Montgomery County Board Meeting | Nov. 12, 2025

Overall Meeting Summary
The Montgomery County Board met on Tuesday, November 12, 2025, for a session dominated by the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and tax levies. The meeting was notable for the revelation of a $1 million error by budget consultant Bellwether, which required significant last-minute adjustments by the Finance Committee to secure a projected surplus. Aside from financial matters, the board made significant personnel appointments, naming Brian Shaw as State’s Attorney and Tysha Mullen as Supervisor of Assessments. Infrastructure planning also took center stage, with discussions regarding a new wind farm near Raymond and the acceptance of a $1 million state energy transition grant.

News Briefs

Health Insurance Negotiation Extension:
The board received an update on the tense contract negotiations between Blue Cross Blue Shield and Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS). While no new contract has been signed, Development & Personnel Committee Chairman Chad Ruppert reported that Assured Partners notified the county on November 7 that “considerable progress” had been made, leading both parties to agree to extend the negotiation deadline, averting an immediate network disruption.

Historical Plaque Approved:
The board granted a request from Board Member Patty Whitworth, representing the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), to install a commemorative plaque at the Historic Courthouse. The 18×24 inch bronze plaque will honor General Richard Montgomery, the Revolutionary War veteran for whom the county is named. It will be mounted on the south side of the building.

Nokomis Road Extension Stalled:
Progress on the Nokomis Road (CH 7) extension project appears to be stalled. Roads & Bridges Chairman Ethan Murzynski reported that the committee is discussing transferring the existing county road within city limits to the City of Nokomis. However, Board Chairman Doug Donaldson noted he has reached out to the Mayor of Nokomis regarding the extension project but has received “no response to date.”

Animal Control Hours Change:
Animal Control Warden Tricia Papen advised the board she is considering altering the facility’s operating hours. Beginning January 1, 2026, the facility may shift to a Tuesday through Saturday schedule to better serve the public during weekends.

Emergency Telephone Systems Board Appointments:
The board approved the appointments of Darin Beckman, William Bergen, and James Holliday to the Emergency Telephone Systems (ETSB) Board.

Cemetery Relief Grant:
Assistant County Board Administrator Lucas Nowlan has applied for a $20,000 grant through the IDFPR Cemetery Relief Fund. If awarded, the funds will be used for improvements to the County Farm Cemetery and the Neece Cemetery in Audubon Township.