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1. Is the data available for download?

Some assessment data can be downloaded through the mapping by clicking the "save" button on the parcels identify results screen. Contact the GIS department for fees for obtaining geographic and/or tabular ownership data.

2. When was the aerial photography taken?

April 2014.

3. What projection and coordinate system does Henry County use?

Transverse Mercator projection, North American Datum 1983, State Plane Illinois West.

4. What is a shapefile?

The shapefile is a widely used file format for exchanging GIS data between GIS and CAD systems. One shapefile consists of several individual files pertaining to one feature class, like parcel polygon.

5. What are the fees to obtain data from the GIS department?

There are four general fees: maps, reports, cadastral data, and tabular data.

• Maps A typical letter size page is $2 while a 34" x 44" plotted page is $24
• Reports $2 plus $0.05 per letter page
• Cadastral data Is calculated at $25 plus $0.10 per parcel
• Tabular data is calculated at $25 plus $0.05 per record for 1-3000 records, $150 plus $0.04 per record for 3001 to 7000, $310 plus $0.03 per record for 7001 to 15000, or $550 plus $0.02 per record for 150001 or more records

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1. What do the different lines and colors mean?

Turn on the legend in the "visibility layers" part of the tool bar. The colors of most-used lines are:

• Red property lines and dimensions
• Yellow road right-of-way lines and dimensions
• Cyan subdivision lot lines and dimensions
• Green subdivision boundary
• Orange railroad lines and dimensions

Note Only one line is displayed when boundaries overlap. For example, the road right-of-way line displays when it's the same as a property line.

2. Can I find property information outside of Henry County, IL?

No. This website only pertains to Henry County, IL.

3. Can you give tips for searching data?

Yes. Searches are not case sensitive (a=A, b=B, etc.) and entering more letters narrows the search possibilities. Dashes are not used in parcel number searches. Owner names are searched by Lastname, Firstname.

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1. At what age and how often does my dog need to be vaccinated against rabies?

You are required by law to vaccinate any dog over 4 months of age against rabies every year. If the dog is over 1 year of age you can get a three year rabies vaccination that is good for three years.

2. What are the fees and how often does my dog need to be registered?

The fee for altered dogs for one year is currently $10 and is due within 14 days of receiving a one year rabies vaccination. The fee for unaltered dogs receiving a one year rabies vaccination is $25. The fee for altered dogs for 3 years is $30. The fee for unaltered dogs that receive a three year vaccination is $25 per year or $75 for three years, this is due within 14 days of receiving the vaccination. If registration payment is not received within 30 days of your vaccination you will receive a $10 late fee. We currently do not require that cats are registered in Henry County.

3. How can I get a rabies tag for my dog?

Rabies tags are sold at many of the veterinarians in Henry County, or they can be purchased at the Henry County Animal Control office. You can receive a replacement tag by calling the Henry County Animal Control and requesting that a new tag be issued to you.

4. Does my dog have to wear its Rabies tag?

We do ask that you attach the rabies tag to your dog's collar. If your dog is lost and picked up by Animal Control, your local police, or a citizen, we can identify your dog by the number listed on the rabies tag.

5. Who do I notify if my dog has died or is missing?

If your dog has died or is missing you should call the Henry County Animal Control at 309-937-2266. If your dog is missing you should also notify your veterinarian and any other veterinarians in the vicinity of your home, along with the Henry County Humane Society-Geneseo at 309-944-4868 and the Henry County Humane Society-Kewanee at 309-852-0040. If your dog has died you should notify your veterinarian. The above agencies should also be notified regarding deceased or missing cats.

6. Who do I call to report abuse or neglect?

Please call the Henry County Animal Control at 309-937-2266. You can also call your local police department.

7. Who do I call to report a loose dog or cat to be picked up?

If the animal is located within city limits you must call either your town or village hall or your local police department. If the animal is located outside city limits please call the Henry County Animal Control at 309-937-2266.

8. Who do I call to adopt a pet?

You can call the Henry County Animal Control at 309-937-2266, the Geneseo Humane Society at 309-944-4868, Kewanee Humane Society at 309-852-0040, or you can call your local Animal Control.

9. What can I do about stray cats in my neighborhood?

In most cases you can call a licensed trapper to remove bothersome animals. If a stray cat has bitten a human you must call the Henry County Animal Control immediately, so the cat can be trapped and observed for the required 10 days.

10. How can I get rid of wild animals in my yard that look sick or are destroying my property?

You can call a licensed trapper to have them trapped for a fee, you can also call a private animal control service listed in the yellow pages under Pest Control.

11. What do I do if my dog or cat has bitten someone?

If you have been bitten by a dog please seek medical attention. Contact the animal control office, police, or sheriff's department, they will fill out an official observation order. The police or sheriff will contact the owner and issue the observation order. Animal Control will receive a copy and contact the owner to verify the terms of the order. If your dog is vaccinated you can keep it in the home for the 10 days, but it MUST be confined. It should not be outside by itself and must be on a leash, it also must be confined from guests in your home. On the 10th day the dog will need to be taken to the vet's office to be checked, bring the observation order with you, as it will need to be signed by the doctor and sent to the Henry County Animal Control. You CANNOT give your dog away or put it to sleep during this 10 day period, you will be held responsible regardless! No rabies vaccination should be given until the 10 day confinement is over.

A stray cat should be brought to a veterinarian for observation, a family cat can stay in the home, but must be taken to the veterinarians office on the 10th day.

If you do not follow the above guidelines you will be held responsible. Please contact the Henry County Animal Control or your veterinarian if you have any questions.

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1. How is my property’s assessment determined?

For most non-farm property, the township assessor estimates the fair cash value of the property as of January 1 of the assessment years, based on the three prior years of sales in that jurisdiction / area / subdivision. The Chief County Assessor then equalizes all assessments to achieve uniform valuations throughout the County. Information about farm assessments can be found on the Farm Assessment page.

2. Will I be notified if my assessment is going to be changed?

By state law, notices of all assessment changes are published in a local newspaper. There are two different ways these may be published. One is when an individual assessment has been changed. The second is a notice of equalization factor to be applied to a certain class of property in a specific township. Also, if the Township Assessor changes your assessment, you will be notified by U.S. Mail, sent to the same address where your tax bill is sent.

3. What is the "quad year" or "general reassessment year"?

Every 4 years the assessor, in person or by deputy, shall actually view and determine the value of each property for taxation as of January 1st of that year. The entire county can be done in the quad year or the county can be divided into quadrants. Then each quadrant has a general reassessment every 4 years. Henry County is divided in to quadrants and has quadrant quadrennials.

Each quadrant is reassessed by the year shown below and every fourth year thereafter.

2021	2022	2023	2024
Hanna	Phenix	Yorktown	Munson
Geneseo	Colona	Edford	Cornwall
Loraine	Atkinson	Western	Annawan
Wethersfield	Alba	Burns	Andover
	Osco	Kewanee	Cambridge
	Lynn	Clover	Galva
	Oxford
	Weller

4. How can I compare the assessed value of my property to the assessed values of similar homes in my area?

This information is public record and you have the right to view it. You may inspect the records for any parcel of property, including your own, subject to reasonable regulations set down by local officials. Contact your township assessor or the Henry County Assessment Office and we will be happy to assist you.

5. What should I do if I think my property is over-assessed?

You should begin by discussing your assessment with your township assessor. This is the most efficient and effective way to begin the process of discovery. If you cannot come to an agreed upon value with your assessor you may file an appeal with the Henry County Board of Review. There are generally three bases for appealing an assessment:

Discrepancy in Physical Data 

"The Property Record shows I have a 2,500 square foot house, but it's only 2,200 square feet."

Valuation 

"The equalized assessed value is more than 1/3 of my property's fair cash value."

Equity

"My equalized assessed value is more than comparable properties in my neighborhood."

Please Note

The Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board has consistently ruled that the amount of taxes paid or the percentage of change in value from one year to the next is not a valid basis for an appeal.

6. When can I file an appeal with the Henry County Board of Review?

By law, Assessment Appeals may be filed up to 30 days after a reassessment notice is published in the local newspaper.

7. When I get my tax bill, is it too late to file an appeal?

Yes, it is too late. If there is an error in fact (not opinion of value), a correction can be issued. A few reasons that would allow for a correction: incorrect square footage, number of plumbing fixtures incorrect, you qualified for one of the homeowner exemptions but failed to apply.

8. Why are my taxes higher than my neighbors?

It is very difficult to compare taxes because of the variety of exemptions for which a homeowner may qualify. You should compare assessed values then check to make sure you have all the exemptions you are allowed.

9. How can I change the mailing address on a tax bill?

If you are the owner, trustee, power of attorney or executor of an estate you can complete the change of address form and submit it to the Henry County Assessment Office. Documentation must be included if you are the trustee, power of attorney or executor.

View and download the Change of Address Form (PDF).

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1. When should I file an appeal?

Possible Grounds for Appeals

• Market Value

  proof that the market value is less than the assessment as demonstrated by a recent "arm's-length" sale, a property appraisal, comparison of the property's assessed value to recent sales information for comparable properties, or actual construction costs.

• Equity or Uniformity

  Proof that comparable or similar properties in the neighborhood have lower assessments than the taxpayer's property on a per square foot basis as demonstrated by presenting data for comparable properties from the neighborhood, including any income and expense data.

• Legal Contention

  Raising a legal argument if local assessing officials have not applied provisions of the law correctly.

• Farmland

  • Reclassification From One Use to Another Use
    Proof that property should be reclassified to farmland if the owner can show that the property was used as a farm for the previous two years.
  • Productivity
    Proof that the soil productivity figures assigned to a farm are inaccurate as demonstrated by a soil survey map or information on flooding.
  • Farmland Use Classification
    Proof that the farmland use (i.e., the number of acres of cropland, permanent pasture, other farmland, or wasteland) is incorrect as demonstrated by an aerial photo and an acreage classification breakdown of the contested area.

2. Is the appeal process difficult?

No. If you follow the "Rules and Procedures" anyone can easily work through the process. The Township Assessor and the County Assessment Office staff will assist you.

3. Do I need an attorney?

No, it is not necessary. The hearings are informal and you can easily do it yourself.

4. Where is the hearing held?

The Henry County Assessment Office on the first floor of the courthouse, 307 W Center Street, Cambridge.

5. How long will the hearing last?

Residential hearings are scheduled at 15 minute intervals; hearings for commercial and industrial properties may be longer.a

6. What will the hearing be like?

• First, you will have the opportunity to talk about the evidence you submitted.
• The Board may ask you questions about your evidence
• The Township Assessor has the opportunity to talk about their evidence.
• The Board may ask the Assessor questions about their evidence
• The Board deliberates after the hearing and issues a decision

7. If I am unable to attend a scheduled hearing, can it be rescheduled?

No, due to time constraints of the Real Estate Tax Cycle.

8. If I do not agree with the Board of Review’s decision, do I have any options for further appeal?

Yes. You may appeal the board's decision to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board within 30 days of the written decision. For more information visit the Property Tax Appeal Board's website.

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1. Do I have to report in person?

If you are sentenced to Court Supervision or Conditional Discharge you are required to report in person for an initial intake appointment and then as directed by the Court Services Department for the remaining of your term. Henry County Court Services monitors your compliance with evaluation and treatment, drug and alcohol testing, and any other special conditions of your court order.  You will be required to keep your probation officer up to date on the status of any special conditions and may be required to report in person and/or by phone periodically throughout your term.

2. Do I have to report to court at the end of my term?

For Court Supervision, yes, there is a condition on the last page of the order that states you must appear in person at the end of the supervision period, and there will be a specific date listed on the order.

For Conditional Discharge, no, a court appearance is not necessary unless specifically ordered by the court.

3. I have been arrested for Driving under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI), where do I get an evaluation?

The law requires you to obtain an alcohol/drug evaluation by a licensed provider. You may refer to Yellow Pages under Alcohol Treatment or Drug Treatment, or the internet to locate a licensed provider near you.

Additionally, we have a list of providers who are licensed to provide this evaluation in the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit area.

4. Can I leave the state while on Court Supervision/Conditional Discharge?

For Court Supervision, the Court does not restrict movement from state to state on an order of Court Supervision; however, if you are being supervised by Henry County Court Services for drug testing purposes, you must contact your probation officer and report when you will be out of state.

For Conditional Discharge, to leave the State while on Conditional Discharge you must receive the Court’s permission, as well as, contact your probation officer if you are being supervised by Henry County Court Services.  To move out of State you must contact your Probation Officer regarding transfer eligibility under the Interstate Compact Rules.

5. I have a DUI and have a Statutory Summary Suspension; can I get a work permit to drive?

To obtain a Judicial Driving Permit contact your attorney or the Henry County Circuit Clerk's office at 309-937-3572 or 309-937-3573.

6. Are my probation fees included in the costs and fines?

No, probation fees are separate from costs and fines. You can obtain the balance of your probation fees by contacting your probation officer. Court Supervision/Conditional Discharge cases are ordered to pay a monthly probation fee until all special conditions are completed and verified by Henry County Court Services (i.e. evaluation/treatment). This is why it is very important to keep in contact with your probation officer regarding the status of your special conditions. If you are court-ordered to submit to random drug testing, a monthly probation fee will be assessed for your entire term.

7. Where do I pay monies owed?

All monies are paid to the Henry County Circuit Clerk's office in the form of cash or money order. You should indicate on the money order the amount you wish to pay towards fine/costs, probation fees and/or drug testing fees.

For example, if you are court-ordered to pay $50 per month on fine/costs plus $25 per month probation fees, you would obtain a money order for $75 and indicate on the money order $50 F/C and $25 PF, as well as the case number you are paying on.

8. Can I pay my fines, costs and/or fees online with a credit card?

For your convenience, the Henry County Circuit Clerk offers a new payment option. Browse the options below for what you need to pay:

• Court Fines and Fees for Cambridge Court
• Court Fines and Fees for Kewanee Court

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1. What are Judges of Election?

Judges of Election are responsible for the administration of election procedures in the polling place on election day. They are in the position of ensuring that the election process is administered fairly and in accordance with the law.

2. How are judges selected?

Election judges are chosen by the Precinct Committeemen and by that Party chairperson of their political party. In each precinct, the party which cast the highest average number of votes at the most recent three gubernatorial elections in the precinct shall be represented by three judges; the party which cast the second highest number of votes at the three most recent gubernatorial elections in the precinct shall be represented by two judges.

3. What are the qualifications necessary to be an Election Judge?

• Be a citizen of the United States
• Be a registered voter in Henry County
• Be of good repute and character
• Be able to speak, read, and write the English language
• Be of good understanding and capable of performing duties
• Not be a candidate for any office in the election and not be an elected Committeeman
• Each Election Judge is required to declare their party preference

4. How are Election Judges trained?

Election Judge workshops are held prior to each election. The workshops cover the duties and responsibilities of Election Judges. There is also an Election Judge test given at the workshops. Judges who have attended the class and completed the test will receive $135 for their duties on Election Day. Election Judge pay is reduced for not attending the workshop and completing the test.

5. What are some of the duties of the Judges of Election?

• To open and close the polls
• To be responsible for all election materials
• To ensure that only qualified voters are permitted to vote
• To give instructions in the method of voting when requested by a voter
• To give assistance to illiterate and physically disabled voters, when requested by a voter
• To maintain order in the polling place throughout the day
• To tally the vote after the polls are closed; and to certify the election results in that precinct

6. How may I become an Election Judge?

Contact the County Clerk's Office by phone or email. View and download the Election Judge Application (PDF).

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1. What is Electronic Monitoring Home Detention (EMHD)?

EMHD is an alternative to jail. Home Detention is the confinement of an offender convicted or charged with an offense to his or her place of residence that would otherwise be incarcerated in the Henry County Jail under conditions established by the court. EMHD limits an offender's movement within the community through electronic monitoring.

2. Who can be on EMHD?

An offender who is either pre or post-conviction may be supervised by electronic monitoring if ordered by the court and screened by Henry County Court Services to be found appropriate for the program.

3. How long can I be on EMHD?

The length of EMHD is determined by the sentencing Judge. The term generally ranges from 30 to 180 days.

4. What equipment is used to electronically monitor an offender?

Home Detention utilizes electronic monitoring equipment which tracks offender location and movements within the community in near real-time. The web-based case management system allows officers to quickly and easily enroll offenders, set schedules, customize alert notifications, and create exclusion zones.

5. What is Global Positioning System (GPS)?

GPS is a tracking system used to track the location of offenders placed on a GPS unit. The GPS unit transmits an encoded signal to satellites which are able to give an offender's precise location and movement at a precise time. The system can maintain an accurate position on the monitored individual, even in more challenging conditions, such as indoors, moving vehicles, or among very tall buildings.

Henry County Court Services currently utilizes a GPS monitoring system on offenders who are ordered to be placed on GPS as a condition of the DVSP (Domestic Violence Intervention and Surveillance Program). When an offender is referred to Henry County Court Services by the court for a new charge of Violation of Order of Protection, Henry County Court Services will initiate a mandated risk assessment. The level of risk does not determine the appropriateness of an offender being placed on GPS monitoring. The risk assessment is forwarded to the court for their review in an effort to establish conditions of bail. Should the court order GPS monitoring, Henry County Court Services will initiate the set-up and monitoring of the GPS.

6. Will I have equipment strapped to my body?

You will be required to wear an ankle-mounted tracking unit. The unit is lightweight, tamper-resistant, and has extensive battery life.

7. Will I be allowed to work?

You may be allowed to maintain employment and approved activities. These activities would include educational programming, probation meetings, drug testing, substance abuse, and mental health treatment, and school. All activities must be scheduled and approved in advance by the judge.

8. What happens if I violate my EMHD terms?

When violations occur, such as alcohol/drug use, late returns, unauthorized locations, and/or failure to pay, a wide variety of sanctions can be imposed, up to and including a warrant being issued for your arrest.

9. Will I be drug tested?

Yes. Everyone is required to submit to random urinalysis testing to ensure they are maintaining an alcohol/drug-free lifestyle.

10. Who pays for EMHD?

The offender is required to pay for EMHD. Failure to pay as instructed by Henry County Court Services could result in a violation and termination of your EMHD.

11. How much does EMHD cost?

There is a $25 initial activation fee (one-time fee) and a $40 daily user fee ($280 a week). If the court determines an offender is appropriate for EMHD; however, he or she does not have the ability to pay the $40 daily user fee, the court may lower the daily user fee. Fees for EMHD are to be paid one week in advance.

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1. What's the difference between a guest and subscription log in?

Guests can freely access the map and a limited amount of parcel data. For example, subscribers may search and view owner name but guests cannot. View the Comparison document (PDF) for a summary of differences.

2. I'm a subscriber and cannot log in, what should I do?

Try retyping the password, especially if your browser is set to remember it. Try clearing the browser cache and log in again. Call the GIS department at 309-937-3404, the Assessment Office at 309-937-3570 or email.

3. Why doesn't the map reflect a property split or combination?

The document may have been recorded during a time when property line changes are on hold until finalization of taxes. Property line changes recorded after September are reflected in the following year.

4. How often is the online data updated?

The update dates for the map is on the disclaimer page. But in general, the mapping data is updated once a month and the assessment data, as identified through the map, is updated weekly

5. Who should be contacted if I think something is incorrect?

If there is a question about the boundaries of a parcel contact the GIS Office at 309-937-3404. If there is a question about the assessment information or you need to make a change of address contact the Assessment Office at 309-937-3570.

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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1. Lost or found a pet?

What to do if you have lost a pet:

Contact the Henry County Animal Control Department to see if a pet matching the description of your pet has been picked up, but it is best to visit the Animal Control Facility to visually look for your dog, since descriptions vary between people. Place "Lost Animal" ad in the local newspaper, this can sometimes be done for free. Call your veterinarian and other local veterinarians to report that you are missing your dog. Contact the Henry County Humane Society-Geneseo at 309-944-4868 and the Henry County Humane Society-Kewanee at 309-852-0040, give them a description of your animal. Let your neighbors know that your dog is missing and place fliers around the vicinity that the pet was lost or last seen.

Most importantly, keep cats indoors, make sure they are wearing a collar with an ID tag attached, and keep dogs on a leash when not in your house or yard, make sure that they are properly tagged. Having a microchip implanted into your animal is another way to ensure their safe return to your custody.

View and download the Lost Pet Form (PDF).

What to do if you have found a lost pet:

If the animal is wearing an ID tag contact the owner listed on the tag, if the animal is wearing a rabies tag, contact the Henry County Animal Control Department and give them the tag number, they can identify the owner and provide you with their information. If the animal has no identification, call the Henry County Animal Control Department and give them a description of the animal you have found, walk the dog around your neighborhood, one of your neighbors may be able to identify the dog and give you the owners information. Put up "Found Animal" fliers in the vicinity that the animal was found.

Many animals are implanted with a microchip, which is a permanent form of identification. All local stray holding facilities, police departments, and most veterinarian clinics are equipped with scanners to read the chips. The owners information can then be traced with the chip number.

If you cannot get in contact with the animals owner, bring it to the Henry County Animal Control facility and they will care for the animal until an owner is located. If an owner is not located the animal may be placed up for adoption.

View and download the Found Pet Form (PDF).

How to protect your dog from being stolen:

• Have up to date pictures of your pet, specifically, pictures of any unique markings or scars
• Do not leave you pet unattended for long periods of time, especially in a place that people driving by can see the animal
• Microchip your pet
• If you are going to be gone for a long period of time, ask someone to frequently check on your animal

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1. What is the Rural Revolving Loan Fund (RRLF)?

The Rural Revolving Loan Fund (RRLF) uses capital provided by the Economic Development Administration and Henry County, for low-interest loans to help qualified businesses locate, expand or remain in Henry County. These loans are supplemental, providing a portion of the total needed for a given project. The balance must be obtained through conventional sources, i.e. bank financing or equity. RRLF loans may be used in conjunction with other financing programs, such as SBA 504 loans, State of Illinois economic development loans, and assistance from private development groups.

2. What is its purpose?

The RRLF was established to create and retain jobs within Henry County. Thus, a condition of this financing is that a minimum of one job must be created or retained for every $10,000 of RRLF funds borrowed.

3. Who can apply?

Just about any type of business within Henry County (other than very speculative ventures) may seek RRLF assistance. The program is available to all industrial, service, and commercial businesses.

4. What can the money be used for?

The RRLF monies can be used in a variety of ways. The funds can be used for the purchase of land and buildings, machinery, and equipment, as well as for working capital.

5. How much can be borrowed?

The maximum amount which can be obtained through the RRLF is $100,000.  In most cases, a borrower may carry only one RRLF loan at a time. RRLF can generally finance up to one-third of a total project, and there must be a commitment in place for the balance, including 10% equity from the borrower, at the time of application.

6. How long can the loan be for?

The maximum RRLF loan period is ten years. The loan payback is generally structured according to what the monies are used for. For example, loans used for machinery and equipment costs generally have a 5 to 7-year payback loans for fixed assets usually run 10 years. Working capital loans cannot exceed seven years.

7. What is the interest rate?

The interest rate is generally 4% below the current prime rate. The lowest interest rate that can be charged is 4%.

8. Is the loan secured?

All loans must be secured by collateral in an amount at least equal to the face value of the loan. Personal guarantees are also required by all principal shareholders owning over 20% or more of the business.

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1. Why should you Spay / Neuter your pet?

• Spaying your female before their first cycle eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and can greatly reduce the chances of breast cancer
• Neutering your male reduces the risk of prostate cancer and prostate disorders
• Spayed / Neutered pets live longer and healthier lives

2. What are the reasons why Spaying / Neutering is good for your pet?

• Spayed/neutered pets are better behaved
• Cats are less likely to spray and dogs are less likely to mark their territory
• Spaying a female eliminates their heat cycle which lasts 6 to 12 days twice per year in dogs and 6 to 7 days and three or more times per year in cats
  • An animal in heat can cry constantly, show nervous behavior, and attract unwanted males
• Neutered males are less likely to roam, run away or get in fights
• Unaltered animals often have more behavior and temperament issues and are more likely to bite

3. What are the effects of pet overpopulation?

It has been shown that one female dog or cat and her descendants can produce as many as 67,000 offspring in six years! In seven years that number jumps to as many as 420,000 offspring! Unfortunately many of these animals will die unwanted, abandoned, or just simply because they cannot survive the harsh life on the street.

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1. What do I do if I have been the victim of a crime?

Contact the police immediately. The sooner the police can begin their investigation and start gathering evidence, the greater the chance the crime will be solved and the offender will be brought to justice. The Henry County State's Attorney's Office will not consider a case for prosecution unless it has been reported to and investigated by the police.

You may also file a complaint (PDF) directly with the SAO office. Please mail the completed form to the Henry County State's Attorney office at 307 W Center Street, Cambridge, IL, 61238 and you will be contacted as soon as your complaint has been reviewed.

2. What happens after I report a crime to the police?

The police will investigate your complaint to determine if there is sufficient evidence to make an arrest. This includes taking statements from you, any witnesses, and the accused if he or she wishes to make a statement. Every person has a constitutional right to refuse to make any statement to the police that might incriminate him or her. The police will also collect any physical evidence found at the scene of the crime. This may result in the police making an immediate arrest or, if the police are not sure whether or not there is sufficient evidence to make an arrest, they will contact the State's Attorney's Office to seek a legal opinion.

3. What happens after the police make an arrest or refer the case to the State’s Attorney’s Office?

An attorney will review the case to determine if there is sufficient evidence to file criminal charges and you will be notified of our decision. If criminal charges are filed the defendant will either be sent a notice to appear in court or an arrest warrant will be issued. If criminal charges are filed our Victim/Witness Coordinator will keep you informed of the status of the case.

4. Can the State’s Attorney’s Office represent me in a civil matter?

No. The State's Attorney's Office represents the Henry County government and its elected officials and employees, but we cannot represent individuals in private civil matters. Private civil matters include landlord/tenant disputes, the failure of someone to pay you money they owe you, child custody disputes, and property damaged by accident (as opposed to property damaged intentionally).

5. What is an Order of Protection and how do I apply for one?

An Order of Protection, sometimes referred to as a restraining order, is a court order that protects a family or household member from abuse, harassment or intimidation by another family or household member. Family or household member includes people related by blood or marriage, people who share or formerly shared a common dwelling, people who have a child in common, people who have or have had a dating relationship, and certain people who care for the elderly or disabled. It does not include friends, neighbors, or classmates. To see if you are eligible or for assistance in obtaining an Order of Protection call Freedom House at 800-474-6031 or at the Kewanee office at 309-852-4008. If no one is available to assist you call the State's Attorney's Office at 309-937-3582.

6. What is a Civil No Contact Order and how do I apply for one?

A Civil No Contact Order is a court order that requires a sex offender to stay away from his or her victim. It is similar to an Order of Protection, but you can obtain a Civil No Contact Order against anyone who sexually abuses you, even if the sex offender is a complete stranger. To see if you are eligible or for assistance in obtaining a Civil No Contact Order call Freedom House at 800-474-6031 or at the Kewanee office at 309-852-4008. If no one is available to assist you call the State's Attorney's Office at 309-937-3582.

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1. Can I save the form to my computer so I don't have to be online to print the form?

Yes. Forms can be saved to your computer by following these steps:

1. Right-click the link and choose Save Link (or Target) As from the pop-up menu.
2. In the Save As dialog box, select a location on the hard disk, and then click Save.

Or if you're already viewing a PDF file:

1. Choose File > Save As.
2. In the Save As dialog box, select a location on the hard disk, and then click Save.

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1. What is the Victim Impact Panel (VIP) & Multiple Offender Panel?

There are two types o Victim Impact Panels: 

• First Offender Victim Impact Panel - This is a panel comprised of speakers who are victims or family members of a victim of a drunk driver. Each speaker tells their individual story and talks about how being a victim of a drunk driver has affected their life, their family, their career, their friendships etc.
• Multiple Offender Panel - This is a panel for offenders who have been convicted of more than one DUI offense and have previously attended the First Offender Victim Impact Panel. This panel consists of an Illinois State Police Trooper and a coroner.  The Multiple Offender program consists of lectures, slide presentations, and videos regarding the deadly effects of drinking and driving.

The panels are not open to the general public.

2. When is the Victim Impact Panel (VIP) held?

The Victim Impact Panel (VIP) is completed on-line. The following information will assist you in receiving your certificate.

1. Go to the on-line website at http://www.sbconlinepanel.com
2. Pay the $25 fee to attend the on-line panel.
3. Watch the video, answer the 10 questions correctly and receive a certificate.
4. Email the certificate to courtservices@henrycty.com
5. If you do not have internet access, contact your probation officer at 309-937-3580.

3. When is the Multiple Offender VIP held?

The panel is held at the Henry County Courthouse in the North Courtroom on the first floor and  begins promptly at 6 pm. The Henry County Courthouse is located at:
307 W Center Street
Cambridge, IL 61238

You must be signed up for a panel by your probation officer.

4. What are the Multiple Offender Panel Rules?

Rules are as follows:

• The panel will begin promptly at 6 pm; therefore, you need to arrive approximately 15 minutes early. Rides will be required to wait outside of the building.
• If you are late, you will not be admitted.
• Drinking or illicit drug use prior to attendance is strictly prohibited. You shall submit to a breathalyzer as requested.
• No food, drink, or gum is allowed inside the courtroom.
• You must bring your identification with you.
• You must pay $25 cash before you will be admitted. Coins will not be accepted and change can not be made for large bills.
• Failure to attend and/or not be admitted will be a violation of your court order.

5. What are the costs of these panels?

The First Offender Victim Impact Panel costs $25 and is paid on-line.

The Multiple Offender Panel costs $25 in cash.

Payments are made on the date of the panel. This is not a fee paid to the clerk or a probation fee.  Please refer to the panel rules for more information regarding payments.

6. Can I reschedule my attendance of the Multiple Offender Panel or get an extension to complete the Victim Impact Panel?

The only person able to reschedule a Multiple Offender Panel or grant an extension for the VIP is the sentencing judge.

7. How long do the panels last?

The First Offender Victim Impact Panel takes approximately 2 hours to complete on-line, and the Multiple Offender Panel lasts 2 hours.

8. What if I do not complete the Victim Impact Panel within 45 days from the date of my order or if I miss the Multiple Offender Panel date?

Call your probation officer immediately at 309-937-3580. The court will be notified of your failure to complete the VIP or attend the Multiple Offender Panel as scheduled and you will receive a notice to appear in court.

9. If I reside of out of county or state can I attend a Multiple Offender Panel closer to where I reside?

You must have permission from the sentencing judge to attend a Multiple Offender Panel in another county or state. If the judge approves this, Henry County Court Services will contact the agency where you would like to attend and will give you instructions on how to get scheduled for the panel.

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1. How do I found out information on my septic or well?

Any well or septic information can be obtained by contacting Henry County Health Department at 309-852-0197.

2. Can I pay for my building permit online?

No. Zoning & Building Department can only accept checks as the form of payment. Checks should be made payable to "Henry County" and then mailed into the courthouse address c/o Zoning & Building.