From McHenry County Clerk Joe Tirio:
Joe Tirio Applauds County Board for Giving Voters a Voice on Local Zoning Authority
Advisory Referendum Will Allow McHenry County Residents to Express Their Position on Local
Control
MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — Joe Tirio, McHenry County Clerk and candidate for re-election, issued the following statement after the McHenry County Board voted to place an advisory referendum on the November 3, 2026 ballot concerning local zoning authority.
“For more than two years, I have watched residents ask their elected officials for help as Springfield has continued taking local decision-making away from our communities.
“This referendum gives the people of McHenry County the opportunity to have their voices heard,” Tirio said.
The advisory referendum asks whether the Illinois General Assembly should repeal laws limiting local governments’ authority over the siting of commercial solar, wind, battery energy storage facilities, and certain residential developments.
“While the measure is non-binding, it will provide a clear indication of where McHenry County voters stand on restoring local control.
“Tirio thanked County Board Chairman Mike Buehler and the members of the County Board for acting to place the question before voters.
“This referendum will not change state law on its own, but it gives our residents the opportunity to send a strong message to Springfield. Local decisions should include local voices, and I encourage every voter to participate on November 3,” Tirio added.
About Joe Tirio
Joe Tirio serves as McHenry County Clerk and is running for re-election in the November 3, 2026 General Election. His campaign is focused on experienced leadership, government transparency, responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, and secure, accessible elections
