Big trucks on display at public works open house

Two-year-old Gabriel Nieto of Round Lake had a big smile on his face as he first sat behind the steering wheel of a snowplow, then a fire engine during the first Round Lake Public Works Open House on Wednesday.

The community event included demonstrations, equipment, children painting a snowplow, and the chance to climb and sit on the big trucks.

"It's our first public works open house," Round Lake Public Works Director Ron Kroop said. "Our intention and objective is to inform residents, both young and adults. Showing them the equipment that we have and talking to them about the work that we do."

The function was held at the public works headquarters at 751 W. Townline Road in conjunction with National Public Works Week. It featured vehicles from the public works department, Round Lake Police, the Greater Round Lake Fire Protection District, Lake County Transportation and Lake County Public Works.

Visitors also brought nonperishable items for donation to local food pantries.