Over the past month, we saw the groundbreaking for two major road projects for McHenry County.   The first project is for the full interchange between Interstate 90 and IL-47 in Huntley. Both Governor Quinn and I were among many speakers touting the economic importance of this interchange to the residents of McHenry County, and to the entire region. After decades of planning, we are about to embark on the final phase of this project that has an expected completion date for the summer of 2013.

The second groundbreaking that occurred this month was the Western Algonquin Bypass in Algonquin. We began studying the traffic congestion problems in this area during the late 60s. It was not until 2001 that a bypass was agreed upon as an option that would address traffic concerns and allow us to receive federal funding for this project. Eleven years later we have reached the point where we can begin the final phase of this project.  The expected completion date for this project is the summer of 2014.  

Finally, we must recognize the countless people that made these projects possible including: Congressman Don Manzullo, Senator Dick Durbin, and then Senator Barack Obama for securing federal funds for us through the federal transportation bills. At the state level, we also want to thank Senator Pam Althoff and Representative Mike Tryon for securing state funding. We want to also thank all local officials and the public for their input and patience in the development of these projects.

It will not be much longer until we all enjoy the fruits of our labor.

Sincerely,

Kenneth D. Koehler

County Board Chairman 

***Click here to view a slide show of the Western Algonquin Bypass Groundbreaking Ceremony.***

Draft UDO Available for Review

McHenry County is developing a Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to regulate all aspects of development in unincorporated areas of the County.  The UDO will update and combine the County's zoning, subdivision, sign, and miscellaneous development regulations into a single, comprehensive, and consistent set of regulations.  The UDO will implement the County's 2030 Comprehensive Plan and Water Resources Action Plan. 

The project consultant, Camiros, Ltd, has completed development of its initial draft ordinance, which is available for review on the project website: www.camiros.com/mchenrycoUDO.  The draft ordinance is based on consideration of the county's existing rules and procedures and extensive input from County officials and staff along with real estate, agricultural, environmental, and municipal representatives, and property owners...Read More.

Open House on Waterfront Neighborhoods Plan

The McHenry County Department of Health encourages residents to take advantage of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency's program "National Take-Back Initiative" on Saturday, September 29. The one-day event is from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., at participating law enforcement sites. According to the Partnership for a Drug Free America, 90 percent of drug and alcohol addictions begin in the teenage years. Studies show a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet...Read More.

September is National Preparedness Month

When a disaster strikes, it is sudden and frightening. Disasters can range from a blizzard to pandemic flu to a terrorist attack. Over the past several years, Illinois has seen dozens of natural disasters, ranging from blizzards and severe storms to tornadoes and flooding that disrupt or even destroy homes and entire communities. These events usually happen without warning, changing lives in an instant. No matter what time of year it is, being safe and ready is always a good idea...Read More

Flu Shot Clinics

MCDH joins the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in encouraging an annual flu shot for everyone 6 months and older as the best protection against influenza. Appointments for mercury-free shots for adults and children 9 years and older can be made online at www.mcdh.info or by calling 815-334-4510. The cost is $30; Medicaid and Medicare Part B accepted.

MCDH flu clinics are scheduled in September on the following dates/locations (walk-ins are welcomed):

• Woodstock: MCDH (Building A) - Thurs. 9/27, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Crystal Lake: MCDH (Health Clinic) Office - Sat. 9/29, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

MCSO Looks for Assistance with Two Burglaries

The McHenry County Sheriff's Office is investigating two commercial burglaries that occurred at Mathews Company, 500 Industrial Ave, in Crystal Lake. Unknown offenders gained entry into the business after normal business hours and committed a theft of several thousands of dollars worth of metal on separate occasions. The incidents were reported on Tuesday, September 4 and Monday, September 10. At this time, the McHenry County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Bureau is requesting that anyone who may have information regarding this matter to please contact local authorities. We are seeking any information that could be helpful in the case.

Sheriff Keith Nygren requests that anyone with information regarding this investigation contact either the McHenry County Crimestoppers Tip Line at 1-800-762-Stop (7867), The McHenry County Sheriff's Police Tip Line at 815-338-2144, or the tip line email address: TipLine@co.mchenry.il.us. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the offender(s). Crimestoppers does not use caller ID.