Words Of Wisdom

"May the father of all mercies scatter light, and not darkness, upon our paths."

 --George Washington, 1790

Spring Is On The Way

Getaway for a weekend where you can get outdoors, meet new people, and immerse yourself in nature… it’s your very own ECO Destination, April 26-28, Weekend of Restoration at Glacial Park, Ringwood.

Spend time at one of the premier natural areas of the Chicago Region and part of the newly formed Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. In addition to learning about the woodland, wetlands and animals that inhabit them, participants will plant oak seedlings and native shrubs near “Turtle Marsh,” and share ideas and inspiration throughout the weekend. 

McHenry County Conservation District invites anyone age 16 or older to take part in this unique and experience where you will not only learn a lot, but also have the opportunity to make a difference. As a special bonus, attendees have the option of camping for free at Glacial Park only offered for this event.

The cost is $65 for adults, $45 for Seniors (60+) and $30 for students.  Register with a friend and receive $20 off the second registration.  Fee includes all meals. Registration Deadline is April 19

For more information contact Tom Simpson at (815) 678-4532 x8218 or tsimpson@mccdistrict.org.

Words Of Wisdom

"The Bible is the best of all books, for it is the word of God and teaches us the way to be happy in this world and in the next. Continue therefore to read it and to regulate your life by its precepts."

 --John Jay, letter to Peter Augustus Jay, 1784

Government At Work

THURSDAY, MARCH 21—

8:30 a.m. – McHenry County Board Planning & Development Committee –

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee will be interviewing four people to serve on the McHenry County Housing Commission. Two will be appointed as Ex-Officio members and Two as Voting members.

Also to be considered by the Committee is an amendment to the County Subdivision Ordinance regarding School Developer Donation Requirements of cash in lieu of Dedication of School Site.

The Committee is to consider approving a “fair market value” for a section of the County Subdivision Ordinance.

1:30 p.m. – McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals –

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

A public hearing is slated for the Nazario property in Dorr Township regarding reclassification from A-1 to Agriculture District to the E-5 Estate District.

7:00 p.m. – Special Meeting of Community High School District 155—

Meeting in the District Center For Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake. The Board is to discuss student discipline.

 7:00 p.m. -- Crystal Lake Park District Board --

Meeting in newly renovated West Beach facility, 2330 Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.

A number of requests for use of district facilities will be considered, along with a number of policy changes regarding matters for employee benefits. 

The Board is also to consider Resident Rates for Current Extended Time Participants for Summer Camp

Vehicle Purchase Approval is requested. Also approval for paving project bids and the Lake Manager Work Program.

Weekend Getaway With Nature

Getaway for a weekend where you can get outdoors, meet new people, and immerse yourself in nature… it’s your very own ECO Destination, April 26-28, Weekend of Restoration at Glacial Park, Ringwood.

Spend time at one of the premier natural areas of the Chicago Region and part of the newly formed Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. In addition to learning about the woodland, wetlands and animals that inhabit them, participants will plant oak seedlings and native shrubs near “Turtle Marsh,” and share ideas and inspiration throughout the weekend. 

McHenry County Conservation District invites anyone age 16 or older to take part in this unique and experience where you will not only learn a lot, but also have the opportunity to make a difference. As a special bonus, attendees have the option of camping for free at Glacial Park only offered for this event.

The cost is $65 for adults, $45 for Seniors (60+) and $30 for students.  Register with a friend and receive $20 off the second registration.  Fee includes all meals. Registration Deadline is April 19

For more information contact Tom Simpson at (815) 678-4532 x8218 or tsimpson@mccdistrict.org.

Words Of Wisdom

"[W]hereas, to preserve liberty, it is essential that the whole body of the people always possess arms, and be taught alike, especially when young, how to use them; nor does it follow from this, that all promiscuously must go into actual service on every occasion. The mind that aims at a select militia, must be influenced by a truly anti-republican principle; and when we see many men disposed to practice upon it, whenever they can prevail, no wonder true republicans are for carefully guarding against it."

 --Federal Farmer, Antifederalist Letter, No. 18, 1787

Government At Work

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20—

8:15 a.m. – McHenry County Board Transportation Committee

Meeting in the Main Conference Room, Division of Transportation, 16100 Nelson Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to consider seven resolutions for approval including:

• Awarding a County Highway Pavement Preservation Maintenance Resurfacing
• Contract and Appropriating Funds
• Awarding a County Highway Pavement Preservation Maintenance Crack Seal
• Contract and Appropriating Funds
• Awarding Road District Construction Contracts
• Accepting Road District Material Bids
• Awarding a Private Road Hot Mix Asphalt Surfacing Contract and Appropriating Funds
• Adjusting Funding Allocations of the 2013 Transit Grant Program
• Vacating a Portion of Johnsburg Road Pursuant to Section 5-109 of the Illinois Highway Code
• An IDOT representative is to provide a presentation and discussion regarding non-dedicated subdivision Roads.
• New business matters include:
• Request for Qualifications for 2013 Traffic Counts
• 2013 Construction Materials Testing Consultant Selection

1:00 p.m. – McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals—

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

In addition to the approval of minutes for prior meetings, The Board will review a draft of the Unified Development Ordinance.

1:00 p.m. –McHenry County Board Planning and Development  Committee—

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to review a draft of the Unified Development Ordinance
.

7:00 p.m. McHenry County Conservation and Easement—

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to consider the taskforce update, transfer of development rights, any applicable legislative updates, consider project planning 2013 and consider CPA and attorney information material.

Under new business the committee is to consider MCC-sustainable agriculture advisory group.

Government At Work

Tuesday March 19 –

7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake City Council  --

Meeting in the City Council Chambers, 100 West Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake

Immediately following the opening of the meeting, several individuals will be administered oaths of office. Included are Fire Lieutenant Donald Cook and Firefighter Paramedics Mathew Klug and Mathew Newton.

Recognition of the Crystal Lake Central High School Pom Squad will be presented by the Mayor, including a presentation of their winning routine which won first place in the Illinois High School Association State competition.

Hotel/Motel Tax Expenditure

Approval for a request of up to $18,000 from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund is to be considered by the Council. This is to be utilized for July 2013 Prairie State Cycling event in Downtown Crystal Lake. The event is proposed for July 14. A temporary use permit request by the organization is also being considered for approval by the Council.

Home of the Sparrow Benefit

A request is being made to approve a request by Home of the Sparrow to hold a special event at the Three Oaks Recreation Areas on Saturday, October 5.

Amend Liquor License – Allow Liquor Consumption and Sale In Tent

The Cottage, located at 6 East Crystal Lake Avenue, desires to sell and serve alcoholic beverages from a tent located adjacent to their property. The Cottage currently holds a liquor license which would allow this if approved by the Council.

Former Royal Oaks Antique Museum

This vacant property is located in the Crystal Lake Watershed which resulted in the City and the property owner in 2000 to enter into a pre-annexation agreement in order to provide for protection of the Watershed.

An extension to the pre-annexation agreement was granted in 2010. Recently a permit for an electronic billboard has been requested. This precipitated a reminder to the property owner regarding the requirement for annexation.

The Planning and Zoning Commission heard the petitioners request and recommended unanimously the annexation of the property.

Northside Community Bank, 5111 E. Terra Cotta Avenue

This is the location of Crystal Lake Rib House and two vacant parcels, one containing a billboard. A request is made for rezoning from B-1 County to B-2 General Commercial upon annexation,

The above annexation will also require Council Action to increase the number of appropriate liquor licenses.

Title Max-6319 Northwest Highway-

Request for a sign Variation to allow a freestanding sign that is 48 SF in area and 8 feet in height for Title Max at 6319 Northwest Highway. Planning Commission recommends approval with certain conditions.

McHenry County College—

Request for deferral of watershed requirements for renovated parking lot and sign variation fir temporary signage.

The College is in the process of upgrading existing parking lots located on the south side of the College. These were constructed in 1974.

Prior plans for the College provides for tiers of filtrations for the impervious surface. The areas that are intended to be used for these tiers of filtrations are shown on the College’s Master Plan, but are not available as they are being used by sports fields and parking lots.

The College is requesting deferral of installing the tiered best management practices required in the Crystal Lake Watershed until such time as this phase of the Master plan is implemented.

Consultant Selection Approval for the completion of a Water System Master Plan Study

The City is in need of updating its master plan for the potable water system. The last comprehensive report was created in 1997 and does not account for the current maintenance needs of the City's five treatment facilities, new EPA regulations, or the water distribution system model. The primary purpose

of the updated master plan will be to correct current infrastructure issues, prioritize capital expenditures, increase efficiencies, and help the City keep in compliance with new and upcoming EPA regulations. The new master plan will serve as the primary water infrastructure guide for the long-term future.

The Council being requested to approve a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with Baxter and Woodman in the amount of $101,950 and approve changes in scope by up to 10 percent of the original price.

Government At Work

TUESDAY, MARCH 19—

8:30 a.m. – McHenry County Housing Commission –

Meeting in the P and D Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Commission is to consider the status of conflict of interest statements as well as the status of judging the fair housing poster contest.

Two items under New Business is to be considered, including: Public Hearings and Home Summary for 2011-2012.

9:00 a.m. – McHenry County Tuberculosis Care and Treatment Board—

Meeting scheduled has been cancelled.

10:00 a.m. – McHenry County Housing Commission Exec –

Meeting in the P and D Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

Old Business to be considered includes, Committee Goals and Municipality Meetings Update.

6:45 p.m. – McHenry County Board Finance and Audit Committee –

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to consider a resolution authorizing a loan from the Working Cash Reserves and the General fund to the IMRF Fund.

7:00 p.m. – McHenry County Board –

Meeting in the County Board Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

A proclamation is being presented recognizing Donald Smith for 32 years of Public Service to the McHenry County Division of Transportation.

An Eagle Scout recognition is also scheduled.

Five zoning matters are on a consent agenda for approval including:

Conley Trust, Marengo Township – A1 to A1V

Koppen, Coral Township – A1 to A2V

Embrey, Nunda Township – R1 to R1V

Harvard State Bank/Ziller – Dunham Township – A1/A2 to A2CV

Brodie – Algonquin Township – R2 to R2V

The Board is being requested to approve acceptance of a $2,000 Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Education Grant from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

Another resolution for approval is to authorize salary increases for the board of Review for fiscal Year 2012-2013.

Under Transportation matters, the Board is being requested to approve a resolution requesting authority from the General Assembly to exercise Quick Take Powers of Eminent Domain for the Completion of a Highway Project on Johnsburg Road.

       

Another resolution for approval is to approve bids and appropriate funds for the Fleming Road Rehabilitation.

New Hobbies For Exploration At Crystal Lake Park District

It is never too late to take up a new hobby.  The Crystal Lake Park District is now offering three program opportunities that will broaden your horizons and fill up your free time.  Register online at www.crystallakeparks.org.  For further information contact Jenni Silka at (815) 459-0680, ext. 219.

Introduction to Digital SLR Camera (Register for code #5423-0)

Tired of always shooting in the “automatic” mode? Learn to take creative control of the Digital SLR camera in this 4 week class. Topics include: shutter speed, aperture, composition, flash and more. Bring your camera to class.Wednesday, April 3-24, 7-9 pm
Crystal Lake Park District Administrative Building, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.Program Fee: $110, Resident Discount Fee: $95

Creative Crochet (Register for code #5447-0)

If you have ever wanted to make a crocheted afghan, scarf or sweater, this class will get you started.  You will learn the basic stitches, how to read a pattern and just get started on a simple project.  Whether you are just learning or just need to brush up on your stitches, you're never too old for this class.  All materials are provided.

Wednesday, April 17-May 22, 7-8:30 pm

Crystal Lake Park District Administrative Building, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake

Program Fee: $58, Resident Discount Fee: $43

Creative Writing-Memoirs and Personal History (Register for code #5597-0)

This class introduces writers and budding writers to the concepts of creating publishable memoir and personal history. Structure, realistic dialog and a smooth, readable flow of ideas through short writing exercises and critiques will be used throughout the class. Participants will also learn about self-publishing and e-publishing.

Saturday, April 6-27, 10 am-Noon

Crystal Lake Park District Administrative Building, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake

Program Fee: $85, Resident Discount Fee: $70

Words Of Wisdom

"The right of the citizens to keep and bear arms has justly been considered as the palladium of the liberties of a republic."

 --Joseph Story

Government At Work

MONDAY MARCH 18 –

8:30 a.m. – McHenry County Board Natural & Environmental Resources

Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to consider Stormwater Management Ordinance RFP Specifications and Water Resource Action Plan Municipal and Township Survey

as well as consider any reports presented.

7:00 p.m. – Crystal Lake District 47 Board of Education –

Meeting in the Husmann Elementary School 131 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.

In addition to consider necessary financial matters, including payment of bills, the Board is being requested to approve:

• Student fees for 2013-2014
• 2013 Mechanical Projects Bid
• 2013 Mechanical Equipment Bid
• 2013 General Trades Bid
• 2013 Asbestos Abatement Bid
• 2013 Civil Bid
• 2013/14 Health/Life Safety Amendments

 Also to be discussed are Student Disciplinary Rules

Approval of 2013/14 Health/Life Safety Amendments

Discuss Student Disciplinary Rules

Approval the Adjusted Learning Curriculum

Also to be considered is the First Reading of Operational Services

Approval of resolution to participate in the Regional Safe Schools Program.

Words Of Wisdom

"Laws that forbid the carrying of arms ... disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes... Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man."

--Cesare Beccaria, On Crimes and Punishment, quoted by Thomas Jefferson in Commonplace Book