The McHenry County Planning, Environment & Development Committee voted Dec. 2 to recommend Dwayne Dolman to the Zoning Board of Appeals following interviews with two applicants.

Dolman described himself as a lifelong farmer and long-serving Riley Township trustee with years of local board experience. When asked about solar farms, he said he is "not in favor of how the state of Illinois did that," adding that the state "ties your hands" and limits the county's options for deciding where solar farms should be located. He told the committee that, while he understands the need for solar power, the state law reduces local discretion on siting.

Committee members cited Dolman's zoning experience, familiarity with township and county processes, and commitment to leaving personal opinions out of board decisions. Dina (committee member) explicitly said she appreciated Dolman's "passion and experience" and supported recommending him.

The other interviewee, who identified himself as Mac Kasecki and said he is executive director at Home of the Sparrow, discussed board service and said he would approach contentious matters with an open mind. Members noted Kasecki's community experience but said Dolman's land-use background aligned more closely with ZBA duties.

A motion to recommend Dwayne Dolman to the Zoning Board of Appeals was moved, seconded and approved; the recommendation will be forwarded to the county board for final action.