Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Re-Elect Wayne Jett for Mayor 2025, Political organisation, 1306 N Green Street, McHenry, IL.
Wayne Jett's vision for McHenry is clear: a place where families can raise their children in a safe & welcoming environment, where residents can enjoy entertainment and local events in multiple downtown areas, and where businesses of all sizes can thrive
Rob Parrish: With my 45 years of experience in asphalt paving and 38 years of experience in snow removal, I believe I can meet the needs of the Nunda residents by utilizing my skills to work collaboratively to develop “true” need-based budgets
Wayne Jett on his top priority for McHenry: Responsible development to meet the growing needs of our residents. It’s important to follow the comp plan while also making sure we’re not putting a large burden on our other taxing bodies in the process
Leadership in Challenging Times
In May 2020, I took the initiative to reach out to all 25 municipalities in our County, including Chairman Jack Franks, to collaboratively develop a recovery plan aimed at reopening our businesses safely. McHenry led the way as the first city to embrace outdoor seating, utilizing tables and barricades provided by our dedicated City team.
During those unprecedented times, it was essential to find a balance between keeping our community vibrant and ensuring public safety. While many had differing opinions on how to navigate the pandemic, my focus remained steadfast: doing what’s best for our residents, businesses, and workers. I was in touch with Nick Rave at Northwestern Hospital daily to be sure numbers were staying flat or decreasing and modified when they increased.
Thanks to our proactive measures, we successfully avoided tapping into our reserves, allowing outdoor seating that kept our community thriving. This approach exemplifies true leadership during tough times, showcasing a commitment to both safety and economic stability.
As we approach the vote on April 1st, I urge you to consider the importance of leadership that prioritizes progress over negativity. Let's continue to work together for a brighter future!
Reflecting on Our Journey Together!
Since taking office in 2017, we've achieved so much as a team. It’s easy for accomplishments to go unnoticed when you’re not in the trenches, so I wanted to share a glimpse of what we've accomplished over the past 8 years.
From community initiatives to infrastructure improvements, each step we've taken has been made possible by the dedication of our incredible team at City Hall and the unwavering support by the majority of our Council Members.
Here’s to celebrating our progress together! Thank you for being a part of this journey, and let’s continue to work towards a brighter future for our community!
Economic Development Accomplishments
• Redevelopment of Water Tower Marina.
• Coordinated retention and expansion of Jessup Manufacturing (25,000 s.f.)
• 313 Businesses opened in the City of McHenry between 2017 and 2024;
• Creation of a Business Recognition Program
• Implementation, contract negotiation and coordination of the ShopNDineMcHenry website, programming and social media
• Coordination of McHenry MarketPulse (now ThinkMcHenry) social media information sharing
• Commissioned logos to brand ShopNDineMcHenry and McHenry MarketPulse and ThinkMcHenry
• Worked with community partners on revitalizing the McHenry Downtown Theater Building
• Completion of Safety Town Project
• Design and provide information for City ads in the Chamber Guide and Visit McHenry County Visitor guides, as well as others. Work with both for promotion and attraction to City events and businesses.
• Implementation and coordination of business information sharing on ThinkMcHenry and email/LinkedIn.
• Creation of the New Business Packet (discontinued and directed through ThinkMcHenry website).
• Gary Lang expands to a Kia-Subaru Building
• Expansion of Sunnyside Dodge-Acquiring Jeep Dealership
• Serve on the 2021-2025 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Steering Committee for the Northern Illinois Region
• City representation at the County PTAC committee meetings
• Implementation and coordination of the City’s Revolving Loan Fund
• Development of McHenry Community Guide through Naturally McHenry County visitor’s bureau
• Work with Chamber of Commerce and Naturally McHenry County to widen our outreach to bring tourism to McHenry.
• Assisted with the development and construction of the McHenry Riverwalk Shoppes along with the McHenry Area Chamber and McHenry School District #156
• J.A. Frate (46,000 square foot/$1,500,000 addition) and Disk.Com (108,000 square foot expansion). Aldi’s $759,000 addition, the McHenry Township Fire Protection District’s $2,000,000 expansion and renovation, Brake Parts $1.2 million infrastructure upgrades, renovations by PolyOne, Jewel Osco, Follett and Northwestern Medicine’s $8.8 million additions, enhancements, renovations and upgrades, most notably to their Sage Cancer Center.
• Exhibited and have consistently met with retail tenants, at the International Council of Shopping Centers for 15 years, in an effort to attract them to the City, examples of past successes include: CVS, Panda Express, Panera with a drive-thru facility, and Chick-Fil-A which have decided to relocate to the City of McHenry
• Development of Think McHenry Brand
• Restaurant and Tavern Relief Fund Grant-Grant Program during Pandemic-issued $230,000 in grant funding to 14 restaurants and taverns
• Small Business Resiliency Micro Loans Program During Pandemic-25 businesses-loaned out $192,500
• Completion of First Mural in City on Green Street
• Development of the Shop and Dine Program
• In 2022-2024 nineteen façade grants were approved by City resulting in $241,742 in public investment and $816,297 in private investment
• In 2020-2023 (7) Commercial Tenant Grants resulted in $85,000 in public investment and $396,687 in private investment
• Development of Ignite Nursing Rehabilitation Facility, 55,000 s.f., 150 FTE, $17.4 million
• Completed business recognitions for Gary Lang Auto Group (35 years), Mr. Don’s Cleaner’s (50 years), Chas Herderich (70 years), Pioneer Center (60 years), Little Chef (50 years), Buss Ford (90 years), Riverside Bakery (50 years), Nature’s Cornucopia (50 years).
• Assisted in the implementation of the countywide bike sharing program.
• Assisted in coordinating opening of Regional Covid-19 Vaccination Center at 1900 N Richmond Road when at its peak the McHenry County Health Department was vaccinating approximately 60 people every 15 minutes at this facility and was operating six days a week reaching between 7,500 and 10,000 people weekly. Local volunteer medical professionals along with two separate Medical National Guard Units operated out of this vaccination site.
• Adopted Citywide Mural Policy.
• Realized the merger of Centegra Health System and Northwestern Medicine.
• Assisted in the development of the Manufacturing Trade and Industry Expo (now four years old) with the District 156, McHenry Chamber and other organizations.
• Worked with Home of the Sparrow in securing a $115,000 grant for a watermain extension to be able to install sprinklers in their facility.
• Supported businesses throughout pandemic creating stability for businesses and a very low percentage of lost businesses as a result;
Police Department Accomplishments
• In 2017 the McHenry Police Department continued to utilize ATV’s as part of their vehicle fleet.
• The police department has also received two snowmobiles from the LESO program.
• The McHenry Police Department was the first department to be CALEA certified in McHenry County and received their first accreditation award in 2006, which also meant that the McHenry Police Department was CALEA compliant for the four years prior. Since the first award, the McHenry Police Department has received an additional five accreditation awards, which occur every four years.
• In 2017 the North East Regional Communications (NERCOM) Center opened, a collaborative effort between the McHenry Police Department, the McHenry Township Fire Protection District, Harvard Police Department and the Woodstock Police Department. There are nine dispatcher stations, supervisor office space, lockers, break area and private bathrooms. In 2017, NERCOM handled 75,030 calls for service over 16 agencies.
• During 2017, underwent 5th reaccreditation assessment under the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement (CALEA). The Department has been accredited under CALEA for the past 16 years. In March 2018 the McHenry Police Department was awarded its 5th consecutive reaccreditation.
• Between May 2017 and December 2017 the McHenry Police Department saved 23 lives with the use of Narcan;
• The McHenry Police Department has been an original partner in the McHenry County “A Way Out” Program with the McHenry County State’s Attorney. The program offers 24/7 substance abuse assessment and assistance with placement in the determined level of care. Since the start of the program, the McHenry Police Department has met with and transported 23 individuals to the A-Way-Out program’s facility in Woodstock.
• The McHenry Police Department Dispatch Center, which does business as
NERCOM, currently dispatches for 15 different agencies. During the 2023 calendar year, NERCOM answered approximately 44,089 Emergency 911 calls, 78 text to 9-1-1 calls and approximately 77,394 nonemergency administrative calls. An additional 29,613 outgoing calls were made on the behalf of our customers for additional tasks. This makes NERCOM the largest and busiest emergency dispatch center in the County
• Seven years as a member of the McHenry County Narcotics Taskforce
• 149 car seats were installed or checked for proper installation in 2017
• Supported Special Olympics for over 26 years as a department, including the Torch Run, Cop on Top, Butterburgers and Badges and Trivia Night;
• Supporter of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation;
• In 2018 the McHenry Police Department repurposed a trailer for use as a ‘Command Post’ for large events. This trailer can transport needed equipment and act as a staging area for police and other emergency personnel. It’s also a visual piece to attract anyone who needs assistance.
• In 2018, the McHenry Police Department administered Narcan on 24 occasions in the field.
• In 2018 the McHenry Police Department joined the McHenry County Narcotics Task Force. This cooperative effort allows McHenry PD to combat drug activity in our area more effectively. More resources are available in the Task Force, which allows the PD’s appointed officer a larger opportunity to fight the opioid epidemic locally and throughout the county. McHenry’s appointed officer to the Task Force accounted for 28 arrests, 66 felony charges, 17 misdemeanors and over $36,000 in cash seizure assets in 2018 alone.
• Between 2017 and 2023 the North East Regional Communications (NERCOM) Center responded to an annual average of 88,830 calls for service;
• Between 2017 and 2023 the McHenry Police Department logged an average of 5,092 hours of training time annually;
• Between 2017 and 2023 the McHenry Police Department responded to an average of 24,852 calls for service annually;
• In 2019, Public Affairs Officer Patrick Polidori, in cooperation with School District 15, began an initiative to help protect students from online bullying and cyber safety. Officer Polidori gave presentations for over 2000 students at each of the middle schools grades 6th– through 8th. These presentations showed students how to avoid becoming a victim online by being a good digital citizen
• In March of 2018, the McHenry Police Department acquired recertification for its 5th consecutive advanced accreditation award.
• In August of 2019 the McHenry City Council passed a resolution declaring their support in the McHenry Police Department’s efforts to establish a McHenry County Regional Training Facility.
• K-9 Yogi was deactivated on 09/02/2020 because of training difficulty. Yogi served the McHenry Police Department with faithful service and dedication. On 09/29/2020 Officer Conway was given a new partner, K-9 Eli.
• CALEA Accreditation is the Gold Standard for Public Safety Agencies and represents a commitment to excellence. The new process of annual web-based reviews and onsite visits every four years began for the McHenry PD in 2019. McHenry Police Department had its second web-based review in May 2020. Their assigned assessor reviewed 83 of the 459 total standards. The McHenry PD was found to be in compliance with all reviewed files.
• In September 2020, NERCOM in partnership with the McHenry County Emergency Telephone System Board (MCETSB) introduced Smart911. Smart911 enhances the information that a 911 call can provide and helps first responders help you faster during an emergency.
• McHenry’s appointed officer to the McHenry County Narcotics Task Force accounted for 28 arrests, 88 felony charges, 21 misdemeanors, 28 search warrants and over $74,499 in cash seizure assets. This was accomplished by investigating 27 total cases throughout the year by McHenry PD’s appointed officer.
• During the Spring of 2021, the McHenry Police Department had their year three (3) remote web-based assessment. The assessor looked at their files, including policies and proof that they complied with the CALEA standards from the 2020 calendar year. He looked at 102 of the required CALEA standards.
• During the Fall of 2021, the McHenry Police Department had their year four (4) remote web-based assessment. This required providing proof of compliance for 2021 in a shortened period.
• In 2021, McHenry’s appointed officer to the McHenry County Narcotics Task Force accounted for 25 arrests, 104 felony charges, 8 misdemeanors, 26 search warrants and over $111,102 in cash seizure assets. This was accomplished by investigating 27 total cases throughout the year by McHenry PD’s appointed officer.
• In September of 2021 the McHenry Police Department learned of a McHenry family in need. A young mother of two who was pregnant with her third child became severely ill from COVID-19. While battling COVID she was forced to give birth to her child early before going onto a ventilator. Her husband balanced the care for his two young children at home, a new baby in the hospital and being by his wife’s side and she battled for her life. The men and woman of the McHenry Police Department all chipped in personally to donate over $1,000 to the family, to help cover their house bills while this mom recovered.
• Have hosted National Night out at Petersen Park for the last 7 years
• Managed Queen of Hearts Traffic and Event at the VFW in 2018 when it took off that summer
• Coordination with Parks and Public Works of the ShamRocks the Fox Fest as a city event, as well as working with a number of organizations for other festivals that take place in city parks – Fiesta Days, Bands/Brews/BBQs, Oktoberfest, Downtown Wine Walk, Sidewalk Sales, and many others.
• Assisted in coordinating security at one of largest regional musical festivals-R.I.S.E. UP
• 2017-the third year the McHenry Police Department began using Narcan-two full years before state law mandated it
• Leader and member in the Substance Abuse Coalition, the parent program to the “A Way Out” program
• 2017-John Johns Retired; John Birk sworn in as police chief and Tom Walsh as Deputy Police Chief;
• McHenry Police Department became part of The Care Trak Program in 2017; The Care Trak program allows family members to track loved ones who are impaired and have a history of wandering from their home. Care Trak is a mobile tracking system that uses a radio frequency wrist band to locate lost individuals.
• In 2019, NERCOM in partnership with the McHenry County Emergency Telephone System Board (MCETSB) completed to major upgrades. The first was the installation of a new Auto Dispatch Platform for Fire/Rescue called US Digital. This new piece of technology allows our dispatch center to reduce the dispatch time of fire/EMS calls by providing automated voice dispatching of a call during the initial entry of the call into the CAD System.
• The second upgrade to NERCOM in 2019 was the installation of a new Next Generation 911 Phone System (NG9911).
• Took on the opioid and he**in crisis head-on. Through a multi-tiered approach to solving this crisis, the McHenry Police Department has taken action through enforcement efforts (arrests and drug seizures), the use of Narcan, and participation in the “A Way Out Program.” During this time period, the Police Department saved 28 lives through the use of Narcan and enrolled 33 people into the “A Way Out Program.”
• Established a new full-time Public Affairs position with the primary responsibility of managing social media, public information, and community outreach and support.
• In 2022, the department also hired a Social Services Coordinator, Jason Sterwerf, and a Therapy K9 Dog, Oakley. Since launching the program in April 2022, the McHenry Police Department’s first Social Services Coordinator Jason Sterwerf has received 84 referrals.
• In 2022 the McHenry Police Department added a Mobile Command Post. This vehicle is instrumental for large-scale events and major incidents.
• At the end of March 2022, The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), affirmed the McHenry Police Department’s re-accreditation for the sixth (6th) time earning them the award with meritorious honors.
• In 2022, McHenry’s appointed officer to the McHenry County Narcotics Task Force accounted for 29 arrests, 100 felony charges, 8 misdemeanors, 48 search warrants and over $1,392,486 in cash seizure assets. This was accomplished by investigating 22 total cases throughout the year by McHenry PD’s appointed officer
• In 2022 2,071 pieces of evidence were collected and entered into the McHenry Police Department’s evidence system.
• 2022 marks the 10th year that the School Safety Committee, of which the McHenry Police Department is a part, has taken a proactive approach to conducting advanced training, installing protocols and taking new steps to increase the safety of our schools and students.
• The Northern Illinois Police Alarm System (NIPAS) represents a joint venture of suburban municipal police departments in the Chicago metropolitan area. The McHenry Police Department has been an active member of the NIPAS Emergency Services Team (EST) since 2003. In 2022, Officer Hendrickson of the McHenry Police Department responded to 24 activations of the NIPAS.
• In 2023, the police department’s training classroom renovation project was completed, and immediately went into use! New TV screens, seating, tables, and counterspace were added to make this classroom an asset to future trainings. This space also acts as the department’s emergency operations center in the event of a large-scale critical incident.
• In 2023, the police department’s women’s locker room was moved to a new location and renovated with all new lockers, showers, and storage. Due to the growing number of women on the McHenry Police force, a bigger space and upgrade was needed!
• During 2023, not only did Officer Conway and K-9 Eli assist McHenry Police Department, but they also assisted McHenry County Sherriff's Office, Algonquin Police Department, Lake In The Hills Police Department, Crystal Lake Police Department, Harvard Police Department, and Lake County Sherriff’s Office.
• Over the course of 2023, Officer Conway and K-9 Eli were deployed a total of 148 times.
• 2023 marked the first full year of the new forensic tech lab housed at the McHenry Police Department. This lab was a partnership with the McHenry County State’s Attorneys in an effort to bring computer extraction capabilities to McHenry County.
• The lab was 100% funded through the use of asset forfeiture funds (i.e. assets seized by law enforcement that was used or obtained in violation of the law) and, accordingly, cost nothing to taxpayers. In 2023, the tech lab successfully examined and extracted evidence from 123 devices.
• The McHenry Police Department rotates officers through the task force, with a rotating position. During 2023, the McHenry County Narcotics Task Force made 70 arrests, which led to 226 Felony charges and 55 Misdemeanor charges and executed 43 search/seizure warrants. The task force seized over $142,500 in property, including 10 vehicles. In total, there was over 47,000 grams of illegal drugs seized.
• In 2023, the public was able to safely dispose of approximately 350lbs of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription and over-thecounter drugs. The program is anonymous and free for all participants.
• In 2023, McHenry Police Officers investigated 4 separate cases resulting in the seizure and award of 4 vehicles.
• Planned and coordinated a large scale multi-agency active shooter drill at East Campus High School.
• Assisted in coordinating one of largest regional musical festivals-R.I.S.E. UP
• Developed and implemented a community-wide anti-bullying campaign also in conjunction with McHenry Elementary District 15.
• In 2018 the City and McHenry Police Department expanded the use of Nixle by upgrading to the Nixle 360 software. Nixle 360 allows the PD to use geography based alerts to specific residents vs. the full broadcast of the original Nixle among several other upgrades. Nixle 360 currently has over 19,000 contacts who can receive important news almost immediately.
• Retired K9 Duke and welcomed K9 Yogi.
• Development and implementation of Golf Cart/UTV Ordinance to permit the use of vehicles on designated McHenry roadways.
• Planned and implemented significant improvements to the City’s overall IT infrastructure with the goal of increasing Cybersecurity and Physical Security.
• Presented a new comprehensive City Disaster Plan that helps ensure the City can provide the resources and actions needed in the event of disaster.
• Revised Adjudication Court to make the process more efficient and effective for the enforcement of municipal codes.
• Planned and oversaw community-wide biannual active shooter drill.
• Coordinated with other local law enforcement agencies for the development of a regional consolidated police training facility.
• School Resource Officers at McHenry Freshman Campus and McHenry Upper Campus
• In 2023, the McHenry Police Department entered an Intergovernmental agreement with District 15 to add a SRO to McHenry Middle School and a SRO to Parkland School full time, working alongside our two high school SROs.
• After four years of work by the McHenry Police Department, McHenry County Sheriff’s Department, Algonquin Police Department, Lake In The Hills Police Department and Cary Police Department the vision of creating a regional training facility for law enforcement was accomplished in 2023.
• The training facility is broken up into two locations. The first location (the old Cary Village Hall), opened in the fall of 2023, is a classroom environment that allows for typical class instruction and scenario-based instruction such as defense tactics.
• The second location in a new indoor fi****ms range facility, also in Cary, openmed in early 2024. Through this new partnership the McHenry Police Department will ensure that they meet the needs and expectations of the community in the level of service the McHenry Police Department provides.
• After launching the program in 2022, Social Services Coordinator Jason Sterwerf and Therapy K9 Oakley continue to be a huge asset to the McHenry police department. From 2022 to 2023, referrals increased by 166%, for a total of 142 referrals for 2023.
• The police department’s “adopt a school” program continues to be a successful program that allows our elementary to have positive and meaningful interactions with our police, at the same time, keeping the school safe.
• In 2023, the McHenry Police Department installed over 120 child seats and showed current parents and parents to be how to keep their families safe.
• In 2023, the McHenry Police Department began rolling out the Shared Vision Home Camera Database program, which is a voluntary program that asks residents and businesses who have outdoor surveillance cameras to register their cameras with the City of McHenry Police Department.
• The McHenry Police Department has made the Special Olympics Illinois its primary fundraising effort. Led by several of our officers, the department raised over $8,900 in 2023!
Public Works Accomplishments
• Completed $30 million South Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion project in order to decommission the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant.
• In January 2018 the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant on Waukegan Road was taken out of service. In August 2018 the treatment plant’s outfall was permanently blocked with concrete.
• Since 2017 the City has resurfaced approximately 40 miles of roadway.
• From 2017 through 2024 the City has spent nearly $1.1M to line more than 22,000 feet of sanitary sewer pipe. This program both seals the pipes against infiltration of groundwater and helps extend the service life of the pipes.
• In 2021 the former Central Wastewater Treatment Plant was demolished to prepare the site for future development.
• In 2024 Water Tower #4, located near the intersection of Bull Valley Rd and Crystal Lake Rd was repainted inside and out.
• In 2024 the Freund Ave Sanitary Lift Station received a complete mechanical overhaul consisting of new pumps, valves and piping in the wet well. The Freund Ave Lift Station is the oldest lift station currently in service in the City’s sanitary sewer collection system.
• Since 2017, the Public Works Dept has helped secure more than 7 million dollars in grant funding for current and future infrastructure projects throughout the city.
• During this time period the city has removed 516 trees, planted 447 trees, and trimmed more than 10,000 city-owned trees.
• The Motor Control Center at water plant #2 is currently being upgraded. This project will be completed in early January 2025.
• In order to preserve and maintain recently paved streets the City contracted Corrective Asphalt Materials (CAM) to apply an asphalt rejuvenating material called reclamite. This product has been used on roads for over fifty years and helps extend the life of the road five to seven years. Reclamite is a pavement rejuvenator which reduces the effects of physical and chemical weathering on recently resurface asphalt pavements.
• Green Street Bridge Rehabilitation: In June 2018 City Council Awarded a construction contract to Copenhaver Construction, Inc. for the rehabilitation of the Green Street Bridge. Improvements included the removal and replacement of bridge deck sidewalks, rehabilitation of concrete fascias, rehanging water main, and other light structural repairs.
• Development of a City-wide Streetscape Program for Main Street, Green Street and Riverside Drive-submitted and grant for the construction of the Riverside Drive Streetscape Project; engineering work nearly complete on this section of the project;
• In 2018, the City expanded the use of Nixle 360 by the Department of Public Works and Administration to provide notifications about road closures, utility work and community events and information.
• Reconstruction of Pearl Street and Lincoln Road from Route 31 to Chapel Hill Road; funded at 80% non-municipal funding sources and $1,500,000 in STP grant funding.
• Curran Road (formerly Draper Road) S-Curve Safety Improvements- The Illinois Department of Transportation through the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) awarded $450,000 for the Curran Road (formerly Draper Road) S-Curve Safety Improvements. The improvements on Curran Road from approximately 400 feet south of Route 120 to Ojibwa Lane include super-elevated pavement, paved shoulder with rumble strips, guardrail, ditch grading for recoverable slopes, pavement markings and additional signage.
• Engaged in an analysis to reduce flooding in Lakeland Park Subdivision
• Completed or reconstructed public parking lots on Riverside Drive and Main Street
• Provided oversight for the Green Street Bridge Rehabilitation Program and Pearl Street/Lincoln Road Resurfacing and Lighting Improvements.
• Secured funding to make improvements to the Curran Road “S” Curves and for the replacement of the Oakwood Drive Bridge.
• Maintenance of the entire city fleet of vehicles.
• $15.2 million spent in road resurfacing/road projects in FY2017/18-FY2024/25.
• Pearl Street ITEP Improvements- In May 2018 the City received $616,300 in Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) funding for lighting and streetscape improvements along Pearl Street between IL Route 31 and the Pearl Street Bridge
• Bull Valley Road Multi-Use Path-Construction of a Multi-Use Path from the existing Prairie Path on Bull Valley Road to Illinois Route 31 and ultimately to Moraine Hills State Park, in conjunction with the McHenry County Division of Transportation. Engineering for this project began in 2018 and construction of the path is anticipated in 2027
• Widening of Illinois Route 31 from Illinois Route 120 to Illinois Route 176; project began in 2011 with Community Advisory Group (CAG) meetings and is anticipated to be constructed in 2026-2027.
• Continue aggressive utility maintenance efforts throughout the city.
Finance Accomplishments
• Continued conservative fiscal management, having received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Award for four (4) consecutive years.
• Redesign/redevelopment of the city’s annual budget document to make it more transparent.
• Development of Fund Balance and Reserve Policy and Purchasing Policy to provide clear parameters in these areas.
• Evaluation and recommendation to City Council the elimination of the Vehicle Sticker Program.
• Implementation of an online utility billing system, allowing residents to view and pay bills remotely.
• Coordinated for the development of a new Community Investment Plan document, replacing the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan.
• Sales taxes (1% from state):
• FY17/18 $6,909,103
• FY18/19 $7,007,757
• FY19/20 $6,811,807
• FY20/21 $7,515,913
• FY21/22 $8,187,845
• FY22/23 $8,432,717
• FY23/24 $8,394,477
• Increase in sales tax of 21.5% from FY17/18 to FY23/24
• Property tax levy had been flat or decreased from tax years 2010-2020, 2010-2015 the total levy was $4,761,635, 2016-2020 the total levy was $4,618,786, 2021-2023 the total levy was $4,737,941. The total levy for 2024 was set at $4,776,932 which is only $15,297 more than it was in 2010.
• ComEd Utility Taxes added to fund repair and maintenance costs of general fund city assets. Approximately $1 to $1.1 million in revenue to cover these expenses.
• Nicor Utility Taxes added to fund new capital projects, funding to be determined as revenue is new as of 7/1/23. Approximately $400,000 in revenue.
• $3.7 million in ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) Funds are assigned for Route 31 widening expenses.
• General Fund Operation Expenses:
• FY17/18 $22,551,283
• FY18/19 $23,502,340
• FY19/20 $22,867,136
• FY20/21 $23,474,922
• FY21/22 $25,957,717
• FY22/23 $26,434,522
• FY23/24 $27,799,276
• Increase in Operating Expenses of 23.3% from FY17/18 to FY23/24.
Parks and Recreation Accomplishments
• Opening of the 18,200 sf McHenry Recreation Center;
• Between 2017 and 2024 The Parks and Recreation Department invested $7,259,040 in its entire City of McHenry park system.
• McHenry Safety Town was built in the spring of 2017 with sponsorship, donations and volunteer building support from McHenry CVS, Sherwin-Williams, Jessup Manufacturing, The Home Depot, Behr, Illinois Traffic Control & Protection, Big R, Jimmy Johns, Riverside Bakery and Dunkin' Donuts. Eight buildings were constructed and placed on the repurposed concrete pad located at the Skate Park in Knox Park. The concrete pad was painted to look like a “mini town” with streets, sidewalks and city blocks. A week-long camp and several clinics were held for children ages 4-6. Curriculum was built and included instruction, fun activities and hands-on learning on the safety topics of fire, bicycle, stranger-danger, pedestrian and more.
In 2019:
• New scoreboard installed on field 2
• New park identification signage
• Knox lower barn rebuilt, repainted and new doors installed
• Safety town built
Petersen Park Farmhouse
• Main barn painted along with batten boards installed. New gable louvers installed and painted.
• New modern bathroom built in main house
• Roof replaced on main house
• In 2020 Miller Point on the McHenry Riverwalk was officially named the City’s newest park. This designation came after the property saw significant investment of both public and private funds.
• Over $600,000 of donated funding was invested to complete the improvements; including large brick paver pavilion, gazebo, pathways and river edge treatments.
• The construction also included landscaping, lighting and sound installations.
• (😎 Custom fire globes were installed in Boone Creek along the shoreline of Miller Point. All of the fire globes were sponsored to cover their costs.
• The fire globes were the initiative behind a new fall event called light the night. Over 2,000 people attended the inaugural event.
• The City spent $300,000 on a new washroom and concession building at Fox Ridge Park. The facility will help to serve our second busiest park.
• In 2021 Miller Point was once again the focus of some improvements along with a key private/public partnership. The Parks and Recreation Department utilized Developer Donation Funds to install floating boat docks, a sandy beach area and to run power and water to an upscale shipping container that serves as the rental office and concession stand for a boat rental business.
• The department was able to add two pickleball courts to the Knox Park tennis courts. In addition to transitioning one of the tennis courts to the new playing surface, all of the outdated and broken light fixtures were replaced with new LED light heads.
• Another instance of light head replacement occurred along the length of the Riverwalk. Through routine maintenance inspections it was determined that there were a number of the heads that had cracks in them. The Parks Maintenance Superintendent reached out to the manufacturers of the lights.
• After a number of site visits and conversations, the company agreed to replace all 43 light heads at no charge saving the city over $80,000. This is a direct result of the relationships that Mr. Gorniak has fostered with the vendors he utilizes.
• The very popular fire globe program was expanded once again this year through additional donors, adding three more fire globes. There are now 11 total globes that are lit with fire in September and October. The remainder of the year color changing LED’s are placed in the globes.
• Nearly $200,000 was invested into another washroom remodel and expansion this past year at Veteran’s Memorial Park. The women’s facilities went from 1 to 4 and the men’s from 2 – 4. This also included re-roofing the entire structure.
• The city was able to demolish the former Court Street Water division building. A number of donors stepped in to convert the site to additional downtown parking. The parks maintenance division purchased and supervised the installation of the lighting on the project.
• Another demolition occurred at Neumann Park last year. Old carriage houses and workshops were removed to aid in creating a visual link between the parking lots and the street. This park also is being explored by abutting business owners for the potential for use as outdoor patio space.
• Street lighting on Green Street and Main Street was upgraded to LED light fixtures.
• Finally in the downtown areas, new street signage has begun to be installed. This will be a phased approach as the conversion happens.
• A project that had been in the works for a number of years was completed at Petersen Park last year. In an ongoing effort to make the park as accessible as possible a path was paved from the concession/washroom building around and in between softball fields 3 and 4.
• In 2022 Veteran’s Memorial Park was the main focus for improvements last year. After expanding the bathrooms in previous years, the picnic pavilion was replaced with a structure that is more open and much larger than the existing one was. While undertaking this project stone was added to the columns and to the base of the gazebo. The gazebo was also had the roof replaced. Finally, through a cooperative project with the Public Works Department, all the roads around the park and the parking stalls were redone. The exterior sidewalk replacement was also included in the scope of work.
• The front entryway of Veteran’s Park is the last element of the park that needs to be replaced/upgraded. The design work was complete this Spring and the city will look to bid the work in late Spring or early Summer.
• Petersen Park also saw a number of improvements in the last year. The LED message board sign at the park entrance was replaced. Lights were installed in the main parking lot in preparation for the repaving of the lot in the coming year. A new shade structure is to be installed along the beachfront this Spring.
• The major improvement at Petersen Park was the complete removal and renovation of the basketball and tennis courts adjacent to the picnic shelters. The courts have been a maintenance issue for years as pavement would shift and crack. During the renovation the courts were also expanded to add two pickleball courts. New fencing was placed around all the courts and lights were added.
• Though it is not an alteration to the park, the Parks and Recreation Department hosted the largest concert that has been held to date at Petersen Park. The R.I.S.E Up Foundation hosted a concert as a benefit to install a splash playground at Fort McHenry. Almost 8,000 people attended the Saturday night concert. Weather was not as cooperative on the preceding Friday night however another 2,000 people attended. Overall, nearly $200,000 was raised by the Foundation for the initiative, which looks to be installed in early Summer.
• Plans are already in place for the 2022 concert. The funds for the concert this year will be dedicated towards a “tiny shops” economic development incubator that will be located in Miller Point Park. In order to accommodate the shops which will be dubbed “The McHenry Riverwalk Shoppes”, a master plan of the park was undertaken and approved. The project will be a complete redesign of the park and create a public gathering space and event hub downtown McHenry on the Fox River. The park will have a new amphitheater, permanent washrooms added, a turf area that could be utilized as an ice rink in the winter. The park will add green space and redesign the park entrance.
• Plans for a future bike park in Knox Park were also completed this Spring. The park would have 3 different types of bike park elements to accommodate many different age groups.
• Knox Park is also the home to a new Natural Park. Formerly, unusable woods were groomed and a 1/3 mile crushed limestone trail that traverses the wooded area was introduced along will all-natural elements for children to climb on and walk along. Staff also worked with the Land Conservancy to plant 10 oak trees and re-introduce them to the area. The park will pair well with our summer day camp and in general offers children big and small the opportunity to play and interact in a natural setting.
• A second project completed with the assistance of outside groups, was a pollinator garden at Petersen Park along the banks of the pond. The volunteer project is designed to attract butterflies and bees with many colorful plants. The garden was designed by Small Waters Education and installed with the assistance of the Land Conservancy of McHenry County, The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County and Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, McHenry County Conservation District and Hispanic Connections Woodstock.
• The Parks and Recreation Department replaced two of our oldest playgrounds last year. These were at Pebble Creek Park and at Knox Park. Playground replacement will continue in the coming years.
• The department took the formal steps to add another improved park to our roster as well. Galway Park playground design was finalized and ordered. Installation will be completed by the end of April 2022. The department is also partnering with Lennar Homes on the donation of sidewalks and landscaping for the park.
• Renovation and restoration of the Petersen Farm Horse Barn is underway. The Barn was hit by a storm last fall and changed the scope of the project, however the end goal remains in line with the results of the Petersen Farm Market Study that was completed in 2020.
• The Parks Department also spearheaded many of our downtown initiatives and projects. in the last year these included:
• New public boats piers at Weber Park and along the Riverwalk
• Complete repainting of the Cunat Bridge on the Riverwalk
• Brick Paver replacement along the Riverwalk
• Light replacement on Riverside Drive
• In the Summer of 2022, the installation of the spray pad adjacent to Fort McHenry was completed. Along with the $200,000 donation from RISE Up the City of McHenry invested nearly $150,000 in various site improvements, including, bringing a water line to the site, drainage improvements to the site and fencing around the spray pad. The city also worked with McHenry Excavating, Pett Paving and Holcim/Curran to double the size of the parking lot at the park. Most of which was donated.
• In 2023 The defining project for the department in the past year was the complete renovation of Miller Point Park. The $2.6 Million investment created a gathering point on the shores of the Fox River and Boone Creek. The park is set up to host both large and smaller events. It serves as the home for a privately owned boat and kayak rental business that the city leases along with a small bar for refreshments. It is a destination location for the City of McHenry that also has become a hub for the Riverwalk.
• Nearly $600,000 were received for the park improvements just through donations.
$250,000 from the Gary Lang Family for the large amphitheater.
$200,000 from the R.I.S.E. Foundation towards site improvements
$75,000 from the Cunat Family for a lighted splashpad
$30,000 from the A.D. Johnson Family Foundation for seawalls
$7,500 from Mel and Cynthia Locke-Jones for sod in the park
• Piers at Miller Point were also renovated as the existing had become unstable and did not accommodate larger boats very well.
• $300,000 was invested into a permanent restroom/maintenance hub facility in the park.
• City IT divisions installed numerous security cameras throughout the park.
• A driving factor in the renovation of the park was the implementation of a Tiny Shoppe project that was the result of a partnership between the City of McHenry, the Parks and Recreation Department, the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce, and the District 156 School District.
• Ten incubator shoppes were to be constructed in order to bring businesses to town and provide an easy start-up venture, with a goal to transition those shoppes to permanent brick-and-mortar businesses.
• A committee looked at many different locations and identified Miller Point Park as the optimal spot for the initiative and design work began. With an accepted park design by the City Council, students at McHenry High School engineering and trades began construction of the walls for the shoppes. The “pre-fab” walls were transported by the Parks Department and stored in a barn.
• The City bid on the project which included $1.0 Million in improvements for the tiny shoppes, renamed as the Riverwalk Shoppes, and construction commenced in March of 2023.
• The Chamber of Commerce spearheaded construction. The community lined up with manpower and in-kind donations to the project in order to complete the shoppes. In all, over $800,000 of in-kind donations and man hours.
• Parks Maintenance staff played a huge role in the facilitation of the construction of the shoppes, on-site daily assisting in construction.
• The Riverwalk Shoppes opened in August of 2023 and have been extremely successful in their short time. Applications for season 2 have been submitted and decided upon for the May 3, 2024 season open.
• Another large-scale project that was completed in 2023 was the reroof of the Hickory Creek Horse Barn. The transition from a cedar shake roof to a metal roof will provide a safer, more weather-secure facility for the boarding of horses and the hose operation, including the storage of hay. The $350,000 investment into the property will ensure many years added to the structure and further the goal of introducing more of a public component to the use of the facility.
• A brand-new equipment shed on a poured concrete slab was constructed at the Merkel Aquatic Center. This will provide a bigger and more secure area for the storage of the pool-related items both in and out of season. The old shed was able to be moved and refurbished to be utilized for park program storage at Knox Park.
• One-quarter acre of scrub trees and brush were cleared in Whispering Oaks Park. This provided better visibility for Fort McHenry Playground as well as for the new business, Wingstop, adjacent to the park.
• Eight raised planter beds were built by the Parks Maintenance team. The beds were placed at Petersen Farm and will serve as a community garden initiative for the City of McHenry.
• The Parks Department also spearheaded many of our downtown initiatives and projects. The most prominent of which last year was the expansion of the decorative street signs, utilizing the Site Link Poles and black surrounds of the street signage.
• Another downtown project led by the Parks Department was the paving of the parking lots in the main area of the Green Street lot on the former bank site and on the upper lot, the former site of the Justen Funeral home. The lots were laid out and designed by the Public Works Department. The two departments together cooperated with the prepping of the lots for pavement that was partially donated.
In 2024
• The City partnered with the McHenry County Sherriff to construct a building to house the county Marine unit at Miller Riverfront Park. The intergovernmental cooperative provides a home for the Marine unit with an administrative building and boat slips. The agreement also provides a permanent public restroom on site.
• Also at Miller Riverfront Park, the City of McHenry was awarded a $150,000 grant to pave the parking lot and gravel drive-in. This improvement was the single most requested item at this park since the launch was opened. As a part of the paving project, parking lot lights were relocated as was a gazebo on the property. The gazebo is now immediately adjacent to the launch itself. Security cameras were also added to the park.
• The city replaced basketball courts in parks at McHenry Shores Beach and the Kiwanis Tot Lot. Court sizes were increased and concrete was utilized for a longer lasting better surface.
• The IDNR approached the City about a restoration project at the Wheeler Fen. The goal is to remove the invasive species and trees that wouldn’t exist in a Fen and replant native species. The Parks Department has been doing tree removals throughout the year. The IDNR has sprayed a large part of the property for Teasel and dedicated approximately $10,000 in contracted tree removal. A prescribed burn will also be in the plan at a later date.
• The city began the expansion of the concrete area adjacent to the skate park to accommodate the addition of 6 more pickleball courts. The courts are anticipated to be completed by May of 2025.
• A contractor went through the entire skatepark and repaired the concrete then resealed the project. This is the first time it has been done since the park opened.
• Repairs and re-roofing occurred at shelters at Overton Park, Creekside, and Jaycee Park.
• A park space lease at Neumann Park allowed an abutting business to install decking and a brick patio. The patio connects to the Green Street sidewalk and is for public use as well.
• Donor recognition signs were installed at Miller Point Park along with an electronic advertising and downtown wayfinding kiosk purchased by the Chamber of Commerce.
• New decorative lighting was installed around the gazebo at Veteran’s Memorial Park. Brickwork was also installed around the base of the gazebo.
• (😎 decorative raised planting bed were installed at the Petersen Farm. The beds were rented as community gardens and sold out in their first year. The detached garage at the farm was re-roofed and resided this past year.
• A great deal of maintenance occurred at Petersen Park in the last year.
• Basketball backboards were replaced.
• Benches along the lakes were repaired and reset
• Sand volleyball courts were renovated.
• A large amount of split rail fencing was repaired.
• The lakefront area was cleared and cleaned.
• New swings and play elements were installed at East Beach Park. The lakefront was also cleared and cleaned.
• New docks were installed at the Lakeland Boat Launch and at West Beach Park.
• The Lakeland Park Community Center also had repairs to the windows and exterior of the building. The building was also power washed and re-painted.
• The city staff brought in a consultant to review the ponds at Whispering Oaks Park and develop a management plan for the future.
• Cold Spring Park has begun a natural restoration through a volunteer effort led by The Land Conservancy. A small amount of progress has been made in the area surrounding the parking lot off of DePaul Court. Seven small Oak tree whips have been planted in the newly cleared area.
• New split rail fencing was added to Fox Ridge Park West to increase the safety for children along the entry drive.
• Second to only Chain O’ Lakes State Park Downtown McHenry Green Street was the number two visited location within a 50-mile radius of McHenry County in 2023;
• The City has received $3,289,500 in donations and grants from 20 individuals, companies, and organizations for 23 projects over the past several years for park improvements, parking lot enhancements, and construction, Riverwalk-related and improvements to Boone Creek.
• Miller Riverfront Boat Launch completed in 2017 and opened in 2018;
• Paved the Miller Riverfront Park where the boat launch is located;
• Assisted in the construction of a McHenry County Sheriff’s Marine Unit building annex at Miller Riverfront Park;
• Completed Phase IV of the McHenry Riverwalk;
• Worked with McHenry Riverwalk Foundation to expand the Riverwalk amenities including construction around Miller Point and Fire Globe installations as part of a new “Light the Night” event.
• Development and coordination of the new ShamRocks the Fox Fest as a city event, as well as working with several organizations for other festivals that take place in city parks – Fiesta Days, Bands/Brews/BBQs, Oktoberfest, Downtown Wine Walk, Sidewalk Sales, and many others.
• Remodeled Lakeland Park Community Center to be able to expand usage and program offerings.
• Completed updating of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
• Renovation of the Ryan Buss Skate Park;
• Coordinated roof replacements at five park shelters, replaced Petersen Park playground equipment, and supervised construction of Fox Ridge Park Concessions/Washroom/Maintenance building.
• Completed redesign and construction of Veterans Memorial Park Washroom structure.
• Extension of the TIF District until 2037
• Coordinated analysis of Petersen Farm Horse Barn and developed an RFQ to select a contractor for improvements.
• Coordinated with Fox Waterway Agency, other city departments, and contractors for the removal of approximately 11,000 cubic yards of sediment from Boone Creek, making this more accessible to boat traffic and as an amenity for the downtown.
• Coordinated 5th Annual Shamrocks the Fox Fest.
Community Development Accomplishments
• Continue coordinating the development of single-family homes in the community to broaden the tax base.
• Continue to coordinate with Economic Development to attract and retain businesses.
• Hired a new plan reviewer, the plan reviewer brings a high level of experience in computer technology and customer service.
• Provided the City Council with an expanded overview of the code compliance process.
• Thoroughly reviewed the adjudication process at the committee level, and recommended changes to the ordinance that were brought to council by the police department.
• Updated building codes to the 2015 Code cycle
• An emphasis was placed on the backflow program to follow state guidelines for tracking and testing backflow devices.
• Installed a new large document scanner to allow for the digitalization of plans and permits.
• Successfully reviewed and issued plans for larger projects like the White Oaks Memory Care and Fabrik Molded Plastics
• Completed the review and implementation of a new teardown ordinance.
• Identified areas within the Municipal Code that are in need of updating this included the garbage receptacle ordinance and burning regulations
• Increased efforts with the Economic Development Director to retain and attract new business to McHenry.
• Coordinated Business Site Visits, particularly new businesses, and built relationships with all businesses.
• Continue efforts to maximize the use of the BSA software and explored the cost of the citizen portal that allows citizens and contractors to submit electronically.
• Worked with the Illinois Department of Health on establishing guidelines for new water service and fire service installations.
• Continue to coordinate with the Administration to cross-train point-of-service employees with a goal of establishing a seamless, single point of customer contact.
• Major building permits finalized include White Oaks Memory Care, Dunkin Donuts, McHenry Downtown Theater, and D.C. Cobbs.
• Community Development successfully moved downstairs and joined finance and water billing, this allows citizens to utilize one counter for all city needs. In the past residents would be directed to multiple floors within city hall to accomplish different tasks.
• Coordinated efforts for a temporary fee reduction for single-family homes, this reduction proved to have an immediate impact with two major single family home builders closing on roughly 200 already developed but vacant lots.
• A comprehensive review of minor building permit fees for both residential and commercial permits was completed. This was discussed at a committee level with a motion to bring to council.
• Coordinated Business Site Visits, particularly new businesses, and enhanced relationships with all businesses.
• Continued efforts to maximize the use of the BSA software and explored the cost of the citizen portal that allows citizens and contractors to submit electronically.
• Major improvements were made to the city’s code enforcement grass mowing program, through these efficiencies staff was able to save over $20,000 in the contractual services budget.
• Many notable construction projects were started in this fiscal year to include:
-Full Circle Communities
-JA Frate Expansion
-Jexals Wing-Zeria
-Hub Market
-Hospital Cancer Care Facility and ICU Remodel
- Expansion of ALDI Grocery Store
-Major Improvements to McHenry Township Fire Protection District Station One
• Continued efforts to digitize historical building documents through the use of Laserfishe
• A focused effort on vacant buildings within the City of McHenry resulted in the teardown of five dilapidated structures.
• Filled `the City Planner position.
• A focus on code enforcement and educating the residents has resulted in a higher compliance rate
• Many notable construction projects were started in this fiscal year to include:
-Ignite Senior Care Facility
-Trio Gas Station
-Hidden Pearl Cafe
-Continued Improvements at Northwestern Community Hospital
-Popeye’s Chicken
-Dons Subs
-Jersey Mikes
-Watertower Marina
• Successful RFQ for the comprehensive plan
• The issuance of over 25 single and multi-family homes
• Consolidation of our GIS maps into one functional package that can be used by all individuals in the City with restrictions for editing and viewing rights on certain layers (i.e. water sewer)
• Continued efforts to digitize historical building documents using Laserfishe
• Redevelopment of the Watertower Marina
• Completion of the Fox River Corridor plan
• Implementation of the downtown streetscape plan for the Riverside Drive Corridor
• Successful annexation of unincorporated pockets of land throughout the city
• Successful building of the Authentix McHenry development of 288 market-rate apartments
• Completion of the new Thorntons fueling station on Chapel Hill Road and Route 120
• Updates to the Municipal Code and Zoning Ordinance
• Acquisition of properties within the downtown to help facilitate development within the downtown and TIF district
• Led effort to reduce impact fees resulting in the issuance of 100 new residential building permits.
• Coordinated impact fee study resulting in the implementation of revised fees based on updated property value.
• Managed permitting for demolition of a number of vacant/underutilized structures including the former lumber yard at Route 120 and Crystal Lake Road, McHenry Savings Bank on Green Street, the former Justen Funeral Home, and the vacant home at Scully and Route 120.
• Hired a new City Planner.
• Continue to focus on promoting the demolition of vacant structures throughout the community to make way for redevelopment.
• Coordinate with Public Works and Economic Development for the development and implementation of a new, more streamlined development review process.
• Coordinated the updating of the McHenry Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Plan
• Completion of Apartment Study
• Oversaw construction of Fox Meadows Apartments in 2024
• Oversaw planning and construction of Taylor Place Apartments from 2022-2024
1306 N Green Street
McHenry, IL
60050
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