Michael Buehler

This Strategic Plan Report Card provides an update on McHenry County's commitment to enhancing the quality of life, economic prosperity, and effective governance for its citizens. The plan is structured around key pillars: Leadership and Governance, Organizational Advancement, Environmental Sustainability, Economic and Workforce Development, Health and Social Services, and Quality Infrastructure. Objectives include building collaborative relationships, achieving fiscal responsibility, preserving natural resources, fostering economic growth and workforce development, addressing community health and social needs, and maintaining robust infrastructure.

This document functions as a strategic plan report card, detailing various initiatives and accomplishments for McHenry County. Key progress areas include establishing a Film, Video and Photo Production Permit Policy, engaging in legislative advocacy at both national and state levels, and enhancing the Police Social Work Program. Operational improvements encompass restructuring a Community Development Specialist position and expanding the workforce housing program. Furthermore, the report highlights efforts in community support, such as convening a Veterans' Mental Health Summit, and advancements in infrastructure through an intergovernmental agreement for a remote salt storage facility to improve service delivery.

This document outlines the McHenry County Economic Development and Business Incentive Program, which is designed to strengthen the local economy, create jobs, and diversify the property tax base. The program provides a tool to foster business expansion through rebates of up to 50% of property tax increments and, in specific cases, tax abatements. It targets business clusters including Advanced Manufacturing, Transportation, Logistics and Distribution, Agriculture and Food Processing, and Healthcare and Medical Sciences, detailing eligibility criteria, incentive levels, and clawback provisions.

This document serves as a report card on the McHenry County Strategic Plan, affirming the County's commitment to the quality of life, economic betterment, and forward-thinking governance for its citizens. It details progress across key strategic pillars including Leadership and Governance, Organizational Advancement, Environmental Sustainability, Economic and Workforce Development, Health and Social Services, and Quality Infrastructure. The plan aims to ensure high-quality services, foster community well-being, and promote sustainable growth through collaborative initiatives and prudent resource management.

The McKenry County Strategic Plan, updated in 2025 to guide efforts through 2028, provides a comprehensive roadmap for the county's success. It focuses on six key areas: leadership in governance, economic and workforce development, health and social services, quality infrastructure, organizational advancement, and environmental sustainability. The plan seeks to achieve fiscal responsibility, promote economic growth through workforce development and business support, ensure accessible housing, enhance public health and safety, and improve infrastructure and mass transit. It also prioritizes tourism development and transparent government operations, aiming to balance growth with livability and resource preservation for its residents.