Island Lake board votes to go 'green'

The Island Lake village board has formally endorsed joining other Illinois communities in trying to improve the environment.

The "Greenest Region Compact" resolution approved by the board at its most recent meeting lays out ways in which the village and its residents can be more ecologically responsible.

"We will provide information on how to do this and how that can save you money," Trustee Rich Garling said.

Garling introduced the resolution at a committee of the whole meeting and urged its passage, noting not only could the village improve the environment, but it could also save money.

He said using compact fluorescent light bulbs in his home make a large financial impact.

"I literally cut my electric bill in half," Garling said.

Only Trustee John Ponio voted against the resolution, which says the village will make efforts to participate in recycling, energy conservation and more ecologically friendly waste management, among other practices. Trustee Frances Sadoski was not present to vote on the resolution because of personal issues, Mayor Tom Hyde said.

The village will also give information to residents on its web site, www.villageofislandlake.com, about changes they can make in their own homes.

The compact is part of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus' efforts to unify the region in environmental efforts.

Hyde said signing the resolution showed the village's commitment to preserving its most valuable commodity, its natural resources.

"We're on the agenda moving forward," he said.