The Wayne County Board met Thursday night in the upstairs courtroom of the Wayne County Courthouse, covering topics ranging from animal control services to infrastructure needs and upcoming elections.
Mary Murphy, speaking on behalf of Southern Illinois Critter Fixers, addressed the county’s feral cat problem. Since mid-May, the group has trapped, spayed or neutered, and returned or relocated 62 cats in Wayne County—41 females and 21 males—and 33 cats outside the county. Murphy noted that one female cat can produce roughly 20 kittens per year, meaning their work has potentially prevented 820 unwanted kittens. The nonprofit operates solely on donations, holds liability insurance, complies with Illinois law, and scans for microchips before intervention. They are a 501(c)(3) organization accepting tax-deductible donations.
With members of the Wayne County Humane Society and Animal Control staff in attendance, former board member Andy Glover raised questions about the Humane Society’s finances ahead of their contract renewal. Glover presented records showing the organization has about $244,000 in savings, $54,000 in cash, and $120,000 in investments, despite requesting $68,000 from the county in 2022–2023. He questioned their claims of financial need and ability to fulfill the contract when they had publicly stated they were over capacity. Board member T.J. Vaughn said the Humane Society’s finances were not the county’s concern, as they were being contracted for a service.
The board discussed the new animal control contract, which will provide service from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with after-hours aggressive animal or bite calls available for $100 per call. The annual cost is $56,000, with coverage for all of Wayne County except Fairfield and Wayne City. A 90-day termination clause was added.
Sarah Emery, candidate for Regional Superintendent of Schools for ROE 20, introduced herself. Emery, the current Assistant Regional Superintendent for six years, oversees licensure, professional development, and compliance for nine counties. She encouraged board members to connect with local educators about her candidacy.
County Board Chairman Daryl Hargrave announced the appointment of Larry Nattier as trustee for the Orchardville Fire Protection District, filling the vacancy left by Larry McCormick’s resignation.
Sheriff Chris Otey reported two water leak issues in the courthouse—one in the assessor’s office and another requiring restoration and abatement work pending insurance approval. He also mentioned recent high-profile arrests of dangerous suspects.
Clerk Liz Ann Woodrow announced the launch of the county’s new website, waynecountyilgov.org, with information on tax levies, board members, and departments. She reminded residents the filing period for the 2026 election runs October 27th thru November 3rd. Offices up for election include County Clerk, Supervisor of Assessments, Sheriff, Circuit Judge, State’s Attorney, and half of the County Board seats.
Treasurer Yvette Anderson reported that tax bills have been mailed and some residents have already received them.
Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Jake said his department has resumed fall activities following the Wayne County Fair, and will assist with traffic and parking for next month’s Fairfield Fall Fun Fest. He also noted a recent significant hazmat incident his office is monitoring.
A lengthy discussion focused on road issues, especially Golden Gate Road, which frequently floods. Board member Randy Hedrick questioned spending $56,000 on animal control when infrastructure needs remain. County Highway Department Engineer, Dennis Seidel said a 15-year-old study estimated $3.6 million to raise the road and replace the bridge, but the route has low funding priority since it is not a mail or bus route. Members also raised concerns about the east side of the county receiving less investment, pointing to the Elm River Bridge’s deteriorating condition—it may be condemned in five years.
The Insurance Committee recommended staying with the current provider to avoid large premium hikes. Rates are expected to rise up to 9%, higher than the national average of 4–5%. Negotiations will continue in December.
The Buildings and Grounds Committee discussed Phase 6 of the courthouse heating and air project, with costs of $29,500. The board approved splitting the expense between ARPA funds and building improvement funds to maximize use of remaining ARPA dollars.
The meeting ended following an executive session with mention of a Wayne County Housing Authority letter noting the termination of a board member.
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