Welcome to my 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. 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. McHenry County is one of only three counties in Illinois to be awarded a Aaa bond rating. We are the smallest county in the United States to earn this distinction. This Aaa bond rating allows us to take advantage of the lowest-possible interest rates when borrowing for community improvements and it further demonstrates my commitment to long-term fiscal responsibility in McHenry County.

As McHenry County continues to grow, our transportation needs also grow. McHenry County has an ongoing need to improve the safety and capacity of its roads. I have been working very hard on this issue since 1991, and it continues to be a priority for me today. As a member and leader of the County Board, I have successfully secured tens of millions in State and Federal dollars for road improvements. Recent key projects include the widening of Algonquin Road from Route 31 to Route 47, the widening of Rakow Road, and the widening of Route 47 through Huntley. Upcoming transportation improvements that will help ease traffic congestion and improve safety on our roads include the construction of the Algonquin Bypass and the upcoming addition of a full interchange at Route 47 and I-90. I am also working with our Congressmen and U.S. Senators to secure approximately $85 million in Federal funds for much-needed intersection and capacity improvements along Randall 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.

I am fiscally conservative with a degree in Accounting from NIU. I successfully owned and operated a business for most of my life, and with 40+ years as a public servant, I understand the complexity of county issues. It is this experience that allows me to make necessary decisions to assess county policy and strategically reform budget demands in this declining economy. 

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 11 years and as the Board Chairman for the last seven, I have earned your continued support.

Sincerely,

Ken Koehler
Chairman, McHenry County Board
County Board Member, District 2