Why now? That’s the question after the White County Board decided to help themselves rather than any of the five entities that presented requests at a public hearing regarding a $1.2 million grant Representative Dave Severin’s office helped secure. Instead of assisting the school district, Southeastern Illinois College, or the Village of Mill Shoals whose water system is in dismal shape, the board announced Tuesday night they would use most of the funds to hire a structural engineer to assess the courthouse. This after the county purchased the defunct Carmi Times building and is pouring thousands upon thousands of dollars into preparing it to house the offices currently located in the courthouse. Board Chair Cassie Pigg says that assessment “will take a large portion of the funds.”
The board is expected to hold a special meeting on May 2nd to discuss the engineer’s report following the inspection.
The board heard reports from all county officers except the ambulance Director Adam Allen who was absent. County Clerk Kayci Heil reported that a walk through with Bellwether LLC had been completed on Tuesday. The board approved a renewal agreement with that organization for budget preparation.
Sheriff Jordan Weiss updated the board on work being done at the Sheriff’s Department. Board members approved a payment to Slays Restoration for work done removing mold. This will be paid out of ARPA funds. Weiss also reported that a squad car was recently damaged after being rear ended and the damage was extensive enough to total the vehicle. He stated insurance would take care of replacement. He also reported an ad was posted in the McLeansboro Gazette searching for bids for a new roof for the Sheriff’s office and jail. Weiss said he is still seeking workers for other repairs.
Highway Officer Brian Ray reported he will be attending a meeting to discuss construction on Epworth Road. He also said their new 1 ton truck has arrived.
A financial report was provided to the board by Mike Baxley and Gary Baxley stating things were working smoothly in the Treasurer’s and Supervisor of Assessments Office.
Following all reports, the board appointed Amanda Cannon to the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission Board for a two-year term. One more individual is needed for the board but the additional nomination was tabled until next month’s meeting. The board approved a payment to Johannes Construction LLC for the 4th installment of work on the former Carmi Times building from the ARPA funds. Additionally, a payment to Midwest Telecom was approved for work on the data cabling, fiber and phone system, also to be taken out of ARPA funds.
Crossville Communications has received a grant to get fiber to rural areas and a letter of support is required. The board approved to send that letter. They also approved sending a letter of support to prevent Shawnee National Forest from becoming a National Park.
An executive session was held for litigation purposes. The board adjourned at 7:45PM.
The White County Board next gathers on May 16th.
