Coordinating Committee: Reviews Cemetery Laws and 2026 Schedule

Montgomery County Coordinating Committee | October 2025

Article Summary: The Coordinating Committee reviewed legal opinions regarding cemetery maintenance and moved forward with the appointment of a new State’s Attorney. The committee also finalized the 2026 board meeting schedule.

Coordinating Committee Key Points:

• Legal Appointment: The Republican Central Committee is expected to recommend a replacement for the State’s Attorney.

• Cemetery Law: Legal research indicates townships are responsible for abandoned cemeteries, though the county can assist.

• Meeting Schedule: The 2026 County Board meeting dates were reviewed and recommended for approval.

The Montgomery County Coordinating Committee on Thursday, October 30, 2025, addressed jurisdictional questions regarding abandoned cemeteries and prepared for the appointment of a new top prosecutor.

Regarding the appointment of a new Montgomery County State’s Attorney, Committee member Mark Hughes reported that a letter of recommendation from the Montgomery County Republican Central Committee is anticipated.

The committee also discussed responsibility for abandoned cemeteries. Legal research shared by the State’s Attorney’s office indicates that under the Public Graveyard Act, townships generally have control and tax-levying authority for cemeteries not under a corporation or society. However, the County Board may appropriate funds to assist in cleaning neglected graves. Assistant Administrator Lucas Nowlan has applied for a $20,000 grant to improve the County Farm and Neece Cemeteries.

Coordinating Committee Briefs

• Sheriff’s Report: The Sheriff’s Office reported 2,011 daily incident counts for September 2025. The jail housed an average of 40.13 detainees daily, with 11 jail incidents reported during the month.

• Juvenile Detention: Chairman Doug Donaldson intends to sign an intergovernmental agreement with Kane County for juvenile detention services following full board approval.

• IT Updates: Information Systems Director Curt Watkins reported that fire and panic alarms have been converted to IP or cellular systems, eliminating unneeded phone lines. A problem with the jury 800 number has also been resolved.

• SNAP Benefits: Chairman Donaldson noted that federal SNAP benefits were set to end on November 1, which could cause issues at local grocery retailers.