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MCEDC Member Spotlight: Peter Austin, McHenry County Administrator

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Peter Austin has been a cornerstone of McHenry County leadership for two decades. As County Administrator and longtime board member of the MCEDC Board of Directors since 2005, Peter’s steady guidance in County operations has been instrumental in strengthening the local economy, supporting collaboration, and ensuring McHenry County remains one of the best-run counties in Illinois. Through his commitment to balancing growth with preserving community values, Peter has helped make McHenry County a place where businesses and residents can truly succeed. 

Serving more than three decades in public service, Peter has brought both vision and stability to local government. He began his career as a graduate intern in Western Springs while earning his master’s in public administration from Northern Illinois University (NIU). Peter went on to serve as Kendall County’s first County Administrator, Assistant County Administrator in Lake County, and has been the McHenry County Administrator since 2005.  As County Administrator, Peter manages a $270 million budget, coordinating the work of roughly 1,200 employees across 27 departments, and represents McHenry County’s interests at the state and federal levels. His leadership helped the County achieve an Aaa+ bond rating and eliminate all County debt. 

Peter oversees daily county operations and works closely with elected officials, local governments, and agencies to implement policy and drive innovation. His collaborative approach has encouraged shared services, regional partnerships, and a strong culture of fiscal responsibility. Beyond administration, he is a viable advocate for community planning, infrastructure investment, and sustainable growth, ensuring McHenry County remains a vibrant place to live and work.   

Peter’s connection to the MCEDC is unique, as the County Administrator holds a standing seat on the MCEDC Board of Directors to help develop countywide economic development services. Through this role, he has provided continuity, a countywide perspective, and strategic insight for two decades. His close collaboration with the MCEDC Executive Director ensures that both county initiatives and economic development strategies align. His steady presence has also helped shape MCEDC’s priorities that benefit businesses, residents, and communities throughout McHenry County.  

Peter Austin’s story is as much about family and community as it is about leadership. This November, he and his wife, Jennifer, will celebrate 30 years of marriage. Together, they raised their two sons — Andrew, 25, now living in Minneapolis, and Noah, 22, in Washington D.C. — right here in McHenry County, where they built deep roots and lasting connections. 

After two decades of steady leadership as County Administrator and dedicated service on the MCEDC Board, Peter will retire in January 2026. Looking ahead, he shares what he envisions for the future of McHenry County:  

“My hope is that McHenry County can continue to balance the need for employers providing solid primary jobs, while preserving our open space. I want to see infrastructure keep pace with future population growth,” Austin said.   

 

Stay tuned for next month’s #MCEDC Member Spotlight, where we continue highlighting the leaders shaping McHenry County’s growth and success. To learn more about MCEDC and how we attract, retain, and expand local businesses, visit mchenrycountyedc.com.