Welcome to my new web site. On this site you will learn about how I am working diligently to improve your quality of life in McHenry County. You can read about my accomplishments as both a District 2 County Board Member and as Chairman of the County Board. Additionally, you will learn about my positions on key issues that currently face our county and about my goals for McHenry County in the future.

As Chairman of the County Board since December of 2004, I have insisted on a balanced budget every year. Under my leadership, cash reserves are maintained for emergencies. In addition to building these cash reserves, which are incredibly important in this difficult economic climate, the county portion of your tax bill has decreased in three of the last five years. The solid financial footing McHenry County enjoys is rare in Illinois, and McHenry County serves as a model of good governance that other counties strive to emulate.
As McHenry County continues to grow, our transportation needs also grow. As a member and leader of the County Board, I have successfully secured more than $300 million in State and Federal dollars for road improvements. Upcoming transportation improvements that will help ease traffic congestion and improve safety on our roads include the construction of the Algonquin Bypass and the widening of Rakow Road. Obtaining funding for these critical projects and others is the result of a solid working relationship that exists with key decision-makers in Springfield and Washington, D.C. If re-elected, I intend to continue fostering those relationships so that McHenry County remains a priority when funding for road projects becomes available.
Looking ahead, the McHenry County Board needs experienced board members who know that running a county is much like running a large business. To that end, McHenry County requires board members who understand that a status quo approach during difficult economic times is not an option. I have worked very hard to foster responsible economic development during this difficult time. This translates to the retention of existing jobs and the creation of new jobs for you, the constituents I serve.
McHenry County is a wonderful place to live and raise a family, and much of this county’s success is due to the county leadership that currently represents you. I hope that through my actions as a board member over the last 9 years and as the Board Chairman for the last five, I have earned your continued support. If you have questions or would like to discuss an issue with me, I am available to meet either in person or to talk by phone. You may reach me at 815-378-6634. And lastly, I would certainly appreciate your vote on February 2nd or in January during the early voting period.
Sincerely,
Ken Koehler
Chairman, McHenry County Board
County Board Member, District 2