On the agenda: Morrison meeting — Data Center (Aug 18)

County Board Meeting
Whiteside County
Board Room, Law Enforcement Center, Morrison IL
2026-08-18 18:30 - 2026-08-18 19:30 CDT

Table of Contents
I. CALL TO ORDER.
II. ROLL CALL BY CLERK.
III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
IV. READING AND APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL.
V. STANDING RESOLUTIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
A. Board Motion: To adopt Resolution of Congratulations to Landon Near of
Newman High School for winning IHSA State Wrestling Championship in the 113
pound division..................................................................................................................5
Newman Wrestling L Near.pdf.....................................................................................5
VI. COMMUNICATION
A. Salvation Army - Thank you.......................................................................................6
Communication Salvation Army Thank You 080326.pdf..............................................6
B. Hope Cancer Wellness Center - Thank you..............................................................7
Communication Hope Cancer Wellness Center 080326 TY.pdf..................................7
VII. BUILDING AND ZONING ACTION ITEMS.
VIII. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC.
IX. REPORTS FROM THE COUNTY OFFICERS.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.
A. Public Works Committee............................................................................................8
Public Works Committee Minutes (5).pdf....................................................................8
1. Action Items
a. Board Motion: To recommend the approval of the Resolution for the
award of unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel to Gibson Oil, Co., of Lyndon,
IL as presented................................................................................................12
Fuel Letting 2026-2027.pdf..........................................................................12

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b. Board Motion: To place on file the Public Works Committee's meeting
report, July 2026 claim reports, Township motor fuel tax claims, and
related informational items, as presented.
B. Landfill........................................................................................................................14
Landfill Committee Minutes (21).pdf..........................................................................14
1. Action Item
a. Board Motion: To place on file the Committee's report, quarterly Prairie
Hill RDF Activity reports, quarterly waste activity inspection reports and
related informational items, as presented.
C. County Offices Committee.......................................................................................16
County Offices Committee Minutes - 2026-08-11T135212.580.pdf...........................16
1. Action Item
a. Board Motion: To place on file the County Office's meeting report, July
2026 claim reports and related informational items, as presented.
D. Public Safety Committee..........................................................................................19
Public Safety Committee Minutes - 2026-08-11T134741.882.pdf.............................19
1. Action Item
a. Board Motion: To place on file the Public Safety Committee's meeting
report, July 2026 claim reports and related informational items, as
presented.
E. Health & Social Services Committee.......................................................................22
Health & Social Services Committee Minutes.pdf......................................................22
1. Action Item
a. Board Motion: To place on file the Health & Social Services
Committee's meeting report, July 2026 claim reports and related
informational items, as presented.
F. Judiciary Committee..................................................................................................24
Judiciary Committee Minutes 080626.pdf..................................................................24
1. Action Item
a. Board Motion: To place on file the Judiciary Committee's meeting
report, July 2026 claim reports and related informational items, as
presented.
G. Finance Committee...................................................................................................27
Finance Committee Minutes (47).pdf.........................................................................27

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1. Action Items
a. Board Motion: To approve the Business Grant application made by MIT
in the amount of $50,000.................................................................................30
MIT BIG Application 1.pdf............................................................................30
b. Board Motion: To approve the additional payment of $498.30 to the
claimant............................................................................................................32
Final Proposal J Venhuizen 1.pdf................................................................32
c. Board Motion: To approve the July 2026 mileage and travel
reimbursement for County Board Members in the amount of $1313.00
d. Board Motion: To place on file the Finance Committee's meeting report,
July 2026 claim reports and related informational items, as prsented.
H. Special Service Area #1 Committee.........................................................................41
Special Service Area #1 Committee Minutes.pdf.......................................................41
1. Action Items
a. Board Motion: To approve an increase in the total ambulance rechassis
invoice of $9,152.50 as presented..................................................................43
CGH Ambulance Quote 072026.pdf............................................................43
b. Anticipated Board Motion: To approve purchase of Command/Rehab
vehicle for $70,000...........................................................................................47
SSA #1 Command Vehicle Quote.pdf.........................................................47
c. Board Motion: To place on file the Special Service Area #1 Committee's
meeting report and related informational items, as presented.
I. Wage & Salary Committee..........................................................................................51
Wage & Salary Committee Minutes.pdf.....................................................................51
1. Action Items
a. Board Motion: To place on file the Wage & Salary Committee's meeting
report and related informational items, as presented
J. Executive Committee.................................................................................................53
Executive Committee Minutes (38).pdf......................................................................53
1. Action Items
a. Board Motion: To approve the appointment of Chad Keegan to the Erie
Fire Protection District due to Gail Dillin retiring.
b. Board Motion: To approve the appointment of David Rogis to the 911
Board due to Dan Hovey retiring. The term would expire 01/17/29.

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c. Anticipated Board Motion: Appointment to the Mental Health
Board.
d. Board Motion: To place on file the Executive Committee's meeting
report, July 2026 claim reports and related informational items, as
presented.
XI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS.
XII. NEW BUSINESS.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT.

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RESOLUTION NO. 08-2026-1

WHEREAS, Landon Near of Newman Central Catholic High School, recently competed in the IHSA State Wrestling
Championship, at Champaign, Illinois, held on February 21, 2026 and;

WHEREAS, Landon Near, placed first in the 113 pound class in the Class 1A State tournament.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Whiteside County Board offers its congratulations to Landon
Near and commends him for his achievements, and for so honorably representing his School and the citizens of Whiteside County,
at this highly competitive State-level event and;

Passed and adopted this 18th day of August, A.D. 2026
WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILLINOIS BOARD
__________________________________
Martin Koster, Chair
ATTEST:
_________________________________________

Karen J. Stralow, County Clerk

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Public Works Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/4/2026 11:00 AMCDT
@ Highway Department

Attendance
Present:
Members: Douglas Wetzell, Rachel Crandall, Paul Cunniff, Ed Weeks, Tom Witmer
Guests: Jennifer Greeley, Amy Robbins
Building & Zoning Administrator: Suzan Stickle
County Engineer: Russell Renner
I.

CALL TO ORDER

II.

ROUTINE BUSINESS
A.

Approval of Reports and Claims
August 2026 Twp MFT Claims.pdf
ClaimsPWorksJuly2026.pdf
1. Committee Motion: To approve the Budgetary Status Reports and
Township Motor Fuel Tax Claims as presented.
Motion:
Motion moved by Rachel Crandall and motion seconded by Paul Cunniff.
The vote was all ayes.

III.

PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.

IV.

DEPARTMENT UPDATES
A.

Building and Zoning
1. Building and Zoning Report for July 2026
The Committee reviewed the Building Report for July 2026.

July 2026 Building Report.pdf
2. 1st Review of Capitalized Fixed Assets & Service Contract for FY '27
The 1st review of Capitalized Fixed Assets and Service Contracts for FY’27 was
addressed by Ms. Stickle and discussed with Committee.

Budget 2027 - Zoning fixed asset service.pdf
3. Zoning Hearing- Tom Witmer to attend on August 20, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
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The following topics will be discussed.
• Solar/Wind Farm Ordinance
• Energy Storage Systems
• Accessory Building Ordinance

B.

Airport Board
1. Review of Regular meeting minutes from June 11, 2026 and Special
meeting minutes from June 29, 2026 (itemized list of bills was not
received).
Airport Board Special Meeting Minutes 06-29-26.pdf
Airport Board Minutes 06-11-26.pdf
a.

Committee Motion: To approve the minutes as presented.
Motion:
Mr. Weeks asked if anyone on the Committee was notified of the
Special Airport Board Meeting on June 29th. No Committee
members had been notified. Mrs. Robbins will ask that she and the
Committee Members are made aware of any future Special
Airport Board Meetings.
Motion moved by Paul Cunniff and motion seconded by Ed
Weeks. The vote was all ayes.

2. Airport Board meeting - Rachel Crandall to attend on August 13, 2026 @
9:00 a.m.
C.

Special Service Area #2
1. Quarterly Report (April – June, 2026)
The quarterly report for April – June 2026 was presented to the Committee for review.

SSA #2 2025-2026 2nd Qtr 2026.pdf
D.

Highway Department
1. Closed Landfill Reports (Leachate & Inspection) - July 2026
The reports were presented for review.

July 2026 Landfill Reports.pdf
2. 1st Review of Capitalized Fixed Assets & Service Contract for FY '27
The 1st review of Capitalized Fixed Assets and Service Contracts for FY’27 was
addressed by Mr. Renner and discussed with Committee.

Budget 2027 - Public Works fixedassetscontract.pdf
3. Bid results from gas & diesel fuel letting
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Fuel Letting 2026-2027.pdf
a.

Board Motion: To recommend the approval of the Resolution for
the award of unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel to Gibson Oil, Co.,
of Lyndon, IL as presented.
Motion:
Motion moved by Rachel Crandall and motion seconded by Paul
Cunniff. The vote was all ayes.

4. Projects Update
Mr. Renner provided updates on the following projects:
• Lyndon Road Hill Re-Shape should start next week.
• Genesee Court Bridge - the Contractor is moving along well, but ComEd is
slowing the progress, as they need to move a pole on Lister Road. However,
Prairie Center Road should be open to traffic by the start of the school year.
• A check was received from Commonwealth Edison for payment to Dunn
Company for the work on the Township Roads that were damaged this spring
by ComEd equipment.
• The state salt bids were let with 12 counties and multiple other entities not
receiving a bid. Whiteside did receive a bid, but the prices have not been
announced yet.
• Fuel System - is completed and there hasn't been any complications.

5. Miscellaneous Consultant Agreements
Mr. Renner informed the Committee the Highway Dept. has three consultant
agreements in place for minor projects.

E.

County Administrator
1. Property Damage Claim
Final Proposal J Venhuizen.pdf
a.

Committee Motion: To forward to the Finance Committee the
recommended payment of $498.30 to the claimant.
Motion:
Motion moved by Rachel Crandall and motion seconded by Tom
Witmer. The vote was all ayes.

b.

Discussion Items
Mrs. Robbins provided the Committee with the following:

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Farm Rent Proposal for 2026-2028. The Committee will review the
proposal and discuss changes at the September meeting.

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Correspondence regarding Building Permit violations.

•

Data Centers information.

•

Correspondence regarding land use.
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V.

OLD BUSINESS
Mr. Witmer asked if the County-Wide Fiber project will be completed by the end of the year.

VI.

NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business.

VII.

NEXT REGULAR COMMITTEE MEETING - Tuesday, September 1, 2026 @ 11:00 a.m.

VIII.

ADJOURNMENT
There was no additional business. A Motion to Adjourn was made.

Motion:
Motion moved by Tom Witmer and motion seconded by Paul Cunniff. The vote was all
ayes and the meeting adjourned at 12:34 p.m.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Landfill Committee Minutes

Whiteside County
7/20/2026 1:30 PMCDT
@ Meeting Room, Prairie Hill Recycling & Disposal Facility, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: Douglas Wetzell, Doug Crandall, Kurt Glazier, Mark Hamilton
Guests: Jennifer Kolb, Martin Koster, Russ Renner, Amy Robbins
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Wetzell called the meeting to order at 1:30 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - No public comment.

III.

REGULAR BUSINESS
A.

WMI
1. Reports - Mr. Wiersema reviewed the quarterly report and spoke about
yard waste and how it is collected at the landfill.
Landfill Prairie Hill Activity 2nd Qtr 2026.pdf
2. Projects - Mr. Wiersema reported there will be some gas work completed
in the near future. The evaporator is finally working after a large repair
bill. The leachate permit is still sitting in the appellate court and we could
wait months for resolution. By going to court, this will set the precedent
on how future sites will be handled whether it requires a new siting
process or not.

B.

HEALTH DEPARTMENT
1. Inspection Reports - Ms. Kolb reported and stated there were multiple
tire issues in the past quarter. Mr. Renner spoke about the electronic
recycling process and hopes the public is now aware the electronics are
recycled at the highway department as opposed to the landfill.
Landfill Inspection Reports July 2026.pdf

C.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
1. WMI Agreement - Mrs. Robbins and Mr. Wiersema will review the WMI
agreement and bring back an updated option to the committee.
WM IGA 5th Agreement.pdf

IV.

NEW BUSINESS

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V.

With no further business, a motion was made by Hamilton, second by Glazier, to adjourn
the meeting at 1:54 PM. The next meeting will be held on October 19, 2026 @ 1:30 PM
with a tour prior to the meeting at 12:30 PM.

VI.

Board Motion: To place on file the Committee's report, quarterly Prairie Hill RDF activity
reports, quarterly waste activity inspection reports and related informational items, as
presented.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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County Offices Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/6/2026 2:30 PMCDT
@ Board Room, Law Enforcement Center, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: James Duffy, Brooke Pearson, Ernest Smith, Thomas Williams
Guests: Jacob Dallas, Lori Keppen, Kendra Kophamer-Bush, Martin Koster, Lauren Lee, Amy
Robbins, Karen Stralow, Chris Tennyson
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Brooke Pearson called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - There was no public comment.

III.

REVIEW AND APPROVE CLAIM AND BUDGET STATUS REPORTS - The July 2026 claim and
budget status reports were reviewed.
ClaimsCoOfficesJuly2026.pdf
A.

IV.

Committee Motion: To approve the July claim reports. A motion was made by
James Duffy, second by Thomas Williams, and all voted in favor of the motion.

REPORTING DEPARTMENTS
A.

County Clerk
1. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Karen Stralow presented her budget request.
Budget 2027 - County Clerk fixedservcontgrant.pdf

B.

Recorder
1. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding. Kendra Kophamer-Bush presented four bid proposals
for scanning of documents from 1836 to 1960. Discussion was held on
the condition and scanning of the documents along with the cost. The
Committee will review information and a decision will be made at next
month's meeting.
Budget 2027 Recorder.pdf

C.

Supervisor of Assessments

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1. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding. Amy Robbins advised Assessor Crystal Updike was on
vacation and will review her budget next month.
Budget 2027 - Assessor service contract.pdf
D.

GIS Director
1. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding. Lauren Lee advised there were no changes in her
budget request.
Budget 2027 - GIS service contract.pdf

E.

Information Technology Department
1. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding. Jacob Dallas advised of getting new software, ADA
compliances required and website maintenance fee which will include
cost corrections from years prior.
Budget 2027 - IT Revised fixed asset serv cont.pdf

F.

Regional Office of Education
1. Chris Tennyson presented the monthly report.
ROE Monthly Report Aug 2026.pdf
2. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding. There were no budget changes from last year.
ROE Service Contracts.pdf

V.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR - Amy Robbins informed updates were on Onboard for
Property Tax Sales & Tax Deed Proceedings and Data Centers.
Manatt Update 071326.pdf
Property Tax Sales & Tax Deed Proceedings.pdf
Data Centers Powering the Internet & Economy.pdf
Data Center Information from U of I 071326.pdf

VI.

OTHER BUSINESS - There was no other business.

VII.

With no further business, Brooke Pearson adjourned the meeting at 3:22 PM. The next
meeting will be held on September 3, 2026 @ 2:30 PM.

VIII.

Board Motion: To place on file the County Offices meeting report, July 2026 claims
report, and related informational items, as presented.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Public Safety Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/5/2026 3:00 PMCDT
@ Board Room, Law Enforcement Center, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: Matt Ward, Kurt Glazier, Linda Pennell
Guests: John Booker, Colleen Buckwalter, Lori Keppen, Martin Koster, Joe McDonald, Amy
Robbins
Absent:
Members: Sue Britt
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Kurt Glazier called the meeting to order at 3:00 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - Public Comment was heard from Megan Borfitz of Gipper Solar
Farm.

III.

REVIEW AND APPROVE CLAIM AND BUDGET STATUS REPORTS - The July 2026 claim and
budget status reports were reviewed.
ClaimsPSafetyJuly2026.pdf
A.

IV.

Committee Motion: To approve July claim reports. A motion was made by Matt
Ward, second by Linda Pennell, and all voted in favor of the motion.

REPORTING DEPARTMENTS
A.

Coroner
1. Joe McDonald presented the monthly report. The Coroner's new vehicle
should be delivered next week.
CoronerAugust2026.pdf
2. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding. Joe McDonald advised there would be no increase in
autopsies. However, there will be an increase in toxicology reports
determined by what type and how many reports are requested.
Budget 2027 - Coroner service contract.pdf

B.

States Attorney
1. Colleen Buckwalter presented the monthly report.
StatesAttyAug2026.pdf

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2. Colleen Buckwalter updated the committee on the property tax sales/tax
deed preceedings.
3. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Colleen Buckwalter advised there were no changes
from last year. The scanning project will wait another year to increase
Fund 54 balance to pay for future scanning.
Budget 2027 - States Attorney fixed assets contracts.pdf
C.

Sheriff
1. Sheriff Booker presented the monthly reports.
Sheriff Lyndon Cfs SIFA July 2026.pdf
Sheriff Lyndon Patrol Report July 2026.pdf
Sheriff Month End July 2026.pdf
K9 Report July 2026.pdf
2. Sheriff Booker requested a salary increase for the Chief Deputy, Service
Lieutenant, Jail Superintendent, and Administrative Assistant. The Chief
Deputy and Service Lieutenant request is made due to the compression
between the Officers and Detectives.
a.

Committee Motion: A motion was made by Matt Ward to forward
this request to the Wage & Salary Committee. Linda Pennell
seconded the motion. All voted in favor and motion passed.

3. Sheriff's Comments - Nuisance complaints are a huge issue and have been
going on for over 30 years. The County will continue its efforts to bring
the situations under control.
4. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Sheriff Booker reviewed his 7% increase in the overall
Fixed Assets budget which include new elevators, a new fire alarm and
sprinkler system along with the removal of lead from the shooting range.
Repairs need to be done due to state laws, ADA compliances and the age
of the equipment.
Service Contracts 2027-Sheriff.pdf
V.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR - Amy Robbins provided information on Data Centers and
Property Tax Sales and Tax Deed Proceedings.
Data Center Information from U of I 071326.pdf
Manatt Update 071326.pdf

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Property Tax Sales & Tax Deed Proceedings.pdf
A.

ARPA Funds - Amy Robbins gave an updated financial report. This month an
economic development grant for $50,000 will be given to MIT.
ARPA Fund Report Aug 2026.pdf

B.

New Hires - The Committee reviewed report.
New Hire List Aug 2026.pdf

C.

Nuisance Properties

VI.

OTHER BUSINESS - No other business.

VII.

Matt Ward made a motion to adjourn with Linda Pennell seconding the motion. The
meeting adjourned at 4:26 PM. The next meeting will be held on September 2, 2026 @
3:00 PM.

VIII.

Board Motion: To place on file the Public Safety meeting report, July 2026 claim reports,
and related informational items, as presented.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Health & Social Services Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/5/2026 6:30 PMCDT
@ Board Room, Law Enforcement Center, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: Mark Hamilton, Rita Kelly, Alex Regalado
Guests: Karla Belzer, Cheryl Lee, Amy Robbins
Absent:
Members: Shawn Dowd, Chad Weaver
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Hamilton called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
Blank Paper.pdf

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - No public comment.

III.

REVIEW AND APPROVE CLAIM AND BUDGET STATUS REPORTS - The Committee
reviewed the claims and budget status reports.
ClaimsH&SJuly2026.pdf
A.

IV.

Committee Motion: To approve the claims and budget status reports. A motion
was made by Regalado, second by Kelly, and all voted in favor of the motion.

REPORTING DEPARTMENTS
A.

Health Department
1. Administrator's Report and Public Health Finances - Mrs. Lee updated the
Committee on various grants they have applied for including a nutrition
grant and a rural health grant. The Epic software transition is moving
along well at 3 months in and the staff is excited about the possibilities.
Mrs. Lee is thankful for the 708 grant funding and reported on how she is
mentoring students on public health.

B.

Veteran's Assistance Commission

C.

University of IL Cooperative Extension - Mrs. Belzer spoke to the Committee
about programs completed recently including food safety training, and
entrepreneurs Young Creators Camp, and a Young Engineers Hydraulic
Workshop. Mrs. Belzer introduced upcoming programs including a field day at
Sauk College and two mental health first aid trainings.
Extension Info Aug 2026.pdf

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D.

Mental Health Board
1. Meeting minutes 6/30/26
708 Board Minutes June 2026.pdf
2. Meeting minutes 7/28/26 and 2027 Allocations
708 Board Minutes July 2026.pdf
a.

E.
V.

Committee Motion: To approve the 6/30/26 and 7/28/26 Mental
Health Board minutes as presented. A motion was made by
Regalado, second by Kelly, and all voted in favor of the motion.

Senior Citizens

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR - Mrs. Robbins gave the Committee multiple items to review
and discuss.
Manatt Update 071326.pdf
Property Tax Sales & Tax Deed Proceedings.pdf
Data Centers Powering the Internet & Economy.pdf
Data Center Information from U of I 071326.pdf

VI.

OTHER BUSINESS

VII.

With no further business, a motion was made by Regalado, second by Kelly, to adjourn
the meeting at 7:20 PM. The next meeting will be held September 2, 2026 @ 6:30 PM.

VIII.

Board Motion: To place on file te meeting report, claims and budget status reports and
related informational items, as presented.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Judiciary Committee Minutes

Whiteside County
8/6/2026 4:00 PMCDT
@ Board Room, Law Enforcement Center, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: Thomas Ausman, Barry Cox, Chanda McDonnell, Ken Stralow
Guests: Colleen Buckwalter, Jessica Deets, Judge James Heuerman, Amy Huffman-Grevengoed,
Judge Jennifer Rangel Kelly, Martin Koster, Brooke Plachno, Amy Robbins, Sue Scott
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Ausman called the meeting to order at 4:00 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - No public comment.

III.

REVIEW AND APPROVE CLAIM AND BUDGET STATUS REPORTS - The Committee
reviewed the monthly claims and budget status reports.
ClaimsJudiJuly2026.pdf
A.

IV.

Committee Motion: To approve the monthly claims and budget status reports as
presented. A motion was made by Stralow, second by McDonnell, and all voted in
favor of the motion.

REPORTING DEPARTMENTS
A.

Court Services
1. Presentation of the monthly report - Mrs. Plachno presented her monthly
report and explained why we had so many days at Kane County Juvenile
Center.
CourtServicesMonthEndJuly2026.pdf
2. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Mrs. Plachno reviewed the fixed assets and service
contracts for FY 2027.
Budget 2027 - Court Services fixed assets.pdf

B.

Public Defender
1. Presentation of the monthly report - Ms. Deets reviewed the monthly
report and reported the number continue to decrease.
PublicDefenderMonthEndJuly2026.pdf

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2. PD Caseload/Staffing - Ms. Deets informed the Committee Mr. Huffman is
no longer working at the Courthouse. With this additional open position,
Ms. Deets stated she would like to accept job applications from newly
graduated candidates and hire before they pass the bar exam. The
Committee discussed Ms. Deets request to forward the First Assistants
pay to Wage and Salary due to compression issues with the current
employees.
a.

Committee Motion: To forward a request to review the First
Assistant's wage schedule due to compression, as presented. A
motion was made by Cox, second by Stralow, and all voted in favor
of the motion.

3. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Ms. Deets reviewed the Public Defender fixed assets
and service contracts.
Budget 2027 - Public Defender service contracts.pdf
C.

Circuit Clerk
1. Presentation of the monthly report - Mrs. Scott reviewed her monthly
report.
CircuitClerkJuly2026.pdf
2. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Mrs. Scott presented the fixed asset and service
contract budget.
Budget 2027 - Circuit Clerk service contracts.pdf

D.

Court Administrator
1. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Judge Heuerman presented his fixed asset and service
contract budget. With all the changes in the Public Defender's office,
Judge Heuerman stated increased costs for conflict and juvenile attorneys
would be necessary for the upcoming year. Psych evaluations and
interpreter fees are also increased.
Budget 2027 - Court Admin fixed assets.pdf

E.
V.

Law Library

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR - Mrs. Robbins gave the Committee multiple items to review
and discuss.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Manatt Update 071326.pdf
Property Tax Sales & Tax Deed Proceedings.pdf
Data Centers Powering the Internet & Economy.pdf
Data Center Information from U of I 071326.pdf
VI.

OTHER BUSINESS

VII.

With no further business, a motion was made by Stralow, second by McDonnell, to
adjourn the meeting at 4:45 PM. The next meeting will be held on September 3, 2026 @
4:00 PM.

VIII.

Board Motion: To place on file the monthly meeting report, July 2026 claims and budget
status reports and related informational items, as presented.

Minutes generated by OnBoard.

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Finance Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/10/2026 1:00 PMCDT
@ Room 117, Courthouse, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: Douglas Wetzell, Michael Clark, Doug Crandall, Sally Douglas, Glenn Truesdell
Guests: Jennifer Blean, Gary Camarano, Martin Koster, Amy Robbins, Penny Vankampen
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Truesdell called the meeting to order at 1:00 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - Mrs. Cortes, SVCC Impact Program, presented information
regarding the SVCC Impact Program, including program statistics within the County and
an overview of the program’s impact on local nonprofit organizations.

III.

REVIEW AND APPROVE CLAIM AND BUDGET STATUS REPORTS
ClaimsFinanceJuly2026.pdf
A.

Committee Motion: To approve the monthly claim report and budget reports, as
presented. A motion was made by Douglas, second by Clark, and all voted in
favor of the motion.

IV.

OLD BUSINESS - Nothing to report.

V.

REPORTING DEPARTMENTS
A.

Treasurer - Mrs. Vankampen made a presentation regarding the tax sale auction
process, including tax buyer and trustee purchases, as well as recent changes to
the tax deed process.
1. Review of temporary investment report.
Treasurer Investment Report July2026.pdf
2. Review of summary of fund balance report.
Treasurer Summary Fund Report July 2026.pdf
3. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Mrs. VanKampen reviewed the fixed assets and service
contracts.
Fixed Assets Treasurer.pdf

B.

Public Transportation

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1. Transportation Report - Mrs. Robbin’s gave an update provided by Reagan
Mass Transit. A representative from Reagan will be present at the
September Finance Committee meeting.
Transportation Report July 2026.pdf
C.

Economic Development
1. Administrator's Update - Mr. Camarano provided a JCE Coop Update, with
confidence expressed that the project will be completed by the end of
2026 and a celebration scheduled for August 26 at Chestnut Mountain
Resort. An update was also provided regarding Loves gas station and the
impact it has already had on gas prices in the area.
2. ARPA Funds - Mr. Camarano presented the request for funding made by
MIT. The BIG Committee approved the request unanimously.
MIT BIG Application.pdf
Board Motion: To approve the Business Grant application made
by MIT in the amount of $50,000:
Motion moved by Michael Clark and motion seconded by Doug
Crandall. All voted in favor of the motion.
3. Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service
contract funding - Mr. Camarano reviewed the fixed assets and service
contracts.
Budget 2027 - Economic Dev service contracts.pdf

VI.

COMMITTEE REQUESTS/RECOMMENDATIONS

VII.

ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT - Mrs. Robbins informed there were updates on Onboard for
the Board members to review. Those updates included data center information, and
Property Tax Sales and Tax Deed proceedings.
Manatt Update 071326.pdf
Property Tax Sales & Tax Deed Proceedings.pdf
Data Centers Powering the Internet & Economy.pdf
Data Center Information from U of I 071326.pdf
A.

Property Damage Claim - Mrs. Robbin’s stated that after discussion with County
Engineer and Public Works Committee, an additional payment of $498.30 was
recommended to be paid to the claimant.
Final Proposal J Venhuizen.pdf

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Board Motion: To approve the additional payment of $498.30 to the
claimant:
Motion moved by Michael Clark and motion seconded by Doug Crandall.
All voted in favor of the motion.
B.

Budget Building CFY27 - 1st Read: Request for fixed assets and service contract
funding - Mrs. Robbins reviewed the fixed assets and service contracts.
Budget 2027 - County Administrator service contract fixed.pdf

VIII.

BOARD MEMBER'S MEETING COMPENSATION & MILEAGE
Board Motion: To approve the July 2026 mileage and travel reimbursement for
County Board Members in the amount of $1313.00:
Motion moved by Sally Douglas and motion seconded by Doug Crandall. All
voted in favor of the motion.

IX.

OTHER BUSINESS - No other business.

X.

A motion was made by Clark, second by Crandall, to adjourn the meeting at 2:38 PM.
The next meeting will be held Monday, September 4, 2026 at 1:00 PM in Room 117.

XI.

Board Motion: To place on file the Finance Committee’s meeting reports, July 2026
claims reports, and related informational items, as presented.

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Special Service Area #1 Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
7/20/2026 5:00 PMCDT
@ Board Room, CGH Medical Center, Sterling IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: James Duffy, Michael Clark, Linda Pennell, Ernest Smith
Guests: Jason Larson, Amy Robbins, Cindy Zander
Absent:
Members: Shawn Dowd
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Duffy called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - No public comment.

III.

CGH
A.

Quarterly Reports - Mr. Larson reviewed the quarterly report, response times,
staffing and re-chassis order. The issues with the CAD system and fire
department medical assists are solved and the numbers are returning back to
normal. The new cardiac monitors were approved and expected in
October/November. The pagers are slowly being replaced with 12 still needed
and 6 replaced. The second quarter showed a slight increase in revenue over
expenses with a profit of $6,839.
CGH Quarterly Report 072026

B.

Amend IGA for Ambulance Service - The Committee reviewed the changes to the
IGA which updated the correct number of vehicles and staffing.
IGA - Ambulance Service 2026

C.

Ambulance Re-chassis Invoice - Mr. Larson presented a memo stating the cost of
the newest ambulance increased by $9,152.50 over the Committee's approved
amount. This cost increase is due to stretcher/load system increases since the
ambulance itself was approved and increased new cab striping.
CGH Ambulance Quote 072026.pdf
Board Motion: To approve an increase in the total ambulance re-chassis
invoice of $9,152.50, as presented:
Motion moved by Ernest Smith and motion seconded by Linda Pennell .
All voted in favor of the motion.

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IV.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
A.

Budget Recommendation - Mrs. Robbins reviewed the budget. The Committee
discussed the vehicle replacement fund balance and the Special Service Area Tax
amount.
SSA #1 Budget Summary FY2027.pdf
1. Committee Motion: To forward to Finance Committee the FY 2027 budget
as presented. A motion was made by Clark, second by Smith, and all voted
in favor of the motion.

V.

With no further business, the Committee adjourned at 6:09 PM. The next meeting will
be held October 19, 2026 @ 5:00 PM.

VI.

Board Motion: To place on file the Special Service Area #1 Committee’s meeting report
and related informational items, as presented.

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Wage & Salary Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/10/2026 11:00 AMCDT
@ Boardroom, Courthouse, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: James Duffy, Douglas Wetzell, Barry Cox, Kurt Glazier, Martin Koster, Thomas
Williams
Guests: John Booker, Colleen Buckwalter, Jessica Deets, Amy Robbins
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Wetzell called the meeting to order at 11:00 AM.
Blank Paper.pdf

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - Mrs. Buckwalter spoke to the Committee about the outstanding
case load the Public Defender's office handles on a yearly basis.

III.

FIRST ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER WAGE COMPRESSION - Mrs. Robbins introduced the
concern of compression with the new First Assistant position and current employees.
According to the county code, there should be an 8% difference between these two
positions which would place the First Assistant in Grade 18, Step 6. Ms. Deets asked the
Committee to consider moving the position to a grade 10 to stay competitive in this hard
to fill position. A requirement for potential First Assistant applicants will include having
administrative (supervisory) background as they will need to run the office when Ms.
Deets is out.
Wage Schedule 2026-Public Defender.pdf
A.

IV.

Committee Motion: To place the First Assistant Public Defender in Grade 18 Step
9 of the County salary plan due to compression of wages as presented. A motion
was made by Williams, second by Glazier, and all voted in favor of the motion.

CHIEF DEPUTY WAGE COMPRESSION - Sheriff Booker discussed compression with the
highest paid Detective and the Chief Deputy/Service Lieutenant positions. After
reviewing the percentage difference between the positions, the Committee decided to
table the discussion.
Chief Deputy Lieutenant Wage Compression 080526.pdf
Chief Deputy 2025.pdf

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A.

V.

Committee Motion: To table the discussion of placing the Chief Deputy in Grade
18 Step ___ of the County salary plan due to compression of wages. A motion
was made by Duffy, second by Williams, and all voted in favor of the motion.

SERVICES LIEUTENANT WAGE COMPRESSION
Lieutenant 2025.pdf
A.

VI.

Tabled Committee Motion: To table the discussion of placing the Services
Lieutenant in Grade 16 Step ___ of the County salary plan due to compression of
wages. A motion was made by Duffy, second by Williams, and all voted in favor of
the motion.

SHERIFF'S SECRETARY - Sheriff Booker requested a JDQ review for his secretary who has
increased responsibilities from the previous employee.
Sheriff Secretary.pdf
A.

Tabled Committee Motion: To approved submitting a revised JDQ to Carlson
Dettmann if the Sheriff's administrative assistant position is significantly different
from the previous JDQ, as presented. A motion was made by Duffy, second by
Williams, and all voted in favor of the motion.

VII.

With no further business, a motion was made by Koster, second by Glazier, to adjourn
the meeting at 11:56 AM.

VIII.

Board Motion: To place on file the meeting report and related informational items, as
presented.

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Executive Committee Minutes
Whiteside County
8/11/2026 6:30 PMCDT
@ Board Room, Law Enforcement Center, Morrison IL

Attendance
Present:
Members: James Duffy, Thomas Ausman, Rachel Crandall, Kurt Glazier, Mark Hamilton, Martin
Koster, Brooke Pearson, Glenn Truesdell
Guests: Jennifer Blean, Amy Robbins
I.

CALL TO ORDER - Mr. Koster called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

II.

PUBLIC COMMENT - No public comment.

III.

AGENDA BUILDING FOR BOARD'S REGULAR MEETING AUGUST 18, 2026
A.

Standing Resolution and Acknowledgements
1. A Resolution of Congratulations will be presented to Landon Near of
Newman High School for winning IHSA State Wrestling Championship in
the 113 pound division.
Resolution-NewmanWrestlerLandonNear2026.pdf
Board Motion: To adopt Resolution of Congratulations to Landon Near
of Newman High School for winning IHSA State Wrestling Championship
in the 113 pound division:
Motion moved by Thomas Ausman and motion seconded by Brooke
Pearson. All voted in favor of the motion.

B.

Communications - Mr. Koster noted the following communications:
1. Salvation Army - Thank you
Communication Salvation Army Thank You 080326.pdf
2. Hope Cancer Wellness Center - Thank You
Communication Hope Cancer Wellness Center 080326 TY.pdf

C.

Building and Zoning Hearing Recommendations

D.

Report from County Officers

E.

Committee Reports and Recommendations

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1. Public Works Committee - The Committee discussed the approval of the
Resolution for the award of unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel to Gibson
Oil, Co., of Lyndon, IL.
2. Landfill Committee - The Committee discussed the WMI agreement and
noted that it will expire at the end of the year.
3. County Offices Committee
4. Public Safety Committee - The Committee discussed Sheriff Booker's
request to increase the salary for the Chief Deputy, Service Lieutenant,
Jail Superintendent, and Administrative Assistant.
5. Health & Social Services Committee - The Committee discussed the
Mental Health Board 2027 allocations of funding.
6. Judiciary Committee - The Committee discussed all the changes in the
Public Defender's office and Judge Heuerman's request to increase costs
for conflict and juvenile attorneys for the upcoming year. The Committee
also discussed the concern of compression with the new First Assistant
Public Defender position and current employees.
7. Finance Committee - The Committee discussed the Treasurer’s
presentation regarding the tax sale auction process, including tax buyer
and trustee purchases, as well as recent changes to the tax deed process.
The Committee also discussed the property damage claim against the
Highway Department.
8. Special Service Area #1 Committee - The Committee discussed issues with
the CAD system and fire department medical assists. The Committee also
discussed how the cost of the newest ambulance increased by $9,152.50
over the Committee's approved amount.
a.

Anticipated Board Motion: To approve purchase of
Command/Rehab vehicle for $54,740.20.
SSA 1 Quote Command Rehab Vehicle Aug 2026.pdf

9. Wage & Salary - The Committee discussed the request to increase the
salary for the First Assistant Public Defender, Chief Deputy, Service
Lieutenant, Jail Superintendent, and Administrative Assistant.
IV.

EXECUTIVE ACTION ITEMS
A.

Chairman Koster appointments/reappointments

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Board Motion: To approve the appointment of Chad Keegan to the Erie
Fire Protection District:
Motion moved by Mark Hamilton and motion seconded by Brooke
Pearson. All voted in favor of the motion.
Board Motion: To approve the appointment of David Rogis to the 911
Board with a term expiring 01/17/29:
Motion moved by Mark Hamilton and motion seconded by Brooke
Pearson. All voted in favor of the motion.
Anticipated Motion: Appointment to the Mental Health Board:
Motion moved by Mark Hamilton and motion seconded by Brooke
Pearson. All voted in favor of the motion.
B.

V.

Chairman Koster update - Mr. Koster stated that WGN recently provided a
presentation on data centers that is worth watching for additional information.

ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
A.

The Committee reviewed the July 2026 monthly claims and budget reports. A
motion was made by Hamilton, second by Glazier, to approve the claims and
budget reports, as presented. All voted in favor of the motion.
ClaimsExecutiveJuly2026.pdf

B.

Administrator's Update

VI.

OTHER BUSINESS - No other business.

VII.

A motion was made by Crandall, second by Ausman, to adjourn the meeting at 7:10 PM.
The next meeting will be held Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Board
Room, Law Enforcement Center.

VIII.

Board Motion: To place on file the Executive Committee’s meeting report, July 2026
claims reports, and related informational items, as presented.

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