Wabash County Sheriff Derek Morgan updated county commissioners Monday afternoon on several issues affecting the sheriff's office, including storm damage, staffing, vehicle replacement and upcoming labor negotiations.
Morgan reported that heavy rainfall earlier this month caused water to back up into the basement of the courthouse. He said the water caused a mess, and the county is awaiting a damage estimate from Servpro. Morgan added that, based on preliminary discussions, the damage may not meet the insurance deductible for a claim.
Morgan also reported that correctional officer Noah Bell is scheduled to graduate from the police academy on August 7 and is expected to return to duty at the Wabash County Jail shortly afterward.
Looking ahead, Morgan asked commissioners to consider dedicating a portion of the county's cannabis sales tax revenue to a vehicle replacement fund. He said the sheriff's office fleet is aging, with patrol vehicles ranging from 2019 to 2021 models. Rather than borrowing money for replacements every few years, Morgan said setting aside tax revenue annually would allow the county to build a fund for future vehicle purchases.
Morgan also reminded commissioners that the county has received formal notice from the Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council to begin collective bargaining negotiations. He noted that law enforcement agencies across Illinois continue to compete for officers, making wages a key issue in retaining and recruiting personnel.
Commissioners acknowledged the county will likely need to remain competitive as negotiations move forward. The board later approved appointing Commissioner Rob Dean to represent the county during the bargaining process and report back to the full board on negotiations.