MARENGO TOWNSHIP

What is a “township” and what does it do?
Townships are local democratic governments established by law. Townships serve the public by providing tax assessments, highway maintenance, general assistance, land and economic planning, town hall use, and representation for all local township citizen’s issues and concerns.

Why do we need a township government when we already have a county, state and federal government?
The principal concept of our democratic system of government is grounded by the constitutional premise of representation “Of the People, By the People, and For the People”. Township government is the most fundamental “grassroots” level of local control and administration in our bureaucratic society today. It is the closest form of government to the people. County, state, and federal governments typically make, interpret, and enforce laws, thereby establishing the overall universe within which governed people live. Township government serves as a direct interface and “sounding board” for local constituents with those higher forms of government. Therefore, township government is truly the voice of the people

Do I live in Marengo Township? If not, what township do I live in?
Marengo Township is geographically located in the southwestern quadrant of McHenry County. It consists of approximately 36 square miles and is bounded to the south by both Coral and Riley Townships, to the East by Seneca Township, to the north by Dunham Township, and to the west by Boone County. The City of Marengo is located within Marengo Township.

Do all states have township governments?
Not all states have township governments. Some states have townships, whereas others have districts similar to townships. All serve the people they represent similarly

Who pays for township services and government?
You do, in the form of local, state, and federal taxes. However, most township revenue is derived locally from both commercial and residential taxes.

Can anyone use the Township Hall?
The town hall is generally available for free use by not-for-profit organizations within Marengo Township. It is also available on a limited fee basis to most profit-making organizations within the township. Specific rules, policies, and scheduling are available through the Township Clerk.

Who do I contact about using the Township Hall?
The Township Clerk.

What is the schedule for monthly Marengo Township board meetings and how can I get placed on the agenda to formally address the Board?
Marengo Township Board of Trustees meets once per month on the third Monday at 7:00 p.m. in the town hall. Citizens or interested parties wishing to be placed on the agenda must notify the Township Supervisor in writing no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the meeting in order to formally address the board. A brief courtesy question and answer period is offered at the beginning of each regular meeting to entertain any public comments and questions.

How can I get placed on the agenda to formally address the board?
Citizens or interested parties wishing to formally address the Township Board at a regular or special meeting are required to submit their request in writing to the Marengo Township Supervisor not less than five (5) calendar days in advance of any such scheduled meeting. A brief courtesy question and answer period is offered at the beginning of each regular board meeting to hear public comments and questions.

How can I seek additional information about Marengo Township?
If additional information about Marengo Township is requested, simply call the Township offices at (815) 568-1355 weekdays. Furthermore, if specific documentation is required, submit your request in writing directly to the Town Clerk