Recent calls to raise the minimum wage in Illinois received a mixed reaction from McHenry County businesses, as special interests on both sides of the issue prepare for a looming wage debate in Springfield.

Local business groups, such as the McHenry Chamber of Commerce, argued that any increase in the minimum wage would slow economic growth and force small businesses in particular to cut back on staff hours and new hires to conserve costs.

But at least one local owner said he welcomes higher pay for his low-income workers. George Karas, who owns Village Squire restaurants in Crystal Lake and McHenry, said the benefit of increased worker productivity outweighs any potential damage to his personnel budget.