Letter from Village President Hettermann - Spring 2025

Dear Johnsburg Residents and Business Owners,

Spring has finally sprung, but you wouldn’t know it from the snowy start we experienced last week. It seems Mother Nature has a sense of humor.  Fortunately, the days of snow and cold weather will soon be over and we can get out and enjoy longer days and warmer weather.  Not only does spring signify a period of renewal, it also marks the beginning of the construction season and Johnsburg will be bustling with construction activity this year.

Work will soon begin on this year’s road resurfacing program which includes more than 3 miles of neighborhood roads!  By securing additional grant money for the Riverside Drive project, we are able to redirect money to our paving program this year.  Additionally, we partnered with McHenry Township and the Village of Ringwood to obtain better pricing through economies of scale.  Our public works department will be handling culvert replacements in advance of the paving helping to further contain costs. This year’s program includes roads in Emberwood West, Niesens, Niesens Sunrise, Shiloh Ridge, and Sudeenew subdivisions and is expected to begin in May.

Later this summer, work will begin on resurfacing Johnsburg Road from Fairview Avenue to Miller Road. We initially secured $1.5 million in grant funds for the project and were recently approved for an additional $200,000, which will support an enhanced pavement section helping to extend the life of our main thoroughfare.  Tree removal is already underway, setting the stage for the construction to begin. 

Our parks are getting a makeover too! Soon, you’ll see excavation work beginning at Sunnyside Park for new pickleball courts, volleyball courts, and additional play equipment - all made possible by a generous donor.  Over at Lions Park on Hickory Way Drive, fabrication of a new shelter has begun and expected to be erected by Father’s Day.  Thank you to the Johnsburg Lions Club for their generous donation and the patience they’ve exhibited as we navigated supply challenges.  The park on Jay Street in Remington Grove will also be improved with a basketball hoop and swings this spring.

I realize that travel around the community and activities in our parks may be hindered by the construction and thank you in advance for your patience.  We will keep you informed of construction timelines so that you can plan accordingly.  Once complete, the improvements will greatly benefit our community and worth the temporary inconveniences.

Spring isn’t just about construction – it’s about community! Mark your calendars for the annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Sunnyside Memorial Park at 11:00 a.m.  Bring your own basket and get ready for three separate hunts tailored to different age groups, plus enjoy warm beverages courtesy of the Johnsburg Area Business Association.  As summer approaches, get excited for our Memorial Day Event, Party in the Burg and many more community gatherings.  Keep an eye on your eBlasts for all the details.

As the weather turns warmer, non-highway vehicle travel will ramp up throughout the community. If you have not already done so, please make certain to renew your non-highway vehicle registration to avoid costly fines. Also make sure to familiarize yourself with the Village’s updated non-highway vehicle regulations. Keep in mind that all-terrain vehicles, go-carts, minibikes, off road motorcycles, and any other motorized recreational vehicle not authorized by the Illinois Vehicle Code are prohibited on Village roads and sidewalks. Regulations will be strictly enforced and citations will be issued to violators.

Boat launch stickers are also due this year.  If you plan to use the launch at Alfred May Park on Riverview Drive, make sure to purchase a boat launch sticker.  Launch activity is monitored and citations will be issued to violators.

Building permit activity is picking up and expected to increase more as new residential and commercial construction gets underway in the Route 31 corridor.  If you are planning to pursue a project this year, make certain to check to see if a building permit is necessary.  Also check with the building department before ordering materials.  We often encounter residents that purchase fence panels and sheds that do not meet Village ordinances.  Don’t assume that your contractor knows the regulations, contact the Building Department at 815-385-6023 or at building@johnsburg.org before you commit.

With the end of the school year growing near, children are eager to get outside; ride their bikes and play in the parks.  Please be mindful of this and slow down and travel cautiously.

Thank you for the honor of allowing me to serve as your Village President.  I look forward to seeing you at upcoming events throughout the summer. Make sure to watch for eBlasts with more information regarding upcoming construction activity and events.

Respectfully,

Edwin P. Hettermann
Village President

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