Meet the City Council

City Council Welcome Letter

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

It has been another great year for the City of Crystal Lake. As has been the case for the last several years, we will see Crystal Lake continue to improve the quality of life for its residents, in all facets.

The commercial outlook for Crystal Lake continues to be very bright. Exciting developments appear around every corner and, with the guidance of the City Council and staff, more now than ever, new development is occurring where it belongs – in our commercial corridors and industrial areas. Three new Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts will offer development opportunities in several areas of town, including parcels adjacent to the Vulcan Lakes recreation area, Crystal Lake Avenue and Main Street, and the Virginia Street Corridor.

The City Council is working to create a balanced plan for the Vulcan Lakes recreation area that will preserve the site’s natural beauty and recreational potential while adding new public amenities, such as a marina with boat rental, beach, fishing piers and scenic overlooks, that will allow the community to enjoy Vulcan Lakes. Options for development include partnering with restaurants, entertainment, retail, or other uses on surrounding properties.

Historic downtown Crystal Lake has established a reputation as a destination spot in the region. The Raue Center for the Arts has an exciting line-up of entertainers and productions for its 2009 season. During the summer months, the downtown business district, part of the Illinois Main Street program, hosts many fun-filled special events, including the Farmer’s Market and Johnny Appleseed Days. There is something fun for every member of the family.

Crystal Lake is also home to many other events which draw regional and national attention. The America’s Cardboard Cup Regatta has been memorialized in the Library of Congress. MCYSA/USSA Open International Summer Baseball Championships will bring people from all over the world. Families will enjoy the various Summer festivals. The Crystal Lake Park District continues to actively protect open space while, at the same time, overseeing an exceptional park system.

With all of the good things that continue to happen in Crystal Lake, it is important to recognize the contributions of all those responsible, including City staff, the Park Board, the School Boards and the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce. If the recent past is any indication, Crystal Lake residents will always have much to look forward to.

Very truly yours,

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