Briefs: Deeds available
Owners of flood-damaged homes along the Des Plaines River and near the Chain O' Lakes who are seeking financial assistance from Lake County banks and lending institutions will need to show proof of ownership to secure loans. The Lake County recorder of deeds office will provide the information at no cost to home or business owners. To obtain a free certified copy of the deed, call (847) 377-2575. Deeds will be mailed to the homeowner the same day. Also, veterans in flood-damage areas may qualify for additional programs. The recorder's office also will provide a free certified copy of military discharge papers.
New fire truck ordered
The Libertyville Fire Department will receive a new piece of equipment next May following action Tuesday by the village board. The board agreed to waive competitive bidding and negotiate with Pierce Manufacturing of Appleton, Wis., for a new 75-foot Quint fire apparatus. The cost, including radios, mounting hardware and vehicle extrication equipment is $875,000. Fire Chief Rich Carani said the new vehicle will allow the department to retire two trucks, saving money on maintenance and other costs.
CLC budget passed
The College of Lake County Board Tuesday approved a balanced operating budget of $78.5 million for the college's 2008 fiscal year. The budget is based on a projected 8.9 percent increase in revenues over the previous year. Local property taxes will account for 62.8 percent of total revenue. Twenty-nine percent will come from tuition, fees and other revenue. State funding makes up 8.2 percent. On the expenditure side, the budget reflects increases in salaries and fringe benefits and the overall cost of operating college facilities.
Man denies selling pot
A Lake Villa Township man charged with selling close to two ounces of marijuana to an undercover informant pleaded not guilty Wednesday in Lake County circuit court. Kevin Curtis, 21, of 21869 Third Ave., was arrested around 8 p.m. June 19. Assistant State's Attorney Rod Drobinski said Curtis agreed to meet with the informant in a parking lot on Rollins Road and to sell 42 grams of marijuana for $250. Curtis was arrested by police as soon as the cash changed hands, Drobinski said. Curtis faces up to five years in prison if convicted. Circuit Judge Victoria Rossetti scheduled a trial for Oct. 15 and ordered Curtis to appear in court Oct. 2.