The Effingham County Board honored three county retirees at Monday’s meeting. Becky Bailey, who served with the Regional Board of Education for 52 years, was honored along with John Niccum, who served 34 years with the Sheriff’s Office, and Bill Arnold who also served with the Sheriff’s Office for 21 years. Sheriff Dave Mahon was also officially recognized by the board for being selected as the American Legion Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.
The board authorized the collection of delinquent taxes on two proprieties. County Treasurer Steven Dasenbrock explained that two parcels of land were auctioned off by the county trustee to get them back on the tax registry.
Several new employee-funded health plans were approved by the board. New options include coverage for catastrophic illness as well getting injuries while off the clock. The board also voted to renew renew the county’s health insurance with Health Alliance. According to County Board Chairman Jim Niemann, this year was good for rising premiums with the county only a seeing a five percent increase.
Effingham City Commissioner Kevin Willis was appointed to the Ambulance Oversight Committee for a two year term, or how long he retains his position on city council. Board member Mike Depoister said the appointment was to give the city, who uses the same ambulance service as the county, more decision making power.
The County’s travel expenditure policy was reinstated as an ordnance and a SCIRP request for $3,631 Per Capita was approved. The board also authorized Public Transportation to participate in the state 5311 Grant. $3,500 was approved for bridge maintenance in West Township on 500th Avenue.