At a recent Hamilton County Board meeting, members discussed whether the county should continue funding Discover Downstate Illinois Tourism. The county currently contributes $250 annually, but last year they approved an extra $500 for additional advertising. Board member Adam Little expressed concerns about spending that amount again. Discover Downstate helps promote local attractions like the Fall Festival throughout the year, with several out-of-town ticket sales reported—possibly boosted by the recent Solar Eclipse buzz. The board debated whether funds could be used to increase revenue for the Fair or if they should remain dedicated to the Kiwanis Club and Chamber of Commerce efforts. The item was ultimately tabled for further review.
The Ambulance Department was another major topic. Despite ongoing challenges, staff remain committed. There was speculation about two emergency calls where response times might have been delayed, but a representative clarified that both calls and transports occurred within 7 minutes and 25 seconds. The representative highlighted the difficulty in recruiting paramedics and EMTs, despite offering sign-on bonuses and tuition reimbursement programs. “We offer the best incentives we can, yet no one wants to work in emergency or first responder roles,” they stated. “It’s not just about pay; it’s about loving what you do. Those people are becoming fewer and farther between.”
The county has purchased a new ambulance, which is nearing readiness to serve the community.
Next, Chairman Kelly Woodrow signed a proclamation declaring April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Hamilton County Coroner Dewain Wellen shared a letter about a fee increase from the Vanderburgh County Coroner’s Office, which would raise fees from $100 to $300. Franklin County has offered to provide facilities for $150 per use, and Wellen provided copies of the letter to board members.
The board approved a five-year lease for courthouse office space and ratified the county’s health insurance plans. Additionally, two new appointments and seven reappointments were approved, though Chairman Woodrow expressed concern about a specific appointment to the Saline Valley Conservancy District.
“Gallatin County wanted Jamie Scherrer appointed, but appointments are made based on petitions to the county chair,” explained Woodrow. “The board has largely chosen who they want, whether the other counties agree or not.”
The appointment of Jamie Scherrer was approved. Other appointments included Landon Vaughn, replacing Kelly Woodrow on the Hamilton County Emergency Telecommunications Switch Board; Dr. Alec Hood, Jeremy Varner, and Alesha Storey, reappointed to the Hamilton County Board of Health for three-year terms—Woodrow abstained from voting on Alesha Storey. John Carrell was appointed to the same board for a one-year term. Reappointments to the Hamilton County Board of Review included Brad Brock, John D. Ventress, and Eugene “Penny” VanWinkle, each serving two-year terms.
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