The program consists of a New Retailer incentive Program and Existing Retailer Incentive Program. The New Retailer Incentive Program limits the maximum award to $10,000 and the Existing Retailer Expansion and Relocation Program has a sliding scale with awards ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 based on annual gross taxable sales. All awards are reimbursements and require a minimum of $150,000 annually in Illinois sales, as well as a 50% match. A Commercial Tenant Incentive Grant Agreement is required with each application, along with a three-year commitment. Each agreement is tailored to the individual applicant. The monies can be utilized for façade, building improvements or furniture, fixtures and equipment.

Façade Grant* (*amended 4/2024)

(All Facade Grant funding for 2024 has been allocated.  Programs for 2025 will be announced by January 1, 2025.)

The Façade Grant was originally created under the City’s Landmark Commission for structures located within the limits of the City of McHenry that are a minimum of fifty (50) years of age for consideration.  The entire program was expanded in 2022 to include facades on any commercial buildings on Elm St. from Ringwood Rd. on the west to Chapel Hill Rd. on the east, in the TIF district, Front St. from Elm to Bull Valley Rd., Main St. from Crystal Lake Rd. to Front St and Richmond Rd. to the City’s northern boundary.

The following types of work will be considered under the grant program: Exterior work, such as painting, tuckpointing, cleaning, remodeling, restoration, demolition or rehabilitation on the front façade, or a side or rear facing a major street or public access, i.e. city parking lot. Awnings, exterior lighting, permanent exterior site work, etc.  Signage, only if it is included as part of a more extensive facade renovation project, will also qualify. Please see grant guidelines for full list of eligible expenses.