West Central Reporter

McDonough County Board Law & Legal Committee met Oct. 6.

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

The Law & Legal Committee held its monthly meeting on Monday, October 6, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting was held at the McDonough County Courthouse, 3rd Floor, Law Library. Committee Members present included Committee Chair Joe Erlandson, Vice Chair Ken Durkin, Clayton Cook, Terra Litchfield, Jack Lowderman, and Terry Thompson. Other persons in attendance were Ric Smart, Deborah Cousins, Robbie Phelps, Kyle Lester, Aaron Allen, County Chair Eric Blakeley, Deputy Clerk Kyah Beck, and County Clerk Jeremy Benson. Members absent were Travis Hiel and Ryan Litchfield.

Chair Erlandson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Review & Approve September, 2025 Minutes

Member Durkin moved with a second by Member T. Litchfield to approve the minutes as submitted. Motion carried on a voice vote.

Waste Management Update

Kyle Lester gave the report. Kyle is working to generate more business from surrounding communities.

Tri-County Recycling

One full-time and one part-time employee was hired. Businesses around the area will offer paint drop off sites. Report received and filed.

Veteran’s Assistance and Van Report

Ric Smart gave the report. 10 Veterans were given assistance in September. Total assistance amounted to $2,240.22.

Sheriff’s Report

Robbie Phelps gave the report. The jail passed their inspection.

Assessor’s Office Update

Assessor Deborah Cousins gave the report. November 7th is the last day property owners can appeal their assessments.

Open Burning Ordinance

Suggestions were made to the burn ordinance. Fire chiefs would like to be more involved in the decision making of burn bans. These ideas will be voted on next month.

Claims Review and Approval

Member Cook moved with a second by Member Thompson to approve the claims as submitted. Motion carried on a voice vote.

Opioid Fund

The State’s Attorney, Matt Kwacala, was not present to discuss this matter.

Ameren Grid Transformation Program

Ameren will be replacing about 380 miles of new or upgraded transmission lines around Central Illinois. A map was sent out including routes in McDonough County that Ameren would like to use. A discussion was held about these routes.

Other Items as Needed

None

Executive Session

None.

Public Comment

None.

County Board Chair Comments

The draft budget will be voted on next month. Any questions should be asked soon before the vote happens.

Adjourn

Member T. Litchfield moved with a second by Member Cook to adjourn the meeting at 8:04 p.m. Motion carried on a voice vote.

http://mcg.mcdonough.il.us/countyboarddocs/minutes/2025-10-06%20Law%20&%20Legal.pdf