The Hamilton County Board met Wednesday and approved several administrative actions while also agreeing to provide funding for a community Recovery Month event planned for later this year.
Prior to the board meeting, the Road and Bridge Committee discussed maintenance projects on several county roads, brush cutting along highways, and preparations for future Motor Fuel Tax-funded road work.
During the meeting, board members heard reports from several departments, including updates on county finances, grant reimbursements, emergency management activities, communications equipment upgrades, and work on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. No reports were presented by the Health Department, Animal Control, or Ambulance Service.
Board members approved the County Clerk’s semi-annual report covering December 2025 through May 2026 and discussed plans to increase juror pay to meet state requirements. The board also authorized the Clerk’s Office to switch software providers to Governmental Business Systems, Inc., citing cost savings and improved service.
In other action, the board approved claims, authorized an engineering services agreement for infrastructure work in South Twigg Township, and noted that no bids were received for the planned second-floor courthouse bathroom renovation, delaying that project.
A major item of discussion involved a request from Shayla Wagner-Hernandez for opioid settlement funding to support a Recovery Month event at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds. After discussion, the board approved up to $6,800 for opioid-related programming, including Narcan training, peer support services, and educational activities, contingent upon documentation and a post-event report.
The board also reappointed Carrie Ragan and Wayne Morris and appointed Josh Lemke to the Hamilton Memorial Hospital Board through 2029.
Board members also received updates on local community activities, including strong participation in Hamilton County 4-H programs and the ongoing McLeansboro Farmers Market.