Forest Preserves of Cook County may enter into Intergovernmental Agreements to Assist with Logistics for Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August

Forest Preserve District of Cook County Board of Commissioners Meeting July 23, 2024
Thatcher Woods Pavilion, 8030 Chicago Avenue, River Forest, IL.

Board Action:

• A resolution  to authorize the Interim General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves of Cook County to enter into intergovernmental agreements to assist other government entities in handling the influx of visitors to the city for the Democratic National Convention was introduced. Appropriate compensation for any actions will be arranged with the entities. Authority was granted as one of the primary functions of local government is to maintain public safety. (Agenda Item 24-0328)
• Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is requesting authorization for easements at the intersection of 95th Street and Archer Avenue near Willow Springs.  The permanent easement not to exceed 7.462 acres and temporary easement of 1.459 acres is estimated to impact 207 live trees and 54 dead trees, resulting in tree mitigation fees.  The intersection has been identified as a high percentage crash location. The money that IDOT will pay to the Cook County Forest Preserve will likely go to habitat restoration. Tree replacement in the Forest Preserve is now at a 1-1 tree replacement process. It is not known how many of the trees that will be impacted are invasives, such as buckthorn.  (Item 24-0138) ​

Other Items of Interest:

• A member of the Forest Preserve Conservation Corps addressed the commissioners regarding the personal value he experienced in being part of the Conservation Corps.  He plans to study environmental/conservation issues as he moves into college level studies.  
• Several Commissioners shared their own experiences of volunteering in conservation/restoration and how impactful that was for them.
• Commissioner Degnen shared her experience of working in the Peace Corps and stated that every job is a climate job. 

Observer:   Laura Davis