Equity Town Hall Planned At Harper College In Palatine: Cook County

PALATINE, IL — Saying they want to "ensure all Cook County residents can live healthy, safe, prosperous lives," officials are hosting an Equity Town Hall, planned for 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Harper College, 1200 West Algonquin Road, Palatine.

Cook County Commissioners Scott Britton (D-Glenview), Kevin B. Morrison (D-Schaumburg) and Maggie Trevor (D-Arlington Heights) are heading the event.

"Starting conversations, and more importantly continuing the conversations, about equity is how we move the needle," Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a news release. "We continue to strive to make Cook County a place where everyone can thrive, regardless of race, nationality, gender, immigration status, or zip code."

According to organizers, Chief of Staff Lanetta Haynes Turner, Director of External Affairs Angela Waller Department of Transportation & Highways Supervisor Jennifer “Sis” Killen, and Digital Equity Director Kyla Williams-Tate will "highlight changes at all levels of County government to achieve digital equity, fair transit, and policies for safe & thriving communities."

The Equity Fund Taskforce, founded in 2021, consists of 50 members charged with advising on strategic countywide investments to address historic disparities and disinvestments in Black and Latino communities. Combined with other equity-focused initiatives, Cook County will invest roughly $120 million in FY21 and FY22.

"Community participation and feedback is paramount to building an equitable Cook County," Britton said. "This Equity Town Hall is a unique opportunity for residents to learn about the County’s work to realize safe, connected, and digital communities for everyone."

Interested attendees are invited to register for Thursday’s Event: eventbrite.com/e/equity-fund-townhall-north-suburbs-tickets-706876846677