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1. Who do I call to report a dead animal in the street?

To report a dead animal in the street, contact the Public Works Department at (847) 639-0003. The department will respond as quickly as possible.

2. How many domesticated animals can I have on my property?

The Village permits a total of three (3) domesticated animals (cat, dog or combination thereof) per residence.

3. Do I have to license and register my pet?

You are not required to license and register your pet with the Village of Cary, however, McHenry County does require your pet to be registered and vaccinated. Contact McHenry County Animal Control and Adoption Center at (815) 459-6222 for more information.

4. There is a wild animal in my house or on my property. What do I do?

For information on orphaned or injured wildlife, Residents can call the McHenry County Conservation District Wildlife Resource Center at (815) 728-8307.  To access information on trapping wildlife, please visit the IDNR website at: IDNR wildlife information

5. Does the Village prohibit a particular breed of dog?

No. There are no restrictions on the type of dog that you can have.

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1. Does the Cary Cemetery still have available burial lots for sale?

No. The Cary Cemetery has no new lots available for purchase.

2. Who do I contact to schedule a burial in the Cary Cemetery?

The Funeral Director is required to contact the Village no later than 48 hours of an impending burial.

3. How much does a burial cost?

$950.00 - Full Interment Services - weekdays, Saturdays

$1,800 - Full Interment Services - Sundays, Holidays

$525.00 - Cremation Burial Services - weekdays, Saturdays

$950.00 - Cremation, Interment - Sundays, Holidays

4. How can I find information on a relative buried in the Cary Cemetery?

Contact Village Hall and you will be directed to the appropriate staff member.

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1. When does the Village Board meet?

The Village Board meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

2. Where can I view the agenda for the next Village Board meeting?

Click on the link below.

Agendas and Minutes

3. How can I find minutes from previous Village Board meetings?

Click on the link below.

Agendas and Minutes

4. What is the Municipal Code?

The Municipal Code is the codification of laws and ordinances that govern the Village of Cary.

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1. How do I apply for a Block Party?

Fill out a Block Party Application form and submit it to the Public Works Department. Click on this link for the form.

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1. What work requires a building permit?

Some of the most common projects that require a building permit include constructing a new building, adding to an existing structure, renovations and demolitions. Additional projects that require a building permit include a swimming pool, deck, patio, fence, driveway, stoop and walkway, replacement HVAC, water heater and replacing a roof and/or siding. To find out if your construction or home improvement project requires a permit, click on this link or contact the Development Department at (847) 639-1100.

2. What needs to be included with the building permit application?

A building permit application requires basic information such as the type of construction project, who will be doing the work, details about the construction method, and materials that will be used. Some permits can be issued over the counter. For permit applications that require review, additional information may be required, such as drawings, plans or other documents requested for review.

3. Once a building permit application has been submitted, can I begin work before the permit is issued?

No. Work that requires a building permit cannot begin until after the permit has been issued by Village staff. Once the building permit is issued, work must begin within 60 days. All building permits expire 180 days (6 months) after a permit is issued. If work on the project will not be finished within this time frame, contact the Community Development Department for additional information.

4. What is a plat of survey and why is it required?

A plat of survey is provided with the mortgage papers received when the lender closes on a piece of property. If you do not have a plat of survey, you can contact your lender and they will send you a copy. Village staff can also inspect its files for a copy of the plat of survey. If a plat of survey cannot be located, a land surveyor may need to be hired to create a new plat of survey.

5. Is a permit required to install a sign for my business?

Yes. Please contact the Community Development Department for specifications pertaining to your sign.

6. What are the requirements for temporary signs?

Temporary signs, such as a large commercial real estate sign, development sign, or sign advertising a special event, require a permit. Certain size requirements and time limitations apply, so you are encouraged to contact the Community Development Department for additional information.

7. Why are inspections needed?

Inspections are needed to ensure a project is being completed according to the codes and regulations of the Village. Inspections are also needed to provide quality assurance to Cary residents. The Village requires a minimum of one (1) inspection for each permit issued.

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1. How do I contact the Cary Grove Area Chamber of Commerce?

The Cary Grove Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 210 Crystal Street, Suite A, Cary, IL 60013. The phone number is (847) 639-2800.

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1. Does the Village have a transfer stamp?

No. The Village only requires a final reading on your water and sewer account.

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1. Where is Village Hall located and what are the hours of operation?

Village Hall's address is: 755 Georgetown Drive Cary, IL 60013. The Cary Municipal Center is open  Monday - Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Friday afternoons are dedicated to administrative duties and training for Village Hall staff. The drive-up and vestibule drop boxes are available to the public for utility bills 24/7. The Police Department lobby is open to the public Monday – Friday 8:00AM to 4:30PM.

Village Hall is closed on the following holidays: New Years Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day After Thanksgiving, & Christmas Day

2. How do I sign up for the Village's weekly newsletter, Cary News Weekly?

The Cary News Weekly is a weekly e-mail that is sent to those residents who have signed up to receive e-mails. The Cary News Weekly is a communication tool that provides important Village information, including construction updates and upcoming community programs/events. Sign-up for the newsletter at the following link: https://www.caryillinois.com/681/Cary-News-Weekly-Sign-Up

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1. Can I park my car on the street overnight?

The Village's on-street parking restrictions are in effect from December 1 until March 31. During this time, no on-street parking is allowed between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.

2. Where is the Metra train station located at in Cary?

100 W. Main Street (at Northwest Highway).

3. How do I obtain a Metra commuter parking permit?

Commuter parking permits are available from the Finance Department. To check the availability of permit parking, call (847)-639-0003. Permits must be visible on the rearview mirror of your vehicle.

4. What is the daily rate for commuter parking?

Daily parking in the commuter parking lots is $1.50, per 24-hour time period, Monday through Friday.

5. Do I have to have a permit to park in one of the Metra parking lots?

There are designated permit parking lots in the Metra commuter parking lot. Permits are issued on a quarterly basis for $95.00. Permit parking spaces are clearly designated separate from daily parking spaces. Contact the Finance Department at (847) 639-0003 to renew permit parking.

6. How much does it cost to park in the Metra commuter parking lots?

The daily parking fee is $1.50, per 24-hour time period, Monday through Friday. There is no parking fee on weekends or holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day).

7. How can I pay for my parking in the Metra parking lots?

If you do not have a permit for parking in the Metra commuter parking lot, you may park in the daily fee parking lots. The Village has electronic parking terminals installed in both north and south commuter parking lots. The electronic pay terminals accept cash, coin or credit/debit card. The fee for daily parking is currently $1.50 per 24-hour time period.

8. Can I park at the train station overnight and on the weekends?

Village ordinance currently allows parking for 24 hours, regardless of the day of the week.

9. I received a parking ticket. How much does the ticket cost and where can I pay for it?

Violation of a Village parking ordinance is $25.00. You can stop by the Cary Police Department or mail your payment to 755 Georgetown Drive, Cary, Illinois, 60013.

10. Can I get a temporary handicapped parking permit?

Yes. Temporary handicapped parking permits can be issued at the Cary Police Department.

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1. Police Department Hours

The Police Department lobby is open to the public Monday – Friday 8:00AM to 4:30PM. 

2. Parking Information

Overnight Parking

Overnight parking is not permitted on Village streets from December 1st to March 31st, between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Permission for overnight parking on Village streets may be granted on a case-by-case basis. Please complete and submit this form for overnight parking. 

Permit Parking

The Village offers quarterly parking permits for a fee of $95.00 per quarter. To check the availability for a parking permit, please contact the Finance Department at finance@caryillinois.com or call 847.639.0003.

3. How and where do I pay for a parking or traffic ticket?

Parking tickets can be paid for at the Police Department, Village Hall, online at Illinois Funds E-Pay, or by mail. 

4. How do I obtain a copy of a traffic crash report?

Motorists and insurance companies can obtain a copy of their traffic crash report by utilizing BuyCrash.com (use link below).

BuyCrash.com

5. How do I file a complaint against a Police Department employee?

To file a complaint against a Police Department employee, please fill out our general comment form and mark the "Police" box. 

6. Where is the drug take-back collection box?

The drug take-back collection box is a green, rectangular box in the vestibule at the Cary Municipal Center.

7. How do I compliment an officer or other Police Department employee?

If you think that the Police Department and its employees did a good job, please leave a comment on our general comment form and mark "Police." 

8. How do I file a report?

There are two methods to file a report: 

1. Calling the Police Department at 847-639-2341. 

2. Directly coming into the Police Department. Our address is 755 Georgetown Drive, Cary, IL 60013. 

9. What is an administrative hearing?

An administrative hearing is a civil proceeding where cases concerning Village ordinances are adjudicated or settled. For more information about the hearing process, please visit our webpage here. 

10. How can I get a child seat inspected or installed?

If you would like assistance in installing your child safety seat, please contact the Cary Police Department during regular business hours to make an appointment. The Police Department has a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician to assist you.

11. When is curfew?

In an effort to improve safety and encourage smart choices and behavior for youth, the Cary Police Department is reminding youth and parents about the Village of Cary’s curfew ordinance, which is in effect Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12:01 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.. The ordinance states that anyone under the age of 17, cannot loiter on or about any street, alley, sidewalk, or public place within the Village during these stated hours.

12. What is the Citizen Police Academy?

The Cary Citizen Police Academy is a ten-week course, designed to be informative and interactive. Classes will be held on Thursday evenings, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Cary Municipal Center, 755 Georgetown Drive, starting in the fall of each year. Participants will have the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the Police Department’s function within our community, and the challenges our members face on a daily basis. Classes cover a broad range of topics, including Patrol Function, Use of Force, D.U.I., Drugs & Gangs, K9, County Jail, Basic Firearms Instruction at the department range, and much more! To learn more about this program, please visit our webpage here. 

13. Why do I see law enforcement officers from other agencies in Cary?

There are currently two reasons that you may see law enforcement officers from other agencies in Cary: 

1. If there is concurrent jurisdiction, meaning that both the State of Illinois and the Village of Cary have jurisdiction over a case. 

2. The McHenry County Regional Training Center is located in Cary. Currently, the Village of Cary has partnered with law enforcement agencies from nearby villages to create a law enforcement training center for the purpose of keeping our officers prepared and fit. 

14. What is a School Resource Officer?

A School Resource Officer is a sworn law enforcement officer whose main priorities are to ensure the safety of everyone in the school and preventing crime. 

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1. Can I burn leaves?

No, there is no open burning allowed in the Village. All backyard fireplaces/fire pits must be covered at all times.

2. How long can I let my grass grow?

Grass and weeds shall not exceed eight (8) inches in height.

3. What are the Village's rules about storing recreational vehicles/equipment on residential property?

The Village has regulations that pertain to summer and winter recreational vehicles/equipment storage on residential property. For more information, contact the Community Development Department at 847-639-1100.

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1. When will my brush be collected?

Curbside brush collection is conducted twice a year; once in May and again in October.

If you require brush collection outside of the scheduled free pickup times, you can call the Public Works Department for a quote to provide a special pickup (fees will apply) or you can utilize the unlimited free weekly yard waste collection service from Advanced Disposal. Advanced Disposal will collect brush with your regular yard waste pickup weekly but it must be bundled (paper bags or twine) and cut in lengths 4' or less.
Click here for more information.

2. Who do I call about a fallen parkway tree or fallen branches from a parkway tree?

Contact the Public Works Department. Staff will respond as quickly as possible.

3. How do I arrange for a special brush collection?

Residents must contact the Department of Public Works and request an on-site written assessment of the special pickup. The assessment will provide residents with a total cost for the brush collection, based on the size and volume of the brush. Once the total cost for the brush collection has been paid for in full at Village Hall, the Village will dispose of the brush at the residence. Click here for more information.

4. Are there size requirements for my brush pile?

Yes. Branches and limbs placed out by the curb for collection must be between 2 to 8 inches in diameter and at least 4 feet long. In addition, the volume brush that is set out for pickup should be no larger than what would fit into the back of a standard pickup truck. This size is equivalent to approximately 8 feet x 4 feet x 4 feet. The MINIMUM length of brush that can be accepted is 4 feet long. This is a safety requirement because the brush is put directly into a chipper. Larger piles will be subject to special collection fees - call the Public Works Department for a quote. Click here for more information.

5. Why was my brush pile not collected?

Your brush pile may not have been placed out in time or was too large to collect. Contact the Public Works Department for additional information. Click here for more information.

6. Who is responsible for trimming trees and shrubs that hang into or over a roadway or sidewalk?

The Village has a five-year tree trimming cycle for parkway trees.

7. Am I allowed to have a tree planted in the parkway in front of my property; and if so, what steps do I have to follow to do so?

Yes. The Village maintains and owns all parkway trees in the community. A parkway tree is the tree located in front of your residence, typically between the sidewalk and the street.

Parkway trees that need to be replaced are prioritized based on the overall impact in each subdivision (# trees removed per mile) and are subject to available funding. The Village will replace these trees over a period of several years at no cost to residents. If you would like to request an expedited replacement at your cost, please contact the Public Works Department for information and options.

Note that not all parkway locations are recommended for tree planting due to specific site conditions such as overhead power lines, proximity to driveways, or the narrowness of the parkway. Click here for more information.

8. Can I decide what tree to have planted in the parkway in front of my property?

The Village selects the type of tree to replace in the parkway. If you would like to replace a removed tree with a specific type, you may fill out Parkway Tree Planting Permit Application. This option requires the resident bear the full cost of the replacement tree and a licensed contractor perform the installation. You may select a tree from an approved list. Click here for more information.

9. I believe that my parkway tree is dead. How should I have this tree removed?

Contact the Public Works Department. The parkway tree will be removed if the tree is found to be dead, diseased or presents a hazardous condition.

10. The Public Works Department removed my parkway tree. When will it be replaced?

Parkway trees that need to be replaced are prioritized based on the overall impact in each subdivision (# trees removed per mile) and are subject to available funding. The Village will replace these trees over a period of several years at no cost to residents. If you would like to request an expedited replacement at your cost, please contact the Public Works Department for information and options. Click here for more information.

11. What does the Village do with all the mulch from chipping brush and branches?

Mulch that comes from the Village's Curbside Brush Collection Program is stored at the Public Works facility and is available for Cary residents to use, at no cost! Click here for more information.

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1. How do I report a pothole?

The Village of Cary maintains over 150 lane miles of roadway. Potholes develop from imperfections in the roadway that worsen over time due to freeze/thaw cycles. Potholes left untreated reduce ride-ability and can have a negative impact on the road's base. To help keep Cary's roadway conditions in good condition, you can report a pothole to the Public Works Department by calling (847) 639-0003 or send an e-mail to the department.

2. Who do I call to report a traffic signal or traffic sign issue?

Several different agencies maintain traffic signals within the Village. If you see a traffic signal or other sign related issue, call or e-mail the Public Works Department so staff can notify the correct agency. If the signal or sign issue is an emergency and it is after regular business hours, contact SEECOM at (815) 356-2087.

3. Who do I call to report a street light out?

Village street lights are maintained by either the Village or ComEd, depending on location. Should you notice a defective light, please notify the Public Works Department at 847-639-0003 or click on the CRT icon on the Village's home page and provide the specific location (nearest street address) and a description of the malfunctioning street light so that repairs can be made.

4. Am I allowed to block sidewalk for construction?

No. Sidewalks cannot be blocked for any reason. It is a violation of the Cary Municipal Code to block a sidewalk and any sidewalk obstruction should be reported to the Public Works Department.

5. Is there a temporary street closure policy?

Residents can request a temporary street closure for block parties. Temporary street closures for parades or other community events must be requested and approved by the Village Board prior to the day of the event. Information on block parties can be obtained by contacting the Public Works Department. For all other temporary street closure requests, contact Village Hall. Click here for more information on Block Parties.

6. Whose responsibility is it to repair the sidewalk in front of my home or business?

It is the responsibility of the Village to ensure reasonably safe conditions on Village sidewalks, bike trails and pedestrian paths. At the request of a citizen or business owner, any sidewalk that poses a tripping hazard (as defined by evaluation criteria) will be repaired for safety purposes. Contact the Public Works Department if you notice a sidewalk that needs attention. Click here for more information.

7. Who do I contact to request service from the Public Works Department?

To make a service request, click on the CRT icon on the Village's home page.

8. Does Public Works maintain all of the streets in the Village?

The Village maintains the majority of roadways within the incorporated boundaries of Cary. Roadways in the Village, but maintained by another government jurisdiction, are listed below:
Route 14 and Route 31 - Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)
Cary-Algonquin Road - McHenry County
Cold Springs Road and Klasen Road - Algonquin Township

9. How are streets selected to be paved?

The Village utilizes an Infrastructure Management Services (IMS) software to determine the inventory and condition of Village streets. The IMS is mounted on a vehicle that is equipped with GPS, cameras and lasers and it measures pavement roughness, rutting and general surface distress. A sensor is also installed on the vehicle and it measures roadway deflection and response as weight passes over the road. The information obtained by IMS is an instantaneous assessment of Village roadways and is used to determine the roadway's base condition. In addition to the IMS data, the Village also includes current roadway conditions and utility information to develop both a short-term and long-term roadway replacement program.

10. When is street sweeping done?

Street sweeping is conducted during the months of May through November. The Village utilizes both a private contractor and in-house staff to sweep Village streets and parking lots.

11. Can I rake or blow leaves or grass clippings into the street?

No. Village Code prohibits placing debris, such as leaves and grass clippings, into Village streets. These materials clog the stormwater inlets, thereby, restricting rainwater to properly drain and increase the possibility for flooding. They also reduce the efficiency of the Village's street sweeping program.

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1. What should I do if I suspect a water main break in my area?

If a watermain break is suspected, contact the Public Works Department immediately. After regular hours, contact SEECOM at (815) 356-2087 and a Village employee will be dispatched to investigate.

2. Do I need a permit for water or sewer line repairs?

It's possible. Contact the Development Department at (847) 639-1100 to determine if the extent of the repairs necessitates the issuance of a permit.

3. Who do I call to report storm drainage problems?

The Village's storm sewer system is designed to handle rainfall of a storm event with the probability of occurring 10% of the time. During heavy or excessive rainfalls, once the storm sewer grate has exceeded its capacity, rainfall overflow is designed to drain into the street or into drainage swales where it eventually makes its way to a detention pond or a stream. If you notice any problems with storm drainage, contact the Public Works Department. After regular business hours, contact SEECOM.

4. Who do I call to report fallen utility wires?

If the downed wire is a power line, contact ComEd at (800) EDISON-1 immediately. Do NOT try to touch or move the downed power line. Until further notification, consider all downed power lines as energized and extremely dangerous.

If the downed wire is a utility line and the correct utility company is known, contact the company.

5. What is acceptable to dump into the Storm Sewer System?

Nothing. Storm sewers discharge into natural waterways or into porous soil (dry wells). The Village's water supply originates from groundwater, therefore it is imperative that nothing is dumped into the storm sewer system. The Village and all surrounding communities in McHenry depend on groundwater as water supply. Do NOT dump any chemical, paint or oil product into a storm sewer drain. To anonymously report illegal dumping or inappropriate use of the Village's storm sewers, contact the Public Works Department.

6. What can I pour down the drain?

Internal drains can only be used for wastewater such as water from showers, bathtubs, sinks, dishwashers, toilets and washing machines.

7. How can I help minimize flooding in my street?

Residents can do their part to keep flooding to a minimum by keeping the storm grates free of leaves, grass clippings or debris. These materials can potentially clog inlets and cause street flooding.

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1. Can I put bulk items out for collection with my regular refuse collection?

Yes. Bulk items, such as regular household furniture, that are set out for collection must have one (1) pre-paid Cary refuse bag attached to each item.

2. How can I dispose of paint and other household hazardous materials?

Algonquin Township offers paint recycling through a third party vendor during their specialized recycling events for a charge paid directly to the vendor. For more information, visit https://algtwsp.com/specialized-recycling 

The Road District cannot accept household hazardous waste, pesticides, herbicides, drain cleaners and heavy duty/industrial strength cleaners. Residents who need to recycle those items should go to the following link: https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/waste-management/waste-disposal/household-hazardous-waste/Pages/collections.aspx

However, they accept used motor oil during the Specialized Recycling events. Residents with larger quantities and special circumstances are encouraged to call the Road District and arrange of special drop off.

Click for Algonquin Township paint recycling info

3. When does yard waste collection begin?

Yard waste collection program begins the first Monday in April, and runs until the last Friday in November. Click here for more information.

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1. How long does it take to plow Village streets?

Under regular conditions, it is the goal of the department to have all streets plowed and salted within 10 hours after the storm has stopped.

2. Why has my cul-de-sac not been plowed?

During snow plowing operations, the focus of the Public Works Department is to keep main arterial streets and intersections clear of snow. Safety and traffic flow dictates that the main streets be plowed first, followed by secondary streets and finally cul-de-sacs and dead-ends.

3. Who is responsible for shoveling snow off sidewalks?

It is the responsibility of the resident or business owner to ensure that sidewalks adjacent to their property are kept free and clear of snow.

4. What salting procedures does the Village use during a winter storm?

Village crews will apply a highway de-icer salt to pavement surfaces until snow accumulation reaches two inches or more. At that time, salting operations are suspended and snow plow operations will begin. After all streets are clear of snow, a final drive-through pass of the entire Village is done and another application of de-icing material is applied to rid the pavement of any unplowed snowpack. Click here for more information.

5. Can I shovel snow back into the street after it has been plowed?

Do not push snow into or across the street. Putting your snow into the street not only creates an additional hazard, but it may result in the same snow being pushed into your neighbor's driveway if the snow plow makes an additional pass. Village ordinance prohibits this action.

6. Why is there always snow at the end of my driveway, even after I shoveled it?

The design of the snowplow is to direct snow to the right of the snow plow truck, as this is the direction toward the curb and away from traffic. If possible, shovel driveway aprons only after the snow plows have stopped plowing and the street is cleared of snow. This will eliminate the need to shovel again after the snow plow has come down your street. Pile all snow away from the edge of the road on the left side of the driveway, as you face your residence. Should the snowplow make an additional pass by your residence after you have already shoveled your driveway, the same snow will not be pushed back into your driveway by the snowplow.

7. What streets in the Village are plowed by the Cary Public Works Department?

The Village plows the majority of roadways within the incorporated boundaries of Cary. Some roadways are not maintained by the Village and are plowed by another jurisdiction. Listed below are sections of roads not maintained by the Village and the government agency that is responsible for snow removal:
Route 14 and Route 31 - Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)
Cary-Algonquin Road - McHenry County
Cold Springs Road and Klasen Road - Algonquin Township
The western portion of Three Oaks Road from Georgetown Road to the western Village limits - City of Crystal Lake

8. What do I do if I believe my mailbox was damaged as a result of snowplowing operations?

If you believe your mailbox was damaged during snow plow operations, contact the Public Works Department. Damaged mailboxes (including the post it sits on) will initially be assessed to determine whether the mailbox can be repaired, or if it must be replaced. If the mailbox can be repaired, Public Works crews will repair the mailbox as soon as possible. If the mailbox cannot be repaired, residents have the option to have a "standard" mailbox installed by the Public Works Department or receive a reimbursement from the Village based on the current retail market conditions for a standard mailbox and post. Click here for more information.

9. What is that brown liquid being sprayed out the back of Village plow trucks?

The Public Works Department uses de-icing chemicals both before and after a snow or ice storm. This de-icing material is a mix of salt brine, calcium chloride and beet juice. Applying this de-icing material to Village roadways prior to a winter storm provides 3 - 5 days of protection in deterring ice from bonding to Village roads.

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1. What are the impacts to the Cary-Grove Youth Baseball and Softball program and the Maplewood fields? Will these fields be eliminated with the creation of the proposed TIF District?

The sports fields would not be eliminated with the designation of the proposed TIF.  The fields are located on the former Maplewood School property which is currently owned by School District 26. While the property is located within the proposed limits for the Central Cary TIF District, the continued use of the existing fields would not be impacted simply by the creation of the new TIF district.  

The fields would only be impacted if the property were to be sold by the School District and redeveloped.  In theory, the fields could continue to remain on the property throughout the entire life of the proposed TIF District if it was approved.  School District 26 has been marketing the property for sale since the school’s closing over ten years ago, but the site has not successfully sold or redeveloped to date.  Concept plans recently prepared by the district contemplating retaining the site for continued school use could also impact the fields.  Further, if the property is sold and redeveloped, there is the potential that the TIF could assist with the relocation and construction of new fields elsewhere within the community.

2. My property is located within the proposed TIF District. How will the TIF affect my property taxes?

In short, TIF districts do not increase your taxes.  In TIF areas, properties are assessed and taxed the same as properties in non-TIF areas.  All property owners within the TIF area pay the same level of property taxes as all other property owners outside the TIF boundary.  

The only change is that during the life of the TIF the property tax revenues are distributed differently.  Only the incremental increase in tax revenue that occurs after the creation of the TIF goes to the municipality to finance some of the redevelopment expenditures within the TIF area.  

3. How will this TIF affect the tax revenue our schools demand? Does TIF divert money from schools, and if so, will the schools’ budgets be reduced, or will other taxpayers be required to pay more to me

The TIF will not affect the current levels of tax revenue that the local schools receive and rely upon.  The districts will continue to levy their budgets annually as they normally do.  The school districts will continue to receive all of the tax revenue they were entitled to before the creation of the TIF district.  The districts will also continue to receive all applicable revenues generated from development which occurs outside the TIF area.

The property tax revenue which is generated from new private development attracted by a TIF designation is “new” money.  Without TIF, development likely would not occur and the new tax increment would not be produced.  The TIF can assist with increasing the tax base of the area in the long-run which would benefit the schools and other taxing districts.

Additionally, if a redevelopment project receives financial assistance from the TIF, a portion of the increment generated by the project must be set aside for any new school students that the project may produce.  The TIF Act has a default method for assisting school districts financially by reimbursing a portion of TIF increment for a resulting “net increase” in student enrollment.

4. I’m concerned about the Village or a developer taking my property or my business. Is there a possibility I could lose my property through eminent domain?

The Village of Cary has no intention to utilize condemnation to acquire property to promote a project for redevelopment. 

Condemnation is a statutory proceeding which is governed by the Illinois Eminent Domain Act. Condemnation is a tool available to taxing bodies currently, regardless of whether a property is located within a TIF. There are certain standards that need to be satisfied for a government entity to acquire property through this process, including providing just compensation for the property. Further, there is nothing in the proposed TIF plan that identifies any property within the TIF for condemnation. 

It is possible that after the TIF is created property owners may be approached by the development community with interest in purchasing their particular property. However, it is the Village’s desire that any such transactions be completed privately without the need for public participation.

5. How could the TIF District impact existing businesses and property owners? What sorts of costs are eligible for TIF funding?

TIF revenues can be used for certain kinds of private expenditures and are not limited to new redevelopment projects. 

Since the purpose of a TIF district is to encourage development or redevelopment in areas of need, private sector businesses are eligible to receive funding to offset the costs of development or redevelopment within a TIF district.  These may include grants to assist with the buildout of a tenant space, new signage, or exterior improvements.  The expenditure of any TIF funds would require approval from the Village Board and any future programs to assist businesses with these expenses would be subject to board approval.

6. How does TIF District negatively impact property values? Does it make properties less desirable? Will it make it harder to sell?

The proposed TIF will not have a direct effect on a property’s existing value.  Individual properties will continue to be assessed by the assessor’s office based on existing improvements to the property. 

What makes a property desirable for purchase or redevelopment is contingent upon many factors including but not limited to its size, location, overall condition of its existing improvements, and price to acquire. The presence of a TIF would just be an additional factor to consider for the marketability of a property. Therefore, a property owner’s ability to sell their property should not be impacted by the presence of a TIF district.  The Village has had two TIF’s previously established within the community and properties were successfully sold within each.

The intent of the creation of the TIF district is to improve overall property values within the TIF area.  One of the qualifying factors reviewed within the TIF Eligibility Report for TIF #3 is the lagging EAV for the area.  On average over the past five years, the EAV within the proposed TIF has increased at a rate 27% below that of the rest of the Village.  By encouraging private investment within the TIF area it is hoped that the TIF will help to narrow this gap.

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1. My water was turned off. How can I get it turned back on and how much does it cost?

Once service is disconnected, a $25.00 reconnection charge is assessed. The outstanding balance and late fee are required to be paid before service will be reconnected.

2. Does the Village have transfer stamps?

No. The Village only requires a final reading on your water and sewer account.

3. What if I can't pay my water bill on time?

Payments that are made after the due date will be assessed a 10% late fee.

4. Can I pay my water bill over the phone or with a credit card?

The Village does not accept payments over the phone. Water bills can be paid with a credit card through the Village's website using E-Pay. Accepted credit cards include Master Card, American Express and Discover.

5. How often does the Village read my water meter?

The Village reads all water meters on a bi-monthly basis.

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1. Where does my drinking water come from?

The Village's drinking water is derived from groundwater in nine (9) municipal wells. The groundwater is treated and stored in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).

2. How safe is my drinking water?

The Village of Cary is proud of its longstanding tradition of providing safe, clean potable water. The Public Works Department has consistently received fluoridation awards from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) annually since 1995. In addition, the Village has never been in violation of any federal or state EPA laws. For more information, please read the Consumer Confidence Report which is published on an annual basis. Click here for more information.

3. I don't like the taste, smell or appearance of my tap water. Is there something wrong?

No. There are several naturally occurring minerals in the Village's water supply. If there is a water heater in your residence or business, a smell may be the result of small levels of hydrogen sulfide (which is present in groundwater) reacting to the anode rod located inside your water heater. On occasion, the water source for your residence or business may change based on system demand or facility repairs. This can also alter the hydrogen sulfide levels. Unusual smells can also occur when a new water heater is installed.

To remedy an unusual smell, try flushing the water heater or change out the anode rod to one of a different material. Refer to the owner's manual for the water heater for proper instruction.

4. Who do I contact if there is a sewer back-up in my home or business?

If a sewer back-up occurs during regular business hours, contact the Public Works Department. Staff will check the main sewer line for you. If a sewer back-up occurs after hours, contact the Police Department's non-emergency line at (847) 639-2341.

5. Why is there an odor coming from my floor drain?

Usually, a sewer smell is caused by the water evaporating in your floor drain P-trap. Pour water into the basement floor drain to alleviate any unusual odor.

6. How can I prevent frozen pipes?

The most cost-effective was to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate and block air leaks near water pipes. If there are water lines that are not frequently used, drain these lines of water during the winter months. This may also prevent damage from occurring.

7. Who do I call to have my water turned off if I have a leak?

For planned water shut-offs, contact the Public Works Department at least 24 hours in advance.

For emergency water shut-offs that occur outside of regular business hours, contact SEECOM and they will dispatch a Public Works employee.

8. Why are the Village's fire hydrants flushed?

Hydrant flushing is necessary to test the hydrants for adequate water flow and water pressure. Hydrant flushing is also done to remove any sediments from water lines in order to maintain clarity and quality in the water distribution pipes.

On occasion, water is your residence can appear discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens, simply run your cold water tap for a few minutes until the discoloration fades. Avoid washing clothes until the water is completely clear.

9. Can the wastewater treatment plant safely remove anything we put down the drain?

No. Nothing should be flushed down the sanitary sewer other than toilet paper, regardless of what the packaging promises. Specifically, do NOT flush disposable mop refills, disinfecting wipes, personal or baby wipes, toilet cleaning pads, feminine hygiene products or moist towelettes.

10. Where does my sewer line end and where does the Village's begin?

The Village is responsible for the main sewer line that runs in your neighborhood. Residents are responsible for the private line that connects from the main sewer to the residence.

11. Can you tell me where my water/sewer line is located?

Call J.U.L.I.E at 811 or visit www.illinois1call.com for locating services.

12. What is the hardness of the Village's water?

Groundwater is the Village's source for water. Since groundwater in this area tends to be hard, due a high gravel content in the soil, the Village's range for water hardness is between 24 - 27 grains.