Lake County’s representative on Metra Board resigns

WAUKEGAN – Melinda Bush, Lake County’s appointed member on the Metra Board of Directors, announced her resignation effective Jan. 3.

Bush was appointed to the Metra Board in February 2023 by the Lake County Board chair. A lifelong Lake County resident, she previously served as a Grayslake Village Board trustee, a Lake County Board member and state senator for District 31.

On the Metra Board, Bush was instrumental in creating and serving on the Finance Committee and calling for the creation of a policy workgroup. She also is proud of the successful Bikes on Train policy.

During her tenure, Metra moved to a simplified four-zone structure, which brought most fares lower than pre-pandemic levels. The Metra Board also has made numerous capital improvements, including installing shelters at stations to protect passengers from the weather in addition to renovating platforms and deteriorated tactile surfaces to assist in accessibility.

“I thank Melinda for her dedication to representing Lake County in this important role and all she has done to serve our residents and those who commute by Metra to work in our county,” said Sandy Hart, Lake County Board chair. “Her knowledge and commitment will be missed and we wish her the very best in all of her future endeavors.”

Qualified candidates are sought to fill the vacant Metra Board of Directors seat. The Metra Board of Directors is made up of 11 members representing the six-county Chicago metropolitan area. They meet once a month to discuss matters.

According to 70 ILCS 3615/3B.04(4), one director shall be appointed by the chair of the Lake County Board with the advice and consent of the Lake County Board and shall reside in Lake County.

Illinois law also states: No director, while serving as such, shall be an officer, a member of the board of directors or trustee or an employee of any transportation agency, or be an employee of the State of Illinois or any department or agency thereof, or of any county, municipality or any other unit of local government or receive any compensation from any elected or appointed office under the Constitution and laws of Illinois.

Lake County residents who are interested in serving on the Metra Board of Directors and meet the criteria are encouraged to submit their resume, a letter of interest and any other supporting material they wish to include such as letters of recommendation via email to countyboardoffice@lakecountyil.gov or via U.S. mail to: Lake County Board Chair, Lake County Board Office, 10th Floor, 18 N. County St.,Waukegan, IL 60085.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 17.