SHELBYVILLE, IL-(Effingham Radio)- On Thursday night, the Shelby County Board approved a contract regarding the Shelby County Farm, ending a debate that has lasted nearly three years.The Shelby County State’s Attorney’s Office announced the contract approval on their Facebook page on Friday. Below is the release posted to the Facebook Page:
“Last night the Shelby County Board approved a contract with Stuart Fox to farm the Shelby County Farm this year, ending nearly three years of contentious debate. Mr. Fox generously offered his time, service, and materials (including seed, farming equipment and fuel), in exchange for $1. Under the terms of this contract, and by agreement of Mr. Fox, Shelby County will retain 100% of the proceeds (an estimated $140,000) from the 2022 farming season.
Several local farmers have graciously volunteered to assist Mr. Fox in this endeavor. Likewise, Jim Schwerman of Shelby County State Bank has generously volunteered his services to obtain crop insurance, act as a liaison with our farm committee, and facilitate the harvest.
This historical 236 acre farm was purchased by the county in 1867 and was initially operated as a poor farm. A cemetery remains on the property where former poor farm residents are buried, including at least one civil war veteran.
The poor farm ended in the late 1960’s and Shelby County, like many other counties in Illinois, began leasing its farm in the early 1970’s. Last year was the first year since the 1970’s that the County Farm was not farmed. This year, soybeans will be planted and harvested for the benefit of Shelby County tax payers.
Thank you to Stuart Fox for his leadership, generosity and admirable dedication to his community. Thank you to the local farmers who have volunteered to assist Stu. Thank you to Jim Schwerman of Shelby County State Bank for volunteering his assistance. All are exemplary citizens of Shelby County.”
See the original Facebook Post below.
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