Kari Harris

Key discussions and actions during this meeting included the reappointment of several individuals to the Regional Planning Commission and the DeWitt County Community Mental Health Board. Committee reports were received from Property, Road and Bridge, Finance, and IT/Compliance committees, detailing their respective discussions. Significant approvals included replacing flooring in the jail, purchasing a 2023 tilt deck equipment trailer and a 2027 Mack Granite truck, and authorizing a Professional Services Agreement for Bridge Inspection. The Board approved payment for FY 2025 bills and new FY 2026 budget bills, and authorized a $100 Christmas bonus to be issued through payroll. Resolutions amending the Liquor Ordinance and the DeWitt County Code of Ordinances were approved, as well as Benefit Policies for the Jail Administrator and Chief Deputy positions. Finally, the Board approved a resolution to place an advisory public question regarding state participation in a federal private school funding program on the March 17, 2026, General Primary Election Ballot. The term for the Ad Hoc Committee on Compliance and Information Technology was extended until November 30, 2026.

The committee reviewed zoning activities from October. Key discussions included the interpretation of language regarding commercial solar projects within a mile and a half of a municipality with an existing zoning ordinance, suggesting the developer should apply to that municipality. Other topics involved ensuring Prairie Flats corrects its MISO application regarding location details before seeking a building permit, granting the Zoning Administrator authority to hire assistance for residential solar final inspections concerning zoning compliance (structure setbacks and tilt height), and a general discussion on fees for commercial solar project permits. The committee also discussed withdrawing a current Case before the ZBA regarding a Battery Storage Ordinance and initiating a new Case to align with new State Statute regulations for battery storage.

The committee reviewed applications received for the IT technician position and narrowed the list down to five candidates for interviews scheduled for January 27. The Chair is responsible for developing interview questions and leading the interviews.