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A Board Built for Impact: Meet the 2026 MCEDC Board of Directors

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For more than 34 years, the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) has served as a trusted connector, bringing together businesses, municipal partners, and regional stakeholders to support business attraction, retention, and expansion. That work is guided by a Board of Directors that reflects the full fabric of our county’s workforce and economy, built on the belief that economic development succeeds through collaboration.  

Representing a diverse mix of public and private sector leaders—spanning banking, manufacturing, healthcare, utilities, construction, education, real estate, local government, and legal expertise—the Board brings varied perspectives to the table, united by a shared goal: strengthening the long-term economic vitality of McHenry County. 

Strength in Diversity  

By pairing real-world industry insight with a public-sector perspective, the Board helps MCEDC align resources, strengthen partnerships, and remain responsive to the needs of businesses, municipalities, and residents, supporting workforce development while keeping long-term economic health and quality of life at the forefront. 

Whether it’s supporting site selection and infrastructure, expanding housing opportunities, strengthening talent pipelines, or fostering business-friendly communities, the Board works together to ensure MCEDC remains a trusted partner for growth.  

Leadership with Continuity and Fresh Perspective 

Many members of the 2026 Board have served for years, providing continuity, institutional knowledge, and a deep understanding of the county’s evolving needs. That experience is complemented by new voices and perspectives, ensuring the organization continues to innovate and adapt. 

2026 Executive Committee: 

Colleen Roos has served on the MCEDC Board since 2022, previously as Secretary and Vice Chair, while Jeni Hallatt has been involved since 2021 and continues her leadership following being Secretary in 2025. Peter Scholl and Kevin Thurston, both long-time board members, step into new officer roles in 2026, bringing years of business and financial expertise to MCEDC’s strategic direction.  

“I am involved with the MCEDC because I want to help attract new businesses to McHenry County and to help retain existing businesses within McHenry County,” Scholl said. “As a business owner within the County for over 20 years, I have extensive experience with financial analysis, which in turn helps me provide knowledgeable recommendations to the Board.” 

As Chair of the MCEDC Board, Colleen Roos’s focus on strengthening collaboration between the Board, investors, and community partners ensures McHenry County remains a strong, competitive, and attractive place for businesses and residents alike.   

“Economic development happens when all parts of a society work together, making the whole better than just the sum of its parts,” Roos said.  

County Leadership 

The MCEDC Board also includes unique seats that strengthen alignment with County leadership. For over two decades, Peter Austin, former McHenry County Administrator, played a critical role in shaping MCEDC as a catalyst for regional economic development. Following his retirement in early 2026, Scott Hartman, the current County Administrator, joins the Board, continuing this important connection between county government and economic development efforts. 

As an active Board member since 2012, Michael Skala brings a unique dual perspective as both a private-sector leader and the McHenry County Board Liaison, reinforcing collaboration between policy, business, and workforce initiatives.  

Meet the 2026 MCEDC Board of Directors 

As MCEDC looks ahead, the Board stands ready to continue its role as a trusted conduit for economic growth, ensuring McHenry County remains a place where businesses, communities, and people can thrive together.