Chris Behrens

The board meeting covered several critical operational and administrative items. Key topics included updates on the Michael bridge project status and timeline, discussions regarding building permit ordinances, and the review of security and maintenance improvements for facilities, including lighting, cameras, and service contracts. The commissioners explored funding options for building renovations, such as grants and loans. The board also approved a resolution of support for Great Rivers & Routes, a tax deed resolution for a Batchtown parcel, and various fuel and rock quotes for the upcoming year. Additionally, the board addressed potential state legislation concerning bridge weight limits, received updates on ordinance drafting for dogs at large, and reviewed personnel matters within the Health Department and SOA positions.

The meeting was convened to address the vacancy for the County Sheriff position. The board evaluated the candidate, Zach Hardin, and formally approved his appointment to the office of Calhoun County Sheriff.

The board conducted its reorganization, establishing officer roles and committee assignments for the year. Key discussions included the impact of state legislation on renewable energy ordinances, the process for filling the sheriff vacancy, and updates on flood mitigation applications. The board also addressed infrastructure and facilities, specifically regarding elevator service contracts, generator procurement, security lighting, and camera installations, as well as the lease agreement for the Farm Bureau/U of I Extension office. Additional items included status updates on the Perrin's Ledge maintenance project, the ferry boat acquisition, property assessment methodologies, Board of Health appointments, and the development of a social media policy.

The Board meeting included several significant discussions and actions. A visitor addressed the board regarding an ongoing property tax allocation case involving the Winneberg subdivision, expressing a desire to settle the matter. Old business featured the Grand Jury selection process for 2026, and the Sheriff submitted his retirement letter, requesting the appointment of an acting sheriff and coroner for January. The board approved the sale of the Farm Bureau building for $45,000, with funds designated for the general fund, and approved the corresponding lease transfer agreement for the U of I Extension Office. They also approved the resolution setting the meeting dates for 2026. Discussions covered liability costs for the Ferry Boat Committee and generator options for the Richter building. The board awarded the snow and lawn care contract to Hagen's Lawn Care for the 2026 season. Updates were provided on the Flood Mitigation application status. Under New Business, there was discussion regarding a new Green Energy Law and potential tax abatement issues. The board addressed telephone system needs for staff members. The Supervisor of Assessments (SOA) consultant provided an update on entering new property data and Board of Review preparations. Several financial resolutions were passed, including maintenance costs for the Unit Road District and county general maintenance for 2026, and the appropriation resolution for the highway engineer's salary. Fuel quotes for the month were approved. Finally, the county acknowledged the lack of a dog at large ordinance, which will be drafted.

The Board meeting addressed several matters including the sale of a building to the Farm Bureau for $45,000, which includes the transfer of the U of I contract, pending finalization by legal counsel. The Board approved the payment for the appraisal related to this sale. A motion was amended to send a letter to the rural water district requiring upfront payment for recordings due to software limitations. Discussions surrounding the Truth in Taxation aggravated levy for TR07 resulted in setting the levy increase at 62.5% ($535,780 total), noting this represented approximately a 1.8% increase for taxpayers. The Board approved the vacation of Drag Out Hollow Road, contingent upon statutory research. The appointment of a new Statement of Account (SOA) was tabled due to budgetary concerns regarding salaries. The Board approved the holiday schedule and subsequently approved the aggravated levies for FY26. The upcoming retirement of the Sheriff was noted, requiring a vacancy notice to be placed in the paper.