PROCEEDINGS OF THE COUNTY BOARD

KNOX COUNTY , ILLINOIS

August 29, 2007

STATE OF ILLINOIS )

                                     )           SS

COUNTY OF KNOX )

            Proceedings of the regular meeting of the Knox County Board held at the Knox County Courthouse, Galesburg , Illinois on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 at 6:15 p.m.

            The meeting was called to order by Chairman Allen Pickrel and upon roll call the following members reported present:

District 1          Caroline Porter            

District 2          Greg Bacon

District 4          Lowell Mannhardt                   

District 5          Gerald “Jerry” Link                              

District 1          Allen Pickrel                            

District 2          Paul Stewart                            

District 3          Dale Parsons               

District 4          George Knapp            

District 5          Ricardo “Rick” Sandoval         

District 1          Lyle Johnson                           

District 2          William “Bill” Abel                               

District 3          Janet Occhi                             

District 4          Wayne Saline              

District 5          Stephen “Steve” Johnson         

            Also present were State’s Attorney John Pepmeyer, Treasurer Robin Davis, Acting Sheriff Mark Thomas, Chief Judge of the 9th Judicial Circuit Steve Mathers, and County Clerk Scott Erickson.

            Acting Sheriff Mark Thomas delivered the proclamation. Chairman Pickrel led the Members in the pledge to the flag. Since no one was present to deliver the invocation, Chairman Pickrel asked for a moment of silence.

            Chairman Pickrel asked for additions to the agenda. He asked that agenda item 25, approval of the bid for hay from the landfill, and item 33, approval to bid and bring back for a Wander-Guard type system for the exit doors of the nursing home, be removed from this agenda. He also asked that agenda item 6, approval of appointment of County Board Member for District 3, and agenda item 7, approval of appointment of Knox County Sheriff be moved up in the agenda to immediately follow the public comments. He also asked that agenda item 12, approval of Workman's Compensation settlements, be removed from this agenda.

            Member Saline asked that agenda item 10, approval of the contract for the new Knox County Supervisor of Assessments be removed from this agenda. This contract requires legal review. Further some Members have not yet seen this contract. He hopes to bring it back next month. He also asked that agenda item 14, approval of the salary increase for the Circuit Clerk be removed from this agenda and placed on the agenda for next month.

            Member Abel questioned if agenda item 9, discussion/approval of external Board Member appointments and per diems payments, should be discussed in executive session. Member Steve Johnson stated that it could be discussed in open session. Chairman Pickrel asked for the advice of State’s Attorney John Pepmeyer, who responded that if no names were used or other reasonable identifiers, this matter could be discussed in open session.

            Chairman Pickrel asked for public comments. Darrell Corbin addressed the Board regarding his frustrations with the County judicial system. His daughter’s ex-boy friend is a dead beat dad who owes $6,200 in back child support for his seven year old child. Mr. Corbin had contacted the Assistant State ’s Attorney in an effort to send this case before the judge. Mr. Corbin has also tried to have this dead beat dad’s driver’s license revoked. The judge would not allow that to happen, until the papers are served. Although this man has a body attachment, he continues to evade the law. It is one of these cases that is falling through the cracks. This child deserves the child support. Mr. Corbin is sure there are similar cases in the County. He wanted Board Members to be aware of this situation. Chairman Pickrel responded that although typically the Board does not respond to public comments, with the new Sheriff coming in, he suggests that Mr. Corbin contact the new Sheriff and/or the Chairman of the Jail Committee, Member Steve Johnson.

            A representative from Roland Machinery addressed the Board and reminded Members of the informational packets that had been distributed to them regarding the purchase of a bulldozer for the landfill. He asked the Members to look through the packet before they make their decision. He would be willing to answer questions.

            Chairman Pickrel reported that he had been given the name of Tim Hasten to fill the vacant County Board position. This is the recommendation from the Democratic caucus and would fill the vacancy created by Paul Hevland’s resignation. Motion was made by Member Saline and seconded by Member Occhi to approve the appointment of Tim Hasten to the Knox County Board for District 3.

            Member Porter commented that the Democrats had a lot to do in appointing a new Sheriff. She thinks that they tried to handle this appointment to the County Board too quickly and without enough preparation. She is concerned that this appointment was not given enough time or consideration. Perhaps other candidates should have been considered. This appointment should have been given another month. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Abel, Occhi, and Saline—(10). Noes—Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, and Steve Johnson—(4). Motion carried.

            County Clerk Scott Erickson administered the oath of office to Tim Hasten. Board Members welcomed him.

            Chairman Pickrel reported that he had been given the name of Dave Clague from the Democratic caucus to fill the vacancy created by Sheriff James Thompson’s recent retirement. Motion was made by Member Sandoval and seconded by Member Bacon to approve the appointment of Dave Clague as Knox County Sheriff.  Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Chief Judge of the 9th Judicial Circuit, Steve Mathers administered the oath of office to Dave Clague. Mark Thomas presented his Sheriff’s badge and official handcuffs to the new Sheriff. These are special handcuffs which were engraved with name of a former deputy, Bob Zefo, and are to be passed on to each Sheriff. Board Members welcomed Sheriff Clague.

            Chairman Pickrel expressed his appreciation to Mark Thomas for his willingness to serve as Sheriff this past month.

            Chairman Pickrel presented the following items of the consent agenda for approval: 1C) minutes of the Regular and Closed Board Meeting on July 25, 2007, 2) claims by Members for per diem and mileage for the Meeting of August 29, 2007, and 3) sales tax and various taxes for the month of May 2007 in the amounts of $100,693.62, and $21,284.52 and public safety tax in the amount of $83,357.73. Motion was made by Member Steve Johnson and seconded by Member Parsons to approve these measures. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Chairman Pickrel presented the remaining items of the consent agenda for approval: 4) appointment of Mr. Eli W. Calkins to the Oneida-Wataga Fire Protection District, and 5) appointment of Mr. Josh Johnson to the Victoria Copley Fire Protection District. Motion was made by Member Link and seconded by Member Parsons to approve these appointments. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Chairman Pickrel informed Members that as a result of the storm of August 23rd, he had filled out an application that would proclaim Knox County as a State Disaster Area through the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. The agricultural community could use some financial assistance. Additionally, the landfill could use some assistance in dealing with the additional waste created by this storm. Emergency Services Disaster Agency Coordinator, John Cratty informed him that Knox County will be receiving this designation. Governor Blagojevich signed it today.

            Chairman Pickrel reported that August 25th, he had visited with Dave Clague. At that time, Mr. Clague reported that he has a previous commitment September 14-22, and will be gone for a portion of that time. Chairman Pickrel stated that really should not be a problem.

            Motion was made by Member Steve Johnson and seconded by Member Porter to approve the resolution on Illinois lawsuit reform. Chairman Pickrel read aloud this resolution which originated in Springfield . This resolution would encourage State legislators to enact meaningful, comprehensive lawsuit reform to protect the County’s employers, workers, and consumers. Roll call vote to approve this resolution is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Chairman Pickrel introduced a discussion regarding external Board Member appointments and per diems payments. He reminded Members that no names are to be used in this discussion. Motion was made by Member Saline and seconded by Member Sandoval that since appointments to these committees are at the pleasure of the Chairman of the Board pending Board approval; the Chairman should confer with the Finance Committee to organize procedures and guidelines for per diems. Member Saline suggested that this would be a per diem handbook, similar to the employee handbook, and would specify the criteria for receiving per diems. Chairman Pickrel stated that this per diem handbook would then come to the Board for their approval. Member Steve Johnson stated that due to past abuse this handbook is needed.

            Member Porter asked that at the next executive meeting, some of these issues should be specifically discussed. Member Saline announced that the next meeting of the Finance Committee will be held September 5th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Annex. Voice vote to approve this motion to develop a per diem handbook is recorded as follows: Ayes—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Member Parsons commented regarding the waiver of the fee for private wind towers. Since the committee will be meeting with someone August 30th, perhaps this item should be removed from this agenda.

            Chairman Pickrel stated that he had received several phone calls relating to this situation. During the previous Meeting, Ed Warner had addressed the Board and asked that the additional fee of $25 per foot of tower height be waived. Given the height of this tower, this additional fee would be approximately $2,000. He plans to utilize a wind generator to accompany a solar panel. He had also discussed this matter with the committee. When the Wind Energy Ordinance was originally drafted, it was intended for commercial entities. This is new territory. Chairman Pickrel questioned if the County should charge differently for individuals and commercial businesses. This resident has stated that in all likelihood, he will never recoup the cost of $2,000 additional fees. Yet it would be a substantial cost to have power lines run back to this property.

            Member Link stated that he was glad that this item was on the agenda for discussion. Mr. Warner did attend the previous committee meeting. The committee is concerned about changing the fees that have already been established. Committee members are also concerned about changing the requirement for free standing towers. Now they question why this requirement was originally included in the Wind Energy Ordinance. Mr. Warner had informed the committee that his tower would not be free standing but would include guide wires. The committee really thought that they needed more education about all that needs to be considered concerning wind towers. It was agreed that the committee would meet with attorney Bob Potts, who is an expert on wind farm legalities and ordinances. This meeting will be held August 30, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. at the Annex. Chris Gray and Joe Krupps, Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals, will also be attendance at this meeting.

            Member Abel stated that discussions should include how these wind turbines would be taxed. Supervisor of Assessments Joyce Skinner responded that the State had established the rate at $9,000 assessment per megawatt.

            Member Bacon stated that he did not like to infringe on someone’s personal rights. Perhaps it would be best to have two ordinances: one for personal uses and one for commercial uses. A person ought to have the right to put a wind tower on his own land to some extent without infringing on the rights of other people. If an individual wants to erect a wind tower and secure it with guide wires, than he should have that right. Although Member Bacon can understand the necessity of fees, it might be better to charge a flat fee for cases like this. He does not agree with the additional fee of $25 per foot of tower height. As long as this tower is just producing enough power for this resident’s own personal use, he does not have a problem with it.

            Chairman Pickrel reported that he had also spoken with someone from the Alpha area. Other individuals have also expressed their concerns. They are not trying to sell the power. These are residents just trying to supply their own needs. There are various issues that really require further study and discussion.

            Member Porter commented that there are other issues to consider. Such things as surety bond and restoration agreements should be included in these discussions.

            Member Occhi stated that she did not have a problem with a two tiered system. With so many people going green, this would be good for the environment.

            Member Steve Johnson suggested a residential fee of $10 per foot of tower height. This would be a one time fee.

            The Finance, Insurance, Treasurer, Judicial, and Clerk Committee report was presented by Committee chairman Wayne Saline. The minutes of the committee meeting and financial reports are included in the packets. A budget schedule was also included. The expenses and revenues are at the 66.5% level which means we are 1% off of those targeted amounts. There has been a tax distribution which has increased revenue levels. There will be a budget planning meeting September 5, 6:00 p.m. at the Annex. This budget process is not any different than any other year.

            Motion was made by Member Saline and seconded by Member Abel to approve to bid and bring back for the County computer service contract. The current contract with R-Cubed Technologies will expire in November. A copy of the job description and duties for this position is included in the board packet. Voice vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Chairman of the Ad Hoc Building Committee Steve Johnson presented an update regarding the scale house/office building at the landfill. They are to begin digging this week. Last week’s storm might have pushed this start date back a couple of days. There is a problem with the power lines, as they are too close to the scale. Those lines will have to be relocated. Considering the storm damage to the area power lines, AmerenIP is very busy right now. This building is in the works and construction is about to begin.

            The Sheriff, Jail, Courthouse, Animal Control, Mary Davis Home, Courthouse, and Annex Committee report was presented by Committee chairman Steve Johnson. The minutes and monthly reports are included in the packets. Specifications for the Muffin Monster Project have been completed and bids have been advertised. (The Muffin Monster is a grinder type device that is to be installed in the sewer to shred the debris that is flushed down the toilets of the Knox County Jail and clogs the sewers.) Bids will include the necessary equipment and installation. These bids are to be opened September 17, at 6:00 p.m. at the Knox County Law Enforcement Center Conference Room. The accepted bid will be submitted to the Board during the September 26th meeting for approval.

            There was a letter from the FOP to open negotiations, and that will be forwarded to the negotiation committee and Member Bacon. During the committee meeting there was some discussion regarding implementing additional charges for municipal dispatch services. This action was tabled pending further discussion. The committee will consult with the new Sheriff as well as with the mayors of the affected communities.

            The sally port for the Mary Davis Home is progressing well. Completion is expected in the next two or three weeks. The Courthouse sidewalk project has been completed and looks good. Even the sod has been taken care of. Negotiations to appoint someone for Chief Transportation Officer for the Sheriff’s Department are currently on hold. That request will proceed with the negotiations for the new union contract,

            Motion was made by Member Steve Johnson and seconded by Member Lyle Johnson to approve hiring Roger Underwood as the full time Knox County Animal Control Officer. Member Steve Johnson stated that 16 applications were received. Mr. Underwood seems to be the most qualified candidate for this position. This is the committee’s recommendation. Although at the previous Board Meeting, Members had decided that this should be a part time position, the union disagrees and thinks that it should be a full time position. During the committee meeting, Mr. Lynch stated that the part time issue should be negotiated since he feels that according to the union contract it is listed as a full time position.

            Chairman Pickrel commented that although he thinks Mr. Underwood would do a good job in this position, he will be voting against this appointment. He could support this if it were a part time position. Since Mr. Underwood is a full time firefighter, Chairman Pickrel has concerns how this will work out as a full time position.

            Member Steve Johnson reminded Members that according to the County Handbook , 32 hours per week is considered a full time position. The Committee reviewed work schedules with Mr. Underwood and there does not seem to be a problem. Member Abel stated that in the past this had been a full time position.

            Member Link commented that he had some problems with changing this to a full time position. Certainly this does not need to be a 40 hr per week position. If it is a 32 hour per week position, it should work. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, and Steve Johnson—(13). Noes—Pickrel and Saline—(2). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Stewart and seconded by Member Occhi to remove from the table the HVAC, electrical and plumbing services agreement. During the previous Board Meeting, this item had been tabled pending clarification from MSI regarding the $5.00 fee which was included with their bid. Members questioned whether this fee was $5.00 per truck or $5.00 per mile. Roll call vote to remove this agreement from the table is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Steve Johnson and seconded by Member Lyle Johnson to approve the low bid for the HVAC, electrical and plumbing services agreement with MSI. Member Steve Johnson advised that this $5.00 fee is a one time fee per vehicle per job. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            The Highway, Assessor, Zoning, GIS, and Recorder Committee report was presented by Committee chairman Jerry Link. Minutes of the committee meeting and reports were distributed to the Members. Member Link had met with the State’s Attorney regarding some zoning issues. Several road projects are currently underway. They have started the grinding process on the Cameron Road west of Rte 41. Joyce Skinner and Chris Gray had met with the committee as they interviewed candidates for the GIS position. Joyce Skinner then introduced the new GIS Coordinator, Bill Lotz. He will begin September 4th.

            Motion was made by Member Link and seconded by Member Sandoval to approve the low bid submitted by Peterson Parking Lot Striping in the amount of $0.068 per lineal foot for annual pavement striping, Section 07-00000-GM. This bid price will result in an expenditure of approximately $62,000.00 this year, and will be funded out of the County Motor Fuel Tax Maintenance Fund. Duane Ratermann explained that this bid is actually a group bid with five other area counties. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Occhi and seconded by Member Parsons to approve the union contract with the highway union. A copy of this contract is included in the packets. Member Bacon reported that this contract has finally been signed by both sides. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

The Landfill Committee report was presented by Committee chairman Lowell Mannhardt. The committee minutes and landfill report are included in the packets.

Motion was made by Member Mannhardt and seconded by Member Stewart to approve the bulldozer bid in the amount of $209,729 for a Komatsu submitted from Roland Machinery. This is the recommendation from Larry Larson. Copies of the bids are included in the packets and additional information had been distributed to them. During the committee meeting, there was a tie vote.

Member Parsons expressed his concerns that for years the County has been doing business with Caterpillar. They have a repairman who is within 15 minutes of the landfill. Parts are available in Peoria . In his opinion we should stick with Caterpillar like we have been doing for the last several years.

Member Bacon commented that during the committee meeting there were excellent presentations from both Komatsu and Caterpillar. One important point to be considered is the service network. There is an excellent Caterpillar mechanic who lives in St. Augustine , who is assigned to the landfill and the railroad. In the past the County has not had problems with the Caterpillar machines. The mechanic and the parts warehouse are comparatively close when we need them. We do not have to take the lowest bid, but rather the best bid for the County. In the long run, the bid from Caterpillar is the better buy.

Member Link stated that he agreed with Member Parsons and Member Bacon. The buy back option from Altorfer for a Caterpillar is a better deal. He also likes the idea of the skilled Caterpillar mechanic in St. Augustine .

Member Porter stated that during the committee meeting, she voted for purchasing the Komatsu from Roland Machinery. They have previously done business with the highway department and have provided good service. Now she wants to change her vote because she had learned that Komatsus are made in Japan . She would prefer to purchase American made products like Caterpillar. It is important to support American made products.

Member Saline stated that he is favor of the Altorfer bid with the stipulation which includes the sale to Banks. This would be a better deal. He agrees with Member Porter that it is better to do business in this country. He also agrees with Member Bacon that the service aspect of this is a strong point which should be considered.

Member Stewart reported that he had done some investigating and also learned that Komatsus are manufactured in Japan . Even though during the committee meeting, he voted for the Komatsu bid, he has also changed his mind.

Member Hasten noted that according the information provided the cost of operating a Caterpillar per hour is approximately $1.00 cheaper than the other units. Over the course of time, this could amount to a large savings.

Member Bacon informed Members that the buy back policy was discussed during the committee meeting. The landfill will be returning to the 4 year or 4,000 hour buy back policy. Roll call vote to approve the bulldozer bid in the amount of $209,729 for a Komatsu submitted from Roland Machinery is recorded as follows: Ayes—(0). Noes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Motion failed.

            Motion was made by Member Mannhardt and seconded by Member Bacon to approve the purchase of a Caterpillar bulldozer from Altorfer with the stipulation to sell the old unit directly to Banks Machinery, from Riverton , Utah , for $135,100. Member Steve Johnson stated his confusion regarding some of the information that had been distributed about the purchase of the bulldozer. Various Members stated that some of the information is in error. Member Saline stated that the cost after the buy back would be $88,284 for the next four years. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, and Saline—(14). Noes—Steve Johnson—(0). Motion carried. 

Motion was made by Member Mannhardt and seconded by Member Porter to approve to bid and bring back for a track type tractor and (2) 18 yard pull type scrapers for the landfill. Previously the Board had approved to bid and bring back for a new scraper. However, only one bid was received and it seems cost prohibitive. Therefore, this alternate plan is suggested.

Member Bacon expressed his doubts that this option would be suitable for the landfill and the job that Mr. Larson expects it to do. Member Bacon does not think that this machinery will handle that kind of daily abuse. In the end there would be virtually no buy back value. This machinery would soon become junk. If instead the County purchased an actual scraper, there would be some sort of buy back value. He suggests that the original scraper be re-bid.

Member Link also questioned these two smaller scrapers. He asked the opinion of Greg Ingle. Mr. Ingle responded that in his opinion this machine is too small. He is concerned that the track would come off. Chairman Pickrel asked Member Link to contact Mr. Larson to discuss other options.

            Motion was made by Member Steve Johnson and seconded by Member Occhi to table this measure. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion to table this motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Stewart and seconded by Member Porter to approve the low bid submitted by Pipeco, Inc., from Bettendorf , Iowa , in the amount of $5,995.00 for a 2,000 gallon waste oil tank for the landfill. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Stewart and seconded by Member Parsons to approve the new policy on non-covered/unsecured loads coming to the landfill. This new policy would authorize the landfill operator to charge double the tipping fee for unsecured or uncovered loads coming into the landfill. There are a few customers that refuse to secure or cover their loads and thus parts of their load fall off onto the road coming to the landfill. This is not only unsightly, but also dangerous and can cause a lot of flat tires. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

Motion was made by Member Occhi and seconded by Member Parsons to approve the authorization to sell surplus equipment at the landfill. There are four pieces of equipment that have not been used in over a year. These pieces include: 1) 1985 Mack roll off truck, 2) 1980 John Deere 770A motor grader, 3) 1989 Dodge truck, and 4) 1987 GMC truck. Voice vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            The Nursing Home Committee report was presented by Committee chairman Lowell Mannhardt. The committee minutes and the nursing home report are included in the packets.

            Motion was made by Member Stewart and seconded by Member Occhi to approve the only bid, submitted from Superior Asphalt in the amount of $24,135.00 for the asphalt sidewalk installation at the Nursing Home. Bid information had been presented to the Members. In order to allow two wheelchairs to pass, the sidewalk will be six feet wide. Funding for this project will come from the recently approved grant for the trail project. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Porter and seconded by Member Parsons to approve the addendum to the Nursing Home alcohol policy, the purchase of personal requested items, and Apollo (bath) usage. Specific information regarding these changes is included in the packets. Marianne Wiesen explained the specific changes. This addendum to the alcohol policy would prohibit nursing home employees from purchasing any alcoholic beverages for nursing home residents. There will be some changes in the procedure for the purchase of personal items for the residents use. There must be funds available in that resident’s account. Regarding the Apollo bath usage, these baths are considered a luxury afforded to all residents. To allow all residents an opportunity to enjoy the Apollo baths, they will be limited to two per week. Additional requests will be, as available, after all other residents’ requests have been scheduled and at a charge of $20.00 per Apollo bath. The showers will still be available free of charge for all residents on an as needed basis. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Abel and seconded by Member Stewart to approve the low bid submitted by Eco-Water in the amount of $10,650.00 for a water softener for the nursing home. These funds would come from the referendum fund. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, Saline, and Steve Johnson—(15). Noes—(0). Motion carried.

            Member Mannhardt announced the next Landfill/Nursing Home Committee Meeting will be held September 13, 6:00 p.m. at the Annex.

            Member Steve Johnson reminded Members of previous questions about the tub grinder at the landfill. He did notice figures in the packet about the related expenses for this piece of machinery. Member Mannhardt stated that the committee had discussed the tub grinder. Chairman Pickrel stated that considering the recent storm there could be increased demands for this piece of machinery. He has concerns that it is able to complete the job. Member Bacon suggested that in the future this service might have to be hired out. Member Steve Johnson stated that this service does consume much time for repairs besides just the actual manpower.

            Motion was made by Member Occhi and seconded by Member Saline to approve to open the budget to amend it. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, and Saline—(14). Noes—Steve Johnson—(1). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Mannhardt and seconded by Member Occhi to approve budgetary line item changes for various departments. Specific information is included in the packets and additional information was also distributed. Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Bacon, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, and Saline—(14). Noes—Steve Johnson—(1). Motion carried.

            Motion was made by Member Occhi and seconded by Member Stewart to approve the claims against Knox County , Illinois , for the period of July 26, 2007 August 29, 2007 (ordering that invoices be accepted and approved and that the County Clerk and County Treasurer be authorized and directed to issue County Warrants in payment of the bills.) Roll call vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—Porter, Hasten, Mannhardt, Link, Pickrel, Stewart, Parsons, Knapp, Sandoval, Lyle Johnson, Abel, Occhi, and Saline—(13). Noes—(0). Pass—Bacon, and Steve Johnson—(2). Motion carried.

STATEMENTS OF GENERAL CONCERN

            Member Porter had no comments at this time.

            Member Bacon reiterated his position on the wind turbines. He is all for personal freedom on your own land, unless you are infringing on someone else’s freedoms on their land.

            Member Hasten had no comments at this time.

            Member Mannhardt commented that he agreed with Member Bacon’s comments regarding wind turbines.

            Member Link had no comments at this time.

            Chairman Pickrel welcomed Member Hasten to the Board and also welcomed Sheriff Clague. He again expressed his thanks to Mark Thomas for his hard work. Also there is a copy of the Disaster Proclamation, which the Governor had just signed, if anyone would like to look at it.

            Member Stewart, Member Parsons, and Member Knapp had no comments at this time.

            Member Sandoval also welcomed Member Hasten and Sheriff Clague.

            Member Lyle Johnson commented that he agrees with Member Bacon’s comments regarding wind turbines.

            Member Abel had no comments at this time.

            Member Occhi commented in reference to the recent Economic Development Conference that she attended. She reminded Members of the handouts that she had given to them from this conference.

            Member Saline had no comments at this time.

            Member Steve Johnson commented in reference to the Jail and Sheriff Committee report. The Mary Davis Home was recently inspected by the State and passed with flying colors.

            The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 26, 2007 , 6:00 p.m. , at the Knox County Courthouse, Galesburg , Illinois .

            Motion was made by Member Steve Johnson and seconded by Member Sandoval to adjourn. Voice vote is recorded as follows: Ayes—(15). Noes—(0). Meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.