Cook County FY2026 Budget: A Commitment to Stability, Equity, and Community Investment

On November 20th, the Cook County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a balanced $10.12 billion FY2026 Budget—a fiscal blueprint that reflects responsible stewardship, strategic investment, and deep care for the communities we serve. I am proud of the responsible and compassionate governance this achievement represents.

This year’s budget continues Cook County’s longstanding tradition of protecting taxpayers. It includes no new taxes, preserves all essential services, and upholds our remarkable record of no property tax levy increase since 1994. For nearly three decades, we have demonstrated that fiscal discipline and community-centered investments can not only coexist but thrive together.

Throughout the budget process, I emphasized that this plan reflects our unwavering commitment to more than 5 million residents who rely on Cook County’s health systems, safety-net programs, public safety efforts, and economic infrastructure.

Key Community Investments in the FY2026 Budget

Our priorities are clear—and they are reflected in the investments we are delivering:

• Over $40 million dedicated to combating domestic violence and strengthening community safety
• Expanded support for Community Violence Intervention (CVI) programs
• Sustained funding for Cook County Health, behavioral health services, and the Forest Preserves
• Continued commitments to affordable housing, small business development, and working families
• Ongoing support for transformative initiatives such as the
• Homeowners Relief Fund
• Guaranteed Income programs
• Birthday Health Screening Program, which continues saving lives across Cook County

Leadership and Collaboration

I want to extend my appreciation to President Toni Preckwinkle, Chairman Daley, and all of my colleagues on the Board for their leadership throughout this year’s budget process. Together, we navigated federal uncertainty with prudent, forward-thinking solutions that safeguard critical services while keeping residents’ needs at the forefront.

Moving Forward

With this balanced budget, we reaffirm our commitment to equity, resilience, and responsible governance. Cook County is prepared not only to respond to federal cuts, but to continue uplifting families, strengthening neighborhoods, and investing in a future where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.

You can read more about the FY2026 Cook County Budget here:

🔗 https://www.cookcountyil.gov/Budget

A balanced budget. No new taxes. Strategic, people-centered investments. This is what effective public service looks like.

Building Unity and Equity Through Community Engagement

I was honored to join Senator Robert Peters, District 2 Commander Herbert Williams, and 003rd District CPD Lt. John Clegg as a guest speaker at a powerful community town hall hosted by Alderperson Desmon Yancy at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. I extend my sincere thanks to President and CEO Chevy Humphrey for welcoming all of us and for sharing exciting updates about the museum’s upcoming exhibits and structural improvements.

The evening was filled with thoughtful questions, honest dialogue, and a true spirit of collaboration. Moments like these remind me that when we come together to listen and learn from one another, meaningful progress becomes possible.

As your Cook County Commissioner for the 3rd District, I was proud to highlight the steps we are taking to protect immigrant communities. Cook County remains firm in our commitment to justice and inclusion by refusing to cooperate with ICE detainers that separate families and damage community trust. Every resident, no matter their background, deserves safety, dignity, and opportunity.

I also shared updates on Cook County Health’s outreach efforts, which continue to keep residents informed about vaccinations, preventive care, and essential health services. Their dedicated teams are visiting schools, community events, and local clinics to ensure that every individual and family has access to the care they need.

Another key message I delivered focused on our Cook County Birthday Resolution, an initiative that encourages residents to use their birthday month as a reminder to schedule annual checkups, screenings, and wellness appointments. A simple commitment to preventive care can make a profound difference in long term health and well being.

I want to thank Alderperson Desmon Yancy for leading this important conversation and every community member who attended and contributed. Together, we are shaping a Cook County that is healthier, safer, and more united for all.

#TeamLowry #CookCounty #CommunityFirst #ImmigrantRights #PublicHealth #CookCountyHealth #BirthdayResolution #DesmonYancy #RobertPeters #MuseumOfScienceAndIndustry #3rdDistrict #EquityInAction

Supporting Families Through Our Annual Turkey Giveaway

Although I was unable to attend personally, a member of my staff joined our partners at the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway hosted by Flags of the Heart NFP and Messiah Temple M B Church. I am truly grateful for the dedication of everyone who helped make this event a success.

On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, community members gathered at Messiah Temple M B Church where 300 turkeys were distributed on a first come, first served basis. My staff shared that the atmosphere was warm and joyful, with families lining up early and volunteers working together to ensure that every household was served with care, respect, and compassion.

To view highlights and additional coverage from this year’s giveaway, please visit:

Flags of the Heart NFP

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sharon Preston and the Flags of the Heart team, Dr. Keith McGee I and the Messiah Temple congregation, and my colleague Commissioner Michael Scott Jr. Their commitment to uplifting families during the holiday season represents the very best of Cook County.

Providing resources that ease the financial burdens families face, especially during the holidays, remains a top priority for my office. I am proud to support initiatives like this, and I look forward to continuing our work with partners who share our mission of service, dignity, and community support.

Wishing everyone a warm, safe, and meaningful Thanksgiving season.

Commissioner Bill Lowry

Cook County Board of Commissioners, 3rd District

Understanding the Urgency and the Path Forward

Last week, I joined the Cook County Department of Public Health and the Justice Advisory Council for the release of Community and Provider Voices, a meaningful report examining the strengths and gaps within suburban Cook County’s crisis response system.

What we learned is deeply urgent. Behavioral health needs continue to rise, providers are stretched thin, and many families struggle to access the support they need when they need it most. This report also brings forward the human impact. Young people managing anxiety and depression, families looking for help after hours, and dedicated providers doing everything they can despite limited capacity.

A central part of strengthening our response is increasing awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. While 988 offers immediate, life-saving support, awareness across suburban Cook County remains uneven. We must continue strengthening outreach so every resident knows that help is only three digits away.

We also need a more robust continuum of care. This includes expanding mobile crisis teams, increasing community based alternatives to law enforcement, and ensuring smoother transitions to long term behavioral health services. The report makes clear that we have committed providers and strong partnerships, but gaps remain in coordination and access.

I remain committed to turning these findings into action so that every resident receives compassionate, equitable, and responsive behavioral health support throughout Cook County.

#BehavioralHealth #988CrisisLine #MentalWellness #CookCounty #TeamLowry #CrisisResponse

Honoring the Work of the Immigration Division

In this room, I see exactly what Cook County represents, community and culture. Moments like this remind me why our work matters so deeply. Every day, we strive to build a county rooted in justice, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to those who rely on us most. These values are not abstract ideals, they are the foundation of who we are and how we serve.

I am proud to stand alongside the Immigration Division of the Cook County Public Defender’s Office, a team whose dedication reflects the very best of our county. Their work is essential, protecting non-citizen residents from the devastating threat of deportation and ensuring that every individual is met with fairness, dignity, and due process. This division represents the embodiment of equity in action, offering guidance, advocacy, and steadfast support to residents navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

When we uplift those who are vulnerable, we strengthen the entire fabric of our community. Our neighborhoods, our families, and our shared future all benefit when justice is accessible to everyone. I remain firm in my belief that justice cannot be selective, it must be a right afforded to all who call Cook County home.

As we continue this work together, let us stay committed to building a county where every resident feels seen, valued, and protected.

#CookCounty #ImmigrationJustice #TeamLowry #CommunityAndCulture #EquityInAction

Community Care in Action

A Heartfelt Turkey Dinner Giveaway

This past weekend, our annual Turkey Dinner Giveaway filled my heart with profound warmth and gratitude. The turnout was extraordinary, with residents from Chicago’s 5th Ward and the 13th Senate District coming together to receive turkeys, hams, and holiday sides that will help nourish families during this meaningful season.

In a time marked by uncertainty and transition, moments like this remind me of the true essence of community. It is in our shared commitment to uplift one another that the spirit of the holidays shines brightest. Witnessing neighbors greet each other with kindness, volunteers working hand in hand, and families leaving with both food and renewed hope truly moved me. These are the moments that reaffirm why we do this work and why compassion remains our most powerful tool.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to 5th Ward Alderman Desmon Yancy, State Representative Kam Buckner, State Senator Robert Peters, the South Side YMCA, Chicago Skyway, and Meridian. Their partnership and generosity made it possible for us to support so many families with dignity, care and warmth.

As we move deeper into the holiday season, may we continue to center compassion, unity and shared purpose in all that we do.

#CommunityStrong #HolidayGiving #TeamLowry #ServingWithHeart #TogetherWeThrive

An Evening That Renewed My Spirit

The recent Near North Unity Program meeting was exactly the kind of gathering that reminds me why community engagement is at the heart of everything we do. Although the room was filled with leaders, residents, and partners, it was the shared sense of purpose that truly elevated the evening. I had the privilege of joining Pastor Randall Blakely of NNUP, Alderman Walter Burnett of the 27th Ward, and Marcie Huttas from the Old Town Merchants and Residents Association for a candid, thoughtful, and deeply grounded conversation about the future of the Near North community.

From the moment I walked in, I could feel the energy. There was a genuine desire to listen, to collaborate, and to uplift one another. Speaking directly with residents and hearing their lived experiences, ideas, and concerns reminded me how essential it is to remain accessible and present. These are the conversations that breathe life into our work, conversations where every voice adds meaning and every perspective strengthens our shared path forward.

We discussed ongoing neighborhood priorities, the importance of community centered development, safety and wellness, and the continued need for strong partnerships between local leadership and the people we serve. I left the meeting feeling inspired and renewed. The passion in that room was powerful, and it reaffirmed my belief that when community members, advocates, and elected officials stand together, real and lasting progress becomes possible.

I am truly grateful for every individual who attended, asked questions, shared insights, and embraced the spirit of unity. Together, we are shaping a stronger and more connected Near North, one conversation at a time.

#CommunityFirst #NearNorthUnityProgram #NNUP #27thWard #OldTown #TeamLowry #EngagedCommunities #CookCounty #CommunityVoice

Celebrate Your Birthday with the Gift of Health!

Cook County Health is giving the ultimate birthday gift – the gift of health! 🎉 Eligible Cook County residents can schedule free breast and prostate cancer screenings during their birthday month.

Here’s how it works:

✅ For Uninsured Residents: Screenings are provided at no cost.

✅ For Insured Residents: Screenings are billed to your insurance plan.

Who’s Eligible?

🩺 Breast Cancer Screening (Women, 40–74): Must not have had a mammogram in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.

🩺 Prostate Cancer Screening (Men, 45–69): Must not have had a prostate screening in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.

The Impact of Birthday Screenings

🎯 Mammograms & PSA Screenings: Nearly 22,000 screenings completed in 2025 – a 17% increase from last year.

🎯 Uninsured Patients: Birthday screenings resulted in a 54% increase in mammograms for those without insurance.

🎯 All Populations: A 17% increase in mammograms overall.

🎯 Breast Cancer Screening Goal: Among women aged 45–75, screenings now exceed the stretch goal at 62.5%.

🎯 Blood Pressure Screenings: Hypertension control (<140/90) is trending upward at 60%, surpassing goals.

Why Screenings Matter

Early detection saves lives by catching cancer before it causes serious problems. Even if you feel fine, screenings can help identify risks before symptoms appear.

🎥 Hear Commissioner Bill Lowry speak about the impact of his Birthday Resolutions initiative here: YouTube Link

SNAP Benefits at Risk: Resources to Help Families in Need

As the federal government shutdown continues, many households across the nation face uncertainty about their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Beginning November 1st, these vital benefits— which help millions of Americans put food on the table — may be at risk of interruption.

Here in Chicago, we’re committed to making sure families and individuals have access to the resources they need during this challenging time. The City of Chicago and community partners have mobilized to connect residents with food support and assistance programs.

If you or someone you know needs help, here’s where to start:

🍎 Food Assistance:

Call 2-1-1, text your ZIP code to 898-211, or visit 211metrochicago.org to find nearby food pantries and assistance programs.

You can also visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s updated pantry directory at chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food-2/

🏪 Support for SNAP Recipients & Retailers:

The Illinois Retail Merchants Association offers guidance and resources for both shoppers and store owners at irma.org/snap

🍲 Help for Seniors:



The Seniors Home Delivered Meals Program (HDM) provides hot or frozen meals for older adults who are frail or homebound. To apply, call the City of Chicago Senior Services Information and Assistance Hotline at 312-744-4016 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM).

🧒 Support for Children:

The City’s early childhood education programs continue to offer healthy meals and snacks for children ages 0–5 during program hours.

💛 Community Partnerships:

The City also works with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to strengthen local food pantries, provide fresh produce to shelters, and ensure families can enjoy holiday meals through community service centers.

Please note: SNAP recipients may still use any remaining benefits from October during November, and WIC benefits will not be affected.

During times like these, community connection matters most. Let’s continue to look out for one another and share these resources with anyone who may need them.

Leo Choir Boys Kick Off a

Joy-Filled Season of Holiday Performances

The Leo Choir Boys are ushering in the holiday spirit with a full lineup of festive performances across Chicago this December. Their Holiday Events schedule highlights not only their exceptional musical talent, but also their growing role as cultural ambassadors for the South Side and the entire city. From televised appearances to community-centered showcases, the choir is bringing joy to every stage they grace.

Throughout the month, the choir will share their gifts with audiences all across Chicago. Their engagements include meaningful visits to Smith Village Retirement Community, Third House, and an evening performance for the Commercial Club of Chicago. They will also appear at Concrete Rose on December 13, followed by special community-focused performances at the Cook County Department of Corrections and 203 N. LaSalle on December 15.

The choir continues to lift their voices in support of civic and community initiatives, including their performance at the CBS Red Cross Telethon and the annual Leo High School Scholarship Benefit. Their presence reflects their ongoing commitment to service, leadership, and uplifting others through music.

Public audiences will have multiple opportunities to enjoy the choir live this month. Their highly anticipated Winter Concerts will take place on December 17 at 7 PM, and again on December 22 at both 3 PM and 6:30 PM. Viewers can also tune in to the ABC Chicago broadcast on December 15 at 7 AM and 8 AM, as well as the Windy City Live Holiday Show on December 19 at 11 AM.

Each performance is a testament to the choir’s dedication, discipline, and unity. The Leo Choir Boys continue to represent Leo High School with excellence, reminding us all that the holidays are a time for togetherness, gratitude, and joy.

Stay tuned, spread the word, and catch a performance near you—this December, the Leo Choir Boys are lighting up Chicago with harmony and heart.

Chicago’s Winter Overnight Parking Ban Is Now in Effect

What Drivers Need to Know from December 1 through April 1

As winter settles in, the City of Chicago has officially activated its annual Winter Overnight Parking Ban, a critical safety measure designed to keep main roadways clear for snow removal, emergency access, and safe travel during the snow and ice season. The parking restrictions help ensure that plows and emergency vehicles can move quickly and efficiently—especially during severe winter weather.

Beginning December 1 and continuing through April 1, drivers are reminded that parking is prohibited between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM on designated “Snow Route” streets, whether it snows or not. Signs are clearly posted along all affected roadways. Parking during these restricted hours will result in towing and a citation, so motorists are strongly encouraged to check signage carefully before leaving their vehicles overnight.

In addition to the overnight ban, the city enforces a separate rule during heavy snowfall. Parking is not allowed on marked Snow Routes whenever more than two inches of snow have accumulated, regardless of the time of day. This policy ensures that plows have the space needed to keep major streets passable and safe for residents, buses, and emergency responders.

If you believe your vehicle has been towed, you can call 311 or visit the City of Chicago’s website at www.cityofchicago.org

for assistance and to search “Find Towed Vehicle Information.”

As winter weather becomes more unpredictable each year, these measures play an essential role in protecting residents and keeping Chicago moving. Please plan ahead, watch for posted signs, and help keep our streets safe all season long.

Featured in the News

I’m honored to have my work and community efforts highlighted in various news outlets. Each feature reflects the dedication, collaboration, and impact made through service in Cook County’s 3rd District. Take a look at some of the stories that showcase our continued commitment to uplifting our communities.

Watch Our Story on YouTube

Check out some of the amazing moments we’ve shared across Cook County’s 3rd District! From community events to powerful conversations, these videos highlight the people, partnerships, and passion that keep us moving forward. Grab a seat, hit play, and see the difference we’re making, together!