Chambana Sun

Former state representative Jeanne Ives recently brought to light a $300,000 expenditure for a Lake County Black Lives Matter office that has been defunct for some time.

Ives is now getting the attention of legislators, noting the BLM payment from the state in a letter bringing the matter to the attention of State Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville).

“I wanted to provide you additional information regarding the funding timeline and expenditures for the above named entity,” Ives wrote to Halbrook.

“The fiscal year 2023 budget identified BLM – Lake County as a recipient of $300,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.The program design submitted by BLM Lake County indicates that the program consists of youth mentoring, college visits, cultural enrichment outings, antiviolence book discussion sessions, community block parties, gardening, and journaling activities.”

“BLM Lake County was awarded $270,000 (10% or $30K was directed to administrative cost). The grantee did not include indirect costs in their budget. The budget does include some contractual costs for audit services. The payment for audit services has not yet been made, so all costs reported to and reimbursed by ICJIA are direct program costs.”

“From 8/1/2022 to 4/30/2023 (as of the last financial report received from the grantee for April 2023), the grantee has expended $50,932.81 of its $270,000 award. Expenditures include: $20,540.23 forpersonnel (salary and fringe) costs, $20,814.70 for program supplies, and $9,577.88 for rent and utilities.  The remaining balance is $219,067.19.”

“As you are aware, the recently signed fiscal year 2024 budget included a $300,000 appropriation from the State CURE fund (ARPA) for BLM Lake County. The agency will be awarded the 30,000 previously withheld for administrative costs, as well as any funds not expended by the close of fiscal year 2023.”

Ives, CEO of Breakthrough Ideas, previously criticized Pritzker and Democrats for providing $300,000 in COVID relief funding to Black Lives Matter (BLM) Lake County.

“Black Lives Matter Lake County, a Marxist organization,” Ives said. “They don't deserve taxpayer money. What do they do? And I'll tell you what. There's millions of dollars spent on violence prevention programs that need to be investigated as well.”

The Illinois Freedom Caucus also highlighted the criminal history of Clyde McLemore, the leader of BLM Lake County, who has faced charges including felony battery and stalking.

Critics argue that supporting an organization with controversial views, such as advocating for the disruption of the traditional family structure and the elimination of police departments, raises doubts about the use of public funds.

BLM Lake County appears to be defunct with no operational presence. The physical inspection of their headquarters revealed closure and eviction.