Sept. 5, 2023

For immediate release

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CONTACT: Louise Donahue, 847-224-4806

 

GREEN OAKS--Today, Coroner Jennifer Banek announced she will seek re-election to expand on her initiatives to better support Lake County families while keeping a close watch on taxpayer dollars.

 

”As Lake County Coroner, I support families at one of the most difficult times of their lives while also working hard to reduce preventable deaths in our community. I am proud of what the Office of the Coroner has achieved under my leadership, but there is so much more to do.”

 

Coroner Banek cites three major priorities:

 

· Targeting the crisis of opioid-related deaths in Lake County. The Coroner’s Office works closely with community organizations that back proven, victim-focused solutions to help all Lake County residents struggling with substance use disorder. Coroner Banek has prioritized timely reports of opioid-related deaths and is tracking overdose “hot spots” to aid law enforcement efforts.

 

· Fiscal Responsibility. After taking office in 2020, Coroner Banek immediately instituted expert processes to ensure efficient operations and better steward taxpayer dollars. Under her leadership, the office has saved hundreds of thousands of dollars while dramatically improving support services for families.

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· Turning tragedy into hope. Coroner Banek has partnered with the Gift of Hope organization to streamline the process of organ donations. Since the implementation of this interoperable initiative, the number of referrals for organ and tissue donations has grown significantly.

 

"Especially with the looming opioid crisis, the challenges the Coroner's Office faces are many.  While we have accomplished much during my first term in office, I have just gotten started," Coroner Banek said. "I'm grateful for the support I've received from the community and am eager to serve Lake County families for another four years."