McHenry Times

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to McHenry County, Illinois, by us at the McHenry Times on September 26, 2024. The request sought comprehensive details about all payments made to vendors from January 1, 2024, until the date of the request.

Specifically, we asked for a list that includes the vendor's name, transaction date, transaction description, and amount for each payment made within the specified period. As a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe access to these public records is essential in fulfilling our professional responsibilities.

The information will enable us to hold public institutions accountable and provide transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we have also requested a fee waiver as a media professional.

Donna M. Kurtz McHenry County Treasurer | McHenry County

This request comes in light of recent developments announced by the Illinois Department of Transportation. In July 2023, they announced Rebuild Illinois - their most extensive multi-year program aimed at improving and repairing all modes of transportation across the state. Governor JB Pritzker stated that over $40 billion would be invested over six years into improving roads and bridges, modernizing transit and aviation, and expanding passenger rail service.

According to official reports from the department, ten major projects are being planned or implemented in Chicago under this program with an investment of $396 million. Three of these projects are scheduled for completion in 2024 while seven others are projected for completion between 2025 and 2030. Additionally, $107 million is being invested in seven projects in Kane County and $220 million in ten projects in central Cook County under the Rebuild Illinois program.

Our aim is to ensure that funds allocated for such crucial infrastructure development are being utilized appropriately and efficiently. We look forward to sharing more information with the public as we receive it.