Corey Dowd

The board conducted elections for the positions of Chairperson and Vice Chair for the 2026 fiscal year. Discussions were held regarding an upcoming public hearing for the RCM development proposal, the purchase of new vehicles for the County Engineer, updates on jail census and building projects, and approval of departmental activities, including liquor licenses and computer purchases for the State's Attorney. The board also reviewed the Menard County Waste Management Plan, approved various appointments to the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals, and authorized service agreements with Heritage Shared Services and Bellwether LLC.

The meeting includes an administrative public hearing followed by deliberations. Key agenda items include the approval of a variance request concerning vegetative screening, the approval of findings of fact, and the approval of a special use permit and associated permit conditions regarding ENGIE.

The board reviewed financial reports and expenditures for December and January. Updates were provided on the Annual AFR Report, CD renewals, equipment lists, and recent fee payments. Discussions addressed PSAP staffing and the need for EMD training, as well as the renaming of the High Prairie Drive North Entrance to Zepher Drive. The board considered quotes for PSAP remote panels, CESSA mandatory procedures, and the Mission Critical Radio needs assessment, which was tabled for further agency input. Additionally, plans were initiated to address the replacement of life-expired Eventide recording equipment and the status of the Backup PSAP was discussed and tabled.

The Public Building Study Group (PBSG) meeting addressed several project updates. Discussions included the courthouse window replacement project, painting of the east and west exteriors of the doors, and potential grant opportunities for courtroom remodeling. Updates were provided on the final work status at the annex. Regarding the DCEO Grant, approval was received for the proposed revision to allow final expenditures for windows. The status of freezer installation, painting, and flooring at Sunny Acres Nursing Home was reviewed, with exterior planter removal planned for spring. Additionally, the group discussed wind damage to the impound shed and ideas for evidence storage, impound, and Animal Control usage, including a possible grant for animal adoption.

The Menard County Board of Commissioners addressed several agenda items. Key discussions included accepting the resignation of a Planning Commissioner, the appointment of Rodney Riech to the vacant 4th District Board of Commissioner Seat (Resolution 06-26), and deliberation on a Special Use Permit (RCM Special Use Permit 26-01) concerning the construction of a rail loop, which was ultimately returned to the Zoning Board of Appeals for further deliberation with special conditions. Department reports covered the County Engineer's updates on bridge projects and infrastructure, EMS/EMA January income statements, the approval of a one-year Cardiac Monitor Preventative Maintenance Agreement, the Sheriff's report on jail census and courthouse work, the Treasurer's progress report on the FY23 audit, and the Clerk's report on early voting and Vote by Mail ballots. The State's Attorney recommended securing a special prosecutor for ongoing civil issues, which the board agreed to pursue. The board also approved the March 2026 invoice for Public Health Services and took action on the status of prior Executive Session minutes. Furthermore, Ordinance 07-26 was approved, setting elected officials' salaries effective December 1, 2025, and Resolution 08-26 reappointed Steve Smith to the Tallula Community Fire Protection District.