January, 2026

Serving Our Community

Road District: 847-381-7793

Township Office: 847-381-1924

Assessor's Office: 847-381-1120

Supervisor Christopher Karam

Wishing you and your families great health and happiness in the upcoming year and Merry Christmas to those who celebrate on January 7th!

2025 was a year full of change for our country and gave us a lot to digest. We lost several influential leaders in 2025 including Pope Francis, Charlie Kirk, President Jimmy Carter, cultural and entertainment contributors including Roberta Flack, Robert Redford, Gene Hackman, Val Kilmer, and athletic heavyweights (literally in a few cases) including George Foreman, Ryne Sandberg, Hulk Hogan and Steve McMichael. The actual list, of course, is too lengthy, but this is always a good time to reflect on the year that was and look forward to making your own societal contribution in 2026, even if we don’t make the news headlines.

I am deeply grateful to our incredible community for the generous donations of food, cash, and gift cards to our food pantry. Your kindness ensures that families in need receive support and comfort during challenging times. Every contribution makes a meaningful difference, and together, we are building a stronger, more caring Cuba Township. Thank you for standing with us and showing what true community spirit looks like! Check out the Cuba Cares Facebook page to view several donors.

The United States of America is celebrating its 250th anniversary in 2026. Our Board of Trustees passed a resolution in November in support of the America250 Commission [America250.org] and the Illinois America250 Commission [IL250.org]. Our goal is to foster an enhanced commemorative spirit celebrating the birth of our nation. You will read more about this as the year progresses.

Each year, the Township Officials of Illinois Scholarship Fund awards funds to graduating high school seniors to continue their education at Illinois colleges or universities. Learn more about the scholarship and how to apply here.

Mark your calendars for the following upcoming events:

Cuba Township's Annual Town Meeting is set for Tuesday, April 14th, beginning at 6:00 PM.
The 5th Annual Land We Love Run is set for Sunday, June 28th. Our goal is to have 250 participants to celebrate our Country's 250th Anniversary.
The annual Spring paper and electronics shred event is set for Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM.
Firewood Fridays are January 9 and January 23. Check the entire Firewood Friday schedule.

There are many new laws taking effect in 2026, and I am pleased to see the Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption threshold increasing to $75,000 starting in 2026, $77,000 starting in 2027, and $78,000 starting in 2028.

Warmly,

Chris Karam

Cuba Township Supervisor

Township Services

****Appointments for services are REQUIRED****

Passport Services

Passport Applications: Passport processing takes 2-3 weeks for expedited processing and 4-6 weeks for standard processing. Expedited processing is an additional $60 per passport. Passport appointments are required - call 847-381-1924 to schedule an appointment. To check the status of your passport, click here.

Visit Travel.state.gov's renewal page if you want to renew an adult passport.

Food Pantry

The Tuesday food pantry continues weekly, by appointment only, from 10 AM to 1 PM. If you need food assistance, please email info@cubatwpil.gov or call 847-381-1924. You can also complete an online Intake Form, save it to your desktop, and email it to info@cubatwpil.gov, to sign up for the food pantry. A staff member will contact you within 24 hours (except on weekends).

If you are interested in organizing a food drive or donating to the food pantry, contact Ant at 847-381-1924, and we will assist in promoting the drive.

Below is a list of needed items:

Canned chicken, spam, and tuna
Bags of brown or white rice
Canned meals including chili (mild), stew, and pork & beans
Canned soups, including vegetable, chicken noodle, and any chunky soups
Toilet Paper and Paper Towels
32 oz bottles of liquid laundry detergent
Shampoo and conditioner

Visit the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) Online Portal for Reduced Fare and Ride Free Customers

The RTA's Fare Programs Online is a web-based customer portal that allows residents with disabilities and seniors to apply for, replace, and renew Reduced Fare and Ride Free Permits. It's quick and easy to use - go to Fares.RTAChicago.org.

Cuba Township Half-Fare Taxi Program

The half-fare taxi program is available for Township residents who are 65 or older. The Township will subsidize half of the taxi fare up to $10.00. Please stop by the office to sign up for this program. Proof of age and residency is required. Limits may apply.

Metra Access Pilot Program

Metra Access is a pilot program running through July 31, 2025, providing a reduced fare on all Metra lines and zones for individuals enrolled in the SNAP program who live within the RTA six-county region (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties). To apply, you will need a SNAP eligibility letter, a government-issued ID, and a 2" photo of yourself. You may apply at Fares.RTAChicago.org.

Cuba and Barrington Township PACE Service

The Pace program is subsidized by Cuba and Barrington Townships, and the Villages of Barrington, Lake Barrington, North Barrington, South Barrington, and Tower Lakes.

The service is available to seniors and disabled persons. Service hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM. The fares are $2.00 each way. Advanced reservations are required. Call 1-800-451-4599, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

For additional assistance, call Pace customer service at 800-606-1282, option 2.

Ride Lake County - PACE Service

Seniors aged 60+ and people with disabilities interested in using Ride Lake County are encouraged to register by calling the Pace Call Center at 1-800-201-6446.

Registering early for Ride Lake County will allow riders to schedule trips. Seniors must provide their date of birth at registration, and individuals with disabilities must provide their RTA Reduced Fare Permit number at registration. Learn more

Utility Assistance Programs Begin - Appointments Required

Applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and Nicor Assistance begin October 1, 2025. View the income guidelines (above) and required documentation for applicants. Call 847-381-1924 or email Ant Simonian to make an appointment.

The following documentation is required:

Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30 days prior the date of application.
Most recent, original utility bills.
Proof of Social Security numbers for all household members.
Applicant Identification (Driver's License or State ID)
Proof of residency (lease for renters; owners verified at Cuba Township)

Clerk Heidi M Shannon

Cuba Township Monthly Meeting Set for Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Cuba Township's Monthly Meeting is set for Tuesday, January 13, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM at the Cuba Township Office located at 28000 W Cuba Road in Barrington. Members of the public are welcome. View the Agenda.

Early Voting Info

The Lake County Clerk’s Office announced that December 17th is the first day registered Lake County voters may submit their Vote by Mail applications for the upcoming March 17, 2026, General Primary Election.

Vote by Mail is a secure, convenient, and accessible voting option available to all registered voters in Lake County. Voters may now apply online, by mail, or in person to receive their ballot for the 2026 Primary Election.

Under Illinois law, ballots will begin mailing to voters starting February 5, 2026, for those who have submitted a completed application. Voters may track the receipt of their application and ballot at LakeVoterPower.info.

How to Apply for Vote by Mail

Voters may submit their Vote by Mail application by:

Applying online at LakeVoterPower.info
Mailing a completed paper application
Visiting the Lake County Clerk’s Office in person

Applications must be received by the statutory deadline to ensure timely mailing and return of ballots.

For more information about voting options or election deadlines, visit LakeCountyClerk.info or contact the Voting by Mail Department at 847-377-2406 or votingbymail@lakecountyil.gov

Sincerely,

Heidi Shannon

Assessor Nicole E. Knapik, CIAO

Dear Neighbors,

Tax Relief Exemptions

If you purchased your home last year, the first day to file your exemptions is January 2, 2026. If you need help filing, please schedule an appointment by calling 847-381-1120. Below is a list of the most common exemptions. Visit our Tax Relief page for more information.

Filing for exemptions is quick and easy through Lake County's Smartfile E-Filing Portal. If you can't file online, you may contact our office at info@cubaassessoril.gov or 847-381-1120 to schedule an appointment.

General Homestead Exemption (GHE)

If you purchased a residence in Cuba Township, and it is your principal residence, you may be eligible for the General Homestead Exemption (GHE). The GHE is $8,000.

Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption (SHE)

If you or your spouse turns 65 at any time in 2025, and your property is your principal residence, you may be eligible for the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption. The SHE is $8,000. There is no income requirement and no annual renewal.

The Low Income Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption (SCAFHE) Threshold Increased to $75,000 - Learn more here.

Homeowners 65 or older with an income of $75,000 or less may qualify for the Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze. Proof of income must be filed along with Senior Freeze applications. You must own the property as your principal residence for two consecutive years (January 1). If you currently receive the Senior Freeze, the Lake County Assessor's Office mails reminder letters in March 2026. The SCAFHE must be filed annually to verify income eligibility.

Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities (HEPD)

This exemption may be claimed in addition to the General Homestead Exemption and the Senior Homestead Exemption, if applicable. Applicants must be disabled under the Federal Social Security Act and supply evidence of disability, in addition to completing the PTAX-343 Application for Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities and PTAX-343-A Physician's Statement.

Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities

You may claim this exemption in addition to the General Homestead Exemption and the Senior Homestead Exemption. Disabled veterans qualify if they have at least 30% and up to 100% service-connected disability. Evidence of disability is required along with the completed PTAX-342 Application for Homestead Exemption and PTAX-342-A Annual Verification of Eligibility.

We are here to serve you!

Nicole E. Knapik, CIAO

Highway Commissioner Thomas J Podgorski

For the latest updates on roads, please follow us on Facebook!

Firewood Fridays are January 9 and January 23, 2025 - Click here for full schedule

Must be registered – call Sue at 847-381-7793 if you need to register. Pick-up begins at 7:30 AM and ends at 2:30 PM or sooner if supply runs out. Firewood pick-up is subject to cancellation due to weather conditions. Limit 2 bundles per household.

Christmas Tree Pick-Up - Contact Sue at 847-381-7793 by January 9, for Christmas Tree pick-up.

Spring Paper and Electronics Shred event is set for April 11, 2026, from 8:30 to 11:30 AM. Recycling trucks fill up quickly - arrive early.

Snow Plow Action Items & Safety Protocols

Pushing driveway snow into the right-of-way is prohibited.
Remove cars from the street and cul-de-sacs during a snow event.
Many snowplows apply liquid treatments to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the road. These liquids can be corrosive. Maintain a safe following distance (50 feet) for your safety and to protect your vehicle.
Don't crowd the plow - snowplows require the right of way for your protection and for more efficient and environmentally safe snow removal.
If it snows on garbage day, DO NOT put the totes in the street - leave them at the end of the driveway.
Drive slower, brake sooner.
Stay off electronic devices.
Stay off the roads during severe snow events, if possible.
Cuba Township Road District appreciates your cooperation during snow and ice removal.

The Cuba Township Road District operates 24/7 during inclement weather. You can call us if the matter concerns falling trees blocking roads. Please get in touch with your utility company for power outages.

"Light Up" Cuba Township

Be safe walking, running, and cycling. We highly recommend reflective gear and bike/running lights, so you will "light up" for passing motorists.

Instructions for Trees or Limbs Touching Utility Lines or Power Outages

If you have issues with trees or limbs touching utility lines, contact the utility company directly. The Township cannot trim trees or limbs within 10 feet of utility lines.

If trees are blocking the road, dial 911.

Need to report a pothole?

Lake County roads - (847) 377-7400 or visit the LCDOT site.
Unincorporated Cuba Township Roads - 847-381-7793

Self-Serve Mulch

Self-serve mulch is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The mulch pile is next to the textile recycling bin in the same lot as the road salt.

The Road District does not offer year-round electronics recycling. Visit LRS Recycling, Wauconda Recycling, or the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County.

"Welcome in America 250!"

Help Us Honor Revolutionary War Patriots by Barbara Benson

As we reflect on the birth of our nation, we recognize the extraordinary courage of those who fought for independence during the Revolutionary War. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for the freedoms we cherish today. To preserve this vital chapter of history, we invite you to share the names and stories of your ancestors who served between 1775 and 1783.

Whether they were soldiers, sailors, or provided essential support on the home front, every contribution enriches our collective heritage. By submitting these details, you help ensure that their legacy endures and inspires future generations to explore their own family roots.

Join us in commemorating these heroes. Together, we can build a lasting tribute to the men and women whose determination shaped America’s destiny.

Submit your ancestor’s name and story today—because remembering the past strengthens our future.

Recycle Latex Paint for Free at SWALCO's HCW Events

SWALCO will accept latex paint free of charge at Household Chemical Waste (HCW) collection events. Lake County residents can bring up to 20 gallons of leftover latex paint per drop-off for recycling at no cost. Previously, SWALCO accepted latex paint for a fee at Special Material Collection events. Residents will still need to make an appointment to recycle latex paint at HCW events.

This change comes as Illinois launches the statewide Paint Stewardship Act, P.A. 103-372 (SB 836). The program, managed by PaintCare, will be funded by a fee on new paint sales and will feature hundreds of convenient drop-off locations across the state beginning in December 2025.

SWALCO offers two options for HCW disposal:

Year-round collection events twice a month at SWALCO's Gurnee facility (1311 N. Estes Street, Gurnee, IL 60031)
Mobile events from May through September at various Lake County locations

Visit the SWALCO website to schedule your appointment today at https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/ab9f2c49

Join us - Eliminate Textile and Shoe Landfill Waste

Clothing and Textile and Reuse-A-Shoe Drop-Off Location – SWALCO Partnership

Did you know clothing is now the fastest growing waste in the US waste stream today? Join us in dropping off used clothing, linens, and shoes at the Cuba Township Textile, and Reuse-A-Shoe drop-off locations in partnership with SWALCO.

Clothing, textile, and shoe recycling is a full-circle program, diverting your new and gently used donations from landfills.

Clothing/Textiles

Unacceptable Items:

Wet, odorous, or moldy items
Nylons and Pantyhose
Fabric Scraps
Craft Scraps (yarns, threads & other craft materials)
Pillows
Sleeping Bags
Mattresses
Rugs
Carpet
Cushions
Foam furniture and foam mats
Large Luggage
Electric Blankets & Mattress Pads
Non-Fabric Household Linens: Vinyl Shower Curtains, tablecloths, furniture covers, etc.

Shoes

Dress boots, hiking boots, and rain boots are accepted. NO WINTER BOOTS ALLOWED. Shoes in any condition, from new or gently used, to those that are worn, will be accepted. And, the great news is that 95% or more of all the materials collected will be recycled or reused.

Before dropping off your shoes, please tie the laces of each pair together; if they are sandals or have no laces, please place a rubber band on the pair to keep the shoes together.

UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS include Roller Blades, Ice Skates, and Winter Boots.

Homebound and need a State ID?

The Homebound State ID program is a service program for older adults, bedridden individuals and people with disabilities who are unable to leave their homes to obtain a state ID card from a Secretary of State facility. The card may be used for identification purposes in the same way as a standard driver’s license is used for identification.

Certain documents are required to obtain the card. Once an applicant submits the information via our web form below, we will determine eligibility and the documents required to complete the transaction. For assistance to help determine if you or your loved one qualifies for this service, call 312-814-3121.

Quick Links

Homebound State ID Card Contact Form

Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County

The Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC) promotes the welfare of honorably discharged veterans of military service and their families. The VAC acts as a central service office for all veteran organizations and has general oversight of the distribution of emergency assistance to military veterans and their families.

Types of Assistance

Assistance with rental and mortgage payments.
Utility payment assistance.
Emergency medical care is provided to any member of the Veteran’s
immediate family who qualifies. Medical care includes hospital payments,
outpatient care provided by Lake County clinics, and emergency dental, and vision
care.
Job service assistance.
Proper burial for indigent veterans.

For more information, please visit their website: https://www.vaclc.org/ and view their most current newsletter Here.

How to Dispose of Batteries - Home Depot

Home Depot offers recycling of batteries at their Call2Recylce site located at the Home Depot, 670 S Rand Rd in Lake Zurich.

Click here for a review of how to dispose of batteries and how to recycle batteries. It includes information on single-use batteries and rechargeable batteries.

Not all batteries are accepted at Home Depot. Please click here and confirm your batteries will be accepted.