The McDonough County Law & Legal Committee met Feb. 6 to address rural recycling.
Here are the meeting's minutes, as provided by the committee:
LAW & LEGAL COMMITTEE
February 6, 2017
The Law & Legal Committee held its monthly meeting on Monday, February 6, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. The
meeting was held at the McDonough County Courthouse in the Law Library. Committee members
present included Chairman Travis Hiel, Jerome Anderson, George Dixon, Alice Henry, Clarke Kelso,
Bob Mahr, Rod McGrew, Robert Shouse and County Board Chairman Scott Schwerer. Other persons in
attendance were Patrick Stout, Dave Schaab, Don Seitz, Tim Lobdell, Veteran’s Superintendent Ric
Smart, Assessor Tammy Camp, State’s Attorney Matt Kwacala and Chief Deputy Nick Petitgout. Beth
Jameson was present as committee secretary.
Chairman Hiel called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Review & Approve January 9, 2017 Minutes
Member Dixon moved with second by Member Shouse to approve the January 9, 2017 minutes as
submitted. Motion carried on a voice vote.
Waste Management Update
Dave Schaab presented the monthly report. He introduced Mr. Don Sietz the facility manager. The Host
Fee has increased to $ 1.19. Discussion was held on how long the landfill would be open. Mr. Schaab
stated he thinks probably longer than any of us in the room would be. It was built for a large volume and
there is still a large area to construct. The impact of the facility to the County is 28 jobs with a $ 1.4
million payroll and $ 1.3 million in supplies purchased.
Rural recycling is still a concern. The cyclical nature and costs are what drives availability.
Tri-County R & WM Report
Tim Lobdell presented his monthly report. He did not have a written report. They continue to be very
busy. He is watching things at the State level (ASME Strike possibility & Madigan Lawsuit about pay) as
they could affect operations.
Veteran’s Assistance and Van Report
Veteran’s Superintendent Ric Smart presented the monthly report. Eleven veterans were given assistance
in January amounting to $ 2,884.02. The transportation van made 17 trips to Iowa City transporting 57
Veterans-which was a record number of patients. The Blandinsville Legion has combined with the
LaHarpe Legion and the Board will be electing a new President next month.
Sheriff’s Report
Chief Deputy Nick Petitgout presented the monthly report. The County Inmate Work Crew completed the
remodel of the State’s Attorney’s office. Costs came in between $ 10,000 - $ 11,000. It looks very good.
There is a new crew that is painting the basement hall & ceiling. Board Chairman Schwerer read a letter
from Sheriff VanBrooker commending Chad Wilson, Maintenance on his leadership and supervision on
the project.
Assessor’s Office Update
Assessor Camp reported that they have rolled to 2017 tax year, the Abstract was received back from the
state. Exemptions are being sent out.
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State’s Attorney
State’s Attorney Matt Kwacala has given an Ordinance to the Sheriff to review. The Cannabis Control
Act allows for non criminal penalties to be imposed for less than 10 grams of marijuana and
paraphernalia. It will be added to the March agenda for the committee.
Claims Review and Approval
Member Henry moved with second by Member McGrew to approve the claims as submitted. Motion
carried on a voice vote.
Other
With no further business to discuss, Chairman Hiel called for a motion to adjourn. Member Dixon moved
with second by Member McGrew to adjourn the meeting at 7:38 p.m.