The Wayne County Board met last night for their monthly session.
Officials with the North Wayne Ambulance Service were present and updated the board on their proposed budget and current status. The service has not been operating since May due to a lack of EMT’s and the update presented did not provide much hope of a resumption of ambulance service in the near future. A recent recruiting push for EMT’s only resulted in 3 applicants, with 11 required by the State of Illinois. Officials announced that they were going to attempt to restructure and provide first responder services, but no patient transport. Currently, other ambulance services are providing patient care and transportation.
In Office Reports:
County Highway Engineer Dennis Seidel stated that asphalt work had largely been completed on the 161 project, with shoulder work beginning next week.
Sheriff Chris Otey provided an update to the board on the upcoming elimination of cash bail in Illinois. He stated that extensive meetings were taking place with States Attorney Kevin Kakac to be prepared for the change. He further stated that he and his deputies would continue to make arrests and enforce all laws, despite the upcoming change.
County Clerk Lizann Woodrow informed the board that she has received guidelines for potential candidates for office in the next election cycle. Her office can be contacted for more information. She also announced that property tax bills will be due on 10/6 and 11/9.
In Committee Reports:
The Animal Control Committee expressed their dissatisfaction with the current animal control provider and are exploring other options for animal control services. One board member was quoted saying “we are paying for a service that we are not receiving”.
The Building & Grounds Committee reported that they are waiting on some trim for the exterior work on the courthouse and they also announced that the tower clock was now operational and the bell should be working very soon.
The Liquor Commission announced that they are working on a fine for licensees that are late with their liquor license fee. The commission will define the penalties with the States Attorney and report back during the September meeting.
At the close of the meeting, the board expressed their condolences to the family and friends of former board member, Gerald Melton.