The big topic during last month’s White County Board meeting was the possible appointment of Danny Page to the Saline Valley Conservancy District. Interestingly, none of the White County Board members knew who the person was, and there was no information given to them. However, the Gallatin County Clerk, Deanna Bryant, stepped in and provided the much-needed information, keeping everyone in the loop.
Bryant provided a comprehensive overview of the situation, emphasizing that the board had a candidate in mind for the position. She also highlighted the crucial requirement for all counties involved with the Saline Valley Conservancy District to reach a consensus. Those counties, including Williamson, Saline, White, Hamilton, Gallatin, Johnson, Pope, and Harden, play a significant role in this decision-making process.
That’s where Danny Page comes into the picture; he has held the position previously, but how the board goes about it raises eyebrows in other County Boards. They find the process ‘fishy’.
Bryant explained,
“My chairman, Amy Lunsford, was just trying to ask for the Chairman not to sign it because it’s all kind of in the dark.”
White County Board members then explained to one another that the best option would be to table this item. David South shared his concern about the lack of information and transparency in the appointment process. He proposed sending a letter stating they have not signed the reappointment of said trustee until more information is gathered, which was agreed upon by the majority.
Also tabled were the appointments to the Downstate Illinois Board for a second time and the Carmi Affordable Solar Project. For the latter matter, no one from the solar project was in attendance at the meeting, but a representative sent an email claiming they would have a road-use agreement, a crucial aspect of the project, by February of this year.
Lastly, the White County Board members voted for the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. Cassie Pigg will continue to hold her position as Chairperson, with her right-hand woman (Vice Chairperson) Amanda Cannon.
