Wabash County Commissioners met Monday evening, opening the meeting by recognizing the efforts of local road crews and first responders during last week’s winter storm.
Commissioners thanked highway workers, police, fire departments, WEMA, and emergency responders for working together to keep residents safe. Officials noted the Mt. Carmel Fire Department averaged about four first-responder calls per day during the worst conditions.
Highway Engineer Dustin Bunting reported crews were busy with snow removal and appreciated the public staying off the roads. He said cleanup and sanding continue in slick areas. Bunting also shared plans for upcoming bridge inspections and discussed right-of-way needs for a bridge on 700 East. He noted one snowplow was briefly damaged after sliding into a ditch, but damage appears minor. Bunting also announced the county purchased a surplus loader bucket from the City of Mt. Carmel to replace aging equipment.
Health Department Administrator Judy Wissel said respiratory illnesses remain high, with vaccinations and after-hours clinics ongoing. She also announced an opening for a registered nurse and noted the Department of Human Services is affected by the current government shutdown.
Treasurer Angela Broster reminded residents the second installment of property taxes is due Monday, February 9th. Payments received by the end of business day — or placed in the drop box before the next morning — will avoid penalties. Broster reported more than 80 percent of the tax levy has been collected.
Sheriff Derek Morgan reported only three weather-related slide-offs during the storm, calling it an unusually low number and crediting motorists for staying home when possible.
County Clerk Janet Will announced primary election ballots have been finalized, with early voting and vote-by-mail beginning Thursday, February 5th.
Commissioners also accepted a $3,600 dividend check from the HOPE Trust, presented by Snedeker Risk Management, reflecting strong performance of the county’s employee health plan.
The board declined to move forward with a resolution regarding a federal school scholarship tax credit and unanimously approved a designation recognizing Discover Downstate Illinois Tourism as the county’s certified tourism bureau for fiscal year 2026.
Commissioners also approved routine budget adjustments for 2025, noting increased revenues and lower-than-expected expenses compared to previous years.