Cook County Board Committee Meetings
May 12 and 13, 2026
(see also the separate report on the May 12 Labor Committee meeting)

Cook County Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee
May 12, 2026
Clerk’s Office Provides Update on 2026 Primary Election

At the request of the Cook County Board, the Cook County Clerk’s office provided an update on the March 2026 Primary Election.  (Item 26-1147) 
Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon provided a brief update via video

• She stated that the new system utilized by the Election Division of her office which was introduced for the March election is called Election Lens.
• The system will provide live updates from polling places; integrate the data from the Smart Mail-In Ballot Drop Boxes; and provide tracking for mail-in ballots. All the data from these sources will be integrated into Election Lens to provide a profile of how the election process is working and where there could be problems.
• AI is also being used at the call centers to expedite responses to calls. 

The CEO of KNOWiNK and Ed Michalowski, Deputy Clerk for Elections continued with the update. KNOWiNK is the company that makes the poll books the County uses for elections and is the company behind Election Lens. They provided a demonstration of how Election Lens will work making the following points:

• It will provide information on real time check-in of voters
• By integrating the data from the drop boxes for mail-in ballots all those ballots should be able to be counted on election day
• Provides tracking for all mail-in ballots in real time.
• Will assist with polling place readiness - to see how each precinct is operating and identify any problems. 
• There will be GPS tracking of all election equipment.

Questions from commissioners focused on who would be able to view the data collected. Would it be available to the general public? The Commissioners and their staff? The political parties? 

• Response was that those issues will need to be worked out and would depend on the type of data as well as ensuring security and privacy issues. 
• The head of Cybersecurity for the Clerk stated that the system has the highest level of security and they will be running a mock election this summer to further test the system. He also said they work closely with the Cook County Bureau of Technology to ensure they are in compliance with County regulations, and they meet with them monthly. 
• Comm. Britton asked how the integration of election results between Chicago and the County is progressing. Mr. Michalowski said it could be done if the Chicago Board of Elections is willing. Comm. Daley said that he is also requesting the Chicago Board of Elections to come before the Commissioners to provide their update. 

The Committee also approved a resolution that would initiate a process to engage an organization to develop a process to develop a youth council to provide a voice to the young people of the County. 

• It is intended that the council will consist of 20 young people between the ages of 14-21 and will launch in 2027. (Agenda Item 26-1017) Commissioners thought this was a good way to provide an administrative approach to engaging youth and wanted to be sure it had representation from all aspects of the County and a workforce component was also suggested. Comm. Lowry stated that the Commissioners would be asked for input into the development once the organizing agency was selected. 

Also approved was the appointment of Olive Brown as the Resident Commissioner to the Housing Authority of Cook County. (Item 26-1188)

​Observer - Cynthia Schilsky

Cook County Criminal Justice Committee Meeting
May 13, 2026
On Split Vote, Committee Approves Automated License Plate Readers & Services Contract

The Committee approved all 3 agenda items, but the first one seeking approval for an Automated License Plate Readers and Services Contract (26-1043) passed on a split vote with 13 ayes, 3 nays (Comms. Anya, Stamps, and Vasquez), with 1 absent (Gainer).  Under the contract, Insight Public Sector would continue to provide services and increase the number of stationary Automated License Plate Readers at a cost of $900,000 over 2 years thru (April 30, 2028) with 2 one-year renewal options. 

• There were several public speakers: three Police Chiefs in person and several chiefs online. All spoke to the importance of having license plate readers (LPRs) in their communities and across communities.  They referenced specific incidences regarding violent crimes, carjacking, hit and runs, and missing persons.  One chief said that LPRs are important for public trust.
• The County first contracted for cameras as an emergency procurement in 2022 when the County had a crisis with carjackings.  Commissioner Miller shared her own experience with being carjacked before cameras were available.
• Cook County already has 71 cameras deployed
• Concern was raised with data shared and how long it is kept. Currently held for 30 days unless there is a link with a crime.  Commissioners want to be notified if the Sheriff extends the 30-day retention.
• Concern was raised with misuse of the data in regard to targeting immigrants or people accessing abortion services. Data can only be accessed by others through FOIA or a court order/subpoena.
• If there is a data breach, the Commissioners want to be notified. Expectation is within 24 hours. 
• Cook County has its own Professional Services Agreement (PSA) which guides and restricts how data can be used.  Several Commissioners asked for a copy of the PSA and expressed concern with county data shared with 3rd parties.
• Other information shared about the cameras is there is no facial recognition, no capability to see individual people in the car, and it is not used for predictive policing.

The two other items passed unanimously by those at the meeting were:

• Resolution in support of Illinois SB2801/HB4471 which provides that a person commits the offense of unlawful possession of weapons when the person knowingly manufactures, sells, or offers to sell, purchase, receive, manufacture, import, or transfer a convertible pistol. Also provides that a machine gun also includes any convertible pistol equipped with a switch. If a switch is added to these guns they can shoot up to 1,200 rounds per minute. (item 26-1198)
• IL Criminal Justice Information Intergovernmental Agreement that provides for data sharing among local governments regarding community violence intervention programs under the Government Alliance for Safe Communities. The goal is to streamline metrics, investments and analyze local impact of community violence intervention strategies in Cook County and coordinate where resources go with the research partnership of Northwestern University. (Item 26-0553)

Observer:  Laura Davis

Cook County Health and Hospital Committee
May 12, 2026 
Committee Hears that Agency Use Is Down at CCH

• At this Committee meeting, Cook County Health Chief Human Resource Officer Win Buren and Executive Chief Operating Officer Craig Williams presented Cook County Health’s Semi-Annual Agency Utilization Report for the period of October 2025 through March 2026.
• Cook County Health (CCH) is required to provide a Bi-Annual Agency Utilization Report to comply with Resolution 24-5841 of the Cook County Board. The Board had a concern about the number of jobs being filled with people from external agencies, as opposed to County employees.  These bi-annual reports will no longer be required once CCH agency utilization does not exceed 20% of the budgeted Full Time Equivalents (FTE) personnel for each job classification approved in the annual budget by the Cook County Board of Commissioners.
• The overall trend is downward for agency usage for all job categories. 
• Job titles accounting for high % of agency usage are: Clinical Nurse I; Health Information Management Coder; Third Party Bill Follow Up Representative and Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Commissioner Daley asked for further information on the impact of absenteeism and usage of agency.
  
• Commissioner Stamps asked about effectiveness of the job recruiting fairs. Mr. Buren reported that currently 71% of newly hired nurses came through job fair events. 
• Nick Shields, Cook County Health’s Chief External Affairs and Civic Engagement Officer, said in response to Commissioner Stamps’ question about the health system’s work with high schools in Chicago and the suburbs that he is holding ongoing meetings with Chicago Public Schools and contacting suburban districts to set up preceptor and other student opportunities.

Observer:  Susan Avila

Finance Committee 
May 13, 2026
Committee Approves Reallocation of ARPA Dollars for Gun Violence Prevention

• To ensure all Federal dollars under the American Rescue Plan Act are spent, the Committee approved a reallocation of those dollars to increase the amounts to entities which have consistently provided timely financial and program reporting under the Gun Violence Prevention and Reduction Grants.  (Item 26-0554)
• Also approved a proposed contract for consulting services with ICF Incoporated for $5.9 M thru the end of 2031 to manage $244 M for unmet housing and recovery needs resulting from disasters that occurred in 2023-24.  It was stated that the County does not have the capacity to manage this on its own.  (item 26-1064)
• After a long discussion, approved a contract for law enforcement entry-level and promotional testing services for use by the Cook County Merit Board, which is responsible for doing the initial assessment that someone is qualified for an entry-level position or promotion in the Sheriff’s departments.  However, the Merit Board does not actually make the hiring or promotion decisions, which are with the Sheriff.  Much of the discussion centered on whether there are any requirements that someone who is hired and trained then works for some minimum time before leaving, as a result of discussions that occurred at the Labor Committee meeting on May 12.  However, that does not come under the Merit Board’s purview.  (Item 26-1014)
• Deferred was a Substitute resolution to continue the Recruitment Incentive and Retention Bonus Program.  Sponsors Anaya and Degnen explained that the deferral was to work out some language with the President’s office, but they expected that to be resolved quickly. (item 25-1251)
• The Comptroller reported that through March 31:  the General Fund has a favorable $261.7 M as compared to budget and the Health Fund has a favorable $27.7 M as compared to budget.  For this fiscal year, the Federal Government has cancelled $700,000 worth of one-time grants to the County.

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Cook County Asset Management Committee     
May 13, 2026
Concerns Raised about Length of Time to Award Contract
The Committee approved a contract for demolition and renovation of buildings at Cook County Jail. (26-1057)   It was noted that it took 2 years from the time of the request for proposal (RFP) to actually awarding the contract.

• Commissioner Degnen asked what happened in the process for it to take so long.  Raffi Sarrafian, Chief Procurement Officer, did not have the details of the process and said he would get that information to her.  Commissioner Degnen said the Asset Management staff should have expected that a Commissioner would ask about the length of time and have that information ready for the meeting.

Jamie Meyers, Interim Bureau Chief of Asset Management, presented the annual report of the 2025 Build Up Cook Program.  The purpose of the program is to help municipalities maintain critical infrastructure such as water supplies, as well as assess future needs.   

• Examples of the work included: helping Harvey repair a major break in its water supply main; assessing public buildings for structural integrity with 24 municipalities; training water operators on maintenance and repair; and helping villages compete for federal funding for projects. The report was received and filed (26-1144)

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Contract Compliance Committee
May 13, 2026
Committee Reviews Annual Diversity Report

• Raffi Sarrafian, Chief Procurement Officer presented the 2025 Annual Diversity Report which records the amount of contractual work and money going to women owned, minority owned, and small businesses (MWBE). The report was received and filed (26-0815)
• The Department has goals for inclusion of MWBE business in the procurement process with prescribed benchmarks but not quotas or set-asides. The methodology is used by many municipalities and is legally defensible.
• Of the total of $1.08B awarded for County contracts, $231M went to MWBE entities, which is 21%.  Separately, Cook County Health had a total of $1.6B in awarded contracts with $209M going to MWBE, which is 28%.
• The Department currently has 706 businesses certified as MWBE that can bid on work. The Department has a goal to increase that number. Asset Management consults with other departments on creating their contract requirements so that smaller businesses can participate.
• The Business Service Organization of the Economic Development Department provides support to businesses in getting their MWBE certification.

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Cook County Environment & Sustainability Committee 
May 13, 2026
Committee Approves Resolution to Advance the Chicago Area Waterway System Ecological Health

This one item was passed unanimously (26-1238).

• The Chicago Waterway System is 76.1 miles of canal and modified natural rivers which are home to a variety of wildlife, plants and fish, with fish species, rising from 10 in 1974 to 77 species in 2026. This indicates significant improvements in water quality and aquatic habitat. 
• The next goal is to target “hot spots” from years of pollutants that drop to the river bottom. The work will be performed by the US Army Corps and US EPA and the resolution was passed last year by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and  by the City of Chicago earlier this year.

Observer:  Laura Davis 

Cook County Board Health and Hospital Committee Meeting
April 14, 2026 (regular meeting)

Cook County Health (CCH) CEO Erik Mikaitis, along with Kathy Chan and Alexandra Normington, presented  a report on CCH’s Medicaid Impact Workgroup (item # 23-0202).

• CCH is asking everyone to share the Medicaid Facts Microsite:  https://getmedicaidfacts.com 
• Medicaid Eligibility Changes as a result of the bill known as H.R.1 passed in 2025 include: (1) Narrows definition of “qualified immigrant” which will end eligibility for many lawfully present individuals (such as refugee and asylum seekers and victims of domestic violence and trafficking) – effective October 1, 2026; (2) Redeterminations for Affordable Care Act (ACA) adults - twice a year (instead of annual)– effective January 1, 2027; (3) New Federal Medicaid Rules require 80 hours per month of work, school, or volunteering effective January 1, 2027. Federal guidance with more specifics expected June 2026. 
• As a result of these changes, 400,000 people in Illinois are estimated to lose coverage, including 20,000 CCH patients. This could result in a $280 M negative impact on CCH’s budget.
• Up to now, even though County Care has one of the highest retention rates for Medicaid managed care plans, between 11 and 14% lose coverage during every redetermination period:  70% due to paperwork/administration issues; 30% due to no longer being eligible.
• Arkansas implemented work requirements in 2018:  18,000 enrollees lost coverage; 97% of those were eligible; and the State spent $26 M to implement before the program was halted by a federal judge after 4 months.
• Provided Update on the Cook County Health Medicaid Impact Workgroup. In September 2025, Cook County Health hosted a cross-sector convening of 60+ health care providers, payers, foundations, academia, advocates, community organizations, business to mitigate harms from H.R.1 eligibility changes. 
• Three sub-groups have been established: Communicate & Educate, Coalition Building, Innovate & Create. CCH is also working with the National Association of Counties (NACo) to scale best practices, learn from other counties, and leverage collective advocacy opportunities 
• Cook County Health created a communications toolkit in 6 languages that provides resources for partners to share. Materials were purposefully left unbranded to allow other orgs to brand, supporting increased use, visibility and trust. 
• Commissioners Lowry and Anaya spoke of the need to elevate the conversation at the state level and the need for a toolkit for Commissioners who will be lobbying state officials. They emphasized the need for coordinated state messaging. Commissioner Lowry will ask for an update from the County’s legislative lobbying team. 
• Commissioners Miller and McCaskill questioned which members (community and academic) from the suburban community were invited to participate in the CCH Medicaid Impact Workgroup. Kathy Chan responded that currently there is no academic representation and one or two community representatives. CCH leadership agreed to work with Commissioners to increase participation from the suburban community. 
• Commissioners Daley and Stamps asked that the newly created communications toolkit be sent to the Commissioners so it can be tied to their outreach events. Both Commissioners emphasized the need for tighter communication between commissioners and the County’s legislative lobbying team.
• In response to questions from Commissioner Daley regarding the Health System impact of the closing of West Suburban Hospital, Dr. Mikaitis said the Health System received 65 to 70 transfers. Dr. Mikaitis announced that Craig Williams, Executive Chief Operating Officer, will be leaving the Health System for a new position.

Dr. Kiran Joshi, head of the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) provided the quarterly update on COVID-19 and Infectious Diseases (Item 22-3815):

• A judicial order issued in March temporarily blocks changes to federal immunization recommendations. The halts are temporary, pending either a trial or a decision for summary judgment.
• Despite judicial ruling, the U.S. Dept of Health & Human Services published a revised charter for ACIP (Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices) on April 9 which puts greater emphasis on potential harms from vaccines and allows for membership on the Committee beyond past emphasis on expertise in immunization practice.
• COVID-19 vaccination is still recommended and older adults/those at high risk could consider a booster
• Flu and RSV remain low; COVID-19 remains minimal as of 4/4/26
• 2025-26 Free Flu & Covid Vaccination Clinics: Eight events with community organizations plus 22 with the Access Community Health Network held:  1897 vaccines administered. CCDPH is working to move the vaccinations clinics to larger and public spaces for 2027  
• Commissioner Trevor asked about the weight of recommendations for immunizations from professional organizations and the impact on reimbursement from insurance companies. Dr Joshi answered hat the national association of insurance companies has issued a statement that it supports science-based recommendations which in effect indicate support of the professional recommendations. 

Observer: Susan Avila 

Finance Committee Meeting
March 11, 2026
Finance Recommends Use of Released Chicago TIF Funds for Food and Housing Assistance

The Finance Committee recommended Board approval for 4 items that will utilize some of the funds released as surplus by Chicago from the City’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts.  Upon learning that the County would be receiving an extra $19.9 M from Chicago, the Cook County Board included that in its 2026 budget and allocated it for one-time usage for existing programs for rental assistance, homeless services and food access.  These 4 items provide the specifics as to how the County will utilize the money:
26-0761 (food assistance)

• $10 M to be added to an existing agreement with the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) for food assistance.  This agreement has been funded by money received from the Federal Government under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).  The Chief Operating Officer of the GCFD explained that $8 M will go to the purchase of food, while the remaining $2 M will be used for capacity building – which includes infrastructure such as storage space and refrigeration, etc.
• Comm Stamps asked that the GCFD talk about how the changes to eligibility for SNAP benefits will not only increase the need for food assistance, but will also impact local businesses.  Ms. Perry from the GCFD explained that the SNAP cuts amount to almost $200 Billion, which means an equivalent loss for businesses who would have sold that amount of food to SNAP recipients.
• It is estimated that 450,000 people could lose their SNAP benefits by May as a result of the changes to who is exempt from work requirements.  Comm. Trevor asked about the impact on part-time workers who often do not control the number of hours they are assigned.  The requirement is that if you are not exempt, you must work for at least 80 hours a month, but can satisfy that requirement with volunteer work.  Ms. Perry said that the State of Illinois has a web site where entities can post volunteer opportunities, and people can sign up there and have the necessary paperwork proof provided to meet eligibility:  https://serve.illinois.gov/en.html
• Comm. Sean Morrison asked whether there were any funds for educating people who lose their SNAP benefits about ways to qualify and/or helping them find jobs.  Comm. Daley responded that Cook County Health has programs to provide that education and the President’s office is coordinating efforts in that regard.  Tool kits should be sent out to Commissioners shortly and Comm. Scott asked for information on the Illinois web site so the Commissioners can share with their constituents.

26-0727 (emergency rental assistance) 

• $5.8 M to provide emergency rental assistance to tenant and landlords who have pending eviction cases in court.   The state funding for this program is expected to run out 2 to 3 months prior to June 30, the end of Illinois’ fiscal year, so before the State can provide more funding for the next fiscal year.  

26-0762 (homeless prevention)

• $3.4 M to the Alliance to End Homelessness in Suburban Cook County for a Problem-Solving Fund to provide creative, flexible, and cost-effective solutions for homelessness prevention and to provide emergency shelter services as needed.

26-0763 (sheltering programs)

• $465,600 added to an existing ARPA-funded agreement with shelter agency Beds Plus to continue hotel-based sheltering program; $42,000 to the shelter agency Respond Now; $67,500 to shelter agency Journeys; $63,000 to South Suburban PADS; and $50,000 to Housing Forward.
• With regard to all these homeless-prevention and sheltering programs, Comm. Gainer pointed out that a recent study says that Cook County needs 225,000 more affordable housing units.   So more building is necessary.  For the long term, Chicago and Suburban governments need to address the construction, building and zoning codes to eliminate impediments and lower the unit costs to building affordable housing.  Comm. Degnen supported that and says the County needs to look at their own rules.

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Health & Hospital Committee
March 10, 2026
Public Health Dept. Outlines Its Use of Data and CCH Describes New Program to Reduce Staff Vacancies 

Two reports were presented to the Committee.
For the Cook County Health quarterly report to the Board (26-0733), the Public Health Department’s Chief Operating Officer, Kiran Joshi presented the Data for Action Report.  

• Dr. Joshi focused on how data is used to advance health protection and equity; prevent disease; inform and engage the media, community partnerships, health education and outreach;  and provide guidance to schools and health care providers.  
• Typical data that is compiled includes: chronic diseases; social determinants; communicable diseases; healthcare access; and vaccination data.
• The Department has 10 epidemiologists and one fellow to pull together this information.
• Using Measles Protection as the health issue: the Department utilized the following steps: Detect  > Evaluate evidence and Develop strategies  >  Implement initiatives  >  Educate  >  Measure Impact.  As a result of detecting the declining measles vaccination rate, schools with the lowest rates were identified and targeted.  Then pop-up clinics were brought to these communities.  At the same time, a brochure and social media segments were produced to address misinformation.
• Other examples included the Protection of Providers & Patients by educating them on the importance of using face masks; in partnership with the Epilepsy Foundation of G. Chicago, improving Epilepsy Services; a Health Survey Data to shed light on community issues such as suicide; and looking at  E-cigarettes and vaping product use associated with lung injuries which is a serios problem among the young of our county.  
• Questions and comments from Commissioner Stamps and Degnan primarily focused on the vaping issue and the importance of educating the youth of its harm.  They also pushed the importance of short social media ads such as “if you are inhaling something that isn’t air, it’s probably bad for you”.   Dr. Joshi stated an emerging threat is the use of a small nicotine pouch that can be put between teeth and gum that is as addictive as cigarettes and vaping.

Dr. Eric Mikaitis, Chief Executive Officer of Cook County Health (CCH), presented an overview of the Health Catalyst-Chicago education and job pathways pilot with the City Colleges to address CCH’s 1600 vacancy gap, 900 of which are classified as “hard to fill”.  As a result, there is still a heavy reliance on outside staffing agencies which is 1.5 times more expensive and compromises patient continuity.  The goal is to transition from “reactive hiring to a proactive, local talent strategy.”

• By integrating City Colleges healthcare programs directly with CCH’s operational needs, CCH hopes to ensure students are Day 1 Ready.
• CCH will provide hands-on experience via clinical rotations at CCH facilities.
• Equity-First will focus on students from underserved Cook County zip codes to mirror the county CCH serves.
• Sustainability is to be achieved by reducing hiring times and retaining talent through implementation of continued education programs.
• Steps to implement:  working groups will begin meeting in March; a pilot externship program will be tested this summer; launch the first group under the program at Provident Hospital in January 2027. 
• Expectation is that this program will lead to improved patient care, agency reduction, and workforce diversity.
• Comm. Stamps wanted this drilled down to public high schools and then to elementary and was told that high school contacts under way.
• Comm. McCaskill urged that the program be expanded to the suburbs - particularly a caregiver program.
• In response to Comm. Daley, this program is limited to public schools.

Addressing the nurse hiring Issue:  

• The Human Resources Director noted that to date in 2026, there have been 72 offers with 61 acceptances; 41 net hires (hires vs losses); and 89 days to fill the job vs 120 days in 2025.  Also, CCH has reduced agency hires by 50% and vacancy rate was reduced by almost half in 2025.
• Comm. Stamps asked what is the best practice time to fill a job?  Response:  Under 90 days.

Observer:  Diane Edmundson

Asset Management Committee
March 11, 2026
Committee Approves More Money for Solar Panels and Restacking Projects

The Committee approved additional funding to one of the restacking projects, in this case moving departments out of leased quarters in 161 N. Clark to a former warehouse in Cicero.  The building requires a new roof, electrical, and HVAC work.   The County will also install solar panels as part of the roof work, so is increasing the work to be done this year in order to recover the federal green energy incentives and rebates that will be eliminated at the end of the year.   Sean Morrison asked Jamie Myers, Bureau Chief, to provide a breakdown of the costs for this additional work.  (26-0677)

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Cook County Board of Commissioners Meeting
March 12, 2026
Majority of Meeting Spent on Public Comments from 44 Speakers

The meeting began with Public Comment that lasted for 2 hours and 22 minutes. 38 speakers spoke in person and 6 persons spoke virtually. Topics of concern were varied and the issues raised were:

• 8 persons expressed concern with the Domestic Violence/Family Courts
• 8 persons spoke in favor of the Build Cook programs and expressed gratitude to President Preckwinkle and commissioners, particularly Dr. McCaskill, for implementing the programs.
• 8 persons expressed dissatisfaction with the present Board of Commissioners for various reasons
• 6 persons asked for support of the various ordinances dealing with monies for homeless services and food programs.
• 3 persons read letters from detainees in the Cook County Jail.
• 2 persons expressed support for the Climate Super Fund ordinance (Agenda Item 26-0977) 
• 2 persons spoke in favor of the Forest Preserve District inclusion in a network of Underground Railroad Sites in the midwest. 
• 2 persons - speaking for school districts and libraries - spoke of the issues raised by the late distribution of the 2nd installment 2025 tax revenues.
• Other speakers raised various other issues. 

Following public comments, the business of the Board was conducted in the final hour of the meeting. Items of note include:
26-0788 - Zahra Ali, Chief Administrative Officer for the Bureau of Administration, provided highlights of the Fleet Report that was received and filed. She reported the following:

• Cook County has 1989 vehicles spread over 29 departments
• Average age is 9 years old with the average date of purchase being 2016
• 69.5% of the vehicles are for law enforcement.
• 29% are hybrid or electric which indicates an increase in compliance with the sustainability goals of the County.

26-0028 - A proposed contract from the Sheriff’s office for a Policy Dissemination Management System with Lexipol LLC. 

• Questions from Comm. Anaya, Degnan, Vasquez, and S. Morrison were concerned with the approval for the contract including a 1-year extension to the 2-year contract. 
• A representative from Contract Compliance indicated that the approval process approved by the board in November of 2024 stated that a renewal can be included in the initial contract approval if there is a monetary amount included in the contract. If approved, the contract would not need to come back to the Board for renewal unless there was an increase in the monetary amount. 
• Comm. S. Morrison did not realize this had been included in the rewrite of the Procurement Code, but Comm. Daley stated that there was discussion when this was approved. 
• Comm. Degnan thought it should just be a 3-year contract. 
• It was approved with Comm. S. Morrison, Anaya, Vasquez, Degnan and Stamps voting present. 

26-0418, 26-0429, 26-0430 - The appointments of Bruce Schiff, William Little, and Zenobia Johnson-Black to the Cook County Housing Authority were approved. Approval of these appointments had been deferred at the January Board meeting after being recommended, along with two others, at the January Legislation & Intergovt. Relations Committee meeting.. 

All New Agenda Items were considered at once:  some approved; some “received and filed;” and most referred to committees. The following items were highlighted: 

• Comm. Degnan highlighted item 26-0977, support for the passage of the Climate Super Fund; item 26-0978, urging Congress to reject legal immunity for big oil and fossil fuel companies; and item 26-0979, urging the Illinois Legislature to pass SB1531 - the Disposable Food Container Act. 
• Comm. Lowry spoke to the importance of item 26-1017, the establishment of a Youth Council to engage youth in shaping policy.

​Observer:  Cynthia Schilsky

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 Finance Committee Meeting
October 28, 2025

Cook County Health (CCH) – Chief Executive Officer Dr. Erik Mikaitis and Chief Financial Officer Pamela Cassara
Proposed 2026 Budget:  $5.218 Billion              Proposed 2026 Positions:              7,866
Actual 2025 Budget:        $5.252 Billion              Actual 2025 Approved Positions:   7,817
Difference:                    ($     34 Million)                  Difference:                         +   48
Dr. Mikaitis and Ms. Cassara presented the budget, explaining how Cook County Health (CCH) has cut expenses by 10% this year and the concerns for the government funding decreases anticipated in the next two years.  

• They anticipate that the cuts in state and federal funding will result in $400M revenue loss over the next two years. This includes Illinois eliminating the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults ($111M affecting 8,000 patients) and Federal changes in eligibility for Medicaid recipients. The ARPA funds for 2026 that CCH has already received cannot be clawed back by the federal government.
• Commissioner Trevor expressed concern that the potential stopping of Affordable Care Act subsidies will result in thousands of uninsured residents because health insurance will become unaffordable. She had an estimate that 33% could lose their coverage. These people will turn to CCH for services.  Dr. Mikaitis said that this group may not choose to have the preventative services needed and this will result in more serious issues.   Also, there could be a significant impact to smaller hospitals that may have to close.
• CCH has been able to reduce use of agency staff by 40% which has resulted in a $30M savings. They have improved and accelerated the hiring process and anticipate that they can continue to reduce agency staffing. They are also reviewing processes for improvement that result in savings such as supplies. They are also creating ways for people to use the health clinics rather than the emergency rooms.
• The ICE operations in Cook County have impacted CCH and several Commissioners had questions about it.  There has been an 83% decline in visits from new arrivals. Dr. Mikaitis said the decline is due to immigrants leaving the area and fear of ICE detentions. He is concerned that this population will not have preventative care and that will result in more severe issues seen at emergency rooms.  Several questions concerned the training for employees.  All CCH employees have taken online training on dealing with ICE agents and alerting security and legal.  ICE has not tried to enter buildings to arrest somebody, but they have brought detained people in for medical help.  The ICE agents can legally stay with the detainee in a hospital room (not in surgery) but cannot talk to other patients.
• Commissioner Anaya asked for an update in increasing bilingual staff. They have increased the Spanish speaking interpreters by 9.  They now have 14 Spanish and 3 Polish on-site interpreters.  They also have an online system for all languages which has proved to be very useful and patients are willing to use it. CCH Behavioral Health department is trying to recruit a Spanish speaking psychiatrist but, as yet has not been successful.
• Commissioner Britton asked about their policy on renting versus buying.  CCH is working with Real Estate Management on evaluating their space and trying to consolidate in county-owned property.  CCH is co-locating food help with medical help. It has food pantries and healthy meals programs.  They are working with other providers and philanthropy to plan for the potential SNAP stoppage.
• CCH has established a Pathways program to interest area students in medical professions working at CCH. They work with local high school, college, and graduate students.

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Cook County Board Committee Meetings 
Sept. 16, 2025

Health & Hospitals Committee Public Hearing
Committee Receives Update on Maternal Health Care and Morbidity and Mortality Rates in Cook County

• Following up on two similar hearings over the past 2 years, Commissioner Miller, the lead sponsor for holding this hearing (Item 25-0917), noted that disparities between Black and Latina women vs. other were made worse by Covid.  Now the disparities are expected to be exacerbated by the Federal cuts to Medicaid and to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Nevertheless, she noted that up to 80% of deaths are preventable and progress is being made.
• Nine public speakers ranging from individuals with serious maternal health problems to the CC Physicians Association, Women in Medicine, the IL Dept of Public Health, and speakers from Family Focus (advocacy/service org.) They all prioritized the importance of continuing to provide funding for maternal health and several emphasized the importance of providing post-partum medical coverage for 12 months.
• Dr. Wm McDade, MD, PhD and adjunct Professor of Anesthesiology at the Rush Medical College stated that during 2018 to 2022, there were 6,283 pregnancy-related deaths in Cook County, including 1,891 late maternal deaths.  American Indian and Alaska Native women had the highest death rate followed by non-Hispanic black women.  Cardiovascular disease was the leading cause of the overall deaths.  Cancer, mental and behavior disorders, and drug and/or alcohol induced deaths were all important contributing causes of late maternal death. Inadequate access to care, information, communication, and warning signs along with social determinants all lead to inequity.
• Dr. Joshi, Cook County Public Health Chief Operating Officer noted that in Suburban Cook County, black infant mortality is three times higher than for others.  Causes of maternal death include hemorrhaging, hypertension, obesity, infection, and thromboembolic disorders.  Cook County’s goal through its Doula program and other services wants to surround the maternal patient with all the services needed pre-during-and post pregnancy.
• Cook County’s Cermak facility provides health care for those in the Cook County Jail, which include: primary care clinics available for all individuals, STI (sexually transmitted infection) screening offered during intake process; perinatal clinic for pregnant and postpartum women; medication assistance; termination care, family planning services including a gynecology clinic, ultrasound for dating only, and referrals to Stroger Hospital for maternal-fetal medicine, antepartum ultrasound and delivery.

Links:  Maternal Health Resolution_June_Sept 2025 amended.pdf  (CC Health & Cermax Slides)
            McDade CCB Presentation Final.pptx  (Slides with lots of data)
Observer:  Diane Edmundson

Cook County Health & Hospitals Committee Regular Meeting
Committee Hears about the Environmental Health Services of the Cook County Department of Public Health

George Papadopoulos, MPH, LEHP presented the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) 3rd Quarter Report (Item 25-2514) to the Committee:

• Focus of the CCDPH report was on the Environmental Health Services. The Environmental Unit has a staff of 25 including 10 Licensed Environmental Health Practitioners. The Unit is funded 57% from Grants and 43% from the Corporate Health Fund. 
• The number of lead poisoning cases that this Unit is responsible for investigating in FY2025 increased by 50% from 2024. The IL Dept of Public Health in FY25 lowered the lead level that initiates an inspection by CCDPH unit. The Department is planning in FY2026 to expand the lead inspection program. 
• CCDPH is responsible for inspecting all Cook County swimming pools and tattoo and tanning facilities. However, the CCDPH only covers the unincorporated areas of Cook County for Retail and Food Protection Program, Retail Tobacco, Vector Control, Lead Poisoning, Nuisance, Mobile Home Parks, and Water/Sewage.  
• CCDPH on a regular basis collects and analyzes the data from all 4 of the County mosquito abatement districts.

Observer: Susan Avila