Briefs: Meeting moved to tonight
Because inclement weather forced the cancellation of a meeting set for Dec. 16, the Cook Memorial Public Library board will meet in a special session today. That gathering is set for 6:30 p.m. at the main library, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. The board will talk about its construction plans and other issues.
Beefed-up credit rating reduces borrowing costs
Warren Township High School in Gurnee announced Monday that an improved credit rating and other factors led it to save $700,000 when it recently borrowed $6.3 million for construction and building improvements. Standard & Poor's noted financial operations at Gurnee-based Warren District 121 are "much improved" due to a combination of cost-control measures, strong growth in the assessed value of property and increased state aid. "We can give a lot of credit to the administration," said District 121 board President John Anderson. "It is a group effort."
Des Plaines flooding minor
The Des Plaines River peaked at 7.3 feet at 6 a.m. Monday in Des Plaines, the National Weather Service reported. While 2.3 feet above flood stage, that was well below the record of 10.9 feet. Only one road, Campground Road, was closed. The river is expected to remain above flood stage until Wednesday for portions of the Des Plaines River in Cook and Lake Counties. With the flood threat receding, Des Plaines public works crews have turned their attention to salting icy areas and patching potholes. Community development personnel are doing damage assessments. Cleanup kits are available in the city hall lobby, 1420 Miner St.
Mundelein parks get thumbs up
Respondents to a survey for the Mundelein Park & Recreation District overwhelmingly think programs are a good value and feel the property taxes they pay to the district are reasonable. Also, purchasing or preserving open space garnered the highest interest for future plans. Health and nature-focused programs also ranked high, according to the district, which began a long-range master plan process in November. Key projects in 2008 included: playground renovations with input from the community at four parks; updates at the Regent Center; remodeling of the clubhouse and pro shop at Steeple Chase Golf Club; and, a cooperative effort to extend the Noll Park Trail. Visit www.mundeleinparks.org.