The Wayne County Board held its regularly scheduled meeting Thursday night in the upstairs courtroom of the courthouse with 11 members present and addressed a wide range of topics, including grant awards, appointments, and facility updates.
A representative from Snedeker Insurance, the county’s health insurance provider, was on hand to answer any questions from board members or covered elected officials.
Chairman Daryl Hargrave announced the re-appointment of Dixie Locke to a new five-year term as a commissioner on the Wayne County Housing Authority.
In old business, the board briefly discussed the Animal Control contract with the Humane Society, with a final vote expected in July.
The board unanimously approved four resolutions related to highway engineer Dennis Seidel, including his re-hiring and the appropriation of funds for his position.
States Attorney Kyle Ellis informed the board he had obtained a grant to fund the salary of Jason Musgrave, a member of the State’s Attorney’s staff.
Sheriff Chris Otey announced that his office had secured a $100,000 retention grant to benefit his 10 patrol deputies. The funds will be distributed evenly over a three-year period, with each deputy signing a contract to remain employed with the county during that time.
In new business, the board passed a resolution opposing Illinois’ “Sanctuary State Status”, a move aligned with other downstate counties voicing opposition to the designation.
The board also approved an additional $48,000 for phase four of the ongoing AC/heating system installation at the courthouse. The funds will come from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) allocations.
Finally, the economic development committee presented a $25,000 funding request from Ethan Keyser for the renovation of the former tire shop on West Main Street, which is set to become the new headquarters of Keys Real Estate, an employer of seven. The request was approved, with Greg Keyser abstaining from the vote.
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