Initial evaluation of rainfall data from the Illinois State Water Survey indicates Lake County is receiving between 20% and 45% higher rainfall amounts, which can have a significant impact on not only the residents of Lake County, but also the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC).

Based on the increased rainfall amounts, the SMC will evaluate and make revisions to the County’s Watershed Development Ordinance regulations regarding storm sewer and detention design, floodplains, building protection, wetland requirements, and more. These changes will be made to best ensure new development doesn’t create negative environmental impacts for Lake County residents and those downstream.

Although many stormwater requirements will be impacted, SMC is looking at all of the facts before making any official recommendations. SMC will present their findings and recommendations at the Commission’s May 2 meeting.