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I used to make fun of my father for being ‘old’ or ‘not with the times’. In true karma I have become my father. This social media stuff facinates me and I would like to think I am smarter than a 3rd grader, but that is questonable by many.I used to give my dad a hard time for being “old” or “out of touch.” Turns out karma has a great sense of humor because now I am my dad. This whole social media thing fascinates me, even if I still feel like I need a manual half the time.

I’d like to think I’m smarter than a third grader, but depending on who you ask, that’s still up for debate.

I just ask that you stick with me. Follow the page, follow the blog. I promise I’ll get better, a little less clunky, and maybe even figure out how to post without breaking something.

Hello neighbors,

As we approach one of our country’s most cherished holidays, I want to take a moment to wish every one of you a safe, joyful, and memorable Independence Day. The 4th of July is more than just fireworks and cookouts. It’s a time to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the community that makes our town a great place to live.

This year, whether you’re joining a local parade, gathering with family and friends, or simply enjoying the summer evening sky, please remember to prioritize safety. Celebrate responsibly. Keep an eye on the kids, follow firework guidelines, and look out for one another.

I’m proud of the spirit and resilience our town shows every day. This holiday is a perfect reminder of how important it is to come together as neighbors and support each other. Let’s use this time not just to celebrate our nation’s history, but to strengthen the bonds that hold us close as a community. I’m working on bringing back the Memorial Day and 4th of July parades in 2026. More on that in a future post, but I’m excited for what’s ahead.

Enjoy the festivities, savor the moments, and take pride in the small town we all call home. Here’s to a fantastic 4th of July!

With gratitude,

Brian Brubaker
Mayor of Round Lake

In 2024, voters sent a clear message by rejecting the referendum—a call for a more fiscally responsible approach. Yet here we are again, facing essentially the same proposal, just repackaged.

We all support the need for an updated library. What we don’t support is an extra $300 added to our property tax bill—especially one that keeps growing as EAVs increase.

There are better solutions—ideas that would meet the Library’s needs without overburdening taxpayers. But progress requires transparency, collaboration, and responsible leadership.

The hard truth is this: the Library has not demonstrated strong fiscal stewardship. And they’ve been difficult partners to work with. Other governing bodies want to help—there are people and agencies ready to be part of the solution—but many are hesitant because of the Library’s past decisions and approach.

Your voice matters. Your input is needed now more than ever. Let’s demand a smarter, more cooperative path forward—one that earns public trust and delivers results without unnecessary cost.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1F1EcqnHwH

Clarke will be performing a Village wide adult mosquito control application this evening, July1, 2025 , weather conditions permitting.

If you would like to be notified prior to spraying, please visit https://www.clarkeportal.com/ to be placed on the “Prior Notification” list for the Village.

Link Up at Lucky Emma’s is a chance to slow down, meet other local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and everyday builders who care about seeing this town thrive.

We’re building something in Round Lake, Illinois, together, one connection at a time.

Whether you come to support, to grow, to listen, or just to sit back and take it in, your presence matters.
We’re not here to impress. We’re here to show up. For each other. For this town.

 Lucky Emma’s Bar, Round Lake, IL 60073
 Monday, June 30th
 5:30 PM-7:00 PM

 Free to attend
 No sales pressure
 Just real conversations with real people who care

If you’re carrying the load alone, come rest it here a while. You might meet someone who wants to help

I attended the soft opening on June 27th with my 2-year-old grandkids, and they put the playground through its paces—two thumbs up from them!

You can now enjoy this free, fully accessible playground at 2041 N. Orchard Lane, Round Lake Beach, open during our soft launch.

What’s a soft opening? The Parks Department is still wrapping up a few final touches. Fencing and safety barriers are being installed, but they didn’t want to keep you waiting.

Mark your calendars for the Grand Opening on Saturday, August 16, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring the whole family to this free event—no registration needed.

Hero Park is an inclusive playground with a splash pad, designed so ALL kids—whether they have disabilities or critical illnesses or not—can play side by side without barriers.

Visit the Round Lake Area Park District website for more info about Hero Park and other programing!

https://www.rlapd.org/

Excellent job, Round Lake Area Park District!

#roundlakeparks #EveryoneIsaHero #allinclusiveplay

After years of teamwork and vision, the new Lake County Regional Operations and Communications (ROC) Facility is officially open—a game changer for public safety.

I had the chance to attend the ribbon cutting and tour the facility, and it’s impressive. Located in Libertyville, the ROC brings together 911 dispatch (LakeComm), the Lake County Emergency Management Agency (LCEMA), and the Joint Emergency Telephone System Board under one roof. This means faster response times, better coordination during emergencies, and a stronger system for all of us.

Several speakers marked the occasion, including Congressman Brad Schneider and LakeComm Executive Director Jason Kern, who both spoke about the long-term collaboration and impact of this project.

Round Lake is proud to be part of this regional effort. Our Village Administrator, Brandy Schroff, serves on the executive board and as treasurer, helping lead the way on this important collaboration.

The building is built to stay running through major storms and power outages. It’s also Lake County’s first Net Zero facility, powered by over 1,900 solar panels and a geothermal energy system.

This is more than just a new building. It’s a major investment in keeping our communities safe.

Village of Round Lake Residents. The time has come for the long anticipated but not excited to see water rate increase.

The Village has gone to great lengths to get the information and prior warning out not all residents for the past 6-8 months. (Maybe longer)

Peace

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19rrvQy8RT/

Come help us welcome Tamalitos Don Juan to Round Lake with their official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, June 28 at 11:00 AM! 

 1817 S Cedar Lake Rd, Round Lake, IL 60073
 First 50 guests get one taco, one tamal, and a sample of agua fresca — on the house!

Please note: Cash only while they work on setting up card payments.

Let’s show our support for local businesses and celebrate this exciting new addition to our community!

#RibbonCutting #GrandOpening #SupportLocal #RoundLakeForward #MayorInAttendance #TamalitosDonJuan

Event Details:

* Date: June 25th
* Time: 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM
* Location: Police Department Community Room at 751 W. Townline Rd, Round Lake

Whether you’re a first-time donor or a seasoned supporter, your contribution is vital. You can schedule a convenient time for your donation, or simply walk in—we welcome both! Every donation makes a difference.

Help us make this event a success by spreading the word and bringing friends and family along. Together, we can give the gift of life.

You can drop in during that time or schedule your appointment today to ensure a smooth and quick donation experience.

Thank you for your support!