# Meeting Events

Meeting: `g5bpeu3urt8.stephenson_county_boardr_meeting_05_21_26`

Meeting date: `2026-05-21`

Meeting type: `county_board`

This is a deterministic derived artifact, not official meeting minutes. Related records may be grouped for review while complete machine provenance remains in the JSON artifact.

## Decisions and Votes

- **Approval of Agenda**
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the agenda.
  - **Evidence:** “Moved by Mr. Diddens, second by Mrs. Lawfer.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=223s)

- **Amendment to Agenda Item**
  - **Summary:** Motion to amend the agenda regarding the incorrect address for a special use permit.
  - **Evidence:** “Excuse me, that's your motion to amend? Yes, sir.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=223s)

- **Seconding Amendment Motion**
  - **Summary:** Mr. Jogerst seconded the motion to amend.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a second by Mr. Jogerst?”
  - **Review flags:** unattached_second
  - **Source timestamp:** [04:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=285s)

- **Amendment to Agenda Item** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The amendment was voted on and passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may go ahead and vote for the amendment. And that passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [04:45](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=285s)

- **Approval of Amended Agenda** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The approval of the agenda as amended was voted on and passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve the agenda as amended? By Mr. Brandt, second by Mr. Fricke.”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may go ahead and vote for that approval. That also passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:20](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1760s)

- **Approval of Consent Agenda** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The approval of the consent agenda was voted on and passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? By Mr. Newton,”
  - **Evidence:** “is there a second? By Mr. Moderow.”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may go ahead to approve, vote for that approval. That also passes unanimously, thank you very much.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [05:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=318s)

- **Declaring seat vacant due to resignation** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The motion to declare the seat vacant passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to do that by Mr. Jogerst?”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you you may go ahead and vote for the approval of that. And that passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1083s)

- **Appointment to fill vacancy in County Board District F** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the appointment of Clayton Zimmerman to fill the vacancy in County Board District F.
  - **Evidence:** “Moving on to the approval of the appointment of Clayton Zimmerman to fill the vacancy in County Board District F, which was previously held by Mrs. Deininger. This was an appointment brought forward by the Republican Central Committee. Is there a motion to approve?”
  - **Evidence:** “By Mr. Jogerst, is there a second? Second by Mrs. Baker,”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may vote for the approval of that. And that passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [17:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1075s)

- **Resolution opposing the Safety Act** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The resolution passed with nine votes in favor and four against.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve by Mr. Busker?”
  - **Evidence:** “And it looks like that passes nine to four.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1527s)

- **Special use permit for single family dwelling at 3001 North AYP Road, Lena** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Requesting a special use permit to allow for a single family dwelling in the and the Ag District located at 3001 North AYP Road, Lena.
  - **Evidence:** “The first hearing of the night was for Scott and Tiffany Ferry. They are requesting a special use permit to allow for a single family dwelling in the and the Ag District located at 3001 North AYP Road, Lena.”
  - **Evidence:** “By Mr. Didden, second by Mr. Newton. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, you may go ahead and vote for that approval. And that passes unanimously”
  - **Source timestamp:** [28:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1733s)

- **Code amendment to Article 4, General Provision, Subsection 400-2310, Fences** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Approval of a code amendment to Article 4, General Provision, Subsection 400-2310, Fences.
  - **Evidence:** “Next was the approval of a code amendment to Article 4, General Provision, Subsection 400-2310, Fences.”
  - **Evidence:** “By Mr. Newton, second by Mr. Diddens. Any discussion? Seeing none you may go ahead and vote that passes 13 to 1 mr. Frick has voted no is that correct sir very good”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:35](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1775s)

- **Text amendment to chapter 376 Vehicles and operable** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Approval of a text amendment to chapter 376 Vehicles and operable.
  - **Evidence:** “Please the final evening for the excuse me of the night was for a text amendment to chapter 376 Vehicles and operable”
  - **Evidence:** “By mr. Brandt is there a second? By Mrs. Lawfer. Is there any discussion? ... Seeing none, you may go ahead and vote for that approval. That passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [29:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1789s)

- **Contract for an as-needed building inspector** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The vote passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a motion to approve? Mr. Jogerst, seconded by Mr. Moderow”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may go ahead and vote for that approval. That also passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [31:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1910s)

- **Approval of 10 fire department appointments** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Mr. Brandt moved to approve all 10 appointments at one time.
  - **Evidence:** “Mr. Brandt has made a motion to approve all 10 appointments at one time.”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may go ahead and vote for those appointments. And those pass unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2323s)

- **Chairman Helms abstention for salary resolution vote** — Passed
  - **Summary:** A motion was made to allow Chairman Helms to abstain from the vote for the approval of resolution establishing the salaries.
  - **Evidence:** “Oh try it again please all right there you go all right approval to allow Chairman Helms to abstain from the vote for the approval of resolution establishing the salaries this is the next action item on the agenda with that I make a motion to approve”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, if you would go ahead and make your vote for the abstention. And that passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2364s)

- **Approval of County Treasurer/Clerk/Recorder Salary Resolution**
  - **Summary:** A motion was made by Mrs. Baker to approve the resolution establishing salaries for the Office of County Treasurer and County Clerk and Recorder.
  - **Evidence:** “Motion by Mrs. Baker.”
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a second? By Mr. Jogerst.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2460s)

- **Approval of Bond Invoice** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The vote on approving the bond invoice passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “And that passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [47:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2876s)

- **Approval of addendum to agreement for CAMA and DevNet contract** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the addendum to agreement for the computer assisted mass appraisals (CAMA) and the wedge edge license maintenance and support contract with DevNet.
  - **Evidence:** “I'll make a motion to approve and we'll talk about it. All right, Mr. Jogerst has made the motion.”
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a second? Second. Second by Mr. Moderow.”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none you may go ahead and vote for that approval and that passes unanimously 15 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [53:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3183s)

- **Approval of legal engagement with Lohenbaum Law** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the engagement with Lohenbaum Law.
  - **Evidence:** “Your next item sir? The approval of a gauge letter with Lohenbaum Law. This is a engagement to work at basically the $500 per hour and it's a continuation of a service that we had with them and so therefore we didn't have to take it out for a bid and things like that. So I'm gonna make a motion to approve.”
  - **Evidence:** “Is there a second by Mr. Diddens?”
  - **Evidence:** “If no other discussion, you may go ahead and vote for the approval. And that passes unanimously 15-0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3240s)

- **Release of Mortgage for 617 East Pleasant Street** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion by Mr. Fricke, seconded by Mr. Busker.
  - **Evidence:** “Motion by Mr. Fricke seconded by Mr. Busker”
  - **Evidence:** “With that explanation I would move to release this mortgage for the PIN number at 617 East Pleasant Street. Motion by Mr. Fricke seconded by Mr. Busker”
  - **Evidence:** “That passes unanimously 15 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3467s)

- **Approval of HD 2608** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve HD 2608.
  - **Evidence:** “With that I make a motion to approve.”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none you may go ahead and vote for that and that passes unanimously 15-0”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3537s)

- **Approval of HD 2609** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve HD 2609.
  - **Evidence:** “I make a motion to approve HD 2609.”
  - **Evidence:** “Yes. To Waddam's? Yeah, Waddam's Grove, instead of, it says Black Eyed Township, instead of Black Eyed Township, amend it to Waddam Grove's Township. All right, and Mr. Jogerst, you're seconding the amendment.”
  - **Evidence:** “Seeing none, you may vote for the amendment, please. And the amendment passes unanimously 15 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:00:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3614s)

- **Approval of HD 2609 as amended** — Passed
  - **Summary:** Motion to approve the original motion after the amendment.
  - **Evidence:** “The original motion is still on the floor. Is there any other discussion as amended? Seeing none, you may vote.”
  - **Evidence:** “And that passes unanimously 14 to 0.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:02:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3761s)

- **Adjournment until June 18th, 2026**
  - **Summary:** Motion to adjourn the meeting.
  - **Evidence:** “All right, is there a motion to adjourn until 6:30 PM June 18th, 2026? By Mr. Bush, is there a second? Second by Mr. Busker.”
  - **Review flags:** unattached_motion_request
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:03:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3790s)

- **Adjournment of meeting** — Passed
  - **Summary:** The motion to adjourn passed unanimously.
  - **Evidence:** “And that passes unanimously.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:02:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3770s)

## Procedural Actions

- **Call to Order and Attendance Check**
  - **Summary:** The meeting was called to order, and 13 members were present.
  - **Evidence:** “We're going to go ahead and call the meeting to order. If you would, please indicate your presence by voting present on the electronic device. We have 13 present.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=146s)

- **Opening Ceremony**
  - **Summary:** Mr. Fricke was asked to lead in prayer and Mrs. Williams was asked to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
  - **Evidence:** “Mr. Fricke, would you lead us in prayer in Mrs. Williams, the Pledge of Allegiance?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [02:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=172s)

- **Agenda Approval Pre-requisite**
  - **Summary:** A request was made for attendees to disconnect private electronic devices from the Wi-Fi.
  - **Evidence:** “Before I ask for an approval of the agenda, if you do have any private electronic devices attached to the Wi-Fi within the courthouse here, if you would please disconnect that.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=223s)

- **Public Comment Period Opening**
  - **Summary:** The board opened the floor for public comment.
  - **Evidence:** “We'll move on to public comment. Is there anyone that would like to speak tonight?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [05:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=353s)

- **Declaring seat vacant due to resignation**
  - **Summary:** The Board addressed the need to declare the seat vacant following the recent resignation of Mrs. DeMeester in District G.
  - **Evidence:** “With the recent resignation of Mrs. DeMeester in District G, we do need to declare that seat vacant.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [15:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=958s)

- **Swearing in appointed official**
  - **Summary:** The Board proceeded with swearing in Clayton Zimmerman for District F.
  - **Evidence:** “Congratulations. If you wouldn't mind stepping up and judge, if you would swear him in, please.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [18:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1099s)

- **Board Meeting Procedure**
  - **Summary:** The meeting proceeded to the final item in new business.
  - **Evidence:** “The final item in new business is a resolution opposing the Safety Act and supporting its repeal in the Illinois State Legislature.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [19:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1181s)

- **Approval of Bond Invoice**
  - **Summary:** The board considered a motion to approve the bond invoice due to State Bank.
  - **Evidence:** “Would that make a motion to approve?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [47:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2852s)

- **Agenda Item Discussion Request**
  - **Summary:** A board member requested that a discussion regarding an item be placed on the board agenda prior to final approval, similar to previous salary discussions.
  - **Evidence:** “I did ask to have this discussion put on the board agenda, just like we did with the salaries of the county treasurer and county clerk.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [47:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2876s)

## Ordinances and Resolutions

- **Repeal of the Safety Act**
  - **Summary:** The County Board demands the Safety Act be immediately repealed.
  - **Evidence:** “Now therefore be it resolved by the County Board of the County of Stevenson Illinois demands the Safety Act be immediately repealed”
  - **Source timestamp:** [19:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1199s)

- **County Treasurer and Clerk Salary Establishment**
  - **Summary:** The resolution establishes compensation for the next four years for the County Clerk and Recorder and the County Treasurer, adding two years to the Circuit Clerk.
  - **Evidence:** “Approval of the resolution establishing the salaries of the Office of County Treasurer and County Clerk and Recorder. The resolution before you pass out of Committee unanimously that sets the compensation of the next four years for the County Clerk and Recorder and the County Treasurer. It also adds two years to the Circuit Clerk.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [40:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2400s)

## Presentations and Reports

- **SBA Disaster Loan Program for Stephenson County**
  - **Summary:** Jim Icaro presented information on disaster loan programs from the U.S. Treasury, available to residents of Stephenson County and surrounding counties (Winnebago, Ogle, Joe Davies, and Carroll). Loans include business disaster loans up to two million dollars, homeowner loans up to half a million dollars, and renter loans up to one hundred thousand dollars.
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening. I'm Jim Icaro, Public Affairs Specialist with the Small Business Administration, Office of Disaster Recovery. I appreciate the opportunity to address residents of Stephenson County regarding the disaster loan program that we are currently offering following the tornado that struck Lena and the surrounding areas We are offering our long-term low-interest disaster loans for not only Stephenson County residents But those of Winnebago, Ogle, Joe Davies, and Carroll.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=836s)

- **SBA Disaster Loan Program Details**
  - **Summary:** The SBA loan program details include application deadlines (until July 17th), a local outreach center at the American Legion Hall in Lena, no fees or obligation to take loans, interest rates of 4% and less for general loans, and 2.875% for homeowners.
  - **Evidence:** “folks can apply until July 17th we now have a disaster loan outreach center at the American Legion Hall in Lena we have trained and experienced customer service reps there six days a week to answer any questions and to take any applications there are no fees to apply for our disaster loans there's no obligation to take the loans if they're are awarded. And these are loans from the U. S. Treasury. They're not bank loans. So the interest rates are 4% and less. In fact, for homeowners, they're 2.875%.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [14:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=861s)

- **Zoning Board of Appeals meeting details**
  - **Summary:** The Zoning Board of Appeals met on Thursday May 14th, 2026, with a full quorum.
  - **Evidence:** “Good evening. Thursday May 14th, 2026, the Zoning Board of Appeals met with a full quorum.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [28:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1721s)

- **UCCI event at Eagle Ridge in Galena**
  - **Summary:** The annual UCCI event at Eagle Ridge in Galena is scheduled for July 27th and 28th.
  - **Evidence:** “Chairman's report, I did want to let everyone know, I think I've mentioned this previously, The annual UCCI event at Eagle Ridge in Galena is July 27th and 28th.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [33:01](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1981s)

- **County wellness initiatives awards**
  - **Summary:** The county was able to conduct a scanning wellness screening and the step challenge.
  - **Evidence:** “Health insurance is always top of mind for the county. And this year we were able to, in addition to having the, what was it called Georgia, the scanning, wellness screening, thank you and in addition to that we did do the step challenge this year which was pretty pretty impressive actually.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [33:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2020s)

- **Finance Committee Report**
  - **Summary:** Mrs. Baker presented four action items from the Finance committee.
  - **Evidence:** “We'll begin with finance. Mrs. Baker, it appears you have four action items.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [38:51](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2331s)

- **Salary Increase Recommendation (3.5% vs 3%)**
  - **Summary:** The finance director stated that the CBA moving into the next fiscal year are at four percent or higher, and they recommended 3.5% to stay somewhat parallel with the CBAs.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes the finance director and I discussed options with us all of the CBA is moving into the next fiscal year are at four percent or higher we we looked at the differences between three and a three and a half percent and trying to stay somewhat parallel with with the CBAs so we came to that three and a half percent to present as as a recommendation”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2932s)

- **Public Property and Safety Report**
  - **Summary:** Mr. Bush reported no action items or information to share.
  - **Evidence:** “Public property and safety, Mr. Bush, no action items, any information you'd like to share? Haven't done.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:37](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3157s)

- **Administration Committee Report**
  - **Summary:** Mr. Jogerst reported two action items.
  - **Evidence:** “Administration committee, Mr. Jogerst, you have two action items, I believe, if you don't mind pressing your button for me.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3173s)

- **Circuit Clerk's Report**
  - **Summary:** Brandy Meloncon graduated on May 13th from the Leadership Institute at Highland Community College.
  - **Evidence:** “The Circuit Clerk's Chief Deputy Clerk, Brandy Meloncon, graduated on May 13th from the Leadership Institute at Highland Community College.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3365s)

- **Nursing Center Report**
  - **Summary:** The current census is 80 as of last Thursday, May 14th, and all POCs for annual and life safety service have been submitted.
  - **Evidence:** “The current census is 80 as of last Thursday, May 14th, and all POCs for the annual and life safety service have been submitted.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [56:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3407s)

- **Planning and Development Action Item: Mortgage Release**
  - **Summary:** Action item to approve a release of mortgage for PIN number at 617 East Pleasant Street due to completion of rehab work and property sale.
  - **Evidence:** “I would move to release this mortgage for the PIN number at 617 East Pleasant Street.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3467s)

- **HD 2608 agreement for federal day labor on a pavement preservation project**
  - **Summary:** Presentation regarding HD 2608, an agreement for federal day labor on a pavement preservation project which is a reimbursement for county that county provided seal coating on Orangeville Road.
  - **Evidence:** “The first is HD 2608 which is the agreement for federal day labor on a pavement preservation project. This is a reimbursement for county that county provided seal coating on Orangeville Road.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [58:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3537s)

- **HD 2609 culvert repair cost sharing petition with Waddam's Township**
  - **Summary:** Presentation regarding HD 2609, a culvert repair cost sharing petition with Waddam's Township.
  - **Evidence:** “your next item, please HD 2609 is a culvert repair cost sharing petition with Waddam's Township”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:00:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3614s)

## Metrics

- **Public Defender's Office team steps total**
  - **Summary:** The Public Defender's Office achieved two million four hundred and forty-one steps with an average of four hundred and eighty eight thousand two hundred and two steps per person.
  - **Evidence:** “All right, so that was two million four hundred and forty-one steps with an average of four hundred and eighty eight thousand two hundred and two steps per person.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [33:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2020s)

- **Cost Comparison for Salary Increase**
  - **Summary:** A 3.5% increase would be approximately a $265,000 increase, with $2120 in IMRF and $20,272 in Social Security. The difference compared to a 3% overall cost is approximately $225,000, with IMRF of $1,800 and Social Security of $17,212.
  - **Evidence:** “A 3.5% Increase would be approximately a $265,000 increase, $2120 in IMRF and $20,272 in Social Security. The difference between that and a 3% overall cost would be approximately $225,000. IMRF would be $1,800 and Social Security would be $17,212.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [49:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2992s)

## Discussion

- **Discussion on Zoning Report Amendment**
  - **Summary:** A discussion occurred regarding an incorrect number for the special use permit in Ag District at 904 North AYP Road, which should be 3001 North AYP Road.
  - **Evidence:** “If we could go down to the zoning report, item one in his Zoning Report. I just need to amend that. The number is incorrect on approval of the special use permit in Ag District at 904 North AYP Road. That number should be 3001 North AYP Road.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [03:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=223s)

- **Resolution opposing the Safety Act**
  - **Summary:** The resolution opposes the Safety Act and supports its repeal in the Illinois State Legislature.
  - **Evidence:** “Okay, this is resolution opposing the Safety Act and supporting its repeal in Illinois State Legislator, whereas the County of Stevenson has an obligation to the safety of its citizens, and whereas the County of Stevenson recognizes the need for reform of certain areas of the criminal justice system and whereas the Safety Act was passed in pre-dawn hours of a lame duck session of the General Assembly and whereas the Safety Act may result in the release of defendants who pose a danger to the community and whereas the Safety Act eliminates cash bail, strips the judiciary of their ability to balance the rights of the accused to be free on bail against the rights of the public to receive reasonable protective consideration by the courts. And whereas the Safety Act creates a higher bar and sometimes unreasonable legal standard for the detention, enforceable class X, and greater felonies such as murder and armed robbery. And whereas the Stephenson County Board believes that this law puts the public in danger by allowing dangerous criminals to be free pre-trial and will discourage victim cooperation with law enforcement due to the fear of retaliation by offenders immediately released back into society.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [19:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1199s)

- **Safety Act Debate**
  - **Summary:** A board member stated that every acting judge can hold whomever he would like in jail if they've deemed necessary and that they're a violent enough criminal, they should.
  - **Evidence:** “We have state representatives, state senators that have argued different things against it, but for the most part, every acting judge can hold whomever he would like in jail if they've deemed necessary and that they're a violent enough criminal, they should.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [21:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1291s)

- **Safety Act Debate**
  - **Summary:** A board member stated that the resolution does not address some things discussed with the sheriff regarding undue burden on training.
  - **Evidence:** “I read this before I came today. I stopped and I talked to the sheriff about it and this resolution does not address some of the things that the Sheriff and I discussed on the fact that the Safety Act puts, I would call, an undue burden on his department as far as training.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [21:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1291s)

- **Safety Act Debate**
  - **Summary:** A board member stated that the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board has not complied with decertifying certain individuals.
  - **Evidence:** “It is also good to weed out bad individuals wearing a badge, that was part of it, but the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board has not followed through with decertifying certain individuals that shouldn't be law enforcement. They have not complied as written, that's the board hasn't complied.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1500s)

- **Public Defender's Office participation in wellness program**
  - **Summary:** The Public Defender stated the program was fantastic, appreciated support, and noted that employees who generally did not move during the day asked to continue walking after the competition.
  - **Evidence:** “This program was fantastic, so I really, really appreciate everybody that supported this. It was really easy to get my office involved. I forced everybody to start walking.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [35:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2130s)

- **County Board encouragement of fitness programs**
  - **Summary:** A speaker thanked the County Board for encouraging healthy fitness programs which led to friendly banter and laughter.
  - **Evidence:** “I just want to say the County Board, thank you. Thank you very much for encouraging us all to be healthy for the fitness programs that helped with a friendly banter, a lot of laughter, and unfortunately a lot of sore feet.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [37:32](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2252s)

- **County Clerk salary resolution details**
  - **Summary:** Mr. Hadley questioned why the Circuit Clerk's salary was included in the resolution with others, leading to a discussion about uniformity.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes, I got a question. Why are we putting the, two years ago we did the county circuit clerk, I will refer to the County Administrator.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [41:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2464s)

- **Circuit Clerk Salary Resolution**
  - **Summary:** The speaker noted that the resolution sets the salary for two years of the next term and questioned whether state law requires setting the salary 180 days before the next term.
  - **Evidence:** “The resolution does set the salary for two years of the next term, but there's a little bit of a question as to whether the state law would apply that says that you've got to set the salary 180 days before the next term of an elected official,”
  - **Source timestamp:** [42:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2538s)

- **Circuit Clerk Salary Resolution**
  - **Summary:** The speaker mentioned having made a motion two years ago to change the circuit clerk's salary to 3% in '26 and 3% in '27, with subsequent years also at 3%.
  - **Evidence:** “I believe two years ago, I made a motion to change the circuit clerk's salary to 3% in 26, and 3% in 27. If I'm correct, in 28 and 29, that's 3% for each one of those also, according to my math.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [43:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2630s)

- **Taxpayer Concerns Regarding Salaries**
  - **Summary:** The speaker expressed concern about the county losing revenue due to senior freezes and worried about union contracts, noting Ogle counties set salaries at 0%, 2%, 2%, 2% for four years.
  - **Evidence:** “I'm worried about union contracts. I noticed, I looked at Ogle counties and the first year they put zero and then the second year, the third year and the fourth year, 2%, 2%, 2%.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [44:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2674s)

- **Salary Support Statement**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated they would reluctantly support the current salary proposal but stressed the need to be very careful with taxpayers' money.
  - **Evidence:** “I'll support this with regret. Thank you.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2728s)

- **Constitutional Salary Percentages**
  - **Summary:** A board member asked for confirmation of the percentage increase being given to constitutional officers, specifically asking if it was 3% through all years.
  - **Evidence:** “Do we have, just off the top of our head, the percentages of increase that we are giving all these constitutional? 3%. Through all 3%?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [45:38](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2738s)

- **Salary Determination Basis**
  - **Summary:** The salary determination is dependent on what non-contractual or non-CBA covered employees get per the budget policy, which is a discussion point later in the agenda.
  - **Evidence:** “So it is dependent on what non-contractual or non-CBA covered employees get per the budget policy, which is a discussion point later in the agenda.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:03](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2763s)

- **Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs)**
  - **Summary:** The current collective bargaining agreements are at 4% or higher for this term.
  - **Evidence:** “the collective bargaining agreements, all of them are at 4% or higher currently for this term right now.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [46:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2779s)

- **Salary Increase Percentage Comparison**
  - **Summary:** A board member noted that the increase placed in place this year is three and a half percent, while last year was three percent.
  - **Evidence:** “One point that I think and I don't know if Mrs. Newcomer wants to speak to it but I believe the increase that's put in place this year is three and a half percent and if you want to speak to where that number came from last year was three percent correct”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2907s)

- **CBA funding options and cost breakdowns**
  - **Summary:** A recommendation of a 3.5% increase for CBAs was presented, with associated costs detailed for IMRF and Social Security, compared to the costs for a 3% overall increase.
  - **Evidence:** “Yes the finance director and I discussed options with us all of the CBA is moving into the next fiscal year are at four percent or higher we we looked at the differences between three and a three and a half percent and trying to stay somewhat parallel with with the CBAs so we came to that three and a half percent to present as as a recommendation I do have cost breakdowns if you're interested please three and a and a half percent. 3.5% Increase would be approximately a $265,000 increase, $2120 in IMRF and $20,272 in Social Security. The difference between that and a 3% overall cost would be approximately $225,000. IMRF would be $1,800 and Social Security would be $17,212.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [48:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2932s)

- **Outstanding Debt Inclusion in Budget**
  - **Summary:** A board member questioned whether outstanding debt owed to or from the nursing home/vendors would be included in the budget.
  - **Evidence:** “I did want to ask, and I can't get it up on my laptop, I I believe it's on the last page. I believe it's on the last page. It talks about the outstanding debt, I believe. And I want to know if the outstanding debt that is owed to the nursing home or the vendors at the nursing home or from the nursing home is going to be included in our budget.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3036s)

- **Outstanding Vendor Debt Recommendation**
  - **Summary:** A board member recommended discussing the outstanding vendor debt.
  - **Evidence:** “I would like to recommend that we talk about that outstanding vendor debt and that it needs to be taken care of. That's my opinion.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [52:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3125s)

- **CAMA/DevNet Contract Renewal Discussion**
  - **Summary:** Discussion noted that the service is a renewal and there was no increase in cost compared to later years.
  - **Evidence:** “I just was going to say that this is a renewal of the service that they need to do the assessments and I believe this was if you look at it the later years here, there's no increase in the cost.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [53:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3223s)

- **Lohenbaum Law Fee Discussion**
  - **Summary:** Discussion noted that the fee was previously about $150 an hour savings since the attorney left Jackson Lewis and is now cheaper through his own firm.
  - **Evidence:** “Do we know what his fee was the last time? I think Mrs. Newcomer. It's about $150 an hour savings now that he is not with Jackson Lewis any longer.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [54:59](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3299s)

- **Mortgage Release Discussion**
  - **Summary:** Discussion confirmed that the property owners met all requirements and only need the mortgage lien released as the property is changing hands.
  - **Evidence:** “Yeah does this person have to live in that at this point they they've met all those things they had to live there for five years and that was back in 2003 so they've lived there for more than five years and now they're just trying to sell the property or I can't say sell but to the property is going to change hands and they just need the mortgage lien released.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [57:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3467s)

- **HD 2608 pavement preservation project details**
  - **Summary:** Discussion regarding the scope and cost of the Orangeville Road reimbursement.
  - **Evidence:** “Mr. Hadley, go ahead sir. Did you say Orangeville Road? How many miles will that cover then this price? This is a reimbursement, so I don't know. Oh, so we've done it already or?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [59:55](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3595s)

- **HD 2609 location confusion and amendment need**
  - **Summary:** Discussion questioning the petitioner's affiliation (Buckeye Township vs. Wadham's Grove Township) for the culvert repair.
  - **Evidence:** “I see the petitioner was the highway commissioner from Buckeye Township. Is this being done in Buckeye Township or or Wadham's Grove Township? And why is the Buckeye Township guy doing Wadham Grove Township?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [01:01:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3668s)

## Public Comment

- **Concerns regarding quarry operations and expansion**
  - **Summary:** Kevin Soka expressed concerns about a conditional use permit for stone and gravel quarry issued in 1974, noting that conditions were allegedly never satisfied, and raised concerns about proposed expansion involving crushing/recycling of asphalt and concrete debris, potential groundwater pollution, and the county's investment in millrace crossing.
  - **Evidence:** “My name is Kevin Soka. I live at 578 West Fairview Road, very close to a quarry at 466 Fairview Road. I have some concerns that I would like to share with this board. As I understand it, the conditional use permit for this property was issued in 1974 for one specific purpose, a stone and gravel quarry. That's what the paperwork says, that's what the application says, that's what the conditional use permit says, stone and gravel period. That permit came with conditions that had to be met. A fence, some trees, a performance bond. My understanding is that none of those conditions were ever satisfied. No certificate of occupancy was ever awarded, not in 1974, not in the 50 years since. At the March 9th Planning and Development Committee meeting, I heard the zoning commissioner say on record that the current owner would have 45 days to satisfy those conditions. That was 73 days ago. To my knowledge, the fence is not up, the trees are not planted, there is no certificate of occupancy, there is no performance bond, and yet operations are continuing. How is that even possible? I'm concerned about the planned expansion of this operation without formal review. A gravel quarry takes material out of the Brown. Crushing and recycling of asphalt, which is the proposed expansion, brings recycling reclaimed concrete and asphalt into the operation. It's entirely different than gravel. Material that can contain petroleum products and heavy metals that does not belong in our groundwater. The trucks are much larger and heavier and there are three times as many of them because of the operation. On On a road that was not built for that kind of traffic and the noise and dust from crushing demolition debris Is not the same as a gravel operation. I also want to remind the County Board that we, the taxpayers, Already invested good money in building out millrace crossing which is a site specifically suited to this kind of industrial recycling operation I was told that the board was ready to approve such an operation in 2010 millrace is not fully populated today. Why are we even talking about burdening the residents around the quarry on Fairview Road when there is appropriate location already available? What happens if the current owner stockpiles large volume of asphalt and concrete debris and then loses interest or can't find buyers or simply walks away? Byers or simply walks away. Who cleans that up? It'll probably be the county, it's us, the taxpayers, every one of us in this room. And what about the aquifer? I'm running out of time. Who'll clean the water up if it becomes polluted?”
  - **Source timestamp:** [06:50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=410s)

- **Concerns regarding quarry operations and minutes recording**
  - **Summary:** Karen Rivers expressed agreement with Kevin Soka's points, noted that the quarry property borders her property, and requested that the board review factual comments she made at the 4/16 meeting concerning the solar site named Zimmerman North on West Fairview Road Freeport, as the minutes from the previous month's meeting did not reflect this information.
  - **Evidence:** “My name is Karen Rivers. I didn't come prepared to talk about the quarry tonight, but I agree with almost everything Kevin said. We live across a hayfield from each other the quarry property actually borders my property what I came for I'd like to say is unfortunately the minutes from last month's meeting which you just approved do not reflect the information I presented to you please review my factual comments made at the 416 26 meeting the solar site named Zimmerman North on West Fairview Road Freeport and my daughter which is next door to me also is less than two years old.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [10:30](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=630s)

- **Solar site issues at Zimmerman North and John Daniels property**
  - **Summary:** The speaker requested the Board acknowledge issues with the Zimmerman North solar site (West Fairview Road Freeport) and the John Daniels property on Bolton Road, requesting that their remarks and six photos be entered into the meeting minutes.
  - **Evidence:** “I ask that you acknowledge these important issues I mentioned tonight and also the issues as I mentioned at last month's meeting and worked to correct them. For the official record, I'm requesting that the Board enter my remarks and these six photos I took of the site into the meeting minutes.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [13:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=793s)

## Proclamations and Recognitions

- **Stephenson County Sheriff's Citizen Scholarship Award**
  - **Summary:** Ashley Rupnow of Freeport was selected as the recipient of the 2026 Stephenson County ISA Scholarship.
  - **Evidence:** “This year the Stephenson County Sheriff's Citizen Scholarship Committee has selected Ashley Rupnow of Freeport as the recipient of the 2026 Stephenson County ISA Scholarship.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1527s)

- **Ashley Rupnow**
  - **Summary:** Ashley Rupnow of Freeport was selected as the recipient of the 2026 Stephenson County ISA Scholarship.
  - **Evidence:** “Stephenson County Sheriff's Citizen Scholarship Committee has selected Ashley Rupnow of Freeport as the recipient of the 2026 Stephenson County ISA Scholarship.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [25:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1527s)

- **Ellen Williams**
  - **Summary:** Ellen Williams began her career with the Circuit Clerk's Office in October of 2005 and her last day with the county will be June 1st of this year.
  - **Evidence:** “I did want to let the board and the public know that Ellen actually began her career with the Circuit Clerk's Office in October of 2005. Throughout her tenure, Ellen has been a dedicated employee and our go-to expert for child support matters. Despite her facing many health challenges, she consistently demonstrated remarkable commitment and gave her very best to the circuit's clerk's office. Her last day with the county will be June 1st of this year.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [27:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=1669s)

- **Stephenson County Step Up Team Award**
  - **Summary:** The Public Defender's Office received the team award for 2,441,000 steps with an average of 488,202 steps per person.
  - **Evidence:** “All right, so that was two million four hundred and forty-one steps with an average of four hundred and eighty eight thousand two hundred and two steps per person.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [33:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2020s)

- **Top Individual Stepper Award**
  - **Summary:** Sally Brashaw received the Top Individual Stepper Award for 823,071 Steps.
  - **Evidence:** “The next award is the Top Individual Stepper Award. 823,071 Steps.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [36:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=2218s)

## Follow-ups

- **CBA Cost Breakdowns**
  - **Summary:** The speaker requested that the cost changes for both 3.5% and 3% be emailed out.
  - **Evidence:** “If you would, please email those changes out, both for 3.5% and 3% so everyone has got those.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3024s)

- **CBA Document Distribution**
  - **Summary:** The speaker stated they will send out the breakdown of all CBAs tomorrow morning.
  - **Evidence:** “I've also got the breakdown of all of the CBAs on that document, so I will send that out tomorrow morning.”
  - **Source timestamp:** [50:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5bpEU3URT8&t=3031s)