Village VoiceWauconda’s Public Information Source

the

DECEMBER 2013 VILLAGE OF WAUCONDA NEWS

Mayor’s Message:

As we finish the year with high spirits and good will towards all it is a time of opportunity and reflection. We have established a strong new administration with deep experience and a cooperative customer service approach. Wauconda has made strides towards realizing our goals towards economic stability and prosperity by establishing a Tax Incremental Finance (TIF) district, by commissioning a hotel feasibility study which yielded favorable results and by participating in multiple economic development trade shows and conferences. These efforts have generated development interest with both current and prospective owners. While some new development is planned to begin in the spring, economic development is a multi-year prospect and it will take years to get where we plan to be.

Wauconda has continued to make strides to bring Lake Michigan Water to our Village and though the final plan is not yet complete, construction on the internal improvements will begin in the spring of 2014. This will prepare the infrastructure we need to receive Lake Michigan Water. We are working together to complete this plan and will keep you posted on our Village website.

The coming year promises to bring even greater opportunity and together we will face the challenges to set us on the path to success. This administration is first focused on controlling expenses and secondly on increasing the revenue.

The changes we have made to date have made this administration stronger and will save taxpayers over $250,000 a year. We will strive to create shared services agreements with our neighboring communities in order to control costs and sustain services. Simultaneously, we will work to create more retail opportunity in Wauconda in order to improve quality of life and increase the sales tax revenue Wauconda receives.

The environment is important to us and we have been expanding our conservation and recycling efforts. The Wauconda Public Works now has 24-hour electronic recycling available at 302 Slocum Lake Road, in Wauconda. Bangs Lake is the crown jewel of Wauconda and our conservation and management efforts are focused on clearing the weeds and maintaining the channels so that all can continue to enjoy the lake. A comprehensive lake management plan was completed this winter that provides several recommendations that we will work to resource and implement beginning in 2014. Additionally, the Village has assisted the Channel Restoration Alliance is securing $8,900 in grant funding from Lake County Watershed Management Board to assist with their efforts to dredge the Bangs Lake circle channel.

The Village has paved, patched and crack sealed 27 streets in 2013. In 2014, we plan to implement a comprehensive Road Evaluation and Rating Study.

Continued on next page...

PAGE 2

It is important for communities to utilize a logical road pavement management system to help decide when to perform routine maintenance, overlays, or reconstruction.

A condition rating will be assigned to all of the roads within the Village, which will be instrumental in preparation of the Village’s capital improvement plan.

Wauconda Police Chief Patrick Yost, Lake County States Attorney, Mike Nerheim, and others from the Lake County Heroin/Opioid Abuse Taskforce are partnering with Wauconda service organizations to discuss how service organizations, as a united group, can best help the Task Force in reducing drug abuse and overdose deaths. Thank you to the participating members from: Rotary International, American Legion Post 911, Masonic Lodge #298, Moose Lodge Lions Club and the United Partnership. We believe that a partnership with area service organizations is essential to achieving the Tasks Force’s goals. We look forward to the New Year and wish you all the best.

Take care and God Bless

Frank

Mayor’s Message Con’t .

Brenda Lung Photography

A Community of Charity Pgs. 3 - 5

Administration Department Pg. 6

Finance Department Pg. 7

Police Department Pg. 8

Economic/Community Development Pg. 9

Building, Planning & Zoning Department Pgs. 10 - 11

Public Works Department Pgs. 12 - 13

Meet the Board Pg. 14

Table of Contents

11th AnnualCommunity Expo

Saturday, March 1 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Sunday, March 2 - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Annual Community Expo is sponsored by the Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce and is held at the Wauconda High School, 555 N. Main Street.

This free Chamber event hosts more than 70 exhibitors along with area restaurants and civic organizations. With the downturn in the economy, the Expo offers Chamber members the opportunity to promote their products and services to visiting consumers.

Special events, entertainment, prize drawings and food booths will be featured both days. A complete listing of participants will be available on the Wauconda Area Chamber’s website at www.waucondaareachamber.org.

PAGE 3

Wauconda: A Community of Charity

Often people think of their communities as filled with good will and altruism and Wauconda is one of those communities. Whether it’s hopping like a bunny or trotting like a turkey, the number of charitable events and the organizations and individuals that benefit from these efforts are amazing and often unseen.

During this holiday season we would like to offer a look at the many acts of giving that occur through this great Village every year. Instead of listing every event and organization with words, we’d like to present this year’s stars as often seen through other’s eyes. Of course, there’s a chance we missed an organization or group in the creation of this special section, so please let us know if your organization would like to be included in next December’s edition. Just turn the page to see how genuine, caring and altruistic people are helping this great community!

Readers’ Choice Awards

Year 2013 marked the second year in a row that the Village of Wauconda was the proud recipient of the Daily Herald’s 2013 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best City/Town to Live”! Wauconda is the perfect destination for family recreation, unique dining, and leisurely shopping along our historic Main Street.

Village of Wauconda – Best City/Town to Live, Best Downtown Atmosphere

Wauconda Park District – Best Park District, Best Community Festival (Waucondafest)

Middleton’s on Main – Best Appetizers, Best New Restaurant, Best Theme Restaurant, Best Bar/Lounge

From Scratch Café – Best Bakery

Academy of Ballet - Best Dance School/Studio

Eduardo’s Catering – Best Caterer

Bliss Wine & Gift Shop - Best Wine Selection

Bulldogs Grill - Best Hamburgers, Best Comfort Food, Best Fries

Honey Hill Coffee Company – Best Tea Shop

Strawberry Moon – Best Martini

Main Street Outfitter – Best Bicycle Store

Dock’s Bar & Grill – Best Outdoor Eatery, Best Place to Dance

Lindy’s Landing - Best Outdoor Eatery, Best Marina

Slyce Coal Fired Pizza - Best Thin Crust Pizza, Best Unique Salad

Wauconda Boat – Best Marina

Carpets 4U – Best Carpet/Flooring Store

Golf Farm - Best Driving Range

Gangi Martial Arts of Wauconda – Best MartialArts Studio

Whippletree Antiques – Best Antique Shop

M&L Flooring – Best Carpet/Flooring Store

P.S. Flowers and Balloons – Best Florist

All Temp Heating & AC - Best Heating & A/C Company

Rusty’s Home Repair – Best Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

Tri-County Thrift Store – Best Resale Shop

The Village would like to recognize the 24 Wauconda businesses, events, and organizations that won the 2013 Readers’ Choice “Best of the Best”:

+$209,000 DONATED BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Continued on next page...

PAGE 2

It is important for communities to utilize a logical road pavement management system to help decide when to perform routine maintenance, overlays, or reconstruction.

A condition rating will be assigned to all of the roads within the Village, which will be instrumental in preparation of the Village’s capital improvement plan.

Wauconda Police Chief Patrick Yost, Lake County States Attorney, Mike Nerheim, and others from the Lake County Heroin/Opioid Abuse Taskforce are partnering with Wauconda service organizations to discuss how service organizations, as a united group, can best help the Task Force in reducing drug abuse and overdose deaths. Thank you to the participating members from: Rotary International, American Legion Post 911, Masonic Lodge #298, Moose Lodge Lions Club and the United Partnership. We believe that a partnership with area service organizations is essential to achieving the Tasks Force’s goals. We look forward to the New Year and wish you all the best.

Take care and God Bless

Frank

Mayor’s Message Con’t .

Brenda Lung Photography

A Community of Charity Pgs. 3 - 5

Administration Department Pg. 6

Finance Department Pg. 7

Police Department Pg. 8

Economic/Community Development Pg. 9

Building, Planning & Zoning Department Pgs. 10 - 11

Public Works Department Pgs. 12 - 13

Meet the Board Pg. 14

Table of Contents

11th AnnualCommunity Expo

Saturday, March 1 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Sunday, March 2 - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Annual Community Expo is sponsored by the Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce and is held at the Wauconda High School, 555 N. Main Street.

This free Chamber event hosts more than 70 exhibitors along with area restaurants and civic organizations. With the downturn in the economy, the Expo offers Chamber members the opportunity to promote their products and services to visiting consumers.

Special events, entertainment, prize drawings and food booths will be featured both days. A complete listing of participants will be available on the Wauconda Area Chamber’s website at www.waucondaareachamber.org.

PAGE 3

Wauconda: A Community of Charity

Often people think of their communities as filled with good will and altruism and Wauconda is one of those communities. Whether it’s hopping like a bunny or trotting like a turkey, the number of charitable events and the organizations and individuals that benefit from these efforts are amazing and often unseen.

During this holiday season we would like to offer a look at the many acts of giving that occur through this great Village every year. Instead of listing every event and organization with words, we’d like to present this year’s stars as often seen through other’s eyes. Of course, there’s a chance we missed an organization or group in the creation of this special section, so please let us know if your organization would like to be included in next December’s edition. Just turn the page to see how genuine, caring and altruistic people are helping this great community!

Readers’ Choice Awards

Year 2013 marked the second year in a row that the Village of Wauconda was the proud recipient of the Daily Herald’s 2013 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best City/Town to Live”! Wauconda is the perfect destination for family recreation, unique dining, and leisurely shopping along our historic Main Street.

Village of Wauconda – Best City/Town to Live, Best Downtown Atmosphere

Wauconda Park District – Best Park District, Best Community Festival (Waucondafest)

Middleton’s on Main – Best Appetizers, Best New Restaurant, Best Theme Restaurant, Best Bar/Lounge

From Scratch Café – Best Bakery

Academy of Ballet - Best Dance School/Studio

Eduardo’s Catering – Best Caterer

Bliss Wine & Gift Shop - Best Wine Selection

Bulldogs Grill - Best Hamburgers, Best Comfort Food, Best Fries

Honey Hill Coffee Company – Best Tea Shop

Strawberry Moon – Best Martini

Main Street Outfitter – Best Bicycle Store

Dock’s Bar & Grill – Best Outdoor Eatery, Best Place to Dance

Lindy’s Landing - Best Outdoor Eatery, Best Marina

Slyce Coal Fired Pizza - Best Thin Crust Pizza, Best Unique Salad

Wauconda Boat – Best Marina

Carpets 4U – Best Carpet/Flooring Store

Golf Farm - Best Driving Range

Gangi Martial Arts of Wauconda – Best MartialArts Studio

Whippletree Antiques – Best Antique Shop

M&L Flooring – Best Carpet/Flooring Store

P.S. Flowers and Balloons – Best Florist

All Temp Heating & AC - Best Heating & A/C Company

Rusty’s Home Repair – Best Kitchen/Bath Remodeling

Tri-County Thrift Store – Best Resale Shop

The Village would like to recognize the 24 Wauconda businesses, events, and organizations that won the 2013 Readers’ Choice “Best of the Best”:

+$209,000 DONATED BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Continued on next page...

The first annual Shamrock the Block event raised funds to benefit both St. Baldrick’s and the Main Street Attraction Group.

Boy Scout Troop 90 serves ten communities around the Wauconda area and draws from Cub Scout Packs 90, 290, and 76, as well as welcoming boys who are new to Scouting. Troop 90 currently has 40 active Scouts.

Every year, the Village of Wauconda sets aside funds to assist a variety of local not-for-profit organizations such as our local Senior Citizen Club, the Wauconda Queens, family events such as Wauconda Fest, Relay for Life, and many more civic donations that have a positive impact on our local community.

The Wauconda Area Queens don’t miss much that happens in Wauconda. As is every year, 2013 was a year full of community service and giving back.

The Wauconda Lions Club has gone far beyond simply being “knights of the blind,” serving a broader mission of bettering our community. The Club provides annual scholarships to deserving

WHS students, assistance to Boy Scouts, the Food Pantry, and of course, they continue to help those with vision and hearing needs.

The Wauconda High School Boosters help promote and support academic, athletic, and extra-curricular programs of the Wauconda High School, both physically and financially. This year the Boosters supported the FBLA, Bulldog Nation Foundation, Wrestling Team, and award college scholarships.

The mission of the Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce is to provide valuable resources and opportunities that benefit its members and to create a membership body that is unified and community minded.

This year’s Bunny Hop benefitted the Friends of the Library!

www.facebook.com/waucondaarea.queens

A Community of Charity

+800 HoursDONATED TIME

+1,150DONATED DIAPERS

+$209,000 DONATED BACK TO THE COMMUNITY IN 2013!

Wauconda’s Main Street Attraction Group raises funds to help promote and beautify Main Street. Donations have resulted in new bicycle racks, seasonal light pole baskets,

beautiful holiday lights, and the funding of a new gateway sign that will go up in 2014.

PAGE 4

wwwwauconda-il.gov

e-clubhouse.org/sites/wauconda_il

waucondaboosters.org

waucondaareachamber.org

waucondatroop90.com

The Wauconda MooseLodge is dedicated tohelping others throughvarious fundraing activites. Most recently, the Lodge was host to over 30 Navy recruits on Thanksgiving Day.

A Community of Charity

Brownie Troop 1452 collected diapers for Wauconda’s Diaper Bank. The Troop’s goal is to increase the community’s awareness of Wauconda’s Diaper Bank and their member’s commitment to lending a helping hand to local Mothers in need.

This year’s Turkey Trot was good for the participants’ health and the Wauconda/Island Lake Food Pantry.

Wauconda American Legion Post 911 is committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.americanlegionpost911.org

The Friends of the Library raises funds for projects, such as the new digital sign and the delivery van, by selling used books, compact discs, and DVDs, as well as through other fund-raising ventures such as the Wauconda Bunny Hop 4-Mile/2-

Mile it co-hosts each spring with STAR Charities of Wauconda. wauclib.org/support/friends.asp

The Wauconda Unit BandBoosters help financiallysupport the instrumentalmusic activities and unique projects which promote the Middle Schools and Senior High School band programs of the Wauconda Unit School District. d118bands.org

The Rotary Club of Wauconda,IL serves our community through their Five Avenues of Service whichare: Club Service; VocationalService; Community Service; and New Generations.waucondarotary.com

Thank you to ALL the Wauconda businesses that give back to the community!

www.procomps.com/STAR

waucondabulldognationfoundation.org

Bulldog Nation Foundation is a group of dedicated community members who are interested in providing Wauconda High School with financial resources for innovation in the classroom that helps support a robust academic educational experience for all students. Specifically the money raised is used to fund grants that are written by the teachers at Wauconda High School.

PAGE 5

AFTER HARVESTING

STAR Charities is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to vigilantly review community causes and subsequently provide assistance through education and donations.

mooselodgeofwauconda.org

The first annual Shamrock the Block event raised funds to benefit both St. Baldrick’s and the Main Street Attraction Group.

Boy Scout Troop 90 serves ten communities around the Wauconda area and draws from Cub Scout Packs 90, 290, and 76, as well as welcoming boys who are new to Scouting. Troop 90 currently has 40 active Scouts.

Every year, the Village of Wauconda sets aside funds to assist a variety of local not-for-profit organizations such as our local Senior Citizen Club, the Wauconda Queens, family events such as Wauconda Fest, Relay for Life, and many more civic donations that have a positive impact on our local community.

The Wauconda Area Queens don’t miss much that happens in Wauconda. As is every year, 2013 was a year full of community service and giving back.

The Wauconda Lions Club has gone far beyond simply being “knights of the blind,” serving a broader mission of bettering our community. The Club provides annual scholarships to deserving

WHS students, assistance to Boy Scouts, the Food Pantry, and of course, they continue to help those with vision and hearing needs.

The Wauconda High School Boosters help promote and support academic, athletic, and extra-curricular programs of the Wauconda High School, both physically and financially. This year the Boosters supported the FBLA, Bulldog Nation Foundation, Wrestling Team, and award college scholarships.

The mission of the Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce is to provide valuable resources and opportunities that benefit its members and to create a membership body that is unified and community minded.

This year’s Bunny Hop benefitted the Friends of the Library!

www.facebook.com/waucondaarea.queens

A Community of Charity

+800 HoursDONATED TIME

+1,150DONATED DIAPERS

+$209,000 DONATED BACK TO THE COMMUNITY IN 2013!

Wauconda’s Main Street Attraction Group raises funds to help promote and beautify Main Street. Donations have resulted in new bicycle racks, seasonal light pole baskets,

beautiful holiday lights, and the funding of a new gateway sign that will go up in 2014.

PAGE 4

wwwwauconda-il.gov

e-clubhouse.org/sites/wauconda_il

waucondaboosters.org

waucondaareachamber.org

waucondatroop90.com

The Wauconda MooseLodge is dedicated tohelping others throughvarious fundraing activites. Most recently, the Lodge was host to over 30 Navy recruits on Thanksgiving Day.

A Community of Charity

Brownie Troop 1452 collected diapers for Wauconda’s Diaper Bank. The Troop’s goal is to increase the community’s awareness of Wauconda’s Diaper Bank and their member’s commitment to lending a helping hand to local Mothers in need.

This year’s Turkey Trot was good for the participants’ health and the Wauconda/Island Lake Food Pantry.

Wauconda American Legion Post 911 is committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.americanlegionpost911.org

The Friends of the Library raises funds for projects, such as the new digital sign and the delivery van, by selling used books, compact discs, and DVDs, as well as through other fund-raising ventures such as the Wauconda Bunny Hop 4-Mile/2-

Mile it co-hosts each spring with STAR Charities of Wauconda. wauclib.org/support/friends.asp

The Wauconda Unit BandBoosters help financiallysupport the instrumentalmusic activities and unique projects which promote the Middle Schools and Senior High School band programs of the Wauconda Unit School District. d118bands.org

The Rotary Club of Wauconda,IL serves our community through their Five Avenues of Service whichare: Club Service; VocationalService; Community Service; and New Generations.waucondarotary.com

Thank you to ALL the Wauconda businesses that give back to the community!

www.procomps.com/STAR

waucondabulldognationfoundation.org

Bulldog Nation Foundation is a group of dedicated community members who are interested in providing Wauconda High School with financial resources for innovation in the classroom that helps support a robust academic educational experience for all students. Specifically the money raised is used to fund grants that are written by the teachers at Wauconda High School.

PAGE 5

AFTER HARVESTING

STAR Charities is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to vigilantly review community causes and subsequently provide assistance through education and donations.

mooselodgeofwauconda.org

As I sit down to write this message, I’m just starting my third week as Village Administrator for the Village of Wauconda. I have been overwhelmed by the warmness with which I have been welcomed and the community spirit and civic pride on display.

Whether it is the Village Board, my co-workers at the Village, citizens, or officials from other governmental entities serving Wauconda, please accept my gratitude for allowing me to serve for and with you. We may have challenges ahead but the opportunities in front of this community are great. I look forward to working with all of you to implement the goals and objectives of the Village Board and to make a better Wauconda.

Proposed TIF DistrictOne of the economic development projects well under way when I joined the staff of the Village is the creation of a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District near IL Route 176 and US Route 12. A TIF is one way municipalities encourage private investment in underdeveloped or underperforming areas and one of the few remaining economic development tools used by local governments to revitalize communities. It is a popular and effective tool used in hundreds of cities in Illinois and nearly

AdministrationFrom Administrator Doug Maxeiner

Village officials have been advised that a new scamming practice is starting to surface in the area targeting the business community. Businesses receive telephone calls from persons identifying themselves as representatives for public utilities such as ComEd. The caller advises the business of delinquent utility bills and if not paid immediately, utility shut-off is threatened. In order to pay the account balance, the

caller advises the purchase of a prepaid Visa card and provides a call back number to make payment. When the number is called a recording states that it is ComEd but they are experiencing trouble with the telephone line. The original scammer then contacts the business once again and attempts to obtain the prepaid card number. So far, the calls have targeted businesses.

As a reminder, if someone calls and asks for personal information from you or seeks payment for something you do not believe you owe, please use caution before divulging personal information. Call the utility directly at listed numbers to verify the authenticity of the call. If you believe the call is a fraudulent attempt to obtain money from you, contact the Wauconda Police Department at 847.526.2421.

Businesses Beware: Utility Bill Scamming

every state in the country. Furthermore, it is a vital component of the economic development strategy to attract new retail businesses for Wauconda moving forward. TIFs generate funds for development within the district through increased property values in areas that had previously experienced lagging growth and development activity. Property taxes generated on the increased assessed value then become available for reinvestment within the TIF for public improvements such as streets, utilities, public parking, etc. The revenue is generated from the increased values of the property, not from increased tax rates.

The use of TIFs can be controversial due in large part to abuses by some local governments over the past several decades. However, the State of Illinois has tightened the qualification requirements for TIF formation and Wauconda’s proposed TIF meets and, in many instances, exceeds these requirements. This controversy is also attributable to earmarking revenues generated from increased assessed values for TIF projects rather than distribution to other taxing districts during the life of the TIF. On the other hand, it is unlikely that new development and increased assessed values would occur without the investment encouraged by the TIF.

If you have any questions on the Wauconda TIF District, please feel free to contact me at Village Hall 847.526.9600 or dmaxeiner@wauconda-il.gov.

PAGE 6

Within the Village of Wauconda’s financial and budgeting structure, there are two primary operating funds – the General Fund and Water/Sewer Fund. The General Fund is responsible for funding general governmental services (such as police protection and street maintenance) to the residents of the Village. The Water/Sewer Fund is the operating fund that pays for the production and distribution of potable water in the Village and the collection, treatment, and reclamation of sewerage.

The Village recently received its audit for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2012. In the General Fund, the Village was able to add nearly $670,000 to its reserves through stronger than anticipated revenues, cost containment measures, and setting aside funds for future capital projects. After six months of operation in the 2013/14 fiscal year, the Village is projecting that revenues - primarily shared revenues from the State of Illinois - will continue to grow showing an increase of 3.4% over the budgeted amount. On the other hand, expenditures are projected to show reductions of 1.3% when compared to the budget. With all things considered, the mid-year analysis is projecting that the Village will be able to add approximately $360,000 to reserves at the end of the year.

The situation with the Water and Sewer Fund is not as bright however. For the 2012/13 fiscal year, the Fund when factoring in depreciation for infrastructure and equipment, showed a loss of $1.35 million. As stated in the audit, this is the second straight year of deficit operations and will need to be addressed moving forward. The mid-year analysis is also projecting a year-end deficit of approximately $300,000 and staff will be completing a thorough review of operating expenses to reduce or eliminate this funding gap for the current and subsequent years.

Village staff are currently preparing the 2014/15 budget request and the Village Board will be considering and deliberating on these requests beginning in February. This three-month project takes into account the funds necessary to fulfill the village’s basic operational needs while working to enhance the appeal and charm of our community for future generations.

A 6-Month Overview:

Department of Finance

The Village of Wauconda continually strives to meet the needs of its water/sewer customers. For your convenience, we have taken the necessary steps to provide you with the ability to pay your Village Water/Sewer bills through our Auto Debit System, e-Pay via the Internet, or at convenient drop-off boxes located at Village Hall, 101 N. Main Street.

More About the Convenient Auto Debit OptionThe Village’s Auto Debit Program allows your bank account to be automatically debited on the bill due date for the full amount of your water/sewer bill. If you are interested in participating, please visit http://wauconda-il.gov/village-communications/pay-water-sewer-bill/.

Water/Sewer Payments Made Easy

PAGE 7

As I sit down to write this message, I’m just starting my third week as Village Administrator for the Village of Wauconda. I have been overwhelmed by the warmness with which I have been welcomed and the community spirit and civic pride on display.

Whether it is the Village Board, my co-workers at the Village, citizens, or officials from other governmental entities serving Wauconda, please accept my gratitude for allowing me to serve for and with you. We may have challenges ahead but the opportunities in front of this community are great. I look forward to working with all of you to implement the goals and objectives of the Village Board and to make a better Wauconda.

Proposed TIF DistrictOne of the economic development projects well under way when I joined the staff of the Village is the creation of a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District near IL Route 176 and US Route 12. A TIF is one way municipalities encourage private investment in underdeveloped or underperforming areas and one of the few remaining economic development tools used by local governments to revitalize communities. It is a popular and effective tool used in hundreds of cities in Illinois and nearly

AdministrationFrom Administrator Doug Maxeiner

Village officials have been advised that a new scamming practice is starting to surface in the area targeting the business community. Businesses receive telephone calls from persons identifying themselves as representatives for public utilities such as ComEd. The caller advises the business of delinquent utility bills and if not paid immediately, utility shut-off is threatened. In order to pay the account balance, the

caller advises the purchase of a prepaid Visa card and provides a call back number to make payment. When the number is called a recording states that it is ComEd but they are experiencing trouble with the telephone line. The original scammer then contacts the business once again and attempts to obtain the prepaid card number. So far, the calls have targeted businesses.

As a reminder, if someone calls and asks for personal information from you or seeks payment for something you do not believe you owe, please use caution before divulging personal information. Call the utility directly at listed numbers to verify the authenticity of the call. If you believe the call is a fraudulent attempt to obtain money from you, contact the Wauconda Police Department at 847.526.2421.

Businesses Beware: Utility Bill Scamming

every state in the country. Furthermore, it is a vital component of the economic development strategy to attract new retail businesses for Wauconda moving forward. TIFs generate funds for development within the district through increased property values in areas that had previously experienced lagging growth and development activity. Property taxes generated on the increased assessed value then become available for reinvestment within the TIF for public improvements such as streets, utilities, public parking, etc. The revenue is generated from the increased values of the property, not from increased tax rates.

The use of TIFs can be controversial due in large part to abuses by some local governments over the past several decades. However, the State of Illinois has tightened the qualification requirements for TIF formation and Wauconda’s proposed TIF meets and, in many instances, exceeds these requirements. This controversy is also attributable to earmarking revenues generated from increased assessed values for TIF projects rather than distribution to other taxing districts during the life of the TIF. On the other hand, it is unlikely that new development and increased assessed values would occur without the investment encouraged by the TIF.

If you have any questions on the Wauconda TIF District, please feel free to contact me at Village Hall 847.526.9600 or dmaxeiner@wauconda-il.gov.

PAGE 6

Within the Village of Wauconda’s financial and budgeting structure, there are two primary operating funds – the General Fund and Water/Sewer Fund. The General Fund is responsible for funding general governmental services (such as police protection and street maintenance) to the residents of the Village. The Water/Sewer Fund is the operating fund that pays for the production and distribution of potable water in the Village and the collection, treatment, and reclamation of sewerage.

The Village recently received its audit for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2012. In the General Fund, the Village was able to add nearly $670,000 to its reserves through stronger than anticipated revenues, cost containment measures, and setting aside funds for future capital projects. After six months of operation in the 2013/14 fiscal year, the Village is projecting that revenues - primarily shared revenues from the State of Illinois - will continue to grow showing an increase of 3.4% over the budgeted amount. On the other hand, expenditures are projected to show reductions of 1.3% when compared to the budget. With all things considered, the mid-year analysis is projecting that the Village will be able to add approximately $360,000 to reserves at the end of the year.

The situation with the Water and Sewer Fund is not as bright however. For the 2012/13 fiscal year, the Fund when factoring in depreciation for infrastructure and equipment, showed a loss of $1.35 million. As stated in the audit, this is the second straight year of deficit operations and will need to be addressed moving forward. The mid-year analysis is also projecting a year-end deficit of approximately $300,000 and staff will be completing a thorough review of operating expenses to reduce or eliminate this funding gap for the current and subsequent years.

Village staff are currently preparing the 2014/15 budget request and the Village Board will be considering and deliberating on these requests beginning in February. This three-month project takes into account the funds necessary to fulfill the village’s basic operational needs while working to enhance the appeal and charm of our community for future generations.

A 6-Month Overview:

Department of Finance

The Village of Wauconda continually strives to meet the needs of its water/sewer customers. For your convenience, we have taken the necessary steps to provide you with the ability to pay your Village Water/Sewer bills through our Auto Debit System, e-Pay via the Internet, or at convenient drop-off boxes located at Village Hall, 101 N. Main Street.

More About the Convenient Auto Debit OptionThe Village’s Auto Debit Program allows your bank account to be automatically debited on the bill due date for the full amount of your water/sewer bill. If you are interested in participating, please visit http://wauconda-il.gov/village-communications/pay-water-sewer-bill/.

Water/Sewer Payments Made Easy

PAGE 7

Wauconda PoliceDepartment

Serving the CommunityThis past October the Wauconda Police Department had its 136th birthday. While the members of your Police Department forge ahead into the 137th year, it’s important to remember, we can’t do this without assistance from the community.

The relationship the Department has with the residents and our business owners in town is paramount to the success we achieve. Your willingness to get involved, by just making a phone call (a call that can be, and remain, anonymous in most cases), helps your neighbor, yourself, your Police Department and ultimately the community at large. We all want the safest community possible, so when something does not seem quite right -- a dog that barks in the middle of the night that would not normally, or you thought you heard a noise -- please give us a call at 847.526.2421. If it appears to be an emergency that needs immediate attention,

Varro, a 16-month-old German Shepherd has joined the Wauconda Police Department. He is partnered with handler Officer Keith Ringham, a 13-year Wauconda officer. After an intense 8-week training program, Ringham believes Varro is more than ready to work. Varro’s first day on the job consisted of two arrests and the confiscation of six grams of heroin.

Varro will take over the duties of 10-year-old Maxx, a German Shepherd who will retire in May after nine years on the canine unit. Maxx’s handler, Sgt. John Combs, will remain on the force, but not on the canine team.

As a welcome gift, Officer Varro will receive a canine ballistic vest, paid for with about $2,500 in donations raised in 48 hours. Marie Demko of Wauconda and her co-workers at Global Resources in Northbrook led the fundraising campaign.

Ringham said he’s blown away by the generosity. Food for Varro will be donated by Page’s Healthy Paws in Wauconda and the Wauconda Animal Hospital has offered veterinary care.

A Warm Welcome to Our Newest Officer

for example you hear breaking glass sounds in your home, calls for help, crashing cars -- please dial 911.

The Department will be retiring the September 11th Memorial Squad this month. The Memorial Squad was an existing squad in the Department but, the

Memorial applique was entirely financed through public donations and was so well received, we would like to see if there is community

interest in donating toward a new patriotic design for application to a newer squad.

If you’d be interested in pledging a donation to the project, please contact Chief Patrick Yost at pyost@wauconda-police.com.

PAGE 8

Economic and CommunityDevelopment

Wauconda’s Department of Economic and Community Development (ECD) has a variety of roles in the community. In a traditional sense, this department coordinates communications and partnerships between retailers, developers, business owners, and local landowners.

In an effort to improve the efficiency of the department’s processes and requirements, Economic Development works closely with staff from the Building, Zoning, and Planning Department to coordinate collaborative meetings between staff and interested parties. This combined effort has gained the attention of neighboring communities interested in improving their plan review processes.

The “community” side of the ECD identifies ways to help develop and support the appeal and character of the town, always working to communicate the unique opportunities and amenities Wauconda has to offer. Whether we are identifying ways to market regionally or locally, the goal is always to communicate what the community truly has to offer today and in the future.

The Village of Wauconda was well represented at this year’s International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Deal Making Conference on October 2nd and 3rd at Chicago’s Navy Pier. Attended by Mayor Bart and staff, this was the first time we secured an individual booth to help promote our Village.

To prepare for the show, staff met with the owners of two Wauconda businesses, Menges Roller and Progressive Components, with both having extensive trade show experience. The meeting offered great input for booth design, general theme, and show materials. Both business owners offered to lend the Village booth accessories, including furniture, a backdrop, display stands and lighting for the event.

The theme of the booth was “Wauconda…Moving in the Right Direction.” Colorful graphics and fun giveaways helped market the “upward” economic direction of the Village. The show was well attended by municipalities, developers, site selectors, and retailers. Villages with booths included Barrington, Oak Park, Northbrook, Glen Ellen, Springfield, DeKalb, and many others. Retailers included Jimmy John’s, Dunkin Donuts, Shoe Carnival, Fresh Market, Kroger, Ross Stores, Thorton’s, and Starbucks Coffee.

The Village’s participation in the event allowed the Mayor and staff to initiate conversations with local commercial developers and site selectors that may not have occurred otherwise.

Helping Wauconda Grow

PAGE 9

Wauconda PoliceDepartment

Serving the CommunityThis past October the Wauconda Police Department had its 136th birthday. While the members of your Police Department forge ahead into the 137th year, it’s important to remember, we can’t do this without assistance from the community.

The relationship the Department has with the residents and our business owners in town is paramount to the success we achieve. Your willingness to get involved, by just making a phone call (a call that can be, and remain, anonymous in most cases), helps your neighbor, yourself, your Police Department and ultimately the community at large. We all want the safest community possible, so when something does not seem quite right -- a dog that barks in the middle of the night that would not normally, or you thought you heard a noise -- please give us a call at 847.526.2421. If it appears to be an emergency that needs immediate attention,

Varro, a 16-month-old German Shepherd has joined the Wauconda Police Department. He is partnered with handler Officer Keith Ringham, a 13-year Wauconda officer. After an intense 8-week training program, Ringham believes Varro is more than ready to work. Varro’s first day on the job consisted of two arrests and the confiscation of six grams of heroin.

Varro will take over the duties of 10-year-old Maxx, a German Shepherd who will retire in May after nine years on the canine unit. Maxx’s handler, Sgt. John Combs, will remain on the force, but not on the canine team.

As a welcome gift, Officer Varro will receive a canine ballistic vest, paid for with about $2,500 in donations raised in 48 hours. Marie Demko of Wauconda and her co-workers at Global Resources in Northbrook led the fundraising campaign.

Ringham said he’s blown away by the generosity. Food for Varro will be donated by Page’s Healthy Paws in Wauconda and the Wauconda Animal Hospital has offered veterinary care.

A Warm Welcome to Our Newest Officer

for example you hear breaking glass sounds in your home, calls for help, crashing cars -- please dial 911.

The Department will be retiring the September 11th Memorial Squad this month. The Memorial Squad was an existing squad in the Department but, the

Memorial applique was entirely financed through public donations and was so well received, we would like to see if there is community

interest in donating toward a new patriotic design for application to a newer squad.

If you’d be interested in pledging a donation to the project, please contact Chief Patrick Yost at pyost@wauconda-police.com.

PAGE 8

Economic and CommunityDevelopment

Wauconda’s Department of Economic and Community Development (ECD) has a variety of roles in the community. In a traditional sense, this department coordinates communications and partnerships between retailers, developers, business owners, and local landowners.

In an effort to improve the efficiency of the department’s processes and requirements, Economic Development works closely with staff from the Building, Zoning, and Planning Department to coordinate collaborative meetings between staff and interested parties. This combined effort has gained the attention of neighboring communities interested in improving their plan review processes.

The “community” side of the ECD identifies ways to help develop and support the appeal and character of the town, always working to communicate the unique opportunities and amenities Wauconda has to offer. Whether we are identifying ways to market regionally or locally, the goal is always to communicate what the community truly has to offer today and in the future.

The Village of Wauconda was well represented at this year’s International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Deal Making Conference on October 2nd and 3rd at Chicago’s Navy Pier. Attended by Mayor Bart and staff, this was the first time we secured an individual booth to help promote our Village.

To prepare for the show, staff met with the owners of two Wauconda businesses, Menges Roller and Progressive Components, with both having extensive trade show experience. The meeting offered great input for booth design, general theme, and show materials. Both business owners offered to lend the Village booth accessories, including furniture, a backdrop, display stands and lighting for the event.

The theme of the booth was “Wauconda…Moving in the Right Direction.” Colorful graphics and fun giveaways helped market the “upward” economic direction of the Village. The show was well attended by municipalities, developers, site selectors, and retailers. Villages with booths included Barrington, Oak Park, Northbrook, Glen Ellen, Springfield, DeKalb, and many others. Retailers included Jimmy John’s, Dunkin Donuts, Shoe Carnival, Fresh Market, Kroger, Ross Stores, Thorton’s, and Starbucks Coffee.

The Village’s participation in the event allowed the Mayor and staff to initiate conversations with local commercial developers and site selectors that may not have occurred otherwise.

Helping Wauconda Grow

PAGE 9

Department ofBuilding, Zoning & Planning

Joseph Schwarz, Wauconda’s long-time Deputy Fire Marshal, Wauconda Fire fighter and the Village’s Director of Building retired last July after 31 years with the Wauconda Fire Department.

With Joe’s retirement, Chris Miller, Wauconda’s Director of Planning & Zoning for the past two years, has been appointed to oversee all building needs for the Village. Director Miller has years of planning experience and is instrumental in the development and communication of the Village’s Comprensive Plan.

What’s Changed at Building, Planning & Zoning?

In September the Village Board adopted “Design Guidelines” to assist owners, builders and consultants with understanding the Village vision to assure long term quality of the Village’s built environment. Design guidelines for retail, commercial, multiple family residential development and redevelopment along with guidelines for single family development are now in place and are being applied by the Village as development and zoning activity occurs.

The document consists primarily of photographic examples from various existing developments along with graphic examples of how the Village envisions its future. Wauconda’s Design Guidelines and other development documents are available online by visiting http://wauconda-il.gov/developers-guide/.

Design Guidelines

Zoning Amendment

New Leadership

The Village maintains a database of commercial property listings as a service to potential business owners that would like to call Wauconda their home. Just visit http://wauconda-il.gov/businesses/view-available-properties/ to view the most current information on available commercial properties for sale or lease throughout the community. And, if you don’t see something that sparks your interest, please feel free to give us a call at 847.526.9609 so we can help with your search!

Grow Your Businessin Wauconda!

Find Available Commercial Properties Quickly Online!

The Village Board adopted amendments to the existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) Ordinance which is an ordinance intended to encourage unique and innovative development of land, while promoting high quality of life in an environmentally sensitive manner.

PAGE 10

The 2003 International Property Maintenance Code requires all home heating equipment to be installed and maintained in accordance with the conditions of the listing and manufactures installation instructions. The Wauconda Building & Zoning Department has the following recommendations regarding the operation and maintenance of your home heating equipment:

Keep the area around your furnace clean and unobstructed.Keep the burner area of your furnace clean.Furnaces that require lubrication on the motors and bearings should be attended to by a qualified heating technician once a year.Do not have anything combustible within six inches of your vent pipe.Do not close off more than 20% of the registers in your house. This can cause high resistance and unnecessary heat build-up in the furnace.Do not store combustible material such as paint thinners, gasoline, etc. near your furnace.

A furnace that is not running at peak performance can be deadly. Carbon Monoxide is a natural product of incomplete combustion. Virtually every gas furnace produces some Carbon Monoxide, which is usually carried away from your home through the furnace’s venting. A clean, efficiently burning gas furnace produces very small amounts of carbon monoxide, while a dirty, inefficiently burning one can produce deadly amounts.

Important Winter Home Heating Safety

Municipal Parking Lot Improvements

Residents and businesses may have noticed new modifications and improvements made to Wauconda’s Municipal Parking Lot located at the corner of Maple Avenue and Mill Street.

Over the summer, the Village Board and staff worked with local resident and high school student Hunter Frey on his Eagle Scout project. The plan involved additions to the Municipal Parking Lot that would help beautify the site. This was to be done by adding benches for seating, custom signage and attractive landscape plantings. To help cover his costs, Hunter reached out to the Wauconda community and its organizations to secure assistance in completing this project.

In June, Hunter went before the Boy Scout Executive Board and they announced that he was an Eagle Scout. Please join us in recognizing this motivated young man for his commitment to this worthwhile community project.

Department ofBuilding, Zoning & Planning

PAGE 11

Department ofBuilding, Zoning & Planning

Joseph Schwarz, Wauconda’s long-time Deputy Fire Marshal, Wauconda Fire fighter and the Village’s Director of Building retired last July after 31 years with the Wauconda Fire Department.

With Joe’s retirement, Chris Miller, Wauconda’s Director of Planning & Zoning for the past two years, has been appointed to oversee all building needs for the Village. Director Miller has years of planning experience and is instrumental in the development and communication of the Village’s Comprensive Plan.

What’s Changed at Building, Planning & Zoning?

In September the Village Board adopted “Design Guidelines” to assist owners, builders and consultants with understanding the Village vision to assure long term quality of the Village’s built environment. Design guidelines for retail, commercial, multiple family residential development and redevelopment along with guidelines for single family development are now in place and are being applied by the Village as development and zoning activity occurs.

The document consists primarily of photographic examples from various existing developments along with graphic examples of how the Village envisions its future. Wauconda’s Design Guidelines and other development documents are available online by visiting http://wauconda-il.gov/developers-guide/.

Design Guidelines

Zoning Amendment

New Leadership

The Village maintains a database of commercial property listings as a service to potential business owners that would like to call Wauconda their home. Just visit http://wauconda-il.gov/businesses/view-available-properties/ to view the most current information on available commercial properties for sale or lease throughout the community. And, if you don’t see something that sparks your interest, please feel free to give us a call at 847.526.9609 so we can help with your search!

Grow Your Businessin Wauconda!

Find Available Commercial Properties Quickly Online!

The Village Board adopted amendments to the existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) Ordinance which is an ordinance intended to encourage unique and innovative development of land, while promoting high quality of life in an environmentally sensitive manner.

PAGE 10

The 2003 International Property Maintenance Code requires all home heating equipment to be installed and maintained in accordance with the conditions of the listing and manufactures installation instructions. The Wauconda Building & Zoning Department has the following recommendations regarding the operation and maintenance of your home heating equipment:

Keep the area around your furnace clean and unobstructed.Keep the burner area of your furnace clean.Furnaces that require lubrication on the motors and bearings should be attended to by a qualified heating technician once a year.Do not have anything combustible within six inches of your vent pipe.Do not close off more than 20% of the registers in your house. This can cause high resistance and unnecessary heat build-up in the furnace.Do not store combustible material such as paint thinners, gasoline, etc. near your furnace.

A furnace that is not running at peak performance can be deadly. Carbon Monoxide is a natural product of incomplete combustion. Virtually every gas furnace produces some Carbon Monoxide, which is usually carried away from your home through the furnace’s venting. A clean, efficiently burning gas furnace produces very small amounts of carbon monoxide, while a dirty, inefficiently burning one can produce deadly amounts.

Important Winter Home Heating Safety

Municipal Parking Lot Improvements

Residents and businesses may have noticed new modifications and improvements made to Wauconda’s Municipal Parking Lot located at the corner of Maple Avenue and Mill Street.

Over the summer, the Village Board and staff worked with local resident and high school student Hunter Frey on his Eagle Scout project. The plan involved additions to the Municipal Parking Lot that would help beautify the site. This was to be done by adding benches for seating, custom signage and attractive landscape plantings. To help cover his costs, Hunter reached out to the Wauconda community and its organizations to secure assistance in completing this project.

In June, Hunter went before the Boy Scout Executive Board and they announced that he was an Eagle Scout. Please join us in recognizing this motivated young man for his commitment to this worthwhile community project.

Department ofBuilding, Zoning & Planning

PAGE 11

De-icing and Salt Use FAQs

Department of Public Works

Water, Sewer, Streets, and Water Reclamation Services

The Wauconda Public Works Department has answers regarding a more effective and environmentally friendly use of salt:

Q: How does salting my driveway and sidewalk impact the environment?A: The salt is eventually washed away with snowmelt and rainwater and finds its way into surface or ground water. The majority of pollutants found in water are not derived from a direct source, such as an industrial plant pipe, but from sources “dispersed” throughout the environment. These dispersed sources are known as nonpoint sources (NPS). During the winter months, NPS pollution from excessive salt usage is a major concern. When salt reaches larger bodies of water and accumulates, it can affect every aspect of the aquatic ecosystem.

Q: How can I reduce my salt use?A: There’s no substitute for muscle and elbow grease for snow and ice removal. Remove as much snow as you can during the storm if possible. Chip or scrape ice off the surface before any de-icers are applied. De-icers work best when there is only a thin layer of snow or ice that must be melted.

Q: What type of salt should I use?A: Five chemicals are usually associated with de-icers. While sometimes used alone, these chemicals are often combined with each other or with other materials in order to improve overall performance, reduce costs, and prevent damage to plants, ground water, or concrete. The table below shows how the main ingredients of common de-icing products compare. Check the package closely to see what you’re buying. Often it’s a product that contains several of the ingredients listed below, but the first one listed is usually the main ingredient.

Label Effective Temp. Environmental Impacts

Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is available in several forms: flake, pellet, or liquid. This chemical out-performs most other de-icing agents, especially in lower temperatures. As it works, calcium chloride releases heat because it produces an exothermic reaction.

Sodium chloride (NaCl), also known as rock salt, began being used as a de-icer in the 1940s. This is an effective de-icer for areas that receive a lot of road traffic because it draws heat from the environment instead of creating it itself through exothermic reactions.

Calcium Chloride -25 F Little Impact

Magnesium Chloride 5 F Little to No Impact

Sodium Chloride (Salt) 15 F Medium Impact

Calcium Magnesium Acetate 22 to 25 F Little to No Impact

Sand No Melting No Impact (but may accumulate in drains)

Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is a deicer and can be used as an alternative to road salt. It is approximately as corrosive as normal tap water, and in varying concentrations can be effective in stopping road ice from forming.

Magnesium chloride (MgCl2) is used for low-temperature de-icing of highways, sidewalks, and parking lots. When highways are treacherous due to icy conditions, magnesium chloride helps to prevent the ice bond, allowing snow plows to clear the roads more efficiently.

PAGE 12

Most residents have received information in the mail from companies offering to help assist in a change of electrical supplier. It’s very important to know that recent changes in Illinois legislation have enabled residents and small businesses to choose their own supplier of electricity. There are programs available right now that can help residents and small business owners save money with no change in ComEd’s delivery service or their responsibilities during emergency outages.

The electricity service at businesses or homes is made up of three parts:1. The electricity itself is provided by an electricity generator and is sometimes referred to as electricity “supply” or “generation.”

2. The “transmission” of that electricity from the generation facility to the local utility.

3. The “distribution” or “delivery” of the electricity by the utility over the electric lines that lead to a specific business or home.

In the past, ComEd provided all three parts of the electric service (supply, transmission, and distribution). You now have the ability to select the electricity supplier, which allows residents and small business owners the opportunity to save up to 20% off of electrical supply costs.

When obtaining electricity from a different supplier, ComEd is still responsible for the transmission of that electricity to the local utility and to businesses or homes. This means that ComEd will still do the billing, maintain the service lines, and respond to power outages as the company has always done. The only change that will be seen is a reduction in the cost of the electricity supply charge on the ComEd bill. We encourage you to fully investigate all of your options for saving money on your electric bills by visiting http://pluginillinois.org/OffersBegin.aspx or view important FAQs for choosing alternative suppliers.

Department of Public Works

Save Money on Your Next Electric Bill

Winter is here and with it, snow. To protect your mailbox and the Village’s snow removal crews, please make sure that your mailbox is installed correctly. The Public Works Department has a brochure available online at http://wauconda-il.gov/about/village-of-wauconda-departments/public-works-department/streets-division/.

A Reminder AboutProper Mailbox Placement

Recycle First. Trash Last. FACT: About 40 percent of all battery sales occur during the holiday season. Buy rechargeable batteries to accompany your electronic gifts, and consider giving a battery charger as well.

FACT: Don’t send your Christmas tree to the landfill when you can drop it off at designated Lake County Forest Preserve locations for recycling. Drop-offs will be accepted at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda. Drop trees off at marked sites between December 26 and February 1 from 6:30 a.m to sunset. Visit http://www.lcfpd.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.details&intObjectId=28060for more information.

FACT: Close the recycling loop. Many articles of clothing, such as jackets, scarves, gloves, and boots, are now made from recycled materials. Most fleece products are made from recycled plastic soda bottles, and certain clothing and shoe manufacturers use recycled cotton scraps and rubber tires to make their products.

FACT: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, save your ashes in a tin instead of throwing them away. Cold wood ashes can be mixed in your compost heap to create a valuable soil amendment that provides nutrients to your garden.

PAGE 13

De-icing and Salt Use FAQs

Department of Public Works

Water, Sewer, Streets, and Water Reclamation Services

The Wauconda Public Works Department has answers regarding a more effective and environmentally friendly use of salt:

Q: How does salting my driveway and sidewalk impact the environment?A: The salt is eventually washed away with snowmelt and rainwater and finds its way into surface or ground water. The majority of pollutants found in water are not derived from a direct source, such as an industrial plant pipe, but from sources “dispersed” throughout the environment. These dispersed sources are known as nonpoint sources (NPS). During the winter months, NPS pollution from excessive salt usage is a major concern. When salt reaches larger bodies of water and accumulates, it can affect every aspect of the aquatic ecosystem.

Q: How can I reduce my salt use?A: There’s no substitute for muscle and elbow grease for snow and ice removal. Remove as much snow as you can during the storm if possible. Chip or scrape ice off the surface before any de-icers are applied. De-icers work best when there is only a thin layer of snow or ice that must be melted.

Q: What type of salt should I use?A: Five chemicals are usually associated with de-icers. While sometimes used alone, these chemicals are often combined with each other or with other materials in order to improve overall performance, reduce costs, and prevent damage to plants, ground water, or concrete. The table below shows how the main ingredients of common de-icing products compare. Check the package closely to see what you’re buying. Often it’s a product that contains several of the ingredients listed below, but the first one listed is usually the main ingredient.

Label Effective Temp. Environmental Impacts

Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is available in several forms: flake, pellet, or liquid. This chemical out-performs most other de-icing agents, especially in lower temperatures. As it works, calcium chloride releases heat because it produces an exothermic reaction.

Sodium chloride (NaCl), also known as rock salt, began being used as a de-icer in the 1940s. This is an effective de-icer for areas that receive a lot of road traffic because it draws heat from the environment instead of creating it itself through exothermic reactions.

Calcium Chloride -25 F Little Impact

Magnesium Chloride 5 F Little to No Impact

Sodium Chloride (Salt) 15 F Medium Impact

Calcium Magnesium Acetate 22 to 25 F Little to No Impact

Sand No Melting No Impact (but may accumulate in drains)

Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is a deicer and can be used as an alternative to road salt. It is approximately as corrosive as normal tap water, and in varying concentrations can be effective in stopping road ice from forming.

Magnesium chloride (MgCl2) is used for low-temperature de-icing of highways, sidewalks, and parking lots. When highways are treacherous due to icy conditions, magnesium chloride helps to prevent the ice bond, allowing snow plows to clear the roads more efficiently.

PAGE 12

Most residents have received information in the mail from companies offering to help assist in a change of electrical supplier. It’s very important to know that recent changes in Illinois legislation have enabled residents and small businesses to choose their own supplier of electricity. There are programs available right now that can help residents and small business owners save money with no change in ComEd’s delivery service or their responsibilities during emergency outages.

The electricity service at businesses or homes is made up of three parts:1. The electricity itself is provided by an electricity generator and is sometimes referred to as electricity “supply” or “generation.”

2. The “transmission” of that electricity from the generation facility to the local utility.

3. The “distribution” or “delivery” of the electricity by the utility over the electric lines that lead to a specific business or home.

In the past, ComEd provided all three parts of the electric service (supply, transmission, and distribution). You now have the ability to select the electricity supplier, which allows residents and small business owners the opportunity to save up to 20% off of electrical supply costs.

When obtaining electricity from a different supplier, ComEd is still responsible for the transmission of that electricity to the local utility and to businesses or homes. This means that ComEd will still do the billing, maintain the service lines, and respond to power outages as the company has always done. The only change that will be seen is a reduction in the cost of the electricity supply charge on the ComEd bill. We encourage you to fully investigate all of your options for saving money on your electric bills by visiting http://pluginillinois.org/OffersBegin.aspx or view important FAQs for choosing alternative suppliers.

Department of Public Works

Save Money on Your Next Electric Bill

Winter is here and with it, snow. To protect your mailbox and the Village’s snow removal crews, please make sure that your mailbox is installed correctly. The Public Works Department has a brochure available online at http://wauconda-il.gov/about/village-of-wauconda-departments/public-works-department/streets-division/.

A Reminder AboutProper Mailbox Placement

Recycle First. Trash Last. FACT: About 40 percent of all battery sales occur during the holiday season. Buy rechargeable batteries to accompany your electronic gifts, and consider giving a battery charger as well.

FACT: Don’t send your Christmas tree to the landfill when you can drop it off at designated Lake County Forest Preserve locations for recycling. Drop-offs will be accepted at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda. Drop trees off at marked sites between December 26 and February 1 from 6:30 a.m to sunset. Visit http://www.lcfpd.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.details&intObjectId=28060for more information.

FACT: Close the recycling loop. Many articles of clothing, such as jackets, scarves, gloves, and boots, are now made from recycled materials. Most fleece products are made from recycled plastic soda bottles, and certain clothing and shoe manufacturers use recycled cotton scraps and rubber tires to make their products.

FACT: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, save your ashes in a tin instead of throwing them away. Cold wood ashes can be mixed in your compost heap to create a valuable soil amendment that provides nutrients to your garden.

PAGE 13

The Village Voice is published by the Village of Wauconda, Illinois, as a public information service for its residents. No reproduction is allowed without Village authorization and credit line.

WINTER 2013 VILLAGE OF WAUCONDA NEWSthe

Village VoiceThe Community’s Public Information Source

Our Elected Officials

MAYORFrank A. Bart

VILLAGE CLERKGina Strelecki

VILLAGE TRUSTEESLincoln F. KnightJohn F. Barbini, Ed.DLinda StarkeyKen ArnswaldChuck BlackTeri Burke

Important Contact Information

Police/Fire Emergency (Voice & TTY) 911Police Non-Emergency (Voice & TTY) 847.526.2421Fire Non-Emergency 847.526.2821Village Hall 847.526.9600Building and Zoning 847.526.9609Finance Department 847.526.9600Public Works 847.526.9610Water Billing 847.526.9604J.U.L.I.E. (call before you dig) 800.892.0123Village of Wauconda website www.wauconda-il.govPolice Department website www.waucondapolice.comFire District website www.waucondafire.org

Wauconda Village Hall101 N. Main Street, Wauconda, IL 60084 Phone: 847-526-9600 Fax: 847-526-8809