What Does Township Government Do in Illinois?

Township government in Illinois is one of the oldest forms of local government, designed to serve residents close to home. Townships are responsible for essential services that directly impact daily life, including:

• Road Maintenance: Taking care of local roads and bridges to ensure they are safe and accessible in unincorporated parts of Ela Township and assisting the villages without a Public Works department.

• Helping People in Need: Providing assistance to residents facing financial hardships through programs like general assistance and emergency relief.

• Property Assessments: Helping determine the value of properties for fair and accurate taxation.

• Community Services: Offering programs like senior transportation, youth activities, and other resources to strengthen the community.

Township government focuses on practical, local solutions, making sure your tax dollars are used to address the needs of your neighborhood.

for more information, please visit The Township Officials of Illinois website click here

About Ela Township

Established in 1850, Ela Township is a local government agency located in the southwest corner of Lake County, Illinois. Spanning 36 square miles, the Township serves a population of 44,026 residents (based on the 2016 U.S. Census). It encompasses portions of the following communities: Barrington, Deer Park, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Long Grove, and North Barrington.

Services for Our Residents
Ela Township is committed to providing a wide range of services to meet the needs of our community, including:

• Property Tax Assessments: Ensuring fair and accurate property valuations.

• General and Emergency Assistance: Supporting residents facing financial hardships.

• Highway and Road Maintenance: Maintaining approximately 25 miles of roads, including snow removal and stormwater management.

• Mental Health Services: Offering resources to support emotional well-being.

• Youth and Senior Programs: Targeted activities and services to enrich the lives of both age groups.

• Transportation Assistance: Subsidized transportation for seniors and disabled residents for essential and personal travel.

Parks and Cemeteries
Ela Township also manages and maintains four beautiful parks and two cemeteries, providing spaces for recreation and remembrance.

Ela Township is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through practical, accessible, and inclusive services.

The Township Supervisor serves as the chief executive officer of the township and has several key responsibilities, including:

1. General Assistance Program

• The supervisor oversees financial aid and support programs for residents facing economic hardships, ensuring they receive help with essentials like food, shelter, and utilities.

2. Township Board Leadership

• Acts as the chair of the township board, leading meetings, preparing agendas, and ensuring that decisions align with the township’s goals and legal requirements.

3. Budget and Finance

• The supervisor is responsible for preparing and managing the township’s budget, ensuring funds are allocated efficiently and transparently for local services.

4. Community Services

• Develops and implements programs to benefit residents, such as youth activities, senior services, and community events.

5. Liaison and Representation

• Represents the township in interactions with other government entities, community organizations, and residents to ensure collaboration and address local concerns.

The supervisor plays a critical role in ensuring the township operates effectively, meets residents’ needs, and adheres to its fiscal responsibilities. This is a non-partisan position.

Township trustees are elected officials who serve on the township board and play an essential role in overseeing the township's operations. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Financial Oversight

• Approving the township’s budget and expenditures to ensure that taxpayer funds are used responsibly.

• Reviewing and approving the township's financial reports and audits.

2. Policy Making

• Developing policies and making decisions on services, programs, and other issues that affect the township and its residents.

3. Support for Local Programs

• Working alongside the supervisor to ensure effective delivery of township services, such as road maintenance, general assistance, and community programs.

4. Representation of Residents

• Acting as a voice for the community by bringing residents’ concerns and needs to the board’s attention.

5. Checks and Balances

• Providing accountability by reviewing the supervisor’s decisions and ensuring they align with the township’s mission and legal requirements.

Trustees collaborate as a board to make decisions, ensuring the township runs smoothly and serves its residents effectively.

FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025:

Early Voting Begins at County Clerk's Office in Waukegan. First day for early voting at the office of the election authority. AND: Voting by Mail Begins First day for the election authority to mail an official ballot to a voter who has applied for a vote by mail ballot.

SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 2025:

Online Voter Registration Closes Last day for voters to register online with the State Board of Elections.

MONDAY, MARCH 17, 2025

Early Voting Begins County-wide First day for early voting throughout Lake County.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025

Last Day to Mail Vote by Mail Ballots Last day for the election authority to receive, by mail, an application for a vote by mail ballot and mail that ballot to the voter. 

MONDAY, MARCH 31, 2025

Last Day for Early Voting Last day for early voting for the 2025 Consolidated Election.

Where do I vote?
https://www.lakecountyil.gov/351/Voter-Power-for-Registered-Voters

Confirm your voter registration, and check your polling place and candidate information here:

https://www.lakecountyil.gov/351/Voter-Power-for-Registered-Voters