Flood Warning For Fox River at Algonquin - Cancelled

The flood warning for the Fox River at Algonquin Tailwater is cancelled. At 8:30 tonight the stage was 7.3 feet with flood stage being 9.5 feet. This affects Kane and McHenry Counties.

Forecast—the river will crest below flood state at 8.9 feet Monday afternoon.

The Situation On The Fox

Flood warning –The Fox River at Algonquin Tailwater

Until Sunday afternoon

At 8:30 a.m. today, the stage was 7.8 feet. Flood stage is 9 feet.

Forecast: Expected to rise above flood stage by late Saturday morning and continue to rise to near 10.4 feet by Saturday evening.

The river will fall below flood stage by Sunday morning.

Fund Raising For Animals In Need of Homes

First off, our annual garage sale is winding down with the last day being Saturday, 10AM to 5PM. 

Pick up some great bargains AND help local homeless animals, what could be better.?

The location is in Crystal Lake (1255 Rosewood Lane). You can check out the map and get directions here.

 

On Wednesday, July 27, is our fundraising event at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, 8515 Redtail Drive, at  Ackman Road, Lakewood. Dine in or carryout, proceeds help Animal Outreach.

Manzullo Balanced Budget Amendment Passed House

WASHINGTON-- Congressman Don Manzullo (R-Egan) voted for legislation that would immediately cut federal spending, cap government growth, and require Congress to pass a strict Balanced Budget Amendment as a prerequisite for raising the debt limit. The bill passed the House 234-190.

The Cut, Cap and Balance Act (H.R. 2560) would:

• Cut federal spending immediately, and put Congress on a path toward paying down the $14 trillion national debt;
• Cap federal spending at less than 20 percent of GDP by 2021, saving taxpayers $5.8 Trillion over the next 10 years
• Balance the Federal budget by requiring the House and Senate to pass a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution before the President is given authority to increase the debt limit. The legislation would also require a super-majority vote by Congress to increase taxes.  The vote on the Balanced Budget Amendment is scheduled to occur in the coming days.

Over 178 groups endorse the concept of “cut, cap, and balance,” including the National Taxpayers Union, Citizens Against Government, the American Conservative Union, Freedom Works, Americans for Prosperity, and Heritage Action for America.

 “This legislation applies pressure at several different levels to halt the excessive spending that is bankrupting our nation. It immediately cuts spending and caps future expenses to save taxpayers $5.8 trillion over 10 years, and it requires Congress and the President to enact a strict Balanced Budget Amendment that requires a 2/3 vote in Congress to raise taxes,” Manzullo said. “Without these reforms and spending limitations, Congress will continue to spend recklessly, discourage our job creators, and saddle future generations with huge debt and tax liabilities that will make the American Dream the impossible dream for young Americans.”

A Message From ComEd

ComEd customer demand reached an all-time high peak usage milestone late Wednesday, with demand reaching 23,753 megawatts (MW), exceeding the utility’s previous peak of 23,618 MW on Aug. 1, 2006.

The combination of increased usage and extreme heat places substantial demands on the electric grid. ComEd is taking important steps in this heat wave to ensure a continuous flow of power. This work is being performed even while crews continue to repair damage from one of the largest and most destructive storms in a decade. The storm that struck the ComEd service territory on July 11 knocked out power to more than 850,000 customers.

ComEd has invested billions of dollars in its transmission and distribution system in the last decade. This investment has resulted in steady improvements in reliability as well as other aspects of ComEd’s business. During that time, there have been 39 percent fewer customer interruptions.

The Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act – Senate Bill 1652 – recently passed by the General Assembly, will strengthen and modernize ComEd’s electric infrastructure, which would minimize the impact of storms and extreme heat.

The bill paves the way for much-needed investment to modernize and upgrade the electric infrastructure, including the installation of new cable, the replacement and repair of utility poles and smart grid technologies.

ComEd’s proposed $2.6 billion investment would occur over the next decade. These upgrades include smart meters that would automatically notify the company of power outages and technologies that would result in an estimated

s the Midwest deals with this intense heat wave, ComEd is taking the following measures to meet heavy demand and respond quickly to any outages that may occur:

•    Keeping its Emergency Operations Center and regional emergency operations centers open; •    Putting more than 350 crews in the field to monitor the system and respond quickly to any problems that    may occur. This is about 100 more crews compared to a typical summer day with average temperatures; and •    Increasing inspections of critical infrastructure, such as substations, to identify stressed assets before they cause outages.

If customers experience an outage or have any questions about their ComEd service, they are urged to call 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661). Customers seeking cooler accommodations can contact their local municipal officials for information on cooling centers in their area (in Chicago, dial 311).

Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NYSE: EXC), one of the nation’s largest electric utilities with approximately 5.4 million customers. ComEd provides service to approximately 3.8 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population.

Three MCC Grads Awarded NIU Scholarships

Three McHenry County College students transferring to Northern Illinois University (NIU) for the 2011-2012 school year were awarded scholarships from NIU based on their academic excellence and extracurricular involvement.

Laura Gallagher of Union, Lois Kantner of Hebron and Brooke Piller of Crystal Lake are recipients of the third annual Transfer Center Residential Scholarship award at NIU. They all received the award based on a 3.0 grade point average or better and their involvement in student organizations at MCC.

They are among 20 recipients of the award, which pays for two semesters in a residential hall suite, valued at $9,200 (not including meal plan), according to NIU.

“We look forward to the great contributions that Laura, Lois and Brooke will make to the Northern Illinois University community,” said Sherry Christensen, admissions counselor at NIU.

Gallagher earned an associate in general education studies in May 2010. She has been completing courses toward an engineering degree and she will attend NIU this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with a specialty in mechatronics, which is the combination of  mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, computer engineering, software engineering, control engineering, and systems design engineering.

She is a 2009 home school graduate and originally joined MCC’s Running Start program while in high school. She participated in many MCC organizations, including playing on the MCC tennis team, serving as a member of Club Concordia Spanish Club, Student Senate and as founder and president of the MCC Future Engineering and Scientist Society (FESS). She also chaired the 2010 leadership conference for high school and college students at MCC. Recently, she and two teammates won first place at the third annual Suburban Chicago Intercollegiate Catapult Contest. This summer she is working as a lab assistant for the biology and chemistry departments at MCC. She is involved in 4-H and volunteers with the McHenry County Youth Tech Team and her church.

Kantner graduated from MCC in May with an associate in arts degree. She is transferring to NIU this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She plans to pursue a career in environmental business.

While at MCC, she was a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society and was a Promise scholarship recipient. She also is actively involved in Girl Scouts, 4-H and volunteers for the Environmental Defenders Water Resource Protection Committee. She currently teaches private piano lessons. She is a 2009 home school graduate.

Piller graduated from MCC in May 2011 with an associate in science degree.  She will attend NIU this fall to major in early childhood education. She plans to become a kindergarten teacher. At MCC, she was involved in Phi Theta Kappa honor society and was a Promise Program scholarship recipient. She volunteered at Hannah Beardsley Middle School in Crystal Lake, where she helped children with special needs and Homework Club. She currently works at Health Bridge Fitness Center’s childcare facility. She is a 2009 graduate of Crystal Lake South High School.

According to Laurie Cubit, articulation and transfer coordinator, MCC maintains strong relationships with in-state and many out-of-state baccalaureate granting institutions,” which helps students who are interested in transferring from MCC to a four-year university. “We monitor and maintain over 100 general and program specific transfer guides with approximately 30 different colleges and universities that students may view online through the MCC website,” she said.

Cubit added that MCC’s active participation in two innovative state initiatives, the Illinois Articulation Initiative and u.select, eases the transition for MCC students who continue their education at four-year schools

For more information about the Advising and Transfer Center at MCC or to view a transfer guide, visit www.mchenry.edu/ATC/transferring or call (815) 479-7565.

Dealing With Extreme Heat

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat and humidity can be life threatening. The City of Crystal Lake recommends that Crystal Lake residents and visitors take the following precautions to protect themselves during the hot weather this week.

If your home is not air conditioned, or if you are without power, go to a place where you can get relief from the heat, such as air-conditioned shopping malls, libraries, theaters or other facilities that may offer refuge during the warmest times of the day.

City Hall-100 West Woodstock Street- is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Crystal Lake Library – 126 West Paddock Street- is open Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

McHenry County College,--8900 U.S. Highway 14—is open Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Nunda Township– 3518 Bay Road, Crystal Lake—is open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• If possible, stay indoors as much as possible
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help evaporate perspiration, which cools your body.
• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. Do not try to do too much on a hot day.
• Children and seniors and those with heart and lung diseases (including asthma) are most at risk of heat-related illness
• Check on the welfare of family, friends and neighbors. Call 9-1-1 immediately for anyone who is unresponsive or otherwise suffering from the effects of heat.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle for any length of time.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect heat and sunlight and help maintain normal body temperature.
• Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat.
• Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Attempt to stay hydrated.
• Limit intake of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. They can actually lead to dehydration.
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.
• Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself.
• If you are outside, use sunscreen lotion, with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating.
• Exercise caution on plugging in air conditioners or fans. Do not use extension cords or plug in too many appliances on the same circuit.

Crystal Lake Not Restricting Running Generators During This Weather Emergency

Until electricity has been substantially restored to the City of Crystal Lake, the City will not restrict property owners from continuously running generators. Generators should be placed in an outdoor location that will cause the least amount of noise impacts to neighboring properties. Placing generators in garages is not recommended.

Residents are reminded that although portable generators are useful, when temporary or remote electric power is needed, they also can be hazardous. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, fire and burns. For more information on possible portable generator hazards, visit the consumer Product Safety Commission website:  http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/portgen.html

One Beach Closed For Further Testing

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) conducted beach water re-sampling at closed beaches on Thursday, July 21st.  One beach will remain closed based upon the re-sampling:

South Beach 2, Silver Lake, Oakwood Hills (re-sampling Friday, July 22nd results available Saturday, July 23rd)

The following beaches have Opened based upon the re-sampling:
Lake Park Beach (Main Beach), Crystal Lake
Highland Shores, Wonder Lake
Lehman’s Beach, Lehman’s Lakeside Resort, Marengo
North Beach 1, Silver Lake, Oakwood Hills
Veterans Park, Island Lake
Shore Hills Beach, Wonder Lake
Deep Spring Woods 1, Wonder Lake

To prevent illness associated with swimming, all licensed beaches on the 13 lakes in McHenry County are tested every 2 weeks for E. coli throughout the summer to determine water quality.  Additional and more frequent sampling is done when elevated bacterial levels are found.  The Department recommends refraining from swimming at least 2-3 days after heavy rainfall. 
‘
Water sampling results are reported to the appropriate beach authorities.  Beaches that require an advisory or closing are posted with signs by the Department.  All beach water results and locations are readily available at the Department’s webpage at http://www.mcdh.info/ or by calling (815) 334-4585.

Another Visit From Mother Nature

Fallen limbs from last weeks storm have just barely been cleaned up, and Mother Nature decided to do more littering this morning.

However, the City of Crystal Lake reports that limbs and branches will continue to be removed in areas blocking access to homes and businesses.

As of 11 this morning all roads are open. All traffic lights are functionally normally. Limbs and branches will continue to be removed in areas blocking access to homes and businesses.
Along with this information, the City also offers other safety warnings

Storm Cleanup ScamsCrystal Lake Police are warning residents about weather-related scams. In these, police say one person lures the resident out of the home by offering to help with storm damage cleanup while another person goes inside the home to steal belongings. The thieves sometimes identify themselves as electrical workers or handymen

The advice from Crystal Lake Police:
1-Be on guard and not become districted when someone they do not know approaches them unsolicited.
2-Request to see identification if someone comes to the door
3-Keep doors locked and garages closed at all times. Anyone who feels uncomfortable should go inside the house, lock the doors, and dial 9 1 1.

This Mornings Storm Impact

As a result of the morning’s storm, ComEd reports that 1,234 Crystal Lake area customers are still without power.

A total of 1,513 Crystal Lake area customers were affected by the power outage with power having been restored to 18.4% of them or 279 customers. ComEd reports that there are currently 9 crews in Crystal Lake working to restore power to the remaining customers.

If you or someone you know does not have power, or to report any electrical lines that are down, contact 1-800-Edison) (800-334-7661) to report the outage or downed power line.

Residents are also encouraged to periodically call ComEd to check on the status of their power outage.  ComEd will provide updates on the website at ComEd

Words of Wisdom

"Dependence begets subservience and venality, suffocates the germ of virtue, and prepares fit tools for the designs of ambition."

--Thomas Jefferson

House Committee Approves Manzullo Amendment To Nix Wasteful $30 Million Program

(WASHINGTON) The House Foreign Affairs Committee tonight approved a foreign aid bill that includes an amendment authored by Rep. Don Manzullo (R-Egan) to eliminate a wasteful and duplicative foreign aid “innovation” program that cost taxpayers $30 million last year. The committee unanimously accepted the Manzullo amendment.

The Development Innovation Ventures (DIV) program, created last year by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), provides grants up to $6 million – with a total annual budget of $30 million -- to conduct research and development activities that promote “development outcomes.” Recipients of these grants can be foreign governments and domestic or foreign individuals, companies, or non-government organizations. Research by Manzullo’s office shows that the DIV duplicates existing work by the Energy Department, National Institutes of Health, Defense Department, and the private sector.

Some examples of taxpayer funds awarded through the DIV program last year include:

A $100,000 grant to develop an affordable hydrogen fuel-cell bicycle called the E-Bike to be used in developing nations overseas. The technology behind the E-Bike already exists and has a number of private sector investors, including large multinational corporations. Furthermore, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 appropriated $41.9 million to the Department of Energy for hydrogen fuel-cell research, including miniaturization and portability applications.

A $99,992 grant to study the effectiveness of using cell phones to monitor election results in foreign countries.

A $173,000 grant to study the use of smartphone technology to combat absenteeism in healthcare in India.

“It’s unconscionable that our government is spending $30 million in taxpayer money each year on these wasteful and duplicative projects that do nothing to create jobs and promote economic recovery in the United States, or even boost our national security. Furthermore, it is questionable whether the Development Innovation Program will even help improve the livelihood of those in the developing world, which is the core mission of USAID,” Manzullo said. “I thank my colleagues for joining me tonight in eliminating this duplicative program as we continue our effort to cut wasteful spending, shrink the government, and ultimately reduce our deficit so we can improve our economy and help put Americans back to work.”

Reprieve For Rakow Road Motorists

 Rakow Road will NOT be closed this evening, Thursday, July 21st
nor Friday evening, July 22nd.

Night closures and the corresponding detour route will go back into effect starting on Monday evening, July 25th. 

Thank you for your continued patience as this work is done.

Words of Wisdom

"Dependence begets subservience and venality, suffocates the germ of virtue, and prepares fit tools for the designs of ambition."

 --Thomas Jefferson

Who Is Watching Who

 The recent phone-hacking scandal brought some interesting remarks from  the Libertarian Party as spelled out in this press release.

WASHINGTON -- Libertarian Party Chair Mark Hinkle released the following statement today:

"As I have watched this tabloid phone-hacking scandal unfold, I have been reminded about how delicate our privacy is, and how vulnerable we are to government intrusion into our lives.

"If it's so easy for journalists and private detectives to hack into our emails and phones, just think how much the government, with its much greater resources, can pry into our lives.

"If we find that Apple's iPhones are tracking us, we can stop using their service. And if we find they have harmed us, we can sue them. But if we find that the government is tracking us, there's not much we can do except protest -- and even then, the government often uses our tax dollars to pay for propaganda saying 'There's nothing to worry about.'

"It shows why it is so important that government be strictly limited in its power; and that the public have complete information about what bureaucrats and law enforcement agents are doing.

"The more crimes there are on the books, the more excuses government officials have to sneak peeks at every detail of our private lives.

"Violating other people's privacy is addictive. It's human nature. Once people gain the power to spy on other people's lives, they want to do it more and more. They will constantly seek new ways to do it, and more excuses to justify doing it.

"The government is always threatening to turn into Big Brother. That's why it is so important for vigilant defenders of liberty to fight back: not only to rely on the courts for protection, but to make sure that we only elect politicians who will respect our right to privacy.

"Unfortunately, President Obama does not respect our privacy. He has continued the warrantless wiretapping policy of the George W. Bush administration, and he has even expanded Bush's "state secrets" doctrine, to make it harder for the accused and the public to keep an eye on what his administration is up to.

"Republicans and Democrats in Congress recently joined hands to renew several unjust and unconstitutional provisions of the Patriot Act. I hope voters will punish them for doing that. In November 2012, I hope voters will recognize that Libertarian candidates consistently adhere to the Constitution and respect all of our rights."

The Libertarian Party platform includes the following:

"1.2 Personal Privacy
Libertarians support the rights recognized by the Fourth Amendment to be secure in our persons, homes, and property. Protection from unreasonable search and seizure should include records held by third parties, such as email, medical, and library records. Only actions that infringe on the rights of others can properly be termed crimes. We favor the repeal of all laws creating 'crimes' without victims, such as the use of drugs for medicinal or recreational purposes."

For more information, or to arrange an interview, call LP Executive Director Wes Benedict at 202-333-0008 ext. 222.

The LP is America's third-largest political party, founded in 1971. The Libertarian Party stands for free markets, civil liberties, and peace. You can find more information on the Libertarian Party at our website.

Meetings Thursday, July 21

8:00 a.m. – College Board of Trustees Finance and Negotiations Committee meeting in the Board room of the college, 7900 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake.

Following Acceptance of the agenda and minutes of two previous meetings, the Committee is to conduct a budget workshop before engaging in a closed session for acceptance of closed session minutes from two prior meetings of June 16 and June 29.

8:30 a.m. -- Planning and Development Committee of McHenry County Board, meeting in the Conference Room of McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

A Unified Development Ordinance technical review Memorandum is being presented. This information provides the findings of the review of McHenry County Ordinances that will be consolidated into a new Unified Development Ordinance.

The Committee is being requested to consider accepting USEPA Brownfields Assessment Grants, These grants provide funding for a grant recipient to inventory, characterize, assess, and conduct planning and community involvement related to brownfields sites. A brownfield is real property for which reuse may be complicated by the presence, or potential presence, of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.

5:00 p.m. – Finance Committee of McHenry County Conservation District is meeting in the  Brookdale Administrative Offices, Brookdale Conservation Area, 18410 US Highway 14, Woodstock,’

The Committee will pay the necessary bills, consider a treasurer’s report, designate depository financial institutions, consider a FY 2013  Budget Process and Timeline.

A number of change orders and amendments to Professional Service Agreements for Fel-Pro RRR will be considered.

Also to be considered is Moody’s implications of US Rating Action on Aaa Muni Credits.

5:00 p.m.—Outreach and Advocacy Committee of McHenry County Conservation Districts is also meeting in the Brookdale Administrative Offices.

This committee will consider several outreach projects through Municipalities, Townships and County Board.

Recognition of State Representative Mark Beaubien, Jr. will also be considered.

6:00 p.m.—McHenry County Conservation District. Meeting in the Brookdale Administrative Offices, Brookdale Conservation Area, 18410 US Highway 14, Woodstock. The first portion of the meeting will be in executive session followed by an open session.

7:00 p.m.—McHenry County Conservation District Regular Meeting, at the Administrative Offices as above.

Several introductions are to start the meeting. These include Trustee Kent Krautstrunk, Sara Michehl, Education Program Assistant and Dustin Wire, Restoration Technician.

The Election of Officers is also to be held, including President, Gift Ban Act Officer & Ethics Officer, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary

A number of committee reports will be made along with a treasurer’s report and staff monthly report for June.

A motion is to be presented authorizing the release of Executive Session meeting minutes to the public domain, complying with the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

A motion is being presented authorizing the Executive Director to execute an Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Grant Agreement with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for $400,000 for the Boone Creek Conservation District Access project.

The Board is to consider the awarding of a contract to DeKalb Implement Co. of Sycamore, IL for the purchase of a John Deere Rotary Cutter for a cost not to exceed $23,995. This was the lowest, responsible and responsive bidder for this equipment.

The Board will be asked to adopt a resolution designating depository Financial Institutions for the District.

Also authorization for the preparation of specifications and letting of bids for the Master Plan site improvements at the Dufield Pond Conservation Area.

Another Conservation Area, Lake in the Hills Fen Conservation Area is also involved in the letting of bids for the completion of the rain gardens at this location.

The Board is to consider authorizing the preparation of specifications and letting of bids for the replacement of the Meyer South Middle Bridge.

The Board is being requested to approve a Professional Services Agreement with Obenhauf Auction Services of Round Lake, for the disposal of excess equipment through a public online auction.

A contract  is to be considered for approval to Petroliance of Elgin, the lowest Responsible and Responsive bidder for diesel fuels at plus 15 cents, unleaded fuels; at plus .14 cents, and E85 at plus .20 cents per gallon. Compared to market price the day the fuel is delivered for a one-year contract starting September 1 of this year and ending August 31, 2012.

The Board is also to consider a contract to Country Gas of Crystal Lake, the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, for the purchase of propane fuel at a cost not to exceed $1.70  per gallon for a period of one year beginning September 1, 2011 and ending August 31, 2k012.

A change order is to be ratified in the amount of $1,600 from Carmichael Construction Co., Inc. Marengo, for modification to the scope of work for the Fel-Pro RR Conservation Area Project.

Other business the Board is expected to consider, in addition to bill payment, is the Harrison Benwell Draft Master Plan Presentation, the Hebron Trail Railroad Crossing and the Personnel Policy Manual Update for a first reading. Additionally, other reports include one from the President of the Board, a FY 2010-2012 Strategic Plan-First Quarter Status Report, Year 3.

7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park District Board, meeting in District Administrative Office, One E. Crystal Lake, Avenue, Crystal Lake.

In addition to the approval of minutes of prior meetings, and of voucher lists, the Board will consider a parameters Ordnance regarding the /Racket Club interior renovation project. The Board is requested to reject all bids for ceiling repair and replacement but approve a motion to accept the bid for tennis court resurfacing submitted by Tennis Surfaces Company, including Alternate 1A, for a total of $150,150.

A 1997 Chevrolet 3500 Pickup Truck with 132,000 miles is being disposed of due to age, mileage and condition. The transmission and plow frame need replacement. Fox Valley Helping Paws is requesting approval to hold a Panting for Paws fundraiser event at Lippold Park, Sunday, November 13

Area Road Construction Information

A few changes are taking place in the area road construction.

Wednesday, July 20:  Ackman Road and McHenry Avenue traffic was shifted to allow half of the new roadways to be built.

 Virginia Road and Pingree Road traffic will be similarly shifted Thursday, July 21st. 

Please be alert in these areas because motorists will be traveling on new pavement. 

Reminder:  Rakow Road will be closed the evenings of Wednesday, July 20th and Thursday, July 21st from 8pm to 6am, but will NOT be closed the evening of Friday, July 22nd. 

Night closures and the corresponding detour route will go back into effect starting on Monday evening, July 25th. 

Thank you for your continued patience as this work is done.

Small Business Development At McHenry County College

 The Illinois Small Business Development Center at McHenry County College is offering opportunities and assistance to small businesses. Some seminar topics for July include Starting A Business In Illinois, Facebook-Beyond The Basics and Broadcast Yourself with YouTube.

Check out the upcoming seminars to help you grow your business:
Wednesday, July 276 to 9 p.m. Facebook-Beyond The Basics: Designed for the experienced Facebook user who wants to enhance this powerful tool to their advantage and how your customers can help market you. Cost: $39.

ll ISBDC classes are held at the Shah Center.  The McHenry County College Shah Center is located at 4100 W. Shamrock Lane in McHenry, near Centegra Hospital.

For more information or to register, contact the Illinois Small Business Development Center at (815) 455-6098 or sbdc@mchenry.edu.

Award Winning Equestrians Perform Saturday

The award-winning MidWest Renegades Equestrian Drill Team will hold their second annual “Our World of Horses” benefit performance on Saturday, July 23, 2011 starting at 11 a.m. at the Fairgrounds Horse Arena, in Woodstock, Illinois.

The event will feature a variety of equestrian entertainment entries, including:

• Freestyle/Liberty Exhibition
• Mario A. Contreras Dressage
• Midwest Renegades Dare Devils
• Midwest Renegades Dirt Devils
• Midwest Renegades Roman Riding
• Midwest Renegades 10-Rider Drill
• Miniature Horse Exhibition
• and more.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Fox Valley Helping Paws Animal Welfare Association in Woodstock. Representatives from Helping Paws will also be at the event, with a few of the dogs and cats looking for homes.

Admission costs $5; children under 8 are free. The Fairgrounds are located on Country Club Road, just east of Route 47, in Woodstock.

About the MidWest Renegades Equestrian Drill Team
Since 2004, the MidWest Renegades Equestrian Drill Team has performed at rodeos, county fairs, horse shows, parades, charitable benefits and drill team competitions. Intricate maneuvers are carefully choreographed to music. Members from age 7 to over 50 come from various backgrounds and experience levels and ride a wide variety of horses. Each rider strives to reflect the team's mission statement: The Pride is in the Ride! More information about the team may be found at their website: www.midwestrenegades.com

No Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Meet Tonight

Usually the Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission meets on this the third Wednesday of the month. However, the meeting for this evening has been cancelled. The next scheduled meeting is set for August 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.

Words of Wisdom

"It will not be denied that power is of an encroaching nature and that it ought to be effectually restrained from passing the limits assigned to it. After discriminating, therefore, in theory, the several classes of power, as they may in their nature be legislative, executive, or judiciary, the next and most difficult task is to provide some practical security for each, against the invasion of the others."

--James Madison, Federalist No. 48, 1788

Tonight's Crystal Lake City Council Meeting

 

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

Following the opportunity for public comments, the Mayor’s Report, Council Reports, the agenda for the tonight’s meeting includes:

Consent Agenda Matters Two resolutions to be handled as consent agenda matters. One is to refer a Unified Development Ordinance Fowl/Domesticated Animals Text Amendment to the Planning and Zoning Commission for public hearing.

This the result of a presentation at the prior Council Meeting by a City resident who was reported for having a couple hens for pets.

At the time, the Mayor said it was a matter that would have to be handled by the Planning and Zoning Commission to consider whether the Unified Development Ordinance regarding Land Use should be amended to establish criteria for keeping of fowl.

A second item for Consent Agenda is a request from Immanuel Lutheran Church to temporarily suspend no parking restrictions on the east side of Pathway Court and the south side of Teckler Boulevard on July 23 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm.

The Council is being requested to approve a Targeted Development Zone Incentive request for a 50%fee reduction for Meineke Car Care Center of Crystal Lake located at 905 Pyott Road. This is a program the Council adopted as part of the City’s Economic Development Incentives.

Erick Street Commons Parking ChangesAdditional parking spaces have been requested for property known as Erick Street Commons located at 407 and 413 E. Terra Cotta Avenue. The Planning and Zoning Commission approved the request for configuring added parking spaces in a 5-3 vote with a number of conditions regarding signage and markings and delivery truck turning movements

Police Department Planning For Block PartyThe Crystal Lake Police Department is seeking a Temporary Use Permit to allow a Special Promotion. This is for a Block Party as part of National Night Out. The request is for closure of Williams Street between Brink Street and Crystal Lake Avenue on August 6 between 3p.m. and 11 p.m.

Water Tower Paining and MaintenanceThe City Council is being requested to award the bid for McCormick Water Tower Painting and Maintenance to Era Valdivia Contractors, Inc. for the lowest responsive and responsible bidder at a price of $383,800.

Sidewalk and Curb ReplacementsIt’s time for summer sidewalk and curb replacements. The Council is requested to award the 2011 Replacement Program bid to M&A Cement Work, Inc. for a bid of $67,886, being the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The City evaluates all the sidewalks in one-quarter of the City each year as well as responding to reports of damaged walks and curbs from citizens.

Fewer Liquor LicensesThe Council is being offered the opportunity to reduce the number of liquor licenses due to some closures and other reasons.

The closing of Applebee’s which held a Class “3” license, Hooter’s Restaurant, which held a Class “8” and the revocation of the Class “13” liquor license held by LaRosita, the non-renewal of the Class “15” license held by Country Inn & Suites and the nonrenewal of the Class “15” license held by Kalor Mini Mart, the Council is to consider adoption of an amendment to the liquor incense restriction provisions. This action would ensure that the allowable number of liquor licenses in the classes as listed in the City Code matches the actual number of licenses currently being held.

Agreement Between Crystal Lake City and McHenry County College regarding police services. McHenry County College established a Public Safety/Police Department in 2010. This department employs peace officers who have the authority and jurisdiction to engage in law enforcement activities at the College and its property.

On a date decided by the Director of Public Safety at MCC, and the Chief of police of Crystal Lake Police Department, MCC Public Safety/Police Department will operate and provide police services on the MCC Crystal Lake campus Monday-Friday between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. The College will deploy its sworn officers during these hours of operation.

MCC and Crystal Lake Police Department are entering into an agreement regarding the matters of response and any additional requests for assistance from the MCC Public Safety/Police Department.

High School District 155 Board Meets This Evening

6:30 p.m. – School District 155 Board Policy Committee The Committee is meeting prior to the Board of Education meeting regarding four sections of the Board Policy which are being presented to the full board when it meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Center For Education, One South Virginia Street, Crystal Lake.

7:30 p.m. – School District 155 Board The agenda for tonight meeting provides for consideration of a couple bids which include Xerographic paper bids and Prairie Ridge Asphalt Repair bids.

Four sections of the Board Policy are being presented for First Reading

The list of graduates of May 2011 is also being presented for approval. A comparison for the four high schools provides the following:

SCHOOL	2011`	2010
Cary-Grove	405	410
CL Central	354	342
Prairie Ridge	409	401
CL South	435	425

McHenry County Board Meets This Evening

 TUESDAY EVENING- McHenry County Government

5:45 p.m.—Special Transportation Committee MeetingThe Committee is to consider awarding a contract for a building demolition and site restoration for the Johnsburg Road Project. Langos, of Barrington Hills, was the lowest responsible bidder for a price of $13,000. The committee is to consider recommending approval of this bid to the County Board
.

6:00 p.m. – McHenry County Board – Committee of The Whole
A presentation on the Open Meetings Act is to be presented by the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.

7:00 p.m. – McHenry County BoardMeets in the Board Room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

A special presentation to the Board is scheduled as a recap of the first year of the Valley Hi Operating Board. Formerly the operations of the county nursing home were handled through the Valley Hi Committee of the County Board. That was changed a year ago when the decision was made for the operations of the county nursing home to be handled through an Operations Board, similar to what other county nursing homes have been doing for sometime.

Zoning Board of Appeals Consent AgendaFour projects are being presented for Board approval including:

Greenwood Township--Miguel/Zenaida Carbajal requesting a reclassification of A1 to A1C in Greenwood Township. The request is to allow commercial equipment and vehicles related to a paving business to be stored on the property
.

McHenry Township --George and Shirley Gariffa are requesting a variation in an R-1 Single Family Residential zoning district to allow various setback variations in order to more easily access their small home located on Pistakee Lake.

Nunda Township—T-Mobil-Nunda Fire—are requesting approval for a 129-foot tower in a residential zoning district. The location is at the intersection of Burton Trail and IL Route 176 in Nunda Township. The property is owned by Nunda Rural Fire Protection District owns the property and T-Mobile identified the property as a location that would improve service and also upgrade the Fire District’s emergency dispatch service. Therefore, the request for a variation to allow a 129-foot tower where only a 75-foot high tower is allowed.

McHenry Township—Daniel and Karen Meier-are requesting a single-family residential district to allow a detached garage to be located in a side-yard abutting a road and that the height of the structure be 20 feet instead of the 14 beet allowed. The property is located at 3911 East Wonder Lake Road, Wonder Lake.
The petitioners request is recommended for approval as grating it will allow the property owners to utilize their property reasonably.

AppointmentsFour agencies have appointments to be approved by the County Board including:

McHenry County Tuberculosis Board- James H. Mowery for a term to expire June 30, 2014.

McHenry County Housing Authority – Robert P. Routzahn for a term to expire June 1, 2016

McHenry County Housing Commission-Jerry Monica for a term to expire April 30, 2013.

Valley Hi Cemetery Board-Three members including Katherine C. Schultz, Mark L. Justen, and Michael Murray-all terms to expire August 1, 2014.

Under Finance and Audit matters-- authorization of a salary adjustment for a network engineer II in the information technology department, is to be increased from the current $49,358.39 to $84,259. This is needed in order to attract and keep this vital position filled. This is a vital position in the Information Technology Department of the County. The person in this position is responsible to keep the Information Technology infrastructure, systems and applications available so employees of the County are able to work.

A resolution is being presented to the Board for approval of a Workers’ Compensation Claim.

Another resolution is being presented for approval authorizing acceptance of an Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Energy Rebate and Emergency Appropriation to the Facilities Management Fiscal Year 2010-2011 budget.

This is a rebate from the DCEO amounting to $51,121.44 and is based on the third phase of electrical savings program under the EECBG project for the conversion of the McHenry County motors retrofit, lighting upgrades, occupancy sensors and window upgrades. The County was awarded this amount based on the energy savings calculations for this retrofit as promoted by John T. Hadley, Director of Facilities Management for the County.

A resolution is being presented increasing the mileage reimbursement rate effective July 19, 2011. This is part of the annual budget guidelines for the upcoming fiscal year. Notice has been received from the Internal Revenue Service that it has increased the standard mileage rate for the balance of the 2011 tax year to 55.5 cents per mile. The previous rate was 51.0 cents per mile. As a result the County’s mileage reimbursement rate is being increase on July 19, 2011 through December 31, 2011 to match the IRS rate and assist with the expense of fuel consumption by employees who are required to travel in their own vehicles on County business.

Resolution Setting 2012 Holiday Schedule
January 2, New Year’s Day
January 16, Martin Lut6her King, Jr. Day
February 20, Presidents day
April 6, Good Friday
May 28, Memorial Day
July 4, Independence Day
September 3, Labor Day
October 8, Columbus Day
November 11, Veterans Day
November 22, Thanksgiving
December 24, Christmas Eve
December 25, Christmas Observed

The Courts/Circuit Clerk is closed all of the above days with an additional day for closing, February 13, for Lincoln’s Birthday, when the government center is open. 

The Good Old Summertime

THE NATL WEATHER SERVICE IN CHICAGO HAS ISSUED AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH.WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM WED MORNING THROUGH LATE THUR NIGHT. THE HEAT ADVISORY HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

* TEMPS/HEAT INDEX.HIGH TEMPS WED & THUR ARE LIKELY TO CLIMB INTO THE MIDDLE TO POSSIBLY UPPER 90S. THE HEAT COMBINED WITH VERY HUMID CONDITIONS COULD RESULT IN HEAT INDICES OF UP TO 110 DEGREES.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS.
AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH MEANS THAT A PROLONGED PERIOD OF HOT TEMPS IS EXPECTED. THE COMBINATION OF HOT TEMPS AND HIGH HUMIDITY WILL COMBINE TO CREATE A DANGEROUS SITUATION IN WHICH HEAT ILLNESSES ARE POSSIBLE. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS.STAY IN AN AIR-CONDITIONED ROOM.STAY OUT OF THE SUN.& CHECK UP ON RELATIVES & NEIGHBORS.

Words of Wisdom

"As our president bears no resemblance to a king so we shall see the Senate has no similitude to nobles. First, not being hereditary, their collective knowledge, wisdom, and virtue are not precarious. For by these qualities alone are they to obtain their offices, and they will have none of the peculiar qualities and vices of those men who possess power merely because their father held it before them." --Tench Coxe, An American Citizen, No. 2, 1787

Tuesday Morning Meetings

TUESDAY, JULY 19,

8:00 a.m.—Facilities and Planning Committee of McHenry County College Board of Trustees, meeting in the Board Room of the College, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake.

The Committee is expected to make a selection of an architect for the facility master plan. In connection with this, the committee is to consider a facility condition analysis project prioritization.

Following comments by the committee members, a closed session is scheduled for acceptance of closed session minutes of a June 14 Facilities and Planning Committee meeting.

8:30 a.m. – McHenry County Housing Commission is meeting in the Conference Room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

A presentation is to be made by the Fair Housing Staff as well as several committee reports from the Executive, Legislative and Education Committees.

Discussion is slated on a Request of Proposal for Analysis of Impediments. A review and discussion is also planned regarding Fair Housing-Affirmative Marketing Plan as well as discussion  on McHenry County Housing Authority Vouchers.

9:00 a.m. – McHenry County Tuberculosis Care and Treatment Board was scheduled to meet. However, the meeting has been cancelled.