January, 2017 Stories | McHenry Times

Dropping home values, high property taxes push Illinois toward financial cliff, analyst says

By McHenry Times | Jan 27, 2017

Illinois residents burdened with falling home values and high property taxes are headed toward a cliff if Springfield doesn't do something soon to pull the state back from the precipice, a financial analyst said.

How Rauner’s wish list has fared in the General Assembly

By McHenry Times | Jan 27, 2017

For the past two years, Gov. Bruce Rauner’s message has been consistent: Illinois needs major reform to avoid complete financial devastation.

Arellano reflects on induction into MCC Hall of Fame

By Brent Zell | Jan 27, 2017

Rafael Arellano's recent induction into the McHenry County College (MCC) Athletic Hall of Fame was more than just about athletic achievement for him.

Casey Meyers donates $50 to REALTORS Political Action Committee

By Local Labs News Service | Jan 26, 2017

Casey Meyers, (883 Victoria, Woodstock), donated $50 to Springfield's REALTORS Political Action Committee on Jan. 5, 2016.

Rebecca Lee donates $250 to Citizens for Dan Regna

By Local Labs News Service | Jan 26, 2017

Rebecca Lee, (49 Ivanhoe Lane, Cary), donated $250 to Woodstock's Citizens for Dan Regna on Jan. 21, 2016.

McHenry County Staff Plat Review Committee reviews application and site plan for rehab facility

By Lhalie Castillo | Jan 25, 2017

McHenry County Staff Plat Review Committee reviews application and site plan for rehab facility at a recent meeting.

McHenry County Internal Support and Facilities Board reviews electronic voting and training

By Philip Gonzales | Jan 25, 2017

McHenry County Internal Support and Facilities Board reviews electronic voting and training its meeting this morning.

McHenry County Valley Hi Operating Board to discuss strategic plan

By Lhalie Castillo | Jan 25, 2017

McHenry County Valley Hi Operating Board will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25.

Algonquin Police Pension Board to vote on accounting agreement

By Lhalie Castillo | Jan 25, 2017

Algonquin Police Pension Board will meet at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25.

Skillicorn calls tax hike 'recipe for disaster'

By Vimbai Chikomo | Jan 25, 2017

Illinois Senate leaders had hoped to hold a vote as early as last week on a proposed budget plan that would raise the personal income tax rate to at least 4.95 percent, but the complex nature of the deal stalled the vote.

BGA: Chicago's plastic-bag tax faked 'green' crusade to rake in green

By McHenry Times | Jan 24, 2017

The Better Government Association (BGA) recently suggested that the Chicago City Council’s new 7 cents-a-bag tax authorization is one more in a series of cloaked legislative efforts, wherein the stated purpose may obscure another motive.

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Critics point out hypocrisy in Madigan attack on Rauner regarding wealth and power

By McHenry Times | Jan 24, 2017

There's a certain hypocrisy to House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) accusing Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner of holding the budget process hostage for his wealthy friends and big business in general, a radio talk show's co-hosts said recently.

Woodstock High celebrates top athletes at Hall of Fame ceremony

By Jason Burke | Jan 24, 2017

Woodstock High School (WHS) is a place steeped in athletic tradition.

Lukasik thanks constituents who attended meet and greet

By Ruth de Jauregui | Jan 23, 2017

Thanked voters for sharing their concerns at event last Thursday night.

Embattled auditor general told to step aside

By McHenry Times | Jan 23, 2017

The Chicago Tribune has called for embattled Illinois Auditor General Frank Mautino to step aside until he resolves nagging campaign finance questions that his critics say major media outlets have largely ignored for months.

Youth basketball programs now underway in McHenry

By Brent Zell | Jan 23, 2017

Registration recently opened for two youth basketball programs, according to the McHenry Parks and Recreation Department's online program guide.

McHenry City Council promotes 2 police officials

By Carol Ostrow | Jan 22, 2017

The McHenry City Council observed a double swearing-in ceremony for two experienced police department members with the mayor on hand at its meeting earlier this month, according to the 'Northwest Herald.'

McHenry County clerk opposes Skillicorn’s tax freeze

By Carol Ostrow | Jan 22, 2017

Following his promised tax freeze initiative for Kane and McHenry counties, state Rep. Allen Skillicorn (R-Crystal Lake) faces resistance on his home turf, with his efforts challenged by McHenry County Clerk Chief Deputy Linda Fitzgerald.

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EPA names January Radon Action Month

By Carol Ostrow | Jan 22, 2017

McHenry County’s Department of Health (MCDH), located in Woodstock, encourages county residents to increase their awareness level about radon during January, officially designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as national Radon Action Month.