioners
Committee Meetings
November 20, 2024   

Finance Subcommittee on Litigation 

• A Public Speaker stated that he objected to the proposed settlement of his complaint against the Board of Review for his termination.   He wants to be reinstated as well as having a monetary settlement.
• The Commissioners discussed all items before them in closed session and voted to receive and file.

Audit Committee
 24-5692  Proposed Fiscal Year Audit Schedule
Mary Modelski, Auditor,  reported that the 2025 schedule will include among other audits:

• ARPA programs
• JAC grant utilization to check controls previously recommended have been implemented
• Chief Judge case management system
• Procurement
• Forest Preserve financial processes including concession revenue.

Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee
24-5896 Proposed Changes to the Vacation and Excused Absence with Pay ordinance.
There were several public speakers that addressed this proposed change to the ordinance.  The current ordinance applies to full time, part-time and seasonal workers in Cook County.  It requires that employers allot 1 hour of paid leave for any reason for every 40 hours worked in a 12-month period. The amendment would exempt school districts and park districts.
Several representatives from suburban school districts and park districts explained the problems with the current ordinance:

• For many teachers and others who work under existing contracts, these days are in addition to those agreed in the contract.  This results in more time the regular teacher is away from the classroom.
• When those contracts are renegotiated, these days will be included, probably at the cost of sick days.   Teachers can accumulate sick days toward their requirement, so they will lose some of that benefit.
• It requires more substitute teachers who are in short supply.   The cost of the substitutes is increased.
• Park Districts will have to cut the number of young people hired during the summer because of the increase in cost.
• Home rule municipalities can opt out of this ordinance and then the schools  and park districts within its boundaries would be exempt.  However, many school districts and park districts cover more than one municipality and so there would be unequal treatment of employees. 

Speakers from Women Employed and the Shriver Institute spoke in favor of keeping the original ordinance as it gives a benefit to the lower earners.
Commissioner Sean Morrison pointed out that the Illinois State Law on paid leave exempts school districts and park districts.
Commissioner Britton reiterated the issue of some municipalities being able to opt out while others can’t.   He pointed out that this will have more of an impact on southern and western suburbs who have fewer home rule towns.   This could result in higher property taxes. 
The Commissioners who did not support the change acknowledged the issues for the districts, but felt it was more important to protect the lower income workers across Cook County.  
The ordinance amendment failed to pass.

Observer:  Kathi Graffam