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Name:
Frank McClatchey
What office are you seeking?
Alderman Third Ward for the City of McHenry
What is your political party?
McHenry First
What is your current age?
68
Occupation and employer:
I am a small business owner of ProFix Computer Repair here in McHenry.
What offices, if any, have you previously held?
Alderman Third Ward for the City of McHenry
City:
Mchenry
Campaign Website:
Education:
MCC, John Marshall Law School Law program for Community Developers, Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) pilots Lic., FCC Amateur Radio Licenses KE9AEZ, Microsoft Cert. Tec.
Community Involvement:
Besides being Alderman, I am Vice Chair of the Pearl St. Market/Music board; We put together bands, vendors and food trucks for Thursday night concerts in Veterans park. Member of the McHenry American Legion post 491 SAL.
Marital status/Immediate family:
One son
Questions:
Should housing be included in development proposals for the city-owned land on Green Street? For the Wastewater treatment plant property? What is, for you, the right combination of commercial, parking and residential for the two downtown areas, including residential density?
My concerns about the proposed six-story buildings on Green Street in our downtown is density. While growth and development are important, these buildings simply do not fit the character of our beloved downtown area. We need to prioritize what truly matters to our downtown, and one of those crucial needs is parking. It’s an absolute must. Without sufficient parking, our downtown could easily become congested and less accessible for both residents and visitors. Additionally, the density of these two proposed projects is simply too high for this area. I have a vision for our downtown, one that maintains its charm and accessibility. These massive developments are out of alignment with that vision. Personally, I am not in favor of apartment complexes in our downtown core. Instead, let’s explore alternatives that better suit our needs, such as townhomes and condominiums. These types of developments would allow us to maintain the feel of a vibrant yet walkable downtown while accommodating the growth our community requires. We/City has just contracted with a firm to evaluate and study our downtown parking, I am looking for good things to come out of it.
Should the city work with District 15 to sell/redevelop Landmark School, and if so, what kind of development?
I have been involved and spearheaded the drive to protect Landmark School, up to a few months ago there was no protection, meaning someone could buy it and knock it down. I would like to see it as an Art Studio and/or a Museum for the McHenry area something the tax payer can be proud of. It is right on the new Riverwalk so many people can enjoy it. As of now it is out for bid with Dist. 15.
The parks department says the pool complex is nearing its end of life. What should the future of water recreation/pools be for the city of McHenry?
This is not going to be cheap… Yes it is out dated, and we need to update it. I would like to see a referendum on this and see where the tax payers stand.
Many of the new housing developments planned or recently built throughout the McHenry County area have been multi-family rather than single-family, and many are rentals rather than owner-occupied. What are your views on this trend? Do you support this type of development? Why or why not?
1. Strain on Infrastructure & Services – Rapid increases in population density can put pressure on schools, roads, and emergency services. Planning must ensure these services keep pace.
2. Community Character – Some residents may feel that multi-family developments alter the suburban or rural character of the area. Thoughtful design and planning are essential to ensure these developments blend well with existing neighborhoods.
3. Long-Term Investment in Homeownership – While rentals provide flexibility, a strong owner-occupied base contributes to community stability and long-term investment. It’s important to maintain a balance between rental and ownership opportunities.
4. Traffic & Parking Concerns – Higher-density developments can lead to increased congestion and parking challenges if not properly planned with adequate infrastructure.
I support well-planned multi-family developments as part of a balanced housing strategy. McHenry should ensure that growth is managed responsibly, with attention to infrastructure, community input, and maintaining a mix of housing options. A good housing market benefits residents at all stages of life, but planning and execution are key to ensuring a positive outcome for the community. I am for more multi-family developments, not apartments in out downtown.
A recent study commissioned by the McHenry County Board found a need for more workforce housing in the county. Do you support any form of subsidized housing to address that need? Is there enough affordable housing in the community and, if not, how would you attempt to address that?
McHenry is at the start of building a workforce housing project at Crystal lake rd. and Mill St. I would wait and see how that turns out before going forward with more.
Should local law enforcement cooperate with ICE to identify and deport immigrants who do not have legal status to be in the United States?
Yes, If they are breaking the law, they must get in line as all legals have. I have seen this first hand when I was the Manger of the DMV in Woodstock.
What are your top three priorities for our city, and how do you plan to address them?
First, Traffic/Parking Management. We all know the frustration of congestion on our roads, whether it’s during rush hour, near schools, or at major intersections. Addressing traffic flow isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety and supporting local businesses. We need smarter infrastructure investments, better traffic light coordination, and long-term planning to ensure smoother commutes. With community input and strategic planning, we can ease congestion and make our roads safer for everyone. I am hopeful our new Parking study will help with this.
Second, More Opportunities for Our Kids. Our children are the future of McHenry, and we must invest in them. That means expanding recreational programs, improving parks, and creating more safe spaces for youth activities. Whether it’s through sports, arts, STEM programs, or mentorship opportunities, we need to ensure that every child in McHenry has access to enriching experiences that help them grow and succeed.
Finally, Wise Growth. Growth is inevitable, but how we manage it will define McHenry’s future. We must ensure that development is responsible and sustainable—balancing the need for new businesses, housing, and amenities while preserving the character of our community. Smart planning means protecting green spaces, strengthening infrastructure before expansion, and maintaining the small-town charm that makes McHenry special.
These three priorities—better Parking, more for our kids, and responsible growth—are essential for making McHenry an even better place to live. By working together, we can create a thriving community that meets today’s needs while planning wisely for the future.
How do you intend to balance economic development with environmental sustainability in the community?
Smart Economic Growth A thriving economy is essential for McHenry’s future. We want to attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create good-paying jobs. But development must be done responsibly—focusing on revitalizing existing spaces before expanding outward, encouraging mixed-use developments that reduce congestion, and ensuring that growth benefits the entire community. By investing in infrastructure and local businesses, we can grow McHenry’s economy while maintaining its small-town charm.
Protecting Our Natural Resources McHenry is blessed with beautiful parks, rivers, and open spaces that enhance our quality of life. Protecting these resources is not just about conservation—it’s about ensuring that future generations can enjoy them as we do today. We need policies that promote green building practices, sustainable land use, and responsible water management. Expanding green spaces, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and maintaining clean waterways should all be part of our long-term vision.
McHenry is on the right track to make all these things happen.
What are your plans for enhancing public transportation and infrastructure in the city?
I do not see public transportation as an issue; there are many ways to get around our City… As far as infrastructure, we have been keeping up, and replacing things that are over 100 years old.. it is part of living in a River town from 1880’s. In the last three years, the City replaced 27 of miles of roads, that is big, with another five miles this year.
What role should the city council play in supporting local businesses and economic growth?
As a small business owner myself, I know firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with running a business. Small businesses are the backbone of our community—they create jobs, drive innovation, and give McHenry its unique character. That’s why supporting them has always been a priority for me, and I’m proud of the steps our city has taken to foster entrepreneurship.
McHenry has made great strides in encouraging small business growth. The City offers valuable incentives, such as façade grants to help businesses enhance their storefronts and startup grants to support new ventures. These programs provide much-needed financial relief and encouragement for entrepreneurs to bring their dreams to life.
One of the most exciting initiatives in recent years has been the small startup shops at the Riverwalk. Thanks to a partnership between the City and the Chamber, new businesses have had the opportunity to launch in a supportive, high-visibility environment. Many of these startups have gone on to rent their own spaces and expand, proving that when we invest in small businesses, we invest in the future of McHenry. In fact, this model has been so successful that other cities around us are now adopting the same concept.
But our work isn’t done. We must continue to champion small businesses by cutting red tape, offering more resources, and encouraging residents to shop local. Every time we choose a local store over a big-box retailer, we are strengthening our economy and supporting our neighbors.
McHenry is setting the standard for how communities can uplift their small businesses, and I am committed to building on this momentum. Let’s keep working together to create an environment where small businesses don’t just survive—they thrive.
What are your top public safety concerns for our community and how would you propose addressing them?
McHenry has the best police dept. in the county; we dispatch to 16 other police and fire Dept. Chief Birk is hands down the Best of the best. Safety is always a concern, but in McHenry we are well served and protected.
How will you ensure that city policies promote inclusion for all residents?
Let’s build a community where everyone feels valued, respected and included. No matter our differences, we are all one McHenry—neighbors, friends and family.
Do you support requiring government officials to publicly disclose potential conflicts of interest, and how would you enforce this?
Transparency matters! Filing the Illinois Economic Interest Form is a great start, but true accountability also means following all campaign disclosure laws. Let’s support integrity and fairness in every election, and how you do business in McHenry.
How will you make sure you are accessible to your constituents?
When I first ran for Alderman this has always been a corner stone of being an elected official. I have to say I am the most accessible office holder in McHenry, I am always a phone call, text message away, and being accessible is key to being a true public servant. Listening, engaging and responding to the needs of the community builds trust and stronger leadership.