A new police social worker program in McHenry County is the result of the county's efforts to increase shared services among local governments. Social workers in the new program will support police officers during mental health-related calls across the county.

ON TO 2050, the region's comprehensive plan, encourages local governments to pursue more service-sharing partnerships.

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) recently supported a study in McHenry County that identified opportunities for sharing services and other forms of intergovernmental coordination. The study has helped lead to new partnerships like the social worker program. These arrangements can help local governments increase efficiency, improve quality, and expand access to services.

This week was Flood Safety Week in Illinois, highlighting a common concern for many communities in northeastern Illinois. As the weather warms, melting snow and falling rain can lead to flooding all around our region. Flooded streets and sidewalks cause travel delays, safety issues, and costly repairs.

To help communities better understand and manage flood risks, CMAP developed the regional flood susceptibility index. This data resource helps communities identify areas that have experienced flood damage and may be at greater risk of flooding in the future. They then can target investments to reduce flooding. Our Guide to Flood Susceptibility and Stormwater Planning also describes the different ways communities can use the index for their own planning activities.

CMAP has aligned its committees with the three focus areas of transportation, the regional economy, and climate. The agency's Regional Economy and Climate committees will meet for the first time on Monday, March 28, and Tuesday, March 29.

This new strategic direction allows CMAP to engage with new and underrepresented people, especially those most affected by these issues. This is part of the agency's broader goal to reach more diverse voices and experiences in the region.

The agency embarked on this effort to better leverage community expertise and work toward equitable engagement as we implement ON TO 2050, the long-range plan for northeastern Illinois.

Online events

Northwest Water Planning Alliance Technical Advisory Committee
March 22, at 10:00 a.m.
Host: Northwest Water Planning Alliance
    
Hybrid events

Illinois Affordable Housing Forum
March 22-24 and 31
Host: Illinois Housing Council