Lake County House Democrats Secure Funding To Renovate Stevenson Home, Averting Destruction Of Historic Building

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – On Monday, the Illinois General Assembly approved the state’s annual budget for fiscal year 2022, which includes $1.1 million for necessary renovations for the Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home at the request of the six Democrats who represent portions of Lake County in the House of Representatives.

On May 26, Lake County Forest Preserve President Angelo Kyle submitted this request for funding to the Lake County House Democratic Delegation. The next day, a request to include this money in the state’s FY22 budget was transmitted to Speaker Emanual “Chris” Welch by all six members of the delegation: Jonathan Carroll (D-Northbrook), Daniel Didech (D-Buffalo Grove), Joyce Mason (D-Gurnee), Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan), Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield), and Sam Yingling (D-Grayslake). The full amount of $1.1 million was included in the budget passed on Monday by both the House and Senate, which is expected to be signed into law by Governor Pritzker in the coming days.

Because of the coordinated efforts of President Kyle and the full House delegation, the Lake County Forest Preserve will no longer need to seek the demolition of this historic building that was recently proposed by other members of the Lake County Board.

Statement by Rep. Joyce Mason: “The Adlai Stevenson home is a precious piece of US History right here in Lake County, Illinois. Preserving this home will give future generations the opportunity to learn more about his life and legacy than they would from any book or commemorative plaque.”

Statement by Rep. Daniel Didech: “Over the past week, we were able to act quickly and effectively to secure the funding necessary to save one of Lake County’s most significant and irreplaceable historic buildings. I am grateful that President Angelo Kyle took decisive action to avert the irresponsible proposal to destroy one of our community’s treasures.”

Statement by Rep. Sam Yingling: “Adlai Stevenson is not only a part of Illinois history but also US history.   His contributions to our state and nation have helped bend the arc of history and we have an obligation to preserve his legacy in Lake County for future generations. I commend the leadership of President Angelo Kyle for his commitment to preservation and working with the Lake County Illinois House Delegation in securing the needed funds to restore this historic structure.”