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Meeting date/time:
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9/18/2025
9:00 AM
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Minutes status:
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Draft
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Meeting location:
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Cook County Building, Board Room,
118 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois
Issued on: 9/12/2025
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25-3735
| 1 | | WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MONTH 2025 | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
PROCLAMATION FOR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MONTH 2025
WHEREAS, the economic vitality and sustained growth of Cook County and our ability to remain competitive in a global economy depends fundamentally upon the availability and quality of a skilled workforce and a robust, inclusive talent pipeline;
WHEREAS, rapid economic shifts and evolving labor markets place increasing demands on both individuals seeking meaningful employment and employers seeking skilled talent;
WHEREAS, Cook County remains committed to expanding access to career pathways for all residents including those historically underrepresented in the labor market ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to realize their full potential, pursue their goals, and achieve economic security;
WHEREAS, through coordinated efforts across with the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, Cook County departments, municipalities, educational institutions, community-based organizations, and employers, Cook County works to support the workforce ecosystem designed to meet residents where they are and c | | |
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25-3632
| 1 | | Honoring George’s Gyros | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
WHEREAS George Sakellariou came to the United States from Greece in 1969, working in factories then as a busboy in the restaurant industry. He worked his way into the kitchen and eventually cooking. He didn’t hesitate when he saw an opportunity to open his first restaurant providing a lifelong example to his family and community, and
WHEREAS George’s Gyros originally began as Kattoyouias at 3409 South Halsted Street in 1975 by George Sakellariou and Jimmy Tsitsopolous who worked side by side until 1987 when George Sakellariou continued running the restaurant on his own until December 1999, and
WHEREAS, George Sakellariou purchased the Horizon Restaurant down the block at 3445 South Halsted, renovated the space and opened the current George’s Gyros on January 18, 1999, and
WHEREAS George’s Gyros employed many neighborhood teenagers, usually their first jobs. George Sakellariou believed in teaching these teenagers the value of hard work, social skills, time management and lessons they continued to carry throughout their lives, and
WHEREAS George | | |
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25-3669
| 1 | | HONORING HIS EMINENCE CARDINAL BLASE CUPICH’S GOLDEN JUBILEE | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING HIS EMINENCE CARDINAL BLASE CUPICH’S GOLDEN JUBILEE
WHEREAS on Saturday, August 16, 2025, a special Mass was celebrated at Holy Name Cathedral, and
WHEREAS among the many blessings for which the parishioners of Holy Name Cathedral offered thanks on that day is that God has blessed them and sent to them his grace through the good works and benevolence of His Eminence Cardinal Blase Cupich, and
WHEREAS His Eminence Cardinal Blase Cupich has served the Catholic Church for 50 years since being ordained on August 16, 1975, and
WHEREAS Cardinal Blase Cupich was appointed Archbishop of Chicago on September 20, 2014, by Pope Francis and installed as the ninth Archbishop of Chicago in November of 2014, and
WHEREAS Cardinal Blase Cupich was elevated to the College of Cardinals on November 19, 2016, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City by Pope Francis, and
WHEREAS Cardinal Blase Cupich has been an advocate for the dignity of human life, protecting the most vulnerable, and advocating for social justice, and
WHEREAS the celebration of this G | | |
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25-3648
| 1 | | Establishing September as Spoken Word Month and Honoring the Achievements of Blaq Ice | Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
Establishing September as Spoken Word Month and Honoring the Achievements of Blaq Ice
WHEREAS, , Chicago’s own Blaq Ice, born De’Andre Hawthorne, is an international, award-winning spoken word poet, cultural icon, and trailblazer whose illustrious career spans more than three decades, during which he has redefined the spoken word genre by fusing poetic expression with neo-soul, jazz, hip-hop, and rhythm and blues; and
WHEREAS, Blaq Ice’s visionary artistry and dedication to elevating spoken word poetry have captivated audiences across the globe, and in 2025, he achieved an unprecedented milestone by becoming the first poet in history to win both the Chicago Music Awards and the 312 Music Awards in the same year, cementing his legacy as a transformative force in the arts; and
WHEREAS, Blaq Ice is the founder of the Chicago Poet Laureate initiative and the CEO and Founder of the National Spoken Word Awards and Festival, held annually in Chicago during the Labor Day weekend, which draws artists and audiences from across the nation and affirms Cook County | | |
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25-3658
| 1 | | ILLINOIS STATE BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE ILLINOIS STATE BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR 20TH ANNIVERSARY
WHEREAS, the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce (ILBCC) is a vibrant force dedicated to driving inclusivity and igniting economic growth across Illinois; and
WHEREAS, over the past two decades, ILBCC has shattered barriers, unlocked access, and fiercely championed Black-owned businesses, setting a standard that other organizations struggle to match; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber’s mission is to foster economic growth and reduce disparities by enhancing the competitive capacity of small businesses by partnering with government agencies and the private sector to create sustainable opportunities for African Americans, women, and minority-owned enterprises; and
WHEREAS, ILBCC is dedicated to championing over 100,000 Black-owned businesses across various sectors, driving their success and advancing economic equality; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber’s vision is to cultivate a thriving ecosystem of sustainable, high-growth Black-owned businesses in Illinois that a | | |
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25-3656
| 1 | | GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COOK COUNTY GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the last Sunday in September, was designated as ‘‘Gold Star Mother’s Day” by the United States Congress on June 23, 1936; and
WHEREAS, after the passage of this joint congressional resolution, President Barack Obama, in 2011 made the amendment to include Gold Star Family Members on this day; and
WHEREAS, a gold star symbolizes a family member who died in the line of duty while serving in the Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, the members and veterans of the Armed Forces, through their service, bear the burden of protecting the freedom of the people of the United States; and
WHEREAS, the selfless example of the service of the members and veterans of the Armed Forces, as well as the sacrifices made by the families of those individuals, inspires individuals throughout the United States to sacrifice and work diligently for the good of the United States; and
WHEREAS, no words expressed can fill the void in the hearts of each of our nation’s Gold Star families, but we must never fail to recog | | |
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25-3657
| 1 | | NATIONAL POW/MIA DAY | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COOK COUNTY NATIONAL POW/MIA DAY RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, in each of America’s past wars, our Prisoners of War have represented a special sacrifice. An added burden of loneliness, trauma and hardship has fallen on them. Their burden becomes double where there is inhumane treatment by the enemy in violation of common human compassion, ethical standards and international obligation; and
WHEREAS, the United States Congress passed a resolution authorizing the first National POW/MIA Recognition Day be observed on July 18, 1979 and later moved the event to be observed on the third Friday in September; and
WHEREAS, throughout our history, when the enemies of freedom were on the march and our country needed brave Americans to take up arms and stop their advance, the members of our Armed Forces answered the call of duty. These patriotic men and women defended our country in hours of need and continue to stand watch for freedom. Many of these courageous individuals risked capture, imprisonment and their lives to protect our homeland. On National POW/MIA Recognition | | |
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25-3660
| 1 | | RECOGNIZING BLOOD CANCER AND SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH IN COOK COUNTY | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING BLOOD CANCER AND SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, the month of September is National Blood Cancer and Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a month-long initiative designated by Congress to help focus attention on the need for research and treatment of blood cancer and sickle cell diseases; and
WHEREAS, Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States in which red blood cells may become sickle-shaped and harden. For a baby to be born with sickle cell disease, both parents must carry a sickle cell trait or genes. Sickle cell disease is not contagious, and there is no universal cure; and
WHEREAS, about 1 in 13 African Americans carry the sickle cell trait, and many do not know they have it, and an estimated 100,000 people in the U.S. have SCD, with approximately 2,000 babies born with SCD annually in the United States; and
WHEREAS, people of many ethnic backgrounds can have SCD, but it disproportionately affects Black and Brown Americans, with more than 90% non-Hispanic Black or African A | | |
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25-3530
| 1 | | HONORING ESTELLE J. LONG | Consent Calendar Resolution | RESOLUTION HONORING ESTELLE J. LONG FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE, COURAGE, AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Cook County is proud to recognize individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, dedication, and service to their communities, and who serve as shining examples of civic responsibility, perseverance, and generational impact; and
WHEREAS, Estelle J. Long, a centenarian, born on August 13, 1920, in Evanston, Illinois, emerged from a family rooted in discipline, education, patriotism, and artistry—values that would shape her into a courageous trailblazer in every chapter of her life; and
WHEREAS, as a young student, Mrs. Long stood with integrity and grace in the face of systemic injustice, using her talents and voice to advocate for dignity and equal treatment for her peers, making her an early champion for civil rights and equity; and
WHEREAS, during World War II, she contributed to the national defense effort by applying her skills in vital war industries, exemplifying the legacy of “Rosie the Riveter,” and breaking barriers | | |
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25-3795
| 1 | | In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Davis
In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Davis
In Loving Memory Of Barbara Jean Davis | Consent Calendar Resolution | IN LOVING MEMORY OF BARBARA JEAN DAVIS
WHEREAS, Barbara Jean Davis, who was born on March 24, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, to the union of the late Laverne Jacob Davis and Eugene Ulysses Davis; and
WHEREAS, Barbara Jean Davis was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Kevin Shawn Davis and Paul Jacob Davis, and her beloved soulmate of 25 years, Melvin Lee Graham, with whom she shared four children; and
WHEREAS, Barbara Jean Davis was a loving sister to her brothers Eugene (Charisse), Carl, Harrison (Rashonda), Kevin (preceded in death), and Paul (preceded in death), and shared a lifelong bond with her God-sisters Valzetta Qualls and Tracey Washington; and
WHEREAS, Barbara Jean Davis was the only daughter among six siblings, a devoted mother of five children—Erika Fletcher, Chantanae Graham, Laverne Graham, Dominique Graham, and Antwon Graham—and a proud grandmother of eight beautiful grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, at an early age, Barbara Jean Davis accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at Salem Lutheran Church, where she began her spiritual journ | | |
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25-3792
| 1 | | NATIONAL SERVICE DOG MONTH | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2025 AS NATIONAL SERVICE DOG MONTH IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners believes in the joyful, transformative power of the human-canine bond and the importance of inclusivity for all residents; and
WHEREAS, in the United States, approximately 70 million adults live with a disability, yet there are only about 16,000 service dogs from accredited training programs nationwide, highlighting a growing need for support; and
WHEREAS, in 1975, Canine Companions pioneered the concept of service dogs for individuals with physical disabilities, creating a new form of essential support and independence; and
WHEREAS, Canine Companions, a nonprofit organization, enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing expertly trained service dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships, all free of charge; and
WHEREAS, Canine Companions and their service dogs empower individuals with disabilities to live with greater independence through best-in-class training, follow-up services, and a deeply commit | | |
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25-3531
| 1 | | Life and Legacy of Langston Britton
Life and Legacy of Langston Britton
Life and Legacy of Langston Britton | Consent Calendar Resolution | RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LANGSTON BRITTON
WHEREAS, Langston Britton was born on April 27, 2011, and during his 14 years on earth brought joy, light, and love to all who knew him, before his heavenly transition on July 25, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Langston’s family was the foundation of his joy and values. He was the beloved son of Sherrard and Martha Britton, cherished brother of Quincy Britton, adored grandson, nephew, godson, godbrother, cousin, and friend to a wide circle of loved ones, and a tender companion to the family’s treasured pets, Samantha, Jedi (in spirit), and Bailey (in spirit); and
WHEREAS, Langston was a proud student of the Valley View School District, having attended Kenneth L. Hermansen Elementary School and A. Vito Martinez Middle School in Romeoville, Illinois, and was preparing to enter Romeoville High School in the 2025–2026 academic year, where he had already earned placement in honors courses due to his strong academic promise; and
WHEREAS, Langston was a young man of deep faith and leadership, active in the student ministry at Commu | | |
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25-3804
| 1 | | DION'S CHICAGO DREAM
DION'S CHICAGO DREAM | Consent Calendar Resolution | PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING DION’S CHICAGO DREAM FOR OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN HEALTH EQUITY, LOGISTICS-DRIVEN FOOD ACCESS, AND JOB CREATION IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, September is recognized as Social Food Justice Month, a time to elevate and honor the work of organizations and leaders advancing equitable access to nutritious food, dismantling systemic barriers, and affirming dignity in food systems; and
WHEREAS, WHEREAS, Dion’s Chicago Dream (“DCD”), founded by Englewood native and U.S. Navy veteran Dion Dawson in 2020, is a nonprofit social enterprise that combats food insecurity through a logistics-first model delivering fresh produce directly to households across Chicagoland, centering quality, dignity, and consistency in service; and DCD’s flagship Dream Deliveries program provides five days’ worth of fresh fruits and vegetables straight to residents’ doorsteps, immediately improving household food security; and
WHEREAS, DCD’s innovative “last-mile” approach has been profiled and recognized regionally and nationally for reimagining the traditional, queue-based food di | | |
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