McHenry County Blog

A press release from the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water:

Endorsements

In preparation for the upcoming election on November 6, The Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water (ALAW) has surveyed and interviewed County Board candidates on environmental issues. We are focused specifically on their understanding of the complex relationship of land use to the preservation of open space, agriculture and water resources.

Our non-partisan recommendations for this election are:

• District 1: No recommendations
• District 2: Donna Kurtz, Jim Heisler, Carolyn Schofield, Jim Roden;
• District 3: Michael Walkup;
• District 4: John Hammerand;
• District 5: John Jung Jr., Paula Yensen;
• District 6: Ersel Schuster, Diane Evertsen.

Copies of the survey for each candidate are available on our web site at https://sites.google.com/site/landagricultureandwater

We would like to remind you that “vote for not more than four” does not mean you cannot limit your vote to one, two or three candidates.

ALAW encourages all registered voters to exercise their right to vote this election.

Patricia Kennedy, President
Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water

= = = = =
Fourteen candidates answered the organization’s questionnaire last spring.

The answers filled out below were filed by District 5 McHenry County Board member Virginia Peschke. They are to the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water’s Questionnaire.

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas?  Yes

2. If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry in the County?  Yes

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are passed on to the existing taxpayers?  Yes

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity? Yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision? Yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater?  No

4. In your opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water? No

C. The Role of County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance?  No

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities? No

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships?  No

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors? ?

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents?  No

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is
assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your constituents to this extent?

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.)  Yes

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site? Yes

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries?  Yes

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.?  No

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response report. (please add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local
agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective two-way communication. (50 words)

I am the voting representative on the Board of Health and report back to the Health and Human Services Committee. Likewise I report on activities of the Agriculture Presentation Committee (ACE) to the Health Committee. I serve on the Housing Commission, which is a County entity. Sue Draffkorn reports to CDBG and P&D on Housing Commission matters.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

I serve on the Agriculture Preservation Committee and am working with municipalities to contract for transfer of development rights until we can get state authorization to initiate TDR or and permission to set a referendum on funding to purchase development rights from farmers. As a Board Member of the Land Conservancy I work to promote easement donations from farmers to preserve agriculture in perpetuity.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

No. Our Comprehensive Plan should prohibit this. As a member of the 2020 Land Use Plan Commission, I voted to prohibit this.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

Both Alden and Fleming Roads need to be rebuilt, but the decision to widen them is dependent on whether the widening is necessary for safety or to protect groundwater pollution by controlling runoff.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

Protection of the rights of neighbors to the peaceful enjoyment of their property is a primary consideration in zoning matters.

6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

I have served on the County Board for almost 20 years, which has given me an excellent historical background to support my analysis of the issues. Prior to being elected in 1990, I served as a municipal ZBA member and Village Trustee, giving me an understanding of municipal considerations.

District 2′s Tom Wilbeck replies to the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water’s Questionnaire below:

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas?  yes

2. If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry in the County? yes

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are passed on to the existing taxpayers? This really depends upon each individual development agreement. Each case needs to be studied.

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity?
yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision?
yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater? Yes – but this needs further study

4. In your opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water? no

C. The Role of County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance? no

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities? no

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships? no

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors? yes

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents? no

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your constituents to this extent? Yes and more

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.) yes

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site? yes

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries? no

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.? no

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response report. (please add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective two-way communication. (50 words)

A cooperative liaison relationship with external state and local agencies is a positive and an important objective for the citizens of McHenry County. We need to work and learn from such relationships to provide practical leadership. Information should be shared via the county web site.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

I feel that the County Water Resources Department is doing a fine job and I support the continuation of the departments’ efforts. Conservation of agricultural lands and groundwater resources is of extreme importance. We need to continually update the Action Plan to secure future needs.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

We need to attract economic development any way that we can. We need to utilize what is currently available for future economic growth. We need to continually assess the benefits and corresponding results of this funding. Changes should be made as needed.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

I think that all roads need to be maintained for the benefit of the residents that frequently use them. The voices of the local affected residents need to be heard and action should follow their directives. The recent Fleming Road outcry is a perfect example of listening to the affected people.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

Being elected to “represent” people is the foundation of elected office. You must listen to the people that will be affected by such decisions. I will provide the opportunity to my constituents to hold bi-monthly meetings to get feedback on all issues.

6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

I have real world, practical experience and qualifications in business. This knowledge will continue to be very valuable as we try to streamline government.
 Being a successful financial sales professional, I have been trained to listen to gather facts, to propose and get agreement to provide solutions based upon those facts. This IS what I bring to this candidacy.
I do not believe in controversy in public service, but rather we need candidates who offer practical solutions, can work nicely with others in the sandbox, and the work ethic to follow through and make things happen.

Public service provides an avenue to help others and the community with issues and problems that are important to them. My number one goal is to help better my community while keeping a close eye on spending and taxes because in this economy we cannot afford the  tax increases that occurred in 2011.

Here’s where you can read the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water Questionnaire answers from District 5 Green Party candidate Frank Wedig.

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas? YES

2. If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry in the County? YES

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are passed on to the existing taxpayers? YES

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity? YES

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision? YES

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater? NO

4. In your opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water? NO

C. The Role of County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance? YES

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities? NO

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships? YES. I am a huge fan of public transportation. Cities and Townships are too small to effectively manage public transportation issues. County Government has the scale and scope to optimize those decisions.

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors? YES

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents? NO

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your
constituents to this extent? YES

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.) YES

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site? YES

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries? NO

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the NO
amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.? NO

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response report. (please add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective two-way communication. (50 words)

All liaison activities should be open and totally transparent.

The County Government should engage any local organization that is of sufficient size and has local support. The Board should be receptive to all community involvement. The local agency should have publicly stated goals and be in the public interest.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

I would use zoning laws to keep agricultural land available for agriculture. Development should be encouraged within municipal boundaries where infrastructure already exists. If development occurs on agricultural land, I would make sure that all infrastructure and related costs are paid by the developers.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

Adding administrative departments and bureaucracy is rarely a good investment of taxpayer money. I support having sufficient staff to effectively handle inquires by firms interested in doing business in the County. We do not need a separate commission as, private consultants already advise companies about where to locate.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

No, absolutely not. There are enough roads in the County that need repairs within their existing
footprints. The “build it, build anything and they will come” attitude has to stop. It is wasteful both economically and environmentally and is unsustainable.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

Public comment should be encouraged and be recorded (tabulated) in an open and transparent manner. Meetings regarding zoning decisions should be highly publicized well in advance. I would weigh the opinions of citizens heavily when making my decisions.

6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

I am detail oriented and will consider economic and environmental sustainability of decisions made by the Board. My focus would be on total transparency and disclosure as advocated by the Illinois Policy Institute. I would lead by example: I’d work to reduce both the size of the Board and its compensation before requiring other County Departments to become more efficient. I favor single member districts.

District 2 Democratic Party McHenry County Board candidate Jim Roden answers the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water Questionnaire below. He entered the public arena when he sent a letter about the Ridgefield Train Station to the new Metra Executive Director. Shortly thereafter the idea was dropped.

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas?  Yes

2. If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry in the County?  Yes

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are passed on to the existing taxpayers?  Agree

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity?  Yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision?  Yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater?  No

4. In our opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water?  No

C. The Role of County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance?  Yes

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities?  No

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships?   No

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors?  ?

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents?  No

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your
constituents to this extent?  Yes

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file ours with us now? Form attached with mailing instructions.  Yes

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be hosted on the County web site?  Yes

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries?  No

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.?  No

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response
report. (please add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to sen-e the residents of McHemy County, what external state and local agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective two-way communication. (50 words)

Water protection, road construction and health services.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

Don’t know yet.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

Must be answered on a case by case study.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

No

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

Very much so.

6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

I am a very concerned citizen who has lived here since the mid-50′s.  What is important to me is the reasons why decisions are made.  I’m tired of “back room politics.”

Crystal Lake City Councilwoman Carolyn Schofield is running for the County Board in District 2. Below are her answers to the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water Questionnaire.

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas?  Yes

2. If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry in the County?  Yes

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are passed on to the existing taxpayers?  Agree.  New development contiguous to existing can be completed at developers’ expense rather than county.

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity?  Yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision?  Yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater?  Yes.  Addressing preservation and conservation prior to consideration of distribution.

4. In your opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water?  No

C. The Role of County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance?  No.  Governmental bodies can maximize taxpayer dollars through shared resources and coordinated efforts.

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities?  No. Governmental bodies can maximize taxpayer dollars through shared resources and coordinated efforts.

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships?  No. Governmental bodies can maximize taxpayer dollars through shared resources and coordinated efforts.

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors?  No

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents?  No

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is
assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your constituents to this extent?  Yes

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.)  Yes

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site?  Yes

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries?  Yes. To equalize salaries among all members.

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.?  No

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response report. (please add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective
two-way communication. (50 words)

Collaboration and communication with agencies are essential to provide the community with the highest level of service. My area of concentration is in protection of our valuable resources. I look forward to working together with agencies such as MCCD and CMAP to set goals and strive to obtain them.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

Areas for long-term agricultural use should be clearly identified in the comprehensive plan and strictly adhered to. I will also encourage the use of conservation design and green infrastructure in the planning process to maintain natural areas and open space. Specific sensitive/recharge areas should be targeted to ensure protection.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ( $635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

Bottom line, your investment is based on your return. If taxpayers are not benefiting from economic development programs through an increased tax base, increase in property values, and enhancements to infrastructure and quality of life then it is not a good investment.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

Expansive infrastructure improvements should be prioritized based on need for improvement, safety, and utilization. Factors such as resident concerns, preservation of character, and impact on natural resources should then be taken into consideration when determining the best course of action. Improvements can be made without disturbing character and natural beauty.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

Citizen opinions should be given the highest regard. As a city council member and planning commissioner I have always based my decisions on public input and the facts. At times, I have voted against my personal opinions to side with the best interest of the community.

6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

My engineering background and 10 years as a planning commissioner provide me with a technical mindset and logical approach to problem solving. My governmental experience as a Crystal Lake City Councilmember and technical skills will be highly valuable in making critical decisions on key issues such as land use and groundwater protection. Please visit www.cschofield.com.
*D4. To equalize salaries among all members

What follows are District 2 candidate Jim Heisler’s answers to the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water’s Questionnaire.

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1) Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the
extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas? YES

2) If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry
in the County? YES

3) Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure
(roads, water, sewer and services) than it bring to the County in Taxes and that those extra costs are
passed on to the existing taxpayers? YES

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity? Yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision? Yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater?  No

4. In your opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water? No

C. The Role of County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance?  No

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities? No

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships?  Yes

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors? D-3 No

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents?  No

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is
assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your constituents to this extent?  Yes

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.)  Yes

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site? Yes.  This will help a lot.  Mental Health, Conservation  Dis.t too.

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries?  No

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.?  Yes.  Union negotiations with the solid threat of arbitration outcome would have cost the co. a larger levy increase.  We were too far down the path to retreat.  This will change!!

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local
agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure
that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an
appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective
two-Way communication. (50 Words)

I liaison to the CDBG, the VCB and the VHOB. I attend the meetings and report to the overseeing Co Bd. Committee. Post on the Co. website all meeting agenda and minutes  report that also to the Co. Bd. Committees.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

It’s simple-Groundwater is finite. Vote to allow mother nature to sustain us. In m mind there is no compromise – Without water there is no life here.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private‘McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 Words)

Most municipalities focus on retail. MCEDC mostly on industrial and manufacturing. This organization works hard at retaining existing businesses and facilitating new – for the whole count, not just rural areas. lt’s the lead group for the business of our citizens. l have personally  used them and consider their mission absolutely necessary.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to he widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

NO – don’t spend time and money on “improving” the beauty of our rural roads. Maintenance and safety is where any money spent should go.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

We should follow the rules established and then consider fairly any exceptions that would affect the neighbors. Common sense and historical knowledge of any precedence must be weighed.   Listen, listen, listen!

6. What in your background qualiñes you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

I’ve been on the County Board many years. There is a lot of value in demonstrated experience and consistency–lots of trust, honesty and transparency. 

I listen; I care a lot about my neighbors (& customers). I’m on my hands and knees every day of the week  available-extremely easy to find. I have lots of business background… 3rd generation 104 year old Heis1er’s Bootery/Redwing Shoes in Crystal Lake.

This term, if elected Í want to focus on water management and jobs. Both absolutely critical to sustaining life here in McHenry County.

Another letter to the editor. This time from Attorney Jim Bishop:

Jim Bishop

I don’t know who or what the “Alliance of Land, Agriculture and Water” is, but I find the “politically correct” responses, presented in the McHenry County Blog, of the candidates for the McHenry County Board very amusing.

The vast majority of the candidates answered “yes” or “agree” to the first question:

“Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas?”

To agree with or answer yes to the above question shows that the reader either does not understand the question or ignores history.

To illustrate, I would ask if you would rather live in or near the triangle between

1. Crystal Lake, Algonquin and Huntley, or the triangle between
2. Crystal Lake, Woodstock and McHenry or the triangle between
3. Huntley, Marengo and Hampshire?

Unquestionably area 1) above is located where infrastructure exists, etc, but has required, by far, the greatest expansion of roads, utilities and services, whereas, the areas in 2 and 3 which consist of mostly estate developments requiring no extension of sewer or water, far less extension of gas and electricity, lower density, fewer children per unit for our schools and on and on.

Incidentally, the groundwater of McHenry County is in great shape and if one digs in the right places at the County Planning and Development Department, all of the evidence of this fact is on file. High density development also impedes groundwater recharge by building rooftops, parking lots and pavement, all peculiar to high density development, not estate type development.

I don’t think the “Alliance” knows what they are talking about.

Sincerely,

Jim Bishop

Below you can read Mike Walkup’s answers to the Alliance for Land, Agriculture and Water Questionnaire for McHenry County Board candidates.  Walkup is running in District 2.

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland and water recharge areas? Yes

2. If elected, willI you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the agricultural industry in the County? Yes

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure, (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are passed on to the existing taxpayers? Agree

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged aquifer’s capacity? Yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas- map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision? Yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater? No

4. In your opinion, will McHenry County be able to get Lake Michigan water? No

C. The Role pf County Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance? Yes

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the county and in municipalities? Not sure

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships? Not sure

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors? Yes

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents? No

D. Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance for a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and tvo meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your
constituents to this extent? Yes

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit al file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.) Yes

3. Do you age that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee a44 sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site? Yes

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries? No

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of reai estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.? No

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response report. (p1eaee add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liason, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective two-way communication. (50 words)

We should liaison with everyone possible. This should be the primary responsibility of the County Chairman. He/she should be doing this instead of reproducing work already being done by the Executive Director. There is a duplication of function as it now stands.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

I was one of the authors of the 2020 land use plan which was rejected by the County Board and which would have protected agricultural lands by requiring that all new development be contiguous with already developed areas.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 ten) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

I don’t think if is appropriate for the county to pay to subsidize a private group. I also don’t think we should have much development on unincorporated land as there is no infrastructure to support it. See my pçevious answer on the 2020 Plan.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed compmercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

No. There is no need to widen Fleming which is a picturesque semi rural road serving primarily private residçpces. Alden Road only has about 3000 cars per day which does not even come close to the state’s criteria for adding a third lane.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

This should certainly be a factor but the main thing is to adhere to the 2030 Land Use Plan. The County Board departed from the 2010 Land Use plan 75% of the time according to a Northwest Herald study. If you don’t consistently follow the Plan, your decisions will not hold up in court.

6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

I am an attorney and 6th generation McHenry County and Board District 3 resident. I was a Commissioner to the County Regional Planning Commission and Historic Preservation Commission. I also served on the Nunda Township Planning Commission and the Crystal Lake Historic Presçrvation Commission. I am currently an elected Park District Commissioner in Crystal Lake pd served as Treasurer to the Park Board so I am familiar working with government budgets.

I believe that in these difficult economic times, we need to try to operate government more efficiently to avoid having to raise taxes as the current Board did.

Woodstock District 5 challenger Michael Rein relies to the Questionnaire of the Alliance of Land, Agriculture and Water below.

ALAW County Board Candidates Survey: 2012 Primary Election

A. Land Use

1. Do you agree that new development should be located where infrastructure exists, to minimize the extension of new roads, utilities and services, and protect farmland andwater recharge areas? Agree

2. If elected, will you support permanent protection of agricultural land and the
agricultural industry in the Count?  Yes

3. Do you agree or disagree that new rural development costs more for the extension of infrastructure (roads, water, sewer and services) than it brings to the County in taxes and that those extra costs are assed on to the existing taxpayers?  Agree

B. Water Resources

1. Would you oppose any land use change that would exceed a locally recharged
aquifer’s capacity?  Yes

2. If elected will you enforce use of the SARA – Sensitive Aquifer Recharge Areas map developed by the County Water Resources Department, as a determining factor in every land use change decision?  Yes

3. Do you support redistributing groundwater from water-rich areas to areas that have over drawn their groundwater?  No

4. In your 0pinion, will McHenry County ever be able to get Lake Michigan water?  No

C. The Role of Count Government

1. Should the county provide support services to municipal governments, for example issuing and enforcing municipal building permits, administering and enforcing the Storm Water ordinance?  No

2. Do you support a county housing program where the county purchases, constructs, remodels, rents, sells homes throughout the count and in municipalities?  No

3. Do you support a county bus program, where the county takes over responsibility for established service between select cities and townships?  Yes

4. Should the county health department report to the county board as opposed to an independent board of directors?  Yes

5. Do you think county government should increase expenditures and the scope of its activities, which will increase taxes to its residents? Yes

Transparency and Commitment

1. County board records indicate that the average number of meetings necessary for attendance by a County Board Member is 8. This includes two full board meetings a month and two meetings a month for each committee (generally three) the member is assigned. Are you able and willing to make the commitment to represent your constituents to this extent? Yes

2. During the last primary election 32 candidates for county offices voluntarily filled out the ALAW initiated Statement of Economic Interests BEFORE the election. This form is now required once you are elected, but we need to know before we elect you. Will you follow suit and file yours with us now? (Form attached with mailing instructions.)  Yes

3. Do you agree that all scheduled county meeting agendas and minutes, including committee and sub-committees, should be posted on the County web site?  Yes

4. Would you have voted to raise the county board members salaries? No

5. Would you have voted to increase the real estate tax levy by 1.5% thus increasing the amount of real estate tax collected by the county by $1.1 ml.?  No

E. Short Answer. Only the number of words indicated will be published in the response report. (please add a page if you need more room, but remember that we can only print the number of words indicated and reserve the right to edit your response for that reason. Thank you.)

1. If you are elected to serve the residents of McHenry County, what external state and local
agencies do you think are important for the county to liaison with and how would you make sure that information is flowing both ways with that agency? If you are currently serving and are an appointed liaison, please tell us what agency you are assigned and how you accomplish effective two-way communication. (50 words)

I think the biggest thing that does need to be addressed is working with our local municipalities about finding ways to keep our groundwater from depleting. Finding programs that work even if its small steps those steps need to be taken just like recycling bins started.

2. By protecting agricultural lands and soil resources, groundwater and its natural recharge can also be protected. What will you do to provide that protection? (50 words)

Providing protection is of utmost importance to our groundwater because without it there is no life to any living thing. I will make sure, the County Board, stay on top of and looking forward to, preserving the groundwater we have and are going to be using in the future.

3. Most municipalities in the county have their own economic development commissions or committees. Economic development has to occur where there is existing infrastructure. The county funds the private McHenry County Economic Development Corporation ($635,985. for the 2009-2012 term) to create development in the county outside of municipalities. Is this a good investment of taxpayer money? (50 words)

I think that there needs to be better over-site ofthe EDC. That goals and planning for the future could be a good asset to the county. However, if the EDC is not producing and being effective than it is not a good investment to the taxpayers.

4. Do you think Fleming Road, Alden Road and other county roads that do not serve highly developed commercial areas, need to be widened and “improved” at this time? (50 words)

No those roads do not need to be widened. The footprint of those roads needs to remain as they are. However those roads need to be repaired as needed and to try to make them last as long as possible from future repairs.

5. What weight should you as a county board member give the opinions of citizens affected by zoning decisions, special use permits and road projects? (50 words)

I think that all the weight should be given to the citizens that are affected by the zoning, permits and road construction. Our county board must always listen to our citizens to help guide us in our decisions.
6. What in your background qualifies you to serve the public as a county board representative and what do you intend to accomplish if elected to the County Board. You may also use this space to provide additional information regarding any of the “yes / no” answers given above. (100 words)

My background of being a Marine Corp Vet, v.p of multi-million dollar construction business, and currently running my own small business gives me a diverse understanding of what the real world is. I will bring common sense solutions to problems whether they are small or of a larger scale. McHenry County must be effective and efficient in all aspects going forward for future generations. I have the leadership, fiscal responsibility and integrity to balance McHenry County growing population in our urban areas but preserving the wide open farmland and conservation areas.