March 12, 2020
News from City Hall
Dickinson Hall front view
Programming at Dickinson Hall Suspended

Dickinson Hall, which serves adults aged 50+ who reside in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, will suspend programming, including activities taking place offsite, beginning at noon on Thursday, March 12 until the end of the month due to risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and the vulnerability of the senior population.

The City of Lake Forest and the Village of Lake Bluff made this joint decision based on the fact that residents aged 50+ enjoy an extensive variety of events and programs involving large numbers of participants at Dickinson Hall.

Lake Forest Mayor George A. Pandaleon stated “We are concerned about all of our residents, and it is especially important to be prudent in safeguarding the older population who use Dickinson Hall. The Dickinson Hall staff will be on site during this activity suspension. A decision to re-open programming will be based on what is learned over the next few weeks. The health and welfare of Lake Forest residents remains our foremost concern. Local leadership remains in constant contact with local, state and federal health agencies as well as our neighboring communities to monitor developments associated with COVID-19. We will continue to follow the guidelines provided by the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Center for Disease Control.”

Lake Bluff Village Board President Kathleen O’Hara agreed, adding that “The public health, welfare and safety of our communities is paramount. I am pleased that the Village and the City are working together during this difficult situation. Our decision was an easy one to make given the risk factors. We expect all of our residents will take proper precautions to help protect the health of themselves and their families.”

Jason Wicha, Lake Forest City Manager, reported that Dickinson Hall will remain open as a polling place on Tuesday, March 17, the General Primary Election Day. Questions related to Dickinson Hall activities may be directed to the Dickinson Hall staff at 847.234.2209.
Corona Virus: COVID-19 Reminders:
Be Informed, Stay Informed

For Your Safety
The City is taking the appropriate safety measures, including continued cleaning and disinfecting of public spaces and high touch areas, and have placed hand sanitation stations for public use in the foyers of most facilities, including City Hall, Dickinson Hall, the Municipal Services Building and the Recreation Center.

Please check with local organizations ahead of time to find out if programs and events have been cancelled, as circumstances may change often.

The Professionals
The Lake County Department and Community Health Center and the Illinois Department of Public Health are working with the Center for Disease Control and other public health organizations to closely monitor and work to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The City of Lake Forest is following the guidance provided from these professional agencies.

Local Action
Residents can help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19 by:
  • Getting a flu shot - it's not too late
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
  • Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throwing the tissue in the trash
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently-touched objects and surfaces
  • Staying home when you are sick, except to get medical care
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

For more information, please click on the links below:


For those not online, the Illinois Department of Public Health has set up a COVID-19 Hotline: 1-800-889-3931.

For Employee Health
Also, the City is taking internal precautions and is encouraging best practices recommended by the CDC to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses so we may keep our employees healthy to serve you. 

As always, The City of Lake Forest shares residents' concerns about this issue and will keep residents apprised as new facts become available. Please know that City officials and staff are doing everything possible to stay informed and to encourage residents to also be informed.
Census Invitations to Respond Were Mailed Today!
Please watch for them and respond quickly. According to the Census, those with multiple homes should respond as residents of the place where they live the majority of the year. Learn more about why the Census is important in Illinois.
The City of Lake Forest | 220 E. Deerpath | 847.234.2600 | www. cityoflakeforest .com