Kenosha Reporter

As 2024 draws to a close, Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman reflects on the year's key accomplishments. Among the highlights is a significant economic development announcement from Eli Lilly and Company. On December 5, the company revealed plans for a $3 billion expansion of its manufacturing operations in Kenosha County. This project is expected to create 750 permanent jobs and 2,000 construction jobs.

Kenosha County also retained its AAA bond rating from S&P Global for the fourth consecutive year, which has saved taxpayers approximately $1 million in interest costs. Finance Director Patricia Merrill and other county officials were credited for this achievement.

A new county logo was introduced during Kerkman's State of the County address in May. The logo, developed with input from various county board members, represents both the past and future of Kenosha County.

Efforts to improve broadband connectivity saw progress with Spectrum launching service to about 1,000 homes and businesses in underserved areas. A county grant further extended access to over 100 homes.

In November, the Kenosha County Housing Task Force was launched to address housing needs. The task force includes developers, municipal leaders, financing experts, and real estate agents.

The former Division of Aging, Disability and Behavioral Health Services was split into two units focusing separately on Behavioral Health and Aging/Disability Services. This move aims to better serve community needs amid an aging population.

The county budget for 2025 includes a new embedded social worker position within the Sheriff's Department to assist with behavioral health-related calls.

Greg Boldt was appointed as the new Director of Highways over the summer. His experience will guide current maintenance needs while planning future improvements.

County golf courses set a record with over 120,000 rounds played before winter closure. Parks hosted more than 300 events throughout the year under Director Wyatt Moore's leadership.

A docuseries video about the Kenosha Comets won a Chicago/Midwest Regional Emmy Award in November. The project highlighted trailblazers from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.