Green Wednesday Provides Communication Ideas

In McHenry County, the first Wednesday of each month is Green Wednesday. The public is invited to Duke's Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N Main Street in Crystal Lake for Green Drinks on Wednesday, November 2nd from 5:00-7:00 pm for a presentation on “Eco-Media and the Eco-Community: Options in Getting Your Message Out”

A panel of Chicago area eco-media leaders will discuss the importance of good communication in promoting your company/brand and the importance of controlling your own message.  They will explain how sustainable businesses are leveraging digital and experiential marketing to expand awareness of their brands and their green practices.  Lastly, they will cover the more traditional media perspective on the importance of developing a true relationship with local media, whether advertising is part of that relationship or not.

Panelists for the evening:

Shannan Hofman Bunting is a professional communicator, project manager and media relations expert with a focus on green practices and businesses. As the founder of Solstice Communications, Shannan is responsible for strategic planning, account supervision, media relations and creative direction for the agency’s diverse clients—which range from small, local companies such as City Provisions, Greenhouse Loft, Logan Square Kitchen, SmallBar to global leaders such as Sears, Kmart and Target.

Shannon Downey is a digital and social media strategist who for 5 years has run the successful marketing company, Pivotal Production. With a client list that ranges from local non-profits like Growing Home Inc to massive global brands like Chiquita Banana, Pivotal has been paving the way in innovative and sustainable marketing.

Tim Winkler is one of the co-founders of Mindful Metropolis magazine and is a seniors consultative sales rep, and also handles marketing, partnerships, and social media for Mindful Metropolis. Mindful Metropolis is the only metro Chicago-wide publication that focuses exclusively on sustainable living, natural health, and wellness. 

Preset drink menu includes fun, food and friends, info and inspiration, business and pleasure. Come talk about “greening” the future with others. Must be 21 to purchase alcohol - non-alcoholic drinks are available, of course.

You are welcome to bring information about your green products and services to share at the information table.

Additional parking is available at the train station.

To be added to their email list, send a note to: GreenDrinks@mcdefenders.net or “like” them on FaceBook:  http://www.facebook.com/GreenDrinksMcHenryCounty  

We The People....

"The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) sued the Department of Justice (DOJ) Thursday for answers about "secret interpretations" of the USA PATRIOT Act, signed into law ten years ago.

Several senators have warned that the DOJ is using Section 215 of the PATRIOT Act to support what government attorneys call a "sensitive collection program" that may be targeting large numbers of Americans.

Section 215 allows for secret court orders to obtain "tangible things" when the FBI certifies they are relevant to a government investigation. The list of possible "tangible things" the government can obtain is seemingly limitless, and could include everything from driver's license records to Internet browsing patterns. Section 215 also limits the court's discretion to deny the order and prevents the recipient of an order from disclosing its existence."

For added details on how, we the governed, are being treated by the government, click on the word “sued” above.

This information is from beSpacific® - Accurate, focused law and technology news
http://www.bespacific.com

Health Department Offers HIV Testing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1.1 million Americans are living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and about 25% are unaware of their infection; 56,000 new infections occur each year. McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) is offering free, confidential or anonymous rapid HIV testing for at-risk individuals at McHenry County College on a walk-in basis.

The next opportunity is  from 11am-2pm on November 10. The final opportunity will be at the same time on December 8.  The test consists of a small finger-stick blood sample and results are available in less than 20 minutes.  Individuals are also assessed for risk factors and provided educational material.  Information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) will also be made available for general distribution.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, there are 50 people in McHenry County living with HIV; 74 residents have advanced to Acquired Immune Deficiency S
yndrome (AIDS), as of December 31, 2010.  Ensuring people have the information, motivation, and skills necessary to reduce their risk continues to play an important role in preventing the spread of HIV.  The best way to protect yourself is to know your HIV status and that of your partners.  Most people change behaviors to protect their partners if they know they are infected with HIV.

It is important that individuals with HIV are linked to ongoing care and prevention services to live longer, healthier lives and reduce their risk of transmitting HIV.  People who engage in certain behaviors are at an increased risk of becoming infected with HIV. Those who may be at risk include men who have sex with men, intravenous drug users, people with 2 or more STD’s in the past 12 months, people who exchange sex for something they need, people who average 6 or more partners a month, or anyone who has had unprotected sex with any of the above.

For more information, visit http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics  or for testing by appointment, call MCDH at 815-334-4500. 

Words of Wisdom

"The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave." 

– Patrick Henry

Thinking About Next Year

Ring in the New Year with a six-day trip to the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, sponsored by McHenry County College’s Trips and Tours office. This tour takes place Dec. 29, 2011 through Jan. 3, 2012.

Visitors will receive free home or local pickup and arrive in southern California to spend five nights in Long Beach, ranked as one of the most walkable cities in America and visit the renowned J. Paul Getty Museum, followed by a behind-the-scenes view of the parade float construction. Highlights will include a private New Year’s Eve gala event including dinner, dancing to a live orchestra and a champagne toast.

New Year’s Day includes reserved seating for the 123rd Tournament of Roses parade featuring grand pageantry, stunning floral floats, high-stepping equestrian teams and spirited marching bands. A gala Hollywood dinner complete with celebrity look-alikes and entertainment follows a tour of Los Angeles and Hollywood. One day includes an optional excursion or to explore on your own. Visitors will also receive $30 in Mayflower Tours money.

Visitors may extend their holiday to Las Vegas for a three-day, two-night stay at the Golden Nugget Hotel for an additional cost.

The trip includes eight meals (five breakfasts, one lunch, and two dinners) for a cost of $2,194 for double occupancy, $2,698 for single occupancy, and $2,184 for triple occupancy. An optional travelers’ protection plan available for $150 and all prices are per person.

For reservations, call Claudia Terrones, MCC trips coordinator, at (815) 455-8782. Early registration is recommended.

Words of Wisdom

 "Laws are made for men of ordinary understanding and should, therefore, be construed by the ordinary rules of common sense. Their meaning is not to be sought for in metaphysical subtleties which may make anything mean everything or nothing at pleasure."

 --Thomas Jefferson, letter to William Johnson, 1823

New Communications For Emergency Situations

With the increased use of cell phones, Voice over IP communication, and other alternatives to traditional land lines, public safety agencies are looking for new ways to advise residents of emergency situations. 

The addition of the Self Registration Portal (SRP) to the GeoCast Web Emergency Notification System, already in use, provides emergency services with a way to gather contact information from the community at-large.  Through this free online service, McHenry County residents can now sign up to receive emergency alerts, issued by local public safety agencies, via landline or cellular telephone, text message, or email.

The web link: https://mchenryco.onthealert.com will connect users to the portal.  After accepting the terms and conditions, follow the instructions for emergency notification registration. 

Using Bing maps, the latitude and longitude of the resident’s address are calculated, with the location appearing on a digital street level display.  If the position is incorrect, the person can easily reposition the pin to the exact location of the address.

Participants may return to the SRP using a secure login to update their personal contact information as often as needed, to ensure data accuracy.

For more information, please contact the 9-1-1 Coordinator Theresa K. Carlson, at 815-337-7911.

Words of Wisdom

"Democratical States must always feel before they can see: it is this that makes their Governments slow, but the people will be right at last."

 --George Washington, letter to Marquis de Lafayette, 1785

Liquidation Sale At Knuth's Office & Sports Supply Benefits Defenders

A new experience for the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County! They have been "hired" to run the liquidation sale at Knuth’s Office & Sports Supply, 110 S Johnson St, lower level, in Woodstock.

Not only is this a fundraiser for the group, but they will also be able to keep almost everything from ending up in the landfill. Whatever doesn’t sell will be donated to other charities or recycled.

The sale will continue through Friday, November 4 (closed Sunday). All new inventory is 50% off, 60% off starting October 28, 75% off starting October 31, and 90% off on the final day, including office supplies, art supplies, sport wear, educational supplies. Make an offer on all fixtures – counters, shelving units, display racks, file cabinets, holiday decorations, and more – everything must go!

The sale runs from 11am - 4pm daily, Thursday until 8pm, and closed on Sunday.

The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and improvement of the environment. The group provides community residents with educational programs and volunteer action on pollution prevention, sustainable land use and energy and natural resource conservation. Donations are encouraged and are tax-deductible as charitable contributions.  For more information, visit www.mcdef.org or call 815-338-0393.

Changes For Rakow Road Traffic

Tomorrow--Thursday, October 27th, weather permitting, crews will be switching eastbound Rakow Road traffic onto the new pavement from Alexandra to west of Pyott. 

At that point, eastbound traffic will transition back onto the old lanes towards IL Rte 31. 

Westbound traffic will remain in its current location.  Please be aware of the new alignment when driving through this area. 

Remember that the work zone speed limit will remain at 35mph!

Government At Work

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27—

8:30 a.m. – Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee of McHenry County Board—

The topic of State Veto Session Update is the first item on the agenda. This is followed by the topic of electric aggregation, a subject that was presented at the last County Board meeting.

Basically this is a process where consumers can choose what company provides their electrical power, although the same lines currently in use would still be used. There are pro and con issues with the matter. Theoretically, it is to provide electricity at a lower cost.

Under new business to be considered by this committee, is the topic of recommendations for strengthening the Illinois Water Act’s Newest Section on High Capacity Wells.

Other topics on the agenda include a discussion of draft state legislative program for 2012 and a discussion of FFY13 Federal Legislative Program

6:30 p.m.—McHenry County College Board of Trustees—

Meeting in the Board Room of the College, 8900 US Highway 14, Crystal Lake.

Following the period open for visitors and presentations, committee reports are scheduled presentations including those of Evaluation and Policies Committee, Faculties and Planning Committee and Finance and Negotiations Committee.

Presentations scheduled for this meeting include MCC’s Desktop Virtualization Roadmap, by Dr. Al Butler, CIO, and Dragonfly Research in McHenry County, by Ms. Marla Garrison, Instructor of Biology.

Consent Agenda items presented for Board approval include: Treasurer’s Report and Ratification of payment of voucher for $1,372,630.26 covering various expenses for the operation of the College.

Other requests for approval cover items necessary in the operation of the College.

Fund Transfers

The Board is being requested to approve fund transfers in order to utilize the funding for the necessary purposes such as repairs, renovation and deferred maintenance, providing 25% local matching funds for state funded capital projects; providing resources o do locally funded capital projects including repairs and deferred maintenance; and to provide for the payment of employee’s portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes.

Honors

Several MCC alumni are being honored in the Alumni Awards Recognition Program. Including Dr. Edward Saunders who was active while a MCC student including a referendum committee to secure a permanent site for the college. He is a member of the University of Iowa faculty, School of Social Work and serves as hits Director. Dr. Saunders is being recognized with the MCC Alumni Career Distinction Award

Frances Mai-Ling was a member of the MCC Class of 1995 with an Associate in Applied Science in Accounting. She has given back to the community by providing stroke information through the use of music and now holds therapy concerts to work with memory care and dementia patients.  She was awarded a Hero’s Award by the American Heart Association. Frances is receiving the MCC Alumni Excellence In Community Service Award.

Coy McQueen, MCC Class of 2004, McQueen is an adjunct professor at MCC, a volunteer and contributor in his hometown of Harvard, and has contributed to the success of many area companies, all while being challenged with a chronic neurological movement disorder for over 50 years.

Purchase Requests

The Board is being requested to approve the purchase of brand visual identity services for the college from Stamats, Cedar Rapids, IA for a cost not to exceed $75,000.

Also to be “purchased” is storage for donated office furniture and equipment that is the result of a very large donation of office furniture. The furniture and equipment is being stored in a building that is being demolished within the next 2-3 months. In order to acquire the furniture, MCC must act immediate to recover the furniture and equipment.

The board will consider approving two facilities for storage of the furniture and equipment. Some of it must be kept in climate controlled storage to prevent mold on padded surfaces. The total cost for the storage is $38,400 a year for both types of storage.

Sharing With Others

MCC and Harvard Community Unit School District 50 are to enter into an agreement allowing MCC to provide hardware and software for use in the Storycatchers/internship program at Harvard Junior High school. Since the law firm to handle the agreement, Robbins, Schwarz, Nicholas, Lifton & Taylor, Ltd. represents both districts the Board is being asked to give or reject consent for the representation.

Tuition Increase

The Board is being requested to approve some increased tuition charges. For Out-of district Illinois residents, the current fee is $258.85 with the proposed fee being $266.60.

For Out-of-district (audit courses) the current fee is $316.37 with a proposed fee of $326.32.

The fee for Out-of-state residents is the same as that for Out-of district residents. 

REMINDER-Year Round Burning Restrictions In McHenry County

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reminds residents that year-round burning restrictions are in effect regarding the proper disposal of landscape waste on your property.

 Landscape waste consists of grass or shrubbery cuttings, leaves and tree limbs.  The “McHenry County Public Health Ordinance: Open Burning of Landscape Waste” permits unincorporated residents to burn landscape waste on weekend days (Saturdays and Sundays) during April, May, October and November if the burn area meets the setback requirements of at least 100 feet from a school, business, church or house; 50 feet from a barn, shed or detached garage. Most municipalities have ordinances which restrict or prohibit the burning of yard waste. In areas where there is not a ban or more restrictive ordinance, the County ordinance, which is in effect year round, must be followed. 

MCDH encourages a more environmentally sound approach:

·         Reduce/Reuse - Use a mulching mower for grass and leaves or a chipper for branches. Native landscaping will also reduce the need for yard waste. 

·         Recycle - Composting landscape waste can reduce material volume by 70 - 80% and act as a soil conditioner to improve plant growth.

Licensed waste haulers in McHenry County are required to provide pick up of landscape waste from residential customers; an additional fee may apply.  Some waste haulers contract with municipalities, neighbors and homeowner associations to provide collection of landscape waste. Residents are encouraged to work collectively with neighbors and associations for the most economical solution for their neighborhood. Residents may also drop off landscape waste at a local facility that composts these materials into organic compounds for reuse. A listing of these services is available at www.mcdh.info, under Environmental Health – quick link, Open Burning, “other alternatives”.

Communities with ordinances that meet or exceed County standards, as well as those with total bans on burning are also listed. Call local police, fire or MCDH non-emergency number for enforcement of open burning issues. If reporting an emergency complaint that is life threatening or is a fire safety issue, call 911. Residents may also call the health department’s after-hours phone number 815-344-7421 for assistance.

Complete details about the Ordinance, suggested alternatives and exemptions are available online at www.mcdh.info or by calling 815-334-4585.

Celebrate GIS Day

On Wednesday, November 16^th, McHenry County will celebrate International GIS Day.  International GIS Day provides a worldwide forum for users of geographic information systems (GIS) technology to demonstrate real-world applications that are making a difference in our society.  More than 80 countries will participate in holding local events such as corporate open houses, hands-on workshops, community expos, school assemblies, and more.

GIS empowers McHenry County to integrate digital information with maps as tools for decision making.  McHenry County will be showcasing how it uses GIS throughout County departments to improve public safety, reduce staff time, manage resources more efficiently, improve decision making, and provide better information to the public. 

Come and learn the ways McHenry County utilizes GIS:

When:             Wednesday, November 16, 2011 – 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where:           McHenry County College

                      Main Commons Area

 8900 US Route 14

Crystal Lake, IL

Representatives from multiple County departments (County Administration, Assessments, Division of Transportation, Emergency Management, Geographic Information Systems, Health, Planning & Development and the Sheriff’s Department) will be on hand to demonstrate how GIS technology assists in everyday functions.

For more information on International GIS Day or the McHenry County GIS Department, please visit www.mchenrycountygis.org or by contacting them at 815-334-4496 or gis@co.mchenry.il.us.

Words of Wisdom

"A morsel of genuine history is a thing so rare as to be always valuable."

--Thomas Jefferson

Rakow Road Work Continues

Take a look.

The above link shows pictures of Rakow Road work. There is also a plea to not forget the businesses along Rakow Road. They are still open for business and are in need of support at this time. There is access to these businesses. 

Whooping Cough Cases Increase

Pertussis (or whooping cough) cases now include a high school, middle school and elementary school in two communities.  Cary-Grove High School in Cary has 21 confirmed cases of pertussis while Crystal Lake’s Lundahl Middle School and Cary’s Deer Path Elementary each report two (2) cases, according to the McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH). 

Frequent hand washing, respiratory hygiene (ie, covering the mouth, coughing into tissues, disposing of tissues properly) and staying home when ill are important practices to limit the spread of infection.  Students who are receiving antibiotics need to remain at home for five (5) days to complete the course of treatment.  Returning to school earlier could allow pertussis to spread. MCDH reported 51 cases of pertussis in 2009 and 9 cases in 2010. MCDH is providing weekly updates to physicians, school officials and local hospitals. 

Pertussis is a contagious bacterial infection that causes a range of illnesses, from mild cough to severe disease.  It is easily spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. 

 Symptoms of pertussis may appear 5 to 10 days following exposure but can take up to 21 days.  The first symptoms are similar to those of a common cold – runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever and a mild, occasional nonproductive cough.  The cough gradually becomes severe and, after 1 to 2 weeks, an individual will have bursts of numerous, rapid coughs with a distinctive “whooping” sound.  While it can be mild in some persons, it poses a greater risk for infants who are not fully immunized (until 4-6 years old), immune compromised individuals, and older persons.  If you share a household with these persons, consider getting the vaccination. 

If you or your child have symptoms or questions on whether the vaccine is needed, contact your physician.  Persons with pertussis should be excluded from school, work or other group settings until they receive appropriate evaluation and treatment. 

Parents should be sure to keep children up to date with recommended pertussis vaccinations; an adolescent/adult pertussis booster vaccine (Tdap) should be given to those aged 11-18 before entering high school. 

For more information on pertussis, visit www.mcdh.info or call MCDH’s Communicable Disease Division at 815-334-4500.

Walk-in Flu Clinic Tomorrow At McHenry County Health Department

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) encourages an annual flu shot for everyone 6 months and older as the best protection against influenza.  

A walk-in flu clinic has been scheduled for mercury-free shots for adults and children 9 years and older on Wednesday, October 26 from 7am-11am at its Woodstock office (Building A), 2200 N Seminary Avenue.  Cash, checks and credit cards accepted ($30);

Also Medicaid and Medicare Part B. Flu vaccine for those younger than 9 years of age is available for those who qualify through MCDH’s federal program, Vaccine For Children, by calling 815-334-4500. 

 

 Flu is a serious and contagious illness – even healthy people can get it.  The vaccine protects not only you but those around you like pregnant women, young children and the elderly who are especially at risk for complications from the flu.  Vaccination is also important for healthcare workers and other people who live with or care for high risk people like school personnel and childcare providers. 

As the flu season is long and unpredictable, the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC) recommends getting a flu shot as soon as possible as it takes 2 weeks for antibodies to develop to provide protection. Simple ways to protect yourself also include covering your cough, washing your hands and staying home when sick.  For more flu information, call 815-334-4510 or visit www.mcdh.info.  

Community College Jazz Festival At MCC Saturday

Listen to the sounds of jazz from six area community colleges when McHenry County College (MCC) hosts the 2011 Skyway Jazz Festival from 8:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29 in the MCC Conference Center, 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake.

Continental breakfast begins at 8:15 a.m. with the first performance by McHenry County College to begin at 9 a.m. The Awards Presentation is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. The event features performances by Oakton Community College, Moraine Valley Community College, Prairie State College, Elgin Community College, McHenry County College and Waubonsee Community College.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Talia Koronkiewicz at (815) 455-8772 or tkoronkiewicz@mchenry.edu or Thomas Takayama at (815) 455-8561 or ttakayama@mchenry.edu

Government At Work

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26

7:00 P.M. – Valley Nursing Home Operating Board –

Meets at Valley hi Nursing Home, 2406 Hartland Road, Woodstock

Meeting dates is among the first order of business setting the dates for November and December of this year since the regular meeting date in each of these months is scheduled near the holidays.

The Board will also consider an Admittance Policy Presentation recently made to the Public Health and Human Services Committee of the McHenry County Board.

Pre-employment and Post Accident Drug Testing is a topic on the agenda along with Life Services Network Membership.

Under Old Business, the topics include Medical Director Search, Customer Service Program, Pharmacy RFP Status and Involuntary Discharge Proceedings.

A number of reports could be presented as necessary such as the Administrator’s Report, Census Report, Staffing Report, Financial Report, Quality Indicator Report, Quality Assurance Meeting Minutes, and Resident Senate Meeting Minutes.

Congressman Manzullo Examines U.S.-South Korea Alliance

Congressman Don Manzullo (R-IL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia & the Pacific, will hold a hearing Wednesday morning examining the U.S.-South Korea alliance and seeking ways to enhance America’s working relationship on economic and national security issues with our important ally in Asia.

The hearing, entitled “The Expanding U.S.-Korea Alliance,” will begin at 11 a.m. ET Wednesday, October 26, 2011 in Room 2172 of the Rayburn House Office Building. The hearing will address economic issues, such as the recently enacted U.S.-Korean Free Trade Agreement, as well as security issues, such as the future of the Six-Party Talks with North Korea.

The following witnesses will testify during the hearing:

• Chris Hill, Former U.S. Ambassador to Korea and Iraq, now Dean of the Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver.
• Bruce Klingner, Senior Research Fellow for Northeast Asia at the Heritage Foundation.
• Tami Overby, President of the U.S.-Korea Business Council
• Abraham Kim, Vice President of the Korea Economic Institute

For those unable to attend the hearing, it can be viewed via live video through the Committee’s website at: http://www.foreignaffairs.house.gov/.

Words of Wisdom

"In observations on this subject, we hear the legislature mentioned as the people's representatives. The distinction, intimated by concealed implication, through probably, not avowed upon reflection, is, that the executive and judicial powers are not connected with the people by a relation so strong or near or dear. But is high time that we should chastise our prejudices; and that we should look upon the different parts of government with a just and impartial eye."

 --James Wilson, Lectures on Law, 1791

What Is Happening In Springfield

Tuesday, October 25 the General Assembly will return to Springfield for the Fall Veto Session. Below is a summary of issues and potential legislation that may be discussed during the six-day session as provided by State Representative Mike Tryon.

Pension Reform
Without a doubt, the most controversial issue debated in Springfield this year was pension reform. In the interest of the taxpayers, I believe it is imperative that we solve the pension crisis. This summer I sat on a pension reform committee with a few of my colleagues from both sides of the isle. Representatives from all affected parties were at the table, and as you can imagine, some spirited discussions took place. Senate Bill 512 is currently on the table, and this bill attempts to reform how future pension benefits are accrued for existing state employees. The bill fully protects benefits of all retirees and previous benefits earned by current employees. The pension system for the state employees, teachers, judges, college professors and legislators is currently underfunded by a staggering $86 billion. While I am hopeful that a solution that is fair to all will eventually emerge, I do not believe the bill on the table is in the best future interest of Illinois taxpayers. As it is written right now, if it comes up for a vote I will not be supporting it.

Gaming Expansion
The House and Senate passed a gaming expansion bill in May which would allow for 1,200 slot machines at Arlington Park and slots at Chicago’s airports. As approved, it would also allow for new casinos in Chicago, Lake County, southern Cook County, Rockford and Danville. The bill has not been forwarded to Governor Quinn due to a fear of a veto. While I am not opposed to a modest expansion of gaming in Illinois as a revenue-generator, I voted against the bill because I felt it was too expansive and would have a negative financial impact on our state’s existing casinos and gaming sites. It is my hope that the expansion will be scaled back through language presented during veto session.

Smart Grid Legislation
In September, Governor Quinn vetoed Senate Bill 1652, which was approved by both chambers of the General Assembly earlier this year. The current utility grid in Illinois relies on technology created in the 1920’s. Energy demands and delivery technology have changed drastically in the last decade and this legislation would provide for millions of dollars of infrastructure improvements which would allow utility companies Ameren Illinois and Commonwealth Edison to significantly improve the usability and reliability of the electrical grid. The power outages associated with the severe weather experienced in this area a few months ago served as a prime example of how important it is to upgrade our grid. The bill did include a rate increase for consumers, but due to the implementation of “smart meters” consumers could save an estimated $2.8 billion on their electric bills over 20 years. I believe the savings potential would offset any rate increase and remain hopeful that the legislature and governor can reach consensus on this bill during veto session.

Sears Economic Development Area (EDA) Extension
In May, the House of Representatives approved Senate Bill 540 which deals with Tax Increment Finance Districts in Illinois. Hidden within an 11^th hour amendment to the bill in the final hours of our legislative session was a provision that would allow local municipalities to extend EDA agreements. During debate on the bill and amendments it was not mentioned that the only EDA in Illinois is Sears Holdings, Inc. in Hoffman Estates. As approved in the House, the bill would allow the Village of Hoffman Estates to extend their EDA agreement with Sears by another 15 years. While I favor providing incentives that would allow Sears to stay in Illinois, I believe extending the EDA as written in SB 540 is unfair to School District 300 and other public taxing bodies which rely on property taxes to support their public operations. The extension would take about $14 million in property taxes per year away from District 300. There are incentives available that would entice Sears to stay in Illinois while the school district could begin to collect the property taxes to which they are entitled. It is my hope that my colleagues in the Senate explore a fair compromise that benefits both Sears and District 300.

Expansions to the Illinois Transparency Portal (www.accountability.illinois.gov)
House Bill 3374 was approved by the House and is currently pending in the Senate. The bill, which I sponsored, would expand the Illinois transparency portal by providing direct access to a database of all current state grants, sorted by grantee name, the awarding agency, grant value, and the purpose for all grants awarded by the state. I also served as chief sponsor of House Bill 2915, which also passed through the House and is pending in the Senate. This bill would further expand the transparency portal to include members of the General Assembly in its database of current state employees and individual consultants. The bill provides that the database will also provide insurance and pension benefits information, General Assembly roll call votes, and a commenting interface so that individuals who cannot find what they are looking for can email the web master for assistance. It is my goal that the portal will continue to grow and ultimately become an incredibly valuable source of information for those interested in monitoring exactly how their tax dollars are spent. I hope that both bills will receive widespread bipartisan support in the Senate.

Governor’s Line–Item Veto of ROE Salaries
The governor line-item vetoed the $9.1 million appropriation for the FY12 regional superintendent and their assistants’ salaries and $2.25 million for regional office of education (ROE) services.   He believes that funding for the ROEs should come from local funds.  The fact is, Illinois statutes require that Regional Superintendents sign off on all GED certificates, on new teacher certificates, and on all school improvement projects. As long as the state mandates that Regional Superintendents perform certain functions, the State needs to fund those positions.

School District Transportation Appropriation Reduced
The Governor also used his line item veto power to reduce school districts’ transportation (busing) funding by approximately 23%. His decision is creating a hardship on school districts that are mandated to provide transportation services to students.  This appropriation reimburses school districts for the previous year’s expenditures and is critical to maintaining a safe and efficient local transportation program. It is my hope that this funding is reinstated.

Authorities Granted to the Illinois Tollway Board of Directors
The Illinois Tollway Board of Directors approved in August a $12 billion capital plan that includes $8.32 billion to fund improvements to the existing Tollway System and an additional $3.83 billion for new projects.  To fund the capital plan a toll rate increase was approved by a vote of 7-1.  The rates will increase between 40 cents to 75 cents. The cost of a car trip on the Tollway system for an average I-PASS customer will be $1.18 – up from today’s average of 63 cents per trip and an increase of $2.75 a week or $11.00 a month. Cash-paying passenger vehicles would continue to pay double the I-PASS rate. House Bill 3805 is currently in drafting stages, but it could be written to change the Illinois Tollway Board of Directors’ authority to set toll rates.

Enhanced Felony Penalties for Failure to Report a Child’s Disappearance
At least four bills have been introduced in response to an online petition to create “Caylee’s Law.”  Many are unhappy with the not-guilty verdict in the murder trial of Casey Anthony in the death of her 2-year-old daughter.  The sponsors of the bills believe that Anthony’s punishment for misleading authorities regarding Caylee’s disappearance was too light.  The online petition drive urges legislatures to enact felony penalties for parents/guardians who fail to report the death or disappearance of a child within a reasonable time.  The issue may be brought up during the Veto Session.

As always, it is a pleasure and honor to serve you as your Representative in Springfield. If I or a member of my staff may assist you in any way, please do not hesitate to call my Crystal Lake office at (815) 459-6453 or email me at mike@miketryon.com.

Various Ways To Gain Added Space

Building renovations and additions are in various stages in the Crystal Lake area.

The Crystal Lake Park District held a public hearing last week regarding the sale of $2.1 million in General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds, “….for the payment of land, condemned or purchased for parks, for the building, maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and the existing land and facilities of the district and for the payment of the expenses incident thereto (the “Bonds”) and facilities of the District and for the payment of the expenses incident thereto.”

A plan is in place for a facility, but final action on the contract with the company is contingent upon obtaining the necessary property. That is where the bond will be necessary in order to obtain the site and have sufficient funding to construct a building.

The location has not been revealed as yet.

According to discussions in the planning process regarding a building, consolidation of the spread out Park District facilities is desirable.

Other planning for expansion is McHenry County College with a meeting scheduled Tuesday morning (October 25) for a presentation on the facility master plan as well as an update on the Building B renovations.

The Crystal Lake Library has held meetings regarding how to use the space they have. The Library board is not planning to build additional space, but instead is looking at ways to make better use of the space already in place.

Government At Work

 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25—

8:00 a.m. – McHenry County College Facilities and Planning Committee --

Meeting in the MCC Board Room of the College, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake—

An update from Wright and Company on the Facility Master Plan is to be presented as well as an update on the Building B Renovations Conceptual Schematics by RucPate Architecture.

A discussion is slated regarding the DCEO Lighting Survey as well as of ISES Projects for Fiscal Year 2011.

In other than building matters, the Trustees are to discuss ISES Projects for Fiscal Year 2011.

Other topics on the agenda are Student Affairs Reorganization and a discussion of Furniture Donation.

An update is to be provided regarding land purchase

8:30 a.m. -  McHenry County Housing Commission—

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

In addition to a review of the staff report, a discussion is slated on HOME 2011 Funding Rounds is slated.

9:30 a.m. – McHenry County Board Finance and Audit Committee --

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

Land Acquisition for US 14 Improvements

A resolution is being presented approving Illinois Department of Transportation Land Acquisition for Improvements to U.S. 14. This is a small part of the property where the County Animal Control facility is location in Crystal Lake. The State has offered $53,400 for the parcel. This equates to $6.72 a square foot.

Intergovernmental Agreement Relative to Interstate 90 Interchange

A resolution is being presented approving an intergovernmental agreement between the Village of Huntley, Kane County and McHenry County for construction engineering services and construction for a full interchange on interstate 90 at Illinois Route 47.

McHenry County’s financial participation is estimated at $4,900,000 representing the county’s share plus 20% contingency and less the amount the County has already committed financial toward engineering. Funding is being provided as follows: $1,633,333.33 each from RTA Sale Tax fund for FY 2012; RTA Sales Tax Fund for FY 2013 and from RTA Sales Tax Fund for FY 2014.

Workforce Network Grant

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity approved the McHenry County Workforce Network’s grant application for a period of July 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012 providing for grants to laid off workers from seven companies involving McHenry County workers. The $134,907 grant is to serve the laid off workers in such areas as job search skills, resume writing, training through a certified service provider to gain or upgrade skills to become more employable.

The Committee will be considering the County’s insurance program for property and casualty insurance. The proposed budget for the FY 11-12 includes $905,660 for insurance premiums and related professional services. This could increase to $957,963 if all optional lines of coverage are selected. The County’s finances are reported to be able to cover this premium.

7:00 p.m. – Crystal Lake Public Library Planning and PR Committees—

Meeting in the Library Director’s Office of the Library at 126 West Paddock Street, Crystal Lake. This is a wrap up of the Strategic Planning Session regarding the library facilities.

7:00 p.m. – Lakewood Village Board –

Meeting in the RedTail Golf Club, 7900 RedTail Drive, Lakewood.

The Board is to consider approval of a letter to Support McHenry County’s Brownfield Grant Application with the USEPA.

Also being considered for approval is the 2012 Village Board meeting schedule.

A number of items are listed for discussion and include a motion to approve an ordinance amending a section of the Lakewood Zoning Code regarding accessory Building, Structures and Uses.

Another motion to be considered is regarding the scope of work from Dobbe Marketing & PR.

A motion is being requested to approve the low bid for Spillway repairs for KM Holy Construction, Inc. in the Amount of $104,000.