Audit Committee 
July 14, 2026

Audits Reveal Errors Resulting in Changing Procedures

• The Commissioners reviewed the reports of two external auditors.   RSM audited the County’s financial reporting and systems for 2025, and Washington, Pittman, & McKeever audited reporting on Federal grants for 2025. The reports were received and filed. (26-1592, 26-1593, 26-1595, 26-1596, 26-1663)
• RSM found a number of accounting errors such as wrong classification or late reporting.  All the errors were corrected and the responsible units revised their procedures, such as creating check lists for posting entries.
• RSM also audited the documentation on the property tax system conversion. While user acceptance testing appeared to complete all testing of functions, documentation of those tests was not complete. They also found that there was not separation of duties for programmers on the project. A person who programmed a change also uploaded it to the system. This should be done by two separate people. The system administration does not allow for separating such functions in a user id, so it will have to be managed by supervisors. This finding will stay open until the next audit meeting to ensure new procedures are in place.
• Washington, Pittman & McKeever found errors in reporting on Federal Awards, such as insufficient documentation and late reporting.  The responsible units have revised their procedures.  

Observer:  Kathi Graffam


Finance Committee
July 14, 2026
After Much Discussion, Committee Approves Contract for Meal Supplier for the Jail

A one-year extension of the contract for food service for the County Jail was approved after Commissioners raised concerns about the quality of the food being provided.  (Item 26-1196)

• The contract is for $73 M, $17 M over the current contract, for supplying 3 meals/day for those in the Sheriff’s custody, which incudes 9 divisions in the Jail and court locations.  The meals can accommodate 23 different special diets, including those based on religion, dietary preferences, and medical needs.  The budgeted amount is for 6,300 persons/day.  As of July 13, there were 5,992 in the Jail.
• Comm. Stamps said that she was not pleased with what she saw being served.  In response to her questions, she was told that for those on the standard diet, fresh fruit is included once a week, though vegetables are served every day at dinner.  
• Comm. McCaskill wanted to know how much of the $17 M increase in the contract was for improvements to the food vs. an increase in the jail population vs. inflation.  She was told that a breakdown on the increase would be provided, but in response to a prior question, the $17 M increase was attributed to rising costs of food and general inflation, as well as an increase in the jail population, rather than any change in the food to be provided.
• Comm. Trevor did a quick calculation to determine that the costs per person was $7/day and questioned whether that was adequate to feed the population.
• The Commissioners were told that all menus are approved by an Illinois-registered dietician and are consistent with national dietary standards.  

Xochitl Flores, Chief of the Bureau of Economic Development, presented a preview of the Stout Evaluation of Cook County’s Early Resolution Program for Housing and Debt, covering the period from January 2022 thru April 2026. A final report will be issued shortly.  (item 26-1562)

• Under this program, legal aid is provided to residents facing eviction, foreclosure, consumer debt, and tax deed issues, along with some wrap-around services in some cases.  Non-legal services include re-housing, employment, household budgeting, and public benefits.
• 98% of those served were satisfied or very satisfied.
• For every $1 spent, there was a return calculated as being $3.41 to $4.25 in decrease use of safety net services.  
• Comm. Anaya said that this is one of the top programs the County provides.

The Committee approved

• Two items to provide $15 M for residents harmed by the 2025 rain storms and $1.5 M to administer that program.  (Items 26-1732 and 26-1733).  Qualifying homeowners can get up to $2,000.  This program was set up because the Federal Emergency Management Agency denied federal disaster aid without explanation.
• $4.1 M from the General Fund for Suburban organizations to provide services for survivors of gun violence.  (26-0722) Separately, another $962,977 for wrap-around services for the survivors of gun violence.

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Cook County Sheriff 
July 22, 2026 

The second day of the mid year budget hearings began with the Sheriff's Office. Highlights from Sheriff Tom Darts opening remarks:

• Operating budget for 2026 is $774M that is $64M over the 2025 budget.
• So far they have spent $362M so they are on track to meet their budget for the year.
• Overtime (OT) budget could be an issue as it was budgeted at $72M and so far they have spent $60M of that.
• Factors leading to increase in OT include fact that 467officers/day are taking sick leave and the assistance their officers provided to Broadview and the State Police in assisting with ICE issues there. 
• They have slowed hiring so that they will meet their budget for this year.
• Requesting $861M next year reflecting the pay increases that were approved by the board.

Commissioner comments and questions/answers:

• Lowry - asked about the Sheriff’s Electronic Monitoring (EM) System - 167 persons remain in the Sheriff’s EM program and they continue to work to transition them to the program run by the Chief Judge - Primary difference in the programs is administration as the Sheriff’s program is more restrictive and more transparent. The Sheriff and the Chief Judge meet every other week to work on the transition and the Chief Judge’s program continues to have changes. 
• Anaya - asked about the Intake Assessments that are done and Discharge Planning for detainees. The Intake Assessment is done to determine what programs each person might benefit from while in the jail although they cannot force anyone into a program. Info can be shared with other entities if appropriate. Discharge Planning is meant to provide a thoughtful plan for when the individual leaves the jail - complicated by the fact that they never know when they will be leaving. The Sheriff has a unit that follows up with people after discharge and they do try to case manage as much as possible. She also asked about ICE agents and if there are protocols for how to interact in situations. Training of personnel is ongoing and ever changing in how to deal with violations of civil rights. There was discussion of an incident that occurred in June at the Bridgeview Court House involving an individual that ran into the court house through an exit and ICE came in and handcuffed the person and took him outside where there was a commotion. There was a video of a Sheriff’s staff and ICE agents bumping fists and this has been referred to Internal Affairs. 
• Morita - asked about deaths of persons while in custody. Still has 223 vacancies in the jail staff which makes surveillance challenging. For the most part deaths were from natural causes and deaths in Cermak are included in the numbers which would indicate people were having medical problems. Continue to have an issue with paper laced with drugs although he does not want to eliminate paper as mail keeps detainees connected with family. They do scan for drugs on paper. There were no overdose deaths in 2025 and there are 2 suspected in 2026. Narcan is available throughout the jail and guards all carry it. When asked whether detainees are paid if they participate in vocational programs he responded that it varies - some programs yes, others no.
• Degnan - asked how much additional was spent on dealing with ICE incidents. $2.2M and $200,000 has been reimbursed from the state and they continue to try to get federal money to cover these costs. She also asked about safety in the jail and wanted to know when heart monitors would be available. The request for the monitors is in procurement and then an RFP (Request for Proposal) will be issued. 
• Trevor - asked how officers riding the transit system will impact their budget request. Does not anticipate an increase in their request as they are getting reimbursement from CTA and NITA (Northern Illinois Transit Authority) and they are not expecting a long term commitment. Also asked about use of the helicopter. So far this year has operated 724 hours with 16% of that time used in traffic operations. 
• Stamps - asked about vacant positions. There are 233 open positions mostly in correctional officers but he cannot hire right now so that he can stay within his budget. Age is being lowered to 18 from 21 for hiring and he said this does require additional training and mentoring for new hires. Hiring time is about 50 days with 90 days for an officer as they have to go through a Merit Board Review. Asked about his Mobile Response Team - a rapid response team that responds in mental health crisis situation. Have had some success with them and has a report he will provide to commissioners. 
• Vasquez - asked why can inmates not be issued Narcan. While incarcerated it could be problematic for knowing about overdoses but they are trained in its use and may be given Narcan on discharge. Asked about virtual court appearances. They are woking with the State’s Attorney (SA), Public Defender and the courts but it may take awhile. SA is reluctant but it also is up to the judges to decide if there can be a virtual appearance. Asked for a list of vocational programs offered and if pay is involved. 
• Daley - Asked about percentage of budget that is personnel. Pointed out that 98% of the staff is unionized and 96% of the budget is for personnel. Have been talking with budget office about possible budget cuts. Also Comm. Daley reported that an Audit report on the Commissary at the jail will be coming to the board in September. 

Observer - Cynthia Schilsky

Criminal Justice Committee
June 9, 2026
Commissioners Hold Hearing on Orders of Protection and other Matters

The meeting had one agenda item:  a resolution to hold a hearing to examine the challenges, delays, and systemic gaps related to the service and enforcement of orders of protection (OPs) electronic monitoring compliance, and revocation of Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) cards.  (tem 26-1526)

• Public comments included a request to look at the system of electronic monitoring as a whole, rather than individual cases, in setting policy.  

During the rest of the hearing:

• Domestic violence was acknowledged as the highest crime incidence on the west side of Chicago. Accused perpetrators are known to ‘hide’ from those trying to serve OPs.  Communication to survivors about perpetrators released from custody is essential. The resolution stated that data from the Sheriff showed that 45% of OPs go unserved.
• The Sheriff’s report on FOID revocation showed that 68% of owners with revoked FOID cards do not comply with the transfer of arms. 
• There was discussion of a proposed bill to provide 60-day electronic notice to turn in weapons or have your driver’s license revoked.  Comm. Stamps asked why 60 and not 30 days? She was told that 60 days is the legislative standard notice.  Comm. Daley asked about the status of this bill.  He was told that it remains under negotiation. Comm. Miller asked about the anticipated opposition to the bill.  One concern was that the loss of a driver’s license could lead to a loss of work / family income.
• Service of OPs currently involves 3 attempts to serve a person within a 72-hour period.  A proposed bill calls for electronic receipt of the order and opening of the notification.  Precedent for use of this system is Washington State.  Data will be sent to Commissioners, but reported improvements include more people showing up in court to present their own case and improved due process, i.e. people know that they have been served, and improved privacy, i.e. no sheriff showing up at your home or workplace.
• Reasons for delay of this bill include: it takes time for the General Assembly to understand the intentions of the bill; time needed to get partner organizations/offices involved and aligned, e.g. State’s Attorney and Public Defender must weigh in.

Sheriff’s Office input:  

• Has supported several other bills aimed to improve safety for victims and due process for both parties
• A taskforce is working on a Public Safety dashboard that can notify relevant government and law enforcement agencies of orders of protection and electronic monitoring orders
• Prefer in person attempts to serve the order and e-serve as secondary process

State’s Attorney’s Office input

• Support any mechanism to notify individuals to appear in court to clarify parameters of the order
• Need hard evidence that people are notified
• Comm. Anaya asked if there are legislative gaps. The response was there are laws in place for use of e-devices to locate victim and witnesses in or near the court building. State-wide case-level data is not currently accessible, so office’s dashboard and Clerk’s office data are searched. 
• Victims need a police report to get into criminal (vs civil) court.  Chicago Police Department now takes reports at the Domestic Violence Courthouse instead of the victim needing to go to a station.

Public Defender’s Office input

• Lack of notice hurts both victims and their clients
• State’s Attorney now has access to other orders of protection from the Clerk of the Court in preparation for court

Observer:  Sue Gregory

Finance Committee
June 10, 2026
Commissioners Receive Performance Management Report

Carrianne Carallis, the Director of the Department of Research, Operations and Innovation (“ROI”), gave a short presentation on the status of the County’s Performance Management program in conjunction with the 2025 Annual Performance Management Report.  (Item 26-1025.)  This Report covers all departments within Cook County.  

• The ROI Department in 2025 worked with all the departments under the President to establish goals and outcomes.  The goals are broad statements that describe what an agency or department aims to accomplish over time.  Outcomes are the intended change or public benefit that indicate progress toward a desired goal.  The ROI intends to work with the departments under the other officials to establish goals and outcomes during 2026.
• While there are metrics listed for each goal, most of these are from prior years.  In response to a question from Comm. Anaya as to what checks and balances exist to make sure the metrics are appropriate, Director Carallis said that the ROI Department intends to work with all departments to tailor the metrics so they better measure whether the outcomes are being achieved during 2026. 
• Comm. Degnen stated that this Report is better than the last 3 annual reports.  She recommended that future reports should also provide narratives as to how the departments can improve.  She said the goals should be the cornerstones of what each department does.
• Comm. McCaskill said she looks forward to seeing how the performance management program goes forward and would like the goals, outcomes and appropriate metrics also applied to the various organizations which receive grants from the County.

The Committee recommended Board approval of

• A change in the ordinance Sec. 76-677 so that the revenues from the tax on firearm ammunition shall go to fund gun violence prevention programs and operations as determined by the Justice Advisory Council.  Previously the revenues went to the Special Purpose Equity Fund for those same purposes. (item 26-1336)
• A resolution to award additional Justice Advisory Council grants to 9 organizations to support community violence intervention programming. (item 26-0721)

The Committee deferred action on a proposed ordinance amendment to require that all contracts exceeding $3 M include a statement that a vendor’s failure to perform or deliver may result in a minimum 10% penalty.  Comm Degnen, the sponsor along with Comm. Kevin Morrison, explained that the deferral was to provide time to determine exactly where this provision should be placed in the County Code of Ordinances.  (Item 26-1514)

The County Comptroller reported that up through April,

• The General Fund has a favorable net variance as compared to budget of $344.1 M composed of higher revenues of $264.3 M and lower expenses of $79.8 M as compared to budget.
• The Health Fund has an unfavorable net variance as compared to budget of $47 M composed of lower revenues of $15.8 M and higher expenses of $31.2 M as compared to budget on a cash basis.  

Observer:  Priscilla Mims

Asset Management Committee
June 10, 2026
Committee Approves More Contract Funds But Concerns Expressed

• Capital Planning & Policy was seeking approval of  $13.25 M in additional funds for an existing Job Order Contract (JOC) program that had $197,250 M previously allocated. 
• The JOC program has a pool of approved contractors that can be used for smaller construction projects that are less than a year in duration, such as preparatory site work and electrical work.  The projects have specific pricing.   There are various projects currently under construction in County buildings.
• The original contract term expired in January of 2026, but under a new County Porcurment Code, the Chief Procurement Officer was authorized to exercise the option within the contract to extend it to 2028.  However, there is no authorization for additional dollars to be added, which is why this item was before the Commissioners for approval. 
• Commissioners Degnen and Anaya both expressed concern that the contract was extended without providing the Board updates on the work involved and now the Commissioners were being asked to approve additional funds.   Issues and delays with the 5th floor remodeling were pointed out.  
• Earl Manning, the Director of Capital Planning and Policy,  committed to providing updates to the Commissioners.
• The Committee approved the additional funds.   Commissioners Degnen and Anaya voted present. (Item 26-0842)

Observer:  Kathi Graffam

Finance Subcommittee on Litigation
June 10, 2026

Inspector General  Paxton presented some of the statistics and items from his 1st quarter report from the Office of the Independent Inspector General. Concerning the cases involving employees seeking Payroll Protection loans for companies run outside of their County jobs, Commissioner Degnan asked whether, when the Office recommended termination and placement on “do not hire” list, the termination takes place. Mr. Paxton did not have specific statistics ,but stated that in general the termination took place.
Observer:  Hollis Burgess

Technology Committee
June 10, 2026

For the third month, the Committee deferred the one item on the agenda:  a contract for video analytics platform to detect security breaches throughout the Department of Corrections.  (Item 26-0816)
Observer:  Ed Spire

Cook County Board of Commissioners Finance Committee Meeting 
October 29, 2025 

Sheriff’s Department: Thomas Dart 
Proposed 2026 Budget: $814,655,918    Proposed 2026 Positions:          5,466.3
Actual 2025 Budget:       $750,891,179    Actual 2025 Approved Positions    5,721.0
Difference            + $63,764,739    Difference:                  (254.8)

• Sheriff Dart mentioned that the reduction in FTEs was primarily due to the move of the electronic monitoring program to the Chief Judge’s Office. 
• He did indicate that the policing side might be problematic in that towns having budget problems use the Sheriff’s Office (SO) more often (e.g., Harvey). Commissioner McCaskill asked for information on how much helping underserved communities like Harvey costs and how it impacts SO. Answer – about $2M. It impacts SO significantly when it’s not planned. This can result in overtime. In contrast, using the example of Harvey, the SO knew that it was necessary unless State stepped in so could plan for it.  . He also explained overtime number in that he can often have 200+ absentees in a day. Staff needs to call in only two hours in advance of absence. This results in personnel being on job longer while replacements are called in. Commissioner Degnan suggested using technology to schedule staffing of courtrooms.
• Electronic Monitoring: The switch to the Chief Judge’s Office (CJO) continues. Expectation is completion within six months, though some still left with Sheriff. Commissioner Gainer questioned whether data was captured under the program that informed Sheriff Office decisions and focus and whether that would continue under CJO. Dart indicated they definitely used data and CJO representative indicated that would continue and possibly be expanded. 
• Mental health calls: Dart advised that officers were trained in dealing with mental health calls and de-escalating situations. Individuals were directed to support services. Issue was to how to get information to public so use of law enforcement less involved. Suggestions included using a special phone number (e.g., 988) for public, more information to public. Commissioner Trevor asked whether the Sheriff’s Office worked with township. Dart indicated not. SO also has access to Illinois Department of Human Services in emergencies.
• Helicopter: Use has stopped two carjackings and two armed robberies. Also can be used to patrol expressways with license plate capture to stop shoulder riders and speeding. Dart advised that in one day of this use, the fines covered a week of fuel for the helicopter, so has revenue value trade off. There has been no quarterly report on helicopter since only in operation since October 1. Commissioner McCaskill asked if SO was getting real time information and if communities could tie into that rather than using a Skydio service, which is expensive. Dart indicated it was possible.
• Retail theft: Working with businesses, SO has recovered $6M and broken up organized theft rings. Dart advised that problem will continue because where once they could concentrate on ground operations with “fences” being used, now stolen goods are put online.
• ICE: SO working with Chief Judge; signage on restrictions and process posted outside courthouse. Adhering to Trust Act. ICE not allowed in courthouse; SO does not transfer people unless there is a criminal warrant signed by judge and clerk stamp. Officers have been trained on immigrant sanctuary issues and updated so to adapt to changing circumstances. Commissioner Trevor asked about training and issues in unincorporated Cook County. Dart indicated there was little activity lately but they were keeping eyes on the situation. Adherence to procedures issues reviewed by Office of Professional Review. SO has offered suburban police training on Trust Act responsibilities. Sheriff Dart responded to Commissioner questions about requests from ICE to SO. He advised that there had really been none.
• Body cameras: In response to Commissioner Stamps questions, Dart explained that purchases had been divided into three trenches, with the 2026 allocation the last; all appropriate staff will have body cameras as of next year; started with most important level (i.e., street officers) and moved up from there. In response to Commissioner Vasquez’s question, he advised that body cameras are to be on when involved in action. Cameras are leased so can keep up with technology; maintenance, storage, repairs will need to be budgeted. 
• Domestic Violence/Orders of Protection:  Commissioners Stamps and McCaskill had questions. Dart advised process for serving Orders of Protection, including using tech support to help locate subject, advised 20 FTEs had been added to unit. Explained that problem was powers of SO in serving papers. Officers are not allowed to enter private facilities (e.g., home) without permission, so subject can just not answer door to SO. Extra funding needed; possible separate unit; get intel services involved; sending info to officers on street helps speed process, aids efficiency of service. grid
• Detainee Release and Jail Time: Commissioner Scott was concerned about detainees being discharged late at night and not being able to access transportation home or connected to services. The Sheriff explained that 90% of people in system are connected to some program and SO makes sure they have some sort of support or ride home. Question was why so late at night. The system still in use for judicial authorization to release is still in paper form. Commissioner Vasquez asked about published reports that the Odyssey program electronically cover this. Dart explained that the Odyssey program does not provide an order signed by a judge with the clerk’s stamp that is needed to release a detainee. Commissioner McCaskill asked about a comprehensive plan to reduce jail time; 15 people in jail awaiting trial for 10 years, 181 waiting for 5 years. Dart responded that it was more a Judiciary issue than the SO.

Miscellaneous: 

• Commissioner Stamps suggested making the SO budget public and use Infographics to simplify.
• Commissioner Degnan asked about 911 call center and involving more municipalities. Dart indicated municipalities tend to be territorial so may not join. 
• Commissioners Anaya, Aguilar questioned line items where no longer requested funds. Response was that some were moved to different departments, merged with other units or had title changes.

Observer: Hollis Burgess

Cook County Board of Commissioners Finance Committee
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Morning Session

Office of the Treasurer – Maria Pappas

• Treasurer Pappas presented information on revenue from her office.  The actuals have exceeded budgeted as the office provided very conservative numbers during the budget process. 
• Pappas noted that her office had conducted surveys to determine voter demographics. Studies analyzed voter turnout related to property tax referenda and property tax appeals and processes. Results indicated a higher voter turnout and more appeals in wealthier districts. 
• The responses relative to the office’s goals indicated they were basically on target with all, with no major issues on their end.
• Pappas presented data on the numbers reached and results of their program “Black and Latino Houses Matter,” radio shows on stations popular in those communities. These programs are committed to presenting helpful information on avoiding the homeowner pitfalls of delinquencies, late payments, etc.
• There was discussion about getting information to other income levels and minority communities on the appeals process and other issues. Response indicated communications efforts stressed; printing materials in more languages than English; using outreach workers to promote information in lower income and minority communities.
• Future studies include a study of all TIF districts (no info on metrics to be used or timing) which will inform as to status of all TIF districts. 
• Continuing to hire personnel, though there are no major problems with personnel. Treasurer’s office uses summer interns to get ahead on tasks so office is not overloaded during winter months when it is traditionally busier.
• The remainder of the time with Treasurer Pappas was reviewing her office’s issues with  Tyler Technologies and the project for the Integrated Property Tax System. Pappas was extremely disturbed by the problems that have arisen in getting correct info for property tax bills, the time it takes to correct mistakes, and general non-responsiveness of Tyler. She indicated she documents all issues in letters to Tyler as she is concerned legal issues may arise from this project. Treasurer Pappas advised the Commissioners that she had plans to bring in a consultant she trusts to review Tyler’s work, progress and problems, with the intent of determining what may be done to resolve same. 

Office of the Sheriff – Tom Dart

• Sheriff Dart expects to be on budget at end of year with possible marginal increases generally related to increased costs of food at jail and increase in the jail population. The department is doing well in meeting its FY2025 Goals and Objectives. Dart has two staff members dedicated to administration of grants and is aggressive in looking for/applying for grants. 
• They are about 200 officers down from budget but are continuing to hire. Questions regarding what is being done to recruit and retain yielded that Tier 2 pension is problematic and that officers are getting training in de-escalation and dealing with Narcan.
• Dart indicated a major issue for those released can be lack of phone service. With no way to contact help or services, some get lost.  Asked Commissioners for help. Dart indicated he wanted more programming at jail and with juveniles. He was open to any suggestions, including one by Commissioner Gainer on whether you can revoke Drivers Licenses or other licenses for Firearm Owner’s Identification Card violations, which would need to be investigated with State. Another issue is no lead time from court to know when individual released or time is extended so connecting to services or follow up are impeded.

Issues discussed included:

• Behavioral/mental health issues help after release:  Office works with Cermak Hospital to identify programs for aftercare and connect to providers; rigorous vetting of organizations involved in services; measures of how programs/efforts affect recidivism; criteria for redirecting funds as needed; use of MLUs (medical liaison units)
• Retail theft issues: Sheriff’s dept more involved over past 3 years; work with Chicago Police; give security briefings to stores to help avoid problems; response is data driven to pinpoint issues and areas of concern; current thefts are organized as opposed to random; recognition and response to that has upped County’s game in recovering goods.  Overtime grant is related specifically to overtime re retail theft issue.
• Electronic Monitoring:  Transfer of responsibility slower than expected; population in program is up; need to set level at which transition to Chief Judge is considered complete so can reassign officers currently used by the program to other areas, e.g., cut at 200 individuals.
• Dealing with ICE officers entering courts: Have to consider whether warrants involved, guns? Sheriff said will do what is necessary to keep courts, buildings and people safe, within legal authority.    
• Orders of protection problems:  Sometimes info is not current; Sheriff doesn’t have authority to enter house to provide protection services; can and will do home visits if in jurisdiction. 
• Capital needs:  $11M for body cameras is not capital; maintenance of helicopter is capital. Comparisons of how much Cook County has spent on helicopters v other comparable areas shows CC has less helicopters.
• Other:  Moving officers from not needed area to specialty needs at same pay level.  Training – evaluating effectiveness; adapting as needed. Mental health support for officers.
• Cost of detaining individuals in County jail:  $240/individual/day

. 
Office of the Public Administrator – Louis Apostol

• Office is funded by statutory mandate and its funding is derived from fees and interest on funds held. Office handles estates where no will or where there is a will but no administrator. 
• Revenues are exceeding amount budgeted. Office closed more estates than projected. Met 2025 goals and objectives. This office generally has excess funds at end of year. 
• In response to a question as to how information is publicized so potential heirs/individuals, particularly minority, can find out they may have an inheritance, Mr. Apostol said they use newspapers, though no social media.  Staff does exhaustive search to trace heirs.
• Suggestions were made to use unused funds for more outreach to increase community awareness of probate. It was also suggested that social media and other more contemporary methods for publicizing the search for heirs might provide increased outreach to minority communities.

Observer: Hollis Burgess

Criminal Justice Committee of the Board of Commissioners Meeting
March 11, 2025

• The Committee heard presentations from the Sheriff’s Office and the Chief Judge’s Office regarding the plans for the Chief Judge’s office to take responsibility for all new defendants ordered by Cook County Judges to be placed on electronic monitoring (“EM”) on and after April 1. 
• Currently, Judges order some defendants to be placed on EM overseen by the Sheriff and some on EM overseen by the Chief Judge.  new 
• The Sheriff will continue to oversee those placed under his program prior to April 1, but expects that by the end of September, that program will no longer have any remaining pre-April 1 participants.  The Sheriff hopes to retain all or most of the positions currently involved in EM to cover his other operations, particularly correctional officers for the Jail.
• The Sheriff’s EM program is generally a 24/7 confinement, with some limited movement.  His program has averaged 5 new EM participants a day, or 150 a month, vs. the Chief Judge’s program averaging 3 new participants a day, or 90 per month, both as averaged over the last 3 months. The Chief Judge’s program generally restricts movement only for 12 hours, mainly from 7 pm to 7 am.  Movement is generally unrestricted outside of that curfew.  The other major difference is that those under the Chief Judge’s program are assigned to a pre-trial services officer, who helps provide or connects the defendant to other services.
• Cook County Judges will continue to determine what restrictions on movement will be applicable to all those placed on EM.  The Chief Judge’s office is expecting to have many more people on 24/7 restrictions than currently, along with the expected additional 900 EM participants to be added over the coming 6 months that would have previously gone to the Sheriff’s program.  The Chief Judge’s office is planning to assign pre-trial officers to all of these new participants.
• As a result, the Chief Judge is anticipating needing up to 153 new employees:  66 to 83 new people in the Home Confinement Unit (which monitors EM) and 54 to 79 new people for the Pre-Trial Services Unit over the coming months.  In addition, the current space for the Home Confinement Unit is not sufficient for the necessary increase.  The process has started to look for a new, larger space.  Also, it is anticipated that more support, such as capital and technology, will be needed by the Chief Judge’s Office.

The Chief Judge’s Office has a 4-Phase Implementation Plan to accomplish this:

• Feb. thru May, 2025:  On-boarding of around 25 new employees, which are currently provided for in the Chief Judge’s budget, and identification of the new space for the Home Confinement Unit.
• June thru Augusti 2025:  Onboarding of 2 new classes (approximately 25 each) of employees; promotions to add additional supervisors; ready and move into new space for Home Confinement Unit; develop new reporting structure.
• September thru November, 2025:  Onboarding of another class and more promotions to supervisors; implement reporting structure.
• December 2025 thru May 2026:  Onboard 3 more classes to be fully staffed.

Also appearing at the meeting was Cara Smith, the Director of the Illinois Office of Pre-Trial Services.  

• She explained that the office had recently received the request from Cook County for the 153 new positions and is reviewing that now.  
• This will necessitate amending that Office’s proposed budget for the State’s new fiscal year that begins July 1, but the Office has already alerted State lawmakers.  Comm. Britton told her not to hesitate to contact the County Board if it needed to lobby the State for the needed money.  

A representative of the State’s Attorney also spoke and said that that Office was looking forward to more information about the transfer of EM responsibilities from the Sheriff to the Chief Judge.

The Commissioners had many questions:

• Commissioner Degnen received assurances that the Chief Judge’s Office would continue to report information about EM on the web site, such as numbers of those on EM and the types of charged crimes, as is done now. During public comments, a representative from Appleseed’s Center for Fair Courts had expressed strong support for the Chief Judge’s Office taking over responsibility for all EM, but had raised a concern about obtaining information since the Chief Judge is not subject to the Open Records Act.  
• Commissioner Britton was told that if the Chief Judge’s Office found a defendant had violated the EM conditions, the local police would be called.  That defendant would be brought before the judge handling the case to determine if the conditions had indeed been violated, and if appropriate, the judge could order confinement in Jail.  In that case the Sheriff’s Office would take the defendant into custody.  
• In response to Comm. Lowry, the Office of the Chief Judge estimated that an additional $10 M would be needed this fiscal year.  
• Comm. Anaya and Daley were assured that the unions under the Chief Judge are fine with the changes:  the duties of the employees will not be changing; only the number of employees – an increase in those union jobs.  The Sheriff similarly is talking to the unions representing his employees.  
• Responding to Comm. Anaya and Quezada, it was explained that the Chief Judge’s Office has already been added to the Sheriff’s contract for obtaining places to stay for those on EM as necessary, and that the equipment the Sheriff is using for EM can be transferred to the Chief Judge.

Observer:  Priscilla Mims