HAMILTON COUNTY BOARD DISCUSSES MEAL PROGRAMS, FINANCES, AND UPCOMING PROJECTS

The Hamilton County Board covered a wide range of topics at its latest meeting, with school meal funding and senior meal programs drawing the most discussion.
Although not on the agenda, Board Chair Kelly Woodrow raised concerns about why Hamilton County does not qualify for free school meals like neighboring counties. Board member Adam Little suggested it is because the county isn’t classified as poor, while John Chapman pressed for details about the school district’s financial reserves.
The discontinued Meals on Wheels program for seniors also came up. The program had previously provided 25 meals for $3,700 a month, partially covered by state funding. Woodrow said the board must consider how to address such needs locally.
On other matters, courthouse bathroom renovations are moving forward. Sealed bids for the project will be opened at a special meeting on August 28th at 4:30 p.m. The initial estimate was $28,000, but officials expect higher costs.
The board approved a $1,060 health insurance claim from the City of McLeansboro Fire Department that had been mishandled during an administrative transition. Members also agreed to provide $1,000 in sponsorship for the upcoming McLeansboro Fall Festival, a donation Kiwanis representative John Perryman thanked them for.
During Bellwether’s administrative report, members were reminded the county is facing a budget deficit. Options under review include budget cuts, use of coal funds, or a possible tax increase. No decision has yet been made.
In final action, the board authorized County Clerk Heather Bowman to pay recurring monthly expenses, correcting an earlier oversight.