The Richland County Board held its regular monthly meeting on Monday in Olney. Below are the key actions and updates from the meeting:
- Solar Farm Project:
The Board began the evening with a 30-minute public hearing regarding a proposed special use permit for a solar farm in Olney Township. Following public input, the Board approved the special use permit for New Energy Equity’s proposed solar farm on Van Road. The approval is contingent upon the company meeting all requirements outlined in the Richland County ordinance. - Financial Approvals:
The Board approved May’s monthly claims, which included $252,301 in general county claims and $350,835 in non-county claims. - Infrastructure Support:
Culvert assistance petitions were approved for both Claremont and Bonpas Townships. - Courthouse Accessibility Improvements:
The County Clerk’s Office secured grant funding to make the north (front) entrance of the Richland County Courthouse ADA-compliant. Construction is expected to begin soon. - Animal Control Program Update:
The Board took no action on a proposal from Claws & Paws Animal Rescue Center to manage the county’s Animal Control program. Over the past six months, the Board has made several improvements to the program and recently implemented staffing changes aimed at balancing regulatory compliance with cost-effective operations. Public input from residents and animal welfare groups continues to be welcomed. - Personnel and Appointments:
Salary adjustments were approved for the County Sheriff and County Public Defender.
Kevin Parker was appointed to the Claremont-Bonpas Fire Protection District Board. - Emergency Services Radio Project:
The county-wide emergency services radio project is being rebid, with the new bids expected by the end of July. - Department Updates:
- The County Highway Department is now fully OSHA compliant.
- The official county website richlandcounty.illinois.gov continues to see increased traffic and expanded online services.
- The County’s annual budget process will begin in August.
No executive session was held during the meeting.
The next regular meeting of the Richland County Board is scheduled for August 14.