The Clark County Board faced extensive public criticism regarding its recent approval of two large-scale solar projects during its meeting on July 18. Multiple residents and experts raised alarms about inadequate decommissioning plans, unaddressed drainage issues, and the lack of provisions for local labor, urging the board to appeal its own decision. For a detailed report on the discussion, see the full article.

The board also considered a proposal to use county cannabis tax funds to support school-based counseling services. While the program has already helped dozens of students, the board deferred a final decision on the funding until formal budget discussions. For more information, please see the full story. In other business, the board approved a salary amendment for the County Highway Engineer and made several appointments to local governing boards.

County Engineer Salary Amended
Following a closed session, the board approved a resolution to amend the salary contract for County Highway Engineer Dallas Richardson. During his report, Richardson noted that construction on the new highway department building has slowed, though work is progressing on the meeting room. He also mentioned that he is awaiting a response from the Illinois Department of Transportation regarding a grant application for the Hogue Town final plans.

Board Fills Openings on Local Panels
The board made several appointments to area commissions and districts. Dave Gross was re-appointed to the North Fork Conservancy District Board for a five-year term expiring in August 2030. Travis Cox was re-appointed to the Union York Water Board for a five-year term set to expire in August 2030. The board also re-appointed Rebecca Branson and Richard Wheeler to the Clark County Housing Board for five-year terms.

Key Hires and Contracts Tabled
The board tabled two new business items and one old business item for future consideration. A proposal to hire a new IT Administrator and an HR Administrator was tabled without discussion. A vote on a dog kennel contract with the City of Casey was also tabled from old business. No reason was provided in the minutes for the delays.

Ambulance Service Reports Strong Collections
Mike Bridges delivered the ambulance report, noting that July calls were up slightly from June. He stated that collections remain strong, with $140,000 collected in June and a total of $1.4 million for the year. The Clark County Ambulance Service is also in the process of seeking licensure in Indiana, which Bridges described as a lengthy process.