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Board approves updated County of Lake internship program with local‑preference language
Summary
The supervisors approved revisions to the county internship program to modernize recruitment and create pathways for students; the board added a local‑preference clause to encourage hiring county residents or those with local ties.
The Lake County Board of Supervisors on April 22 voted to update and revise the County of Lake internship program to make it easier for departments to recruit students, provide hands‑on public‑service experience and create potential pathways to county employment.
Human Resources staff described the revised program as more flexible than an earlier 2005 policy, noting departments often had difficulty hiring interns because minimum qualifications for county positions outpaced typical student skill levels. The program aims to offer summer and academic internships, include both classroom‑based and trade opportunities and to help departments develop workable recruitments for students.
During discussion board members and department leaders urged a focus on local youth and workforce development. The board approved an amendment to include a "preference for local residents" language in the program to encourage hiring candidates with Lake County ties while allowing departments discretion to recruit more broadly when needed. The motion to approve the revised program as amended carried by voice vote; the transcript records the motion passed 5‑0.
Why it matters: County leaders said a structured internship program can create career pathways in public administration and trades, support departmental capacity and help retain local talent.
Next steps: Human Resources will open recruitment once the revised policy is effective and will continue discussions with local community colleges and training partners to develop academic‑linked opportunities.
