Saturday, October 20, 2012

MCC Theater Provides A Shakespeare Comedy

Set in the golden age of Hollywood during the 1930’s, the lovely and plucky Viola disguises herself as a man to protect her honor in this strange land and finds employment as a page in the court of the lovesick Duke Orsino. But just as Viola falls in love with her new boss, the beautiful Olivia—whom Orsino is pursuing—finds herself attracted to this new young man, who’s really Viola in disguise. Meanwhile, the servant Maria and the drunken Sir Toby Belch conspire to enact a riotous revenge on the hilariously presumptuous servant Malvolvio. This magical comedy is filled with Shakespeare’s most indelible comedic characters and sidesplitting situations.

The cast features Shelby Conrad and Sally Weiss, both of McHenry; Lauren Freund, Jacob Garcher and Joe Rice, all of Woodstock; Mary Grzenia of Lake in the Hills, Klarissa Goggin, Tyler Kahanec, and Brianna McDevitt, all of Spring Grove; Cody Oates of Huntley, Elino Pucci of Harvard, and Jacqui Schmidt and Nathan Camacho, both of Algonquin.


Twelfth Night is directed by Jay Geller of Kildeer, with set design by Barry Norton of Cary, lighting by Rick Amundsen of Woodstock, costume design by Tish Lyon of Woodstock. Stage manager is Amber Vanderwyst of Woodstock.


Tickets are $15 for the general public and $10 for MCC students, faculty and staff, alumni and senior citizens.


Tickets may be reserved by phone at (815) 455-8746 or by email at
jgeller@mchenry.edu. The Black Box Theatre at McHenry County College is located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake

Documentary Regarding Doctors Without Borders

On Wednesday, October 24th, McHenry County College Student Peace Action Network (SPAN) is hosting the showing of a dramatic documentary "Living in Emergency: Stories of Doctors Without Borders."

This event will be held in B166-167 from 4-6:00 pm. Come join u
s!

Words Of Wisdom

"No people will tamely surrender their Liberties, nor can any be easily subdued, when knowledge is diffusd and Virtue is preservd. On the Contrary, when People are universally ignorant, and debauchd in their Manners, they will sink under their own weight without the Aid of foreign Invaders."


 --Samuel Adams

Friday, October 19, 2012

MCC Ceramics Student Wins Best Of Show

MCC ceramics student MaryLou Mateja of Woodstock won Best of Show and Peer Choice awards and art instructor Tom Vician won Best Sculpture at the Clayworkers’ Guild of Illinois 12th Annual Members Show at the Old Courthouse Arts Center in Woodstock. Above, MaryLou puts some finishing touches on a lion cub clay sculpture during a recent ceramics class.

 Mateja and Vician, along with 15 other MCC students, are exhibiting their work at the old courthouse through November. 4. 

The exhibition provides an opportunity for Clayworkers’ Guild members to showcase their work and for community members to purchase items from local potters. Other MCC student artists participating in the show include Regina Lombardo, Susan Clough and Mary O’Meara, all of Crystal Lake; Belen Ashley of Fox River Grove, Patt Mills of Harvard, Kimmy Martinez of Hebron, Elaine Kadakia of Huntley, Michael Oeffling and Doug Webster, both of Johnsburg; Josie Rochell of Lakewood, Molly Tait and Andy Lechner, both of McHenry; Erica Wilson of Port Barrington, Trish Vollkommer and Ken Williams, both of Woodstock.

The show was juried by Emily Reason, a professional potter from Marshall, North Carolina. She is the author of “Ceramics for Beginners: Wheel Throwing,” published by Lark Books, 2010. She exhibits her work nationally and teaches pottery workshops around the country.

The Clayworkers’ Guild of Illinois is an organization of craftsmen and artists who use clay as an expressive medium. The guild strives to aid, encourage, advise, and work together to support each other’s endeavors. Through its various activities the clayworkers’ guild serves the community by supporting exhibits and workshops, for both its membership and the public, in all aspect of ceramics and related arts.  The guild hosts several activities during the calendar year including workshops, gallery shows, and annual sales of works in clay. 

The Clayworkers’ Guild also promotes the Ryan Long scholarship fund at MCC.  The guild also participates in the Empty Bowl fundraiser each year. This regional event helps raise money for the homeless.

The Old Court House Arts Center hours are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (815) 338-4525 or visit the Old Court House website at www.oldcourthouseartscenter.com.

REMINDER


From McHenry County Clerk, Katherine C. Schultz::

State law allows a “Grace Period” for people t register to vote between October 10 and November 3 for the upcoming November 6 General Election.

Individuals may register in –person during normal office hours at the County Clerk’s Office, County administration building, 667 Ware Road, Room 107, Woodstock.

However, people who register to vote during this time, must vote in the County Clerk’s Office at the time they register. The clerk’s Office is open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. People who register during the “grace period” are not eligible to vote at their precinct polling place on November 6.

The official deadline to register to vote was October 9th.

To be eligible to vote, a person must be a US citizen, 18 years old by Election Day and a resident of the precinct for at least 30 days prior to Election Day. Two (2) forms of ID are necessary both with their name and one (1) with their current address.

For more information about grace period registration contact the County Clerk’s office at 815-334-4242.


Walkup Road Work Update

Sod is being placed along many of the driveways at the northern limits and work has started on the surface placement on driveways.  Traffic is being shifted from Raintree Drive south onto the recently placed asphalt.  Earth excavation and storm sewer installation will continue next week in preparation for the stone and curb placement.

South section:
Asphalt is being placed from Talismon Drive to Burning Bush in anticipation of the traffic lane shifting scheduled for early next week.

Work continues on the retaining wall being constructed along Veteran Acres park with the first concrete placement expected late next week.  The retaining wall along IL 176 in front of the shopping center is also progressing and should be completed late next week.  Backfill placement and final grading for stone placement will then follow.


On the east leg on IL 176 new curb will be poured on
Monday 10/22 with asphalt placement scheduled for mid-week next week.  This will then allow lane shifting on the north leg of Walkup in the coming weeks.

As always please drive carefully, slow down, watch for workers, and remember cell phone use is prohibited in construction zones.

Next Flu Shot Clinic -- October 22

Protect self, family during flu season

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) encourages an annual flu shot for everyone 6 months and older as the best protection against influenza.  The next walk-in flu clinic for adults and children 9 years and older is scheduled for Monday, October 22, from 4pm-6pm, at the Crystal Lake office, 100 N Virginia Street. The cost is $30; Medicaid and Medicare Part B accepted.

Call 815-334-4510 for more information.


Flu is a serious and contagious illness – even healthy people can get it.  As the flu season is long and unpredictable, the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting a flu shot before flu season begins as it takes 2 weeks for antibodies to develop to provide protection.


A flu shot protects not only you but those around you like pregnant women, young children, people with chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, heart disease) and people 65 and older who are especially at risk for complications from the flu.  Simple ways to protect yourself also include covering your cough, washing your hands and staying home when sick. 


For more flu information, visit
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/. Get the latest McHenry County health information at www.mcdh.info, on Facebook and Twitter www.twitter.com/mchenrycohealth

Green Living Expo

How green is your life? Discover how to create a more energy efficient household and make your lifestyle more earth-friendly at the 5th annual Green Living Expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3 at McHenry County College in the Gym/Multi-Purpose Room, located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake.

More than 50 local green businesses and organizations will help residents explore eco-friendly products and services for the household, including how to naturalize your landscape and find green gift ideas for holiday shopping.

Highlights include demos by Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen and Citizen’s Utility Board, along with free drawings for eco-friendly products throughout the day.

The Green Living Expo is free and open to the public. Food will be served by MCC Culinary Program students. The event is sponsored by McHenry County College with support from the McHenry County Conservation District.

For more information, contact Pat Dieckhoff at (815) 479-7817 or Kristine Emrich at (815) 479-7570 or visit www.mcecoconference.org


DUI Nets Four Year Prison Sentence

Louis A. Bianchi, McHenry County State’s Attorney, announces that Tammy Newsome, 49, of Lake in the Hills, was sentenced today to four years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for the class 2 felony offense of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.

The Defendant pled guilty in May to driving on McHenry Avenue and Randall Road, near Crystal Lake, while under the influence of alcohol. When officers attempted to stop her, she fled, but was apprehended at Alexandra Boulevard. 

In sentencing her to the Department of Corrections, the Court declined to impose the minimum three-year term. Instead, the Court found that the defendant’s conduct posed a serious risk of harm to the officers involved in her pursuit, and that a lesser sentence would threaten public safety. This case was investigated by the Crystal Lake Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorney Matt Ciesielski

Words Of Wisdom

"Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual -- or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country."
--Samuel Adams


Thursday, October 18, 2012

Driving Under Influence of Alcohol Nets Four Years Incarceration

Louis A. Bianchi, McHenry County State’s Attorney, announces that Tammy Newsome, 49, of Lake in the Hills, was sentenced today to four years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for the class 2 felony offense of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.

The Defendant pled guilty in May to driving on McHenry Avenue and Randall Road, near Crystal Lake, while under the influence of alcohol. When officers attempted to stop her, she fled, but was apprehended at Alexandra Boulevard. 

In sentencing her to the Department of Corrections, the Court declined to impose the minimum three-year term. Instead, the Court found that the defendant’s conduct posed a serious risk of harm to the officers involved in her pursuit, and that a lesser sentence would threaten public safety. This case was investigated by the Crystal Lake Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorney Matt Ciesielski.

Hakkiween Bash For the Hounds

Hound Town Halloween Bash (all ages), Sunday, October 21, 2-4 pm at Hound Town at Lippold Park.

Lippold Park is located on Route 176. Enter at the first entrance, just west of Route 14, park in the first lot and follow the Hound Town signs.


Pre-registration is not required for this free event.  Bring your special dog dressed in Halloween attire and come for an afternoon of fun and doggy trick or treating. Pet owners are welcome to bring treats to share with all our furry ghosts and goblins. You do not need to be a member of Hound Town to participate in this special event!  Over 15 animal related businesses and organizations will be on hand to distribute Halloween treats for both dogs and their human friends.


This free event is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors: Chiro One, Brush with Greatness, Whispering Winds Kennels, McHenry County Animal Control, Gypsy Glen K-9 Kastle, Aldens Kennels, Yuppy Puppy Grooming, RFP Photography, Pampered Tails, Pet Care to the Rescue, Dunkin' Donuts, Polite Puppy Paws, Invisible Fence and Star 105.5, On Angel's Wings, and Scoopy Doo.  Contact Connie Cooke at (815) 459-0680, ext.213.

NOTICE -- Saturday Animal Control Event Cancelled

The previously scheduled microchip and rabies vaccination event scheduled by the McHenry County Animal Control & Adoption Center for Saturday has been cancelled. 

NOTICE -- PARK BOARD MEETING CANCELLATION

The meeting of the Crystal Lake Park District Board scheduled for this evening has been cancelled.

The meeting is rescheduled for 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 25 at the Park District offices, 1 East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake

Words Of Wisdom

"If our country, when pressed with wrongs at the point of the bayonet, had been governed by its heads instead of its hearts, where should we have been now? Hanging on a gallows as high as Haman's."


--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Maria Cosway, 1786



Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Government At Work

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18--
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 conducting interviews of Alex Wimmer and Angeline Reeks for the Housing Commission.


Also to be considered are the reappointment of John Heider to the Greenwood Drainage District and Reappointment of Richard Kelly as Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman.


A number of reports will be considered including the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, Community Development Block Grant, Historic Preservation Commission and Housing Commission.


7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park Board of Commissioners –


Meeting in the Administrative Office, One East Crystal Lake Avenue.

In addition to the necessary matters of approving the minutes of prior meetings, and approval of voucher lists, and providing an opportunity for public comments, a presentation is being made by the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce.

A presentation is also being made of the audit report with the Board being requested to accept the 2012 Comprehensive Annual Report.

Matters on the consent agenda include:

Request by Crystal Lake Anglers for their fishing derby
Northwest Trail Run request
Frosty 50K and 10K run – MUDD Event Request
 Earth Day 50K/Relay – MUDD Event Request

New Business matters include:
Revised Capital Asset Policy’
Tax Levy – Determination of Funds
Veteran Acres Entrance Sign Approval
Veteran Acres Park Lot Entrance Relocation and Emergency Driveway Paving Project

Real Life Dramatic Documentary

On Wednesday, October 24th McHenry County College Student Peace Action Network (SPAN) is hosting the showing of the dramatic documentary "Living in Emergency: Stories of Doctors Without Borders." It will be held at McHenry County College, Room B166-167 from 4-6:00 pm. Come join us!

Words Of Wisdom

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


 --Thomas Jefferson

Government At Work

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17—
8:15 a.m. – McHenry County Board Transportation Committee –
Meeting in the Division of Transportation – Main Conference Room, 16111 Nelson Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to be provided a presentation regarding private nondedicated roads.


Eight resolutions are to be considered by the Committee. Most of these provide for funding for various projects including:


  • Appropriating Funds for Roadway Lighting and Traffic Signal Electrical Power
  • Awarding a Contract for FY2013 Traffic Signal and Highway Lighting Maintenance Contract and Appropriating Funds.
  • Accepting Sign Material Bids and Appropriating Funds
  • Appropriating Funds for Additional Thermoplastic Pavement Markings
  • To Provide On-Call Professional Bridge Design Services and Appropriating Funds
  • Adopting McHenry County Snow & Ice Control Policy
  • Appropriating Funds for Ice Control Maintenance Materials
Also an Ordinance Adopting the Establishment of an Altered Speed Zone

A resolution is also being presented for committee consideration setting the committee meeting dates for 2013 which are to be the first and third Wednesday of each month at 8:15 a.m. at the Division of Transportation,


9:00 a.m. –McHenry County Board Staff Plat Committee –
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to review the Hennings East Subdivision (partial) Vacation


1:30 p.m. – McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals—
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

Hearing on Commonwealth Edison Company/Krueger Tower Inc. The property in question is located in Nunda Township. A conditional Use Permit is requested to erect a new 375-foot high tower, which is in excess of the maximum 75-foot height, on the property in question.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

McHenry County Government To Collect Less Than Allowed

The McHenry County proposed budget for the fiscal year December 1, 2012 through November 30, 2013 has been placed on public view following Tuesday night’s County Board meeting.

This budget is expected to be adopted by the Board at its Tuesday, November 20 meeting.


In developing the FY13 Budget, McHenry County maintained the professional conservative approach to budgeting that earned an Aaa bond rating from Moody’s Investor Services. The County is one of only three Illinois counties to have earned this distinction. Lake and DuPage Counties are the other two counties.


The McHenry County Board directed staff not to capture the allowable inflationary growth in the property tax extension. As a result, the County is collecting $2.3 million less than is allowable under the tax cap law.


The proposed FY13 budget is $252,079,699. This compares to the current FY12 Budget which was approved at $256,714,170.


The revenue environment for the County continues to be challenging with a corresponding control on expenses.


Although the budget is less than the previous year’s budget, there are no dramatic cuts to services, but as in recent years, there are adjustments and reductions in almost all areas of County Government.


The proposed FY13 Budget maintains compensation parity between union and non-union employees


Through an active management of the employee roster, there are 83 positions that have now been eliminated since 2009 and 19 positions have been added to the roster through consolidation and rethinking responsibilities. The result is 64 fewer positions than three years ago.


A copy of the proposed McHenry County FY13 Budget can be found in the County Clerk’s Office or on the
  County website at www.co.mchenry.il.us under “Quick Links”.


It's Leaf Pickup Time

MDC Environmental Services will be responsible for the Annual Leaf Pick-Up Program. In Crystal Lake now underway and  through Friday, December 14, 2012,.

MDC crews will collect bagged leaves placed at the curbside in front of all residents’ homes along public streets. The bags must be placed on the parkway before 7:00 a.m. on the normal trash collection day. The Leaf Pick-Up Program is being offered at no additional fee.


Leaves must be placed in biodegradable paper bags in order to be collected. Paper leaf bags are available at local grocery and hardware stores. Neither the City nor MDC provides leaf bags.


There is a 50 pound maximum per bag. Be aware that wet leaves will add to the weight of the bag. Leaves placed in other containers such as plastic bags, garbage cans or boxes, or in bags too large for one person to handle, cannot be accepted.


Questions regarding the Leaf Pick-Up Program can be directed to MDC Environmental Services at (815) 568-7274 or the Crystal Lake Streets Division at (815) 356-3700 ext. 4019.

Necessary Expenses

Wastewater Treatment
Getting rid of the wastewater is not cheap.

In order to dispose of wastewater properly, it is necessary to use certain chemicals as a dewatering aid during the final phase of solids processing. Bids were requested for cationic polymer used at wastewater treatment plant No. 2 and anionic polymer used at wastewater treatment plant No. 3. Three bids were received, with the lowest responsible bidder being Polydyne, Inc. of Riceboro, GA. The price per pound of Cationic polymer, as provided by Polydyne ranges from 98 cents per pound in 2013 to $1.08 per pound in 2015.


The price for the Anionic polymer ranges from 90 cents per pound in 2013 to 99 center per pound in 2015.
Last year the City utilized 77,000 pounds of cationic polymer at Plant No. 2 and 4,816 pounds of anionic polymer at Plant No. 3.

Additionally, Liquid Aluminum Sulfate, known as ALUM, is used in the wastewater treatment process. During the last year the City used 450 dry tons of ALUM at a price of $445 per dry ton.


The Council is being requested to award a contract for ALUM to the lowest responsible, responsive bidder USALCO Michigan Plant, LLC in the amount of $459.90 per dry ton.


Preparing For Winter
The Council is being requested to approve awarding a bid for the provision of Liquid Anti-Icing and De-Icing Chemicals to the lowest responsible, responsive bidder, Industrial Systems Ltd.

The Public Works Department estimates 15,000 gallons of organic anti-icing chemical and 10,000 gallons of calcium Chloride will be needed for snow and ice control this winter.


The lowest responsible and responsive bidder for these products is Industrial Systems Ltd., Lakemoor with a bid of 99 cents per gallon of Organic Chemical and 56 cents per gallon for Calcium Chloride for a total of $20,450.


Also in line of preparing for winter, the Council is being requested to award a bid for parking lot snow removal and salting services. Bids were requested for this service with KCG Management, Belvidere being the lowest responsive, responsible bidder for this contract. The successful bidder, KCG Management. Belvidere, provided a bid price ranging from $1,850
  per push for 1 to 3 inch snow to $2,030 for a12 inch snow, which provide an average of $1,974.

Well Preventative Maintenance and Rehabilitation
Well No. 6, located at Water Treatment Plant #2 was last services three years ago and has shown a 40 percent decline in production. Maintenance requires the removal of the well pump for inspection and repair. The lowest responsive and responsible proposer for the work is Water Well Solutions, Elburn for a total bid of $146,864.

Painting at Wastewater Treatment Plant #3
The Clarifier Domes located at each of the city’s two wastewater treatment plants cover various tanks. These domes prevent freezing during the winter months and provide odor control. Painting the domes every 10 to 15 years protect the fiberglass from UV radiation and prolong the life of the domes, The dome at Wastewater Treatment Plant No. 3 (Knaack Blvd have not been painted since their installation in 1994. The lowest responsive, responsible bidder for the work was International Decorating, Inc. in an amount of $20,166.

These are matters before the City Council tonight for approval.

SSI Benefits Increase

Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for nearly 62 million Americans will increase 1.7 (one point seven) percent in 2013, the Social Security Administration announced today.

The 1.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that more than 56 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2013.
  Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 31, 2012.

Some other changes that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages.
  Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $113,700 from $110,100.  Of the estimated 163 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2013, nearly 10 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum.

Information about Medicare changes for 2013, when announced, will be available at www.Medicare.gov.
  For some beneficiaries, their Social Security increase may be partially or completely offset by increases in Medicare premiums.

The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated.
  To read more, please visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/cola/
 

NOTICE -- CANCELLATION--

McHenry County Animal Control & Adoption Center has cancelled its previously scheduled microchip and rabies vaccination event for Saturday, October 20, 11am-1:30pm, at its Crystal Lake facility (100 N Virginia Street).

Government At Work

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16 –

6:00 p.m. – High School District 155 Board Policy Committee –
Meeting in the District Office, 1 South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake.

The Committee is to discuss Athletic Clubs. The policy is being amended to add language allowing the district to participate in an emerging sports agreement with the IHSA.

Following the Policy Committee, the Operations Committee –
Will meet in the same location.

Considerations will include
403b Plan Changes
Snow Removal Bid Results
Facility Review
Cary-Grove Fine Arts Foundation Update
Any other matters that may come before the Committee.

6:00 p.m. – McHenry County Board Finance & Audit Committee –
Meeting in the County Boar Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The Committee is to consider an Ordinance Providing for the Levy of Taxes for McHenry County for the Fiscal Year December 1, 2012 through November 30 2013.

Also to be considered is the Annual Budget and Appropriations Ordinance for the County for the fiscal year December 1 2012 through November 30, 2013.

6:30 p.m. – McHenry County College Board of Trustees –
Meeting in the College Board Room, McHenry County College, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake.

The Board is to consider the Fiscal Year 2012 Audit and Management Letter. Also for consideration is a request for emergency repairs to sanitary sewer pipe under Parking Lot B.
Also for consideration is consideration of Chargeback.

7:00 p.m. – McHenry County Board –
Meeting in the County Board Room, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

A number of special recognition and reports are being presented the Board. Included is recognition from the American Planning Association - Illinois Chapter Best Strategic Plan Award for McHenry County Green Infrastructure Plan.

Proclamation Designating October 19 as Senior Services Associates, Inc. Day

Proclamation To Recognize All McHenry County Emergency Management Volunteers for their Thousands of House of Dedication to Emergency Management for the Citizens of McHenry County.

One zoning matter is on the Zoning Board of Appeals consent agenda. This is for McGuire Constant Trust in Grafton Township

The Board is expected to approve a $78,580,000 Levy for the coming year.

7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake City Council –
Meeting in the Crystal Lake City Council, 100 West Woodstock Street.

Crystal Lake Manor Property Annexations
Six of seven Crystal Lake Manor properties to be annexed to the City will be continued for public hearings. One property at 4914 State Street is being presented to the Council for approval of annexation. 

Festival of Lights Parade –
It’s time for the annual Festival of Lights Parade on November 23 beginning at 5:30p.m.  Parking restrictions are being requested for Council approval for this evening. This will include both sides of Caroline Street between Woodstock Street and Crystal Lake Avenue, on both sides of Paddock Street between Williams Street and Walkup Avenue; and the first two parking spaces on the east side of Grant Street just north of Crystal Lake Avenue.

Objection To Proposed County Zoning Change—
David Hinz, owner and Mixed Media, LLC, of property located at 10216 Route 31, Algonquin, is seeking a variation to allow a sign that is greater than 150 square feet in areas to be setback 65 feet from the residential zoning t the east instead of the County required 100 –foot setback from residential zoning.

This property is in the mile and one –half of the City’s planning jurisdiction. The Council is being requested to approve the objection of the City at the zoning hearing to be held by the County Zoning Board of Appeals on October 18 at 9:00 a.m.

New Retailer Job Creating and Investment Matching Grant
Crystal Lake Furniture & Mattress, 18E Crystal Lake Plaza is requesting a $10,000 matching grant for furniture, fixtures and equipment at 18E Crystal Lake Plaza. The business is planning to expand by moving from the current location in Prairie Grove. The new location was formerly occupied by Thomasville Furniture.

Special Use Permit for 235 Crystal Ridge Drive
The Council is being requested to approve an ordinance granting a special use permit for a pool and deck at 235 Crystal Ridge Drive. The request is recommended for approval by the Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission.

Sea Level Diving Variations
Sea Level Diving, located at 296 Liberty Drive is requesting several variations for their planned project to be located at the Liberty Drive location. These variations include deferral of required sidewalk installation until an area wide program is established. The second is a variation from the requirement to install curbing around the parking lot, and the third request is variation from the requirement to have a landscape island at the end of the parking row on the south side and from the requirement to have a landscape island every 10 spaces. According to the petitioner, sidewalk does not exist on either side of the lot, and there are only 11 parking spaces planned.

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the petitioner’s sidewalk deferral request. The Commission also recommended approval of the petitioner’s other two requests, adopting an ordinance granting the variation from the curbing and the landscape islands at this location.

Wickenkamp Residential Variation
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the request for a variation t allow a covered front porch to encroach 10.8 feet into the required 25.5 foot average front yard setback.

Nagel Simplified Residential Variation
The petitioner is requesting a variation to allow an addition to the residence to encroach into the required front setback and be as close as 10 feet from the front property line instead of the required 35.5 feet.

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the request. If the Council has a different opinion, a super majority vote –five votes- - is required to overturn the Planning Commission recommendation.

Harkins Special Use Permit
Redmond Harkins, 73 Lincoln Parkway, desires to build a garage with a full basement on the property.

The Planning –Zoning Commission expressed the opinion that the garage is too large and out of character for the neighborhood. If the Council disagrees and feels that the garage should be constructed, a number of conditions are recommended including, the structure may not be used for living quarters, along with a number of conditions related to placement the garage and size.

The petitioner discussed the requirements with the Building Division  with the decision being made that the floor will be precast concrete with a membrane on top and an added two inches of concrete on the membrane; also the installation of a floor drain to trap any oil, gas, water, etc that might leak onto the floor.

Five positive votes are required by the Council to overturn the Planning Commission negative recommendation.

Traffic Control Options for East Crystal Lake Avenue –
This topic is for discussion only. Additional measures are needed to address concerns related to a median that was required at the East Street intersection near the tracks.

Fall Parkway Tree Planting
The Council is being requested to approve a bid for the purchase of services for the Fall tree planting program. The successful bidder is to supply 167 trees of various species including Emerald Luster Maple, Red Sunset Maple, Norwegian sunset Maple, Green Spire Little Leaf Linden, Honey Locust, Hackberry, and Trident Maple, or equivalents. The successful bidder, Wilson Nurseries, Hampshire, submitted a bid of $11,143.50 for the delivery of the 167 trees to the Municipal Complex.

Maintenance of City Property
A number of bids are being presented for Council approval, all connected with maintenance of City property, include such as bids for bids for snow and ice removal, awarding bids for repair work on a well, painting of wastewater treatment clarifier domes; water treatment contracts.

Government At Work

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16 –
8:30 a.m. – McHenry County Housing Commission –
Meeting in the Planning and Development Conference Room, McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

Following committee reports, the Commission is to consider Web Page matters, followed by discussion regarding commissioners reaching out to municiplities.


10:00 a.m. – McHenry County Commission Executive Committee –

Meeting in the McHenry County Planning and Development Department Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The Commission’s to consider a presentation held with the Education Committee.


Words Of Wisdom

"It is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth -- and listen to the song of that syren, till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty?"


--Patrick Henry

Monday, October 15, 2012

More West Nile Virus Cases

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reports four more human cases of West Nile virus (WNV). Not since 2007 has the County seen this many cases of human West Nile virus.  Individuals affected range in age from 61-70 from the communities of Lake in the Hills, Woodstock and Cary.  Three of the residents were hospitalized, with two having the more serious illnesses of encephalitis and meningitis, but all have since returned home.

Earlier, MCDH reported a 56 year old from Cary who was not hospitalized and has since recovered.  A single case of human WNV was reported in each of the last two years in McHenry County during the months of August, September and October.  The State Health Department has recorded 185 human cases in 2012, including 7 deaths, as compared to 34 human cases and 3 deaths in 2011.

Illness from West Nile virus is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches but serious illnesses, such as encephalitis, meningitis and death, are possible. 


Contact your healthcare provider should you exhibit these symptoms.  Illness can occur 3-15 days after an infected mosquito bite.  The disease can affect all ages, but persons 50 and older have the highest risk of severe disease.


For more information on WNV, visit
www.mcdh.info (Environmental Health) or call 815-334-4585.

Words Of Wisdom

"It is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth -- and listen to the song of that syren, till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty?"


--Patrick Henry

Sunday, October 14, 2012

And The Beat Goes On ---

North Section Walkup Road—
Early this coming week, traffic will be shifted to the newly placed asphalt lane.
Topsoil, seed, and erosion blanket placement has begun in the right-of-way.
Earth excavation has begun in South Section

South Section Walkup Road ---

On Illinois Route 176, stone base placement has begun in preparation for curb installation. Work continues on the retaining wall in front of the shopping complex west of Walkup on Route 176.
On Walkup Road, stone base placement has begun in preparation for asphalt placement next week.

Government At Work

MONDAY, OCTOBER 15 –
12:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Public Library Facilities Committee –
Meeting in the Assistant Director Office, Crystal Lake Public Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.

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

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


A review of the draft Unified Development Ordinance is to take place.


5:00 p.m. –McHenry County Mental Health Board Executive/Personnel Committee—

Meeting in the Main Floor Conference Rom of the Mental Health Board Facility, 620 Dakota Street, Crystal Lake.


The agenda calls for a closed meeting to review the Executive Director Performance/Contract. Also for the purpose of Legal Counsel Review, and an
Executive job description review.

Action related to the reviews is listed as special compensation and board appointed duties.

The Board is also to consider FY13 Pay For Performance and Wage/Salary Adjustments along with Education benefits discussion and one time action for FY12.


6:00 p.m. – McHenry County Mental Health Board –
Meeting in the same location as above.

Following the approval of prior meeting minutes, and October Board Meeting Events, an Update and Presentation on Behavioral Health Foundation is scheduled.

Consideration is to be given to a Letter of Resignation from the Board as received from Fr. Jim Swarthout.


A report from Executive Director Sandy Lewis will be received and considered.


Also a report from the Executive/Personnel Committee and the Treasurer’s Report.

Numerous matters concerning various contracts are also included on the Consent Agenda.


6:00 p.m. – District 47 Special Board Meeting --\
Meeting in Bernotas Middle School, 170 N. Oak Street, Crystal Lake.
The Board is meeting in executive session regarding personnel.

6:30 p.m. – McHenry County College Board of Trustees Evaluation and Policies Committee  
Meeting in the Board Room of the College, 8900 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake.
The Board is to review a section of the Board Policy Manual, hear an Internal policy Committee Update, and consider any future Agenda items before adjourning.

7:00 p.m. – District 47 Board –
Meeting in Bernotas Middle School, 170 N. Oak Street, Crystal Lake.
In addition to adopting a Proclamation regarding American Education Week taking place November 11-17, the Board will consider the usual matters of bill payment, district contracts, and disposal of district surplus.

The Board is expected to hold discussion regarding the 2013-2014 school calendar, approve Character Education,

The Board is also reviewing sections of the District Policy Manual before going into Executive Session for Personnel Review and Land Acquisition.

Words Of Wisdom

"Nothing is more certain than that a general profligacy and corruption of manners make a people ripe for destruction. A good form of government may hold the rotten materials together for some time, but beyond a certain pitch, even the best constitution will be ineffectual, and slavery must ensue."

--John Witherspoon, The Dominion of Providence Over the Passions of Men, 1776