Pure Oil Building Looks Promising

(NOTE: The reference to “Junior College” preceded the use of “Community College” and is reflective of the historical period of the following information)

After its initial office site failed to meet Woodstock zoning requirements, the Board again began its search for suitable space. The search was brief. Mr. Spaeth, President of Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) presented an offer of office space in the former Pure Oil Research Laboratory building at Route 14 and Main Street, Crystal Lake. Pure Oil had donated the building to IIT.

Mrs. Hill, who was handling the search for office facilities, told the Board approximately 2,000 square feet of space was available at $3 per foot. She thought this figure could be reduced to $2.50 or perhaps $2 a square foot, and included janitor services, a watchman, air conditioned offices, and plenty of parking. In addition, classroom space was also a possibility.

The Board thoroughly discussed this offer as well as other sites previously considered. The primary concern expressed by the board was that the new college could loose its identity by sharing space with an institution such as IIT. Some disagreement arose with Dr. Harris saying it was penny-wise and pound foolish. However, following more discussion he made the motion to accept the IIT proposal and negotiate the best price. The College Board unanimously agreed.

Office Space Secured

Successful negotiations with IIT resulted in leasing 1,500 square feet for one year for $3,750 annually. The Board hoped to occupy the site by September 1, 1967. Two signs would be allowed, one at each of the two entrances. But a name for the newly formed educational institution was needed for the signs.

Above is a view of the entrance to the IIT building where the newly formed junior college offices would be located.

District Name Needed

The plan to move into office space increased the need to name the new district. Mrs. Hill, Dr. A.D. Leschuck and Dr. J. F. Harris comprised a committee to determine a name. They had requested suggestions from the public but were unable to agree upon one, and eventually they decided to hold a contest to name the district. The prize would be a one-term scholarship of $100 to $150. This idea came from another new junior college district attempting to create a name. The committee set the entry deadline for September 1, 1967.

The contest was open to all residents of the McHenry-Boone County area located in the new junior college district. Name suggestions were based on old Indian lore, distinguished citizenry, and area geography. People were encouraged to enter as many times as they desired, but to keep each entry separate with their name, address and phone number on each entry form.

Financial Matters

Financial matters also had the Board’s attention. A committee headed by Board President E.C. Nichols set the budget for the fiscal year of July 1, 1967 through June 30, 1968. This document identified anticipated expenditures of $542,000, including $355,000 for the education fund, $185,000 for the building fund, and $2,000 for the municipal retirement fund. A public hearing was held, but no one in the public raised questions.

The Board also agreed to impose a $425,000 levy to ensure tax revenue for 1968, and hire Jim Burch as a part-time bookkeeper at the rate of $2.50 per hour.

Check my next Blog to learn more about the institution’s struggles to beginning classes.

40^th Anniversary Celebration Activities Underway

Join us for ongoing 40^th Anniversary celebrations, including posting your memories and photos on our electronic time capsule and MCC blog. Links and event details are posted at http://www.mchenry.edu/mccanniversary. Pages will change regularly, so visit often! You also can call toll-free 1-866-788-9911 or send an email with contact information to 40years@mchenry.edu for more information.

Iris Bryan