The Lake County government is being asked to take part in the "30 by 30" environmental initiative. It calls on governments to conserve 30 percent of their land and water by 2030. Two residents brought the idea to the Lake County Council Tuesday.
Michael Thomas Blejski says the region is losing open spaces, like the wooded area near his childhood home. "We chose to go play in the woods because it was fun, because it was an adventure. We saw things that we didn't see in a park. And I think it's very important to conserve the spaces, and I hope that you will agree," Blejski told council members.
The residents argue that open spaces are important, not just for preserving wildlife species but also for property values and residents' mental health. One thing the county council can do is fund the expansion of the county's park system, although no specific action was requested Tuesday.
Council President Ted Bilski says Lake County has been investing in parks and environmental improvements, despite some challenges. "We have integrated steel mills and an oil refinery on the largest fresh water source in the world. Pretty stupid, huh? So what do we do?" Bilski asked.
He says that a large part of the county budget is tied up funding the criminal justice system, but county officials are looking to use federal American Rescue Plan money on things like wastewater improvements.
