The County is Listening to your Answers on two Upcoming Referendums

Early voting starts in Illinois on Thursday, September 24. The experts expect this year's midterm election to be a game-changer. We won't be sharing our opinions on who to vote for this year, but we want to make sure you are as informed as possible.

We have created a LOCAL ELECTIONS page with links to each candidate along with information on referendums and judges.

There are two non-binding referendums on this year's ballot. These votes won't result in an immediate change to the law, but the McHenry County Board voted to include these on the ballot to gauge voters' interest.

They are paying attention to your voice on these referendums, so be sure to vote.

Make sure you check out the McHenry County Board's meeting on July 21, 2026. Discussions on these referendums start at 01:13:38.  

Referendum Question #1

Would you support McHenry becoming a Home Rule County and establishing the county executive form of government?

Referendum Question #2

Should the Illinois General Assembly repeal the state laws that prevent McHenry County and other local governments from exercising full zoning authority over the sitting commercial solar, wind, and battery development, and restore that authority to county and municipal governments?

What is Home Rule?

Home rule is a form of local governmental authority allowed under the Illinois Constitution. Home-rule governments generally have broader powers to regulate local affairs and raise revenue than non-home-rule units of government. There are many towns and villages with Home Rule, but only one county in Illinois (Cook).

Supporters of home rule argue that it could give McHenry County more local control over regulations regarding solar, wind, and battery farms. Supporters also want home rule to push back agains housing and zoning mandates that encourage larger housing developments.

Those against Home Rule state that Home Rule would significantly impact the balance of power.

Home Rule will require the county to create and elect a County Executive. This individual will have the power to control the budget process, hire and fire County Administrators, and veto any resolution passed by the board.

What are the Financial Repercussions?

Some supporters are interested in Home Rule because of past state decisions that eliminated McHenry County revenue sources. State legislation in 2022 prohibited local law enforcement from entering into and renewing contracts to detain people for federal immigration violations.

McHenry and Kane County challenged that law and lost in a federal court. The result was a loss of approximately $8 million a year.

Those against Home Rule have their own financial arguments. Home Rule will increase the ability of the County Board to override the current Property Tax Extension Limitation Law, and increase property owners' taxes. Under Home Rule, the county also has broader authority to borrow money and issue bonds without voter approval, resulting in higher debt for the county.

Home Rule Does Not Eliminate State Authority

Your vote on the advisory referendum will not immediately establish home rule or change county government.

State law will continue to govern the county, and the Illinois General Assembly can still legally override local ordinances. Still, your County Board is listening as they determine their next steps.

Learn Before You Vote

The McHenry County Clerk's Office provides election information, including a current candidate list and referendum notices, on its official voter-information page.

If you have not registered to vote, you have until Tuesday, October 6th.

Be sure to check out our Local Elections page and subscribe for more information on local candidates and election results.