Planning, Environment and Development - Public Meeting, 5-5-26

The McHenry County Planning, Environment and Development public meeting on May 5, 2026, focused extensively on proposed updates to the department's fee schedule, including building permits, stormwater management, zoning fees, and conditional use permits. Discussions highlighted adjustments to residential permit fees, particularly for larger homes, and the incorporation of fees related to solar farms and battery energy storage systems. The board considered the need for coordination with transportation authorities regarding road use agreements and access control fees for developments impacting county roads. Additionally, the meeting addressed long-term watershed planning and flood mitigation efforts, including a proposed $400,000 study funded potentially through grants. The board also discussed the challenges of enforcing temporary use permits (TPUs) and the potential for stronger penalties for violations. No formal votes on fee schedule adoption were recorded, but the committee indicated plans to proceed with a 30-day review period and further refinements based on ongoing legal and procedural considerations.