Louisville, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Board member and former Board Chairman Ted Whitehead announced his retirement recently, and the Clay County Board honored his retirement by throwing him a party before the meeting Tuesday evening.
Cookies and drinks were offered, and board members gave him well wishes in retirement. Ted also addressed the board near the end of the meeting, stating that he is proud and honored to have served Clay County for 15 years on the Board. His spot on the board will now need to be filled within 60 days, with both party central committees being notified.
Members approved the Claims Committee Report, and also approved a Resolution to release closed session minutes.
The board heard from Krista McLaren about the 2023 audit, which came back with a “clean opinion.” She did say however that use of ARPA (American Recovery Plan Act) funds triggered a mandatory examination of spending to make sure it complied with federal rules, which was the case. She also mentioned that the “Covid-era” sales and property tax increases have levelled off, which was expected.
The Board then heard from Jeff Workman with the Clay County Health Department. He said the health department learned it was chosen to receive a $1,000 grant by the STEM Next Opportunity Fund, to provide funding for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) curriculum. Workman also spoke to the threat of bird flu, stating that Effingham County has dairy farms where it could potentially become an issue. He also spoke about ticks to watch out for, including deer and blacklegged ticks. He said the ticks must be caught in the wild before biting a person/animal to be tested. West Nile virus was also brought up, as there has been a confirmed case already in Illinois.
The Board heard from Bob Sellers with the Clay County Hospital, who said the Engineering Study for the proposed Louisville Medical Clinic is finished, and that IDOT has agreed with the idea that the new clinic have two access driveways from Route 45. He also mentioned that it is National Hospital Week through May 18th.
Sheriff Andy Myers also gave his report from the Sheriff’s Office, stating that they plan to purchase 2 2023 Ford Explorers, but will wait to use funds from the new budget. Myers added that the Sheriff’s Office received a grant that provides a new generator for the jail. He also said that Harmon Clifton has completed his law enforcement training.
Chairman Joe Goodman also gave praise to those who helped set up the “Be The One” walk/run on Saturday, which started at the World War II Memorial at Flora’s Public Library and ended at the Veterans Memorial on the Clay County Courthouse lawn. The walk was to help raise awareness for Veteran Suicides. A crowd of 85 people participated, with the walk helping raise $69k for the cause.
The Board also:
- Heard Monthly Report from Treasurer Stacey Allen
- Approved Hickory Hill Joint Funding Agreement
- Approved a 3% increase in salaries for Elected Officials
- Approved distribution of ARPA funds ($7550) to purchase new cabinets and countertops for County Clerk front counter
Janice Brooks and Chris Rinehart were absent from Tuesday’s meeting.
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