Happy New Year—2014—2014—2014—2014—2014—2014--2014

County Board Meetings

 

Major actions of note from December 18, 2013 County Board Meeting

1. Discussed and voted on “No Confidence” in the Chairmanship of Bob Walberg. The motion was unsuccessful 4-8. Bill voted for “No Confidence”. Bill spoke at the meeting of Mr. Walberg’s lack of leadership with particular emphasis on Mr. Walberg’s refusal to seek answers on the questions of funding the Veterans Assistance Commission. For more coverage on the no confidence issue go to: http://www.wrex.com/story/24258179/2013/12/19/one-third-of-boone-county-board-votes-no-confidence-in-chairman or http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131218/NEWS/131219397

2. Voted to grant $25,000 to the Veterans Assistance Commission for current operation. The county board has (in Bill’s opinion) been less than cooperative with the VAC. It began with the County Administration/Board Leadership refusal to really discuss with the VAC providing county office space and used office equipment back in January 2013. Based upon a lack of action the VAC borrowed money and rented their own space and purchased necessary office equipment and supplies. The county then “advanced” money to the VAC to begin operations and pay back the loan from the veterans’ organizations for the rent and purchases. There still is not a clear statement or agreement regarding funding of FY 2013 VAC operations and FY 2014. Mr. Walberg and his majority refuse to address the issue as to what amounts the county must fund from the general fund and what sums should come from the VAC referendum. Based upon an initiative from the Cathy Ward and other members of the minority (including BILL) the $25,000 approved by the county board at the December board meeting was changed to a grant rather than an advance. (Vote 10-2 to change to “grant” and then 12-0 to grant the $25,000 from the general fund) Still in question are the previous “advances”: Must any of the “advances” be repaid? When will VAC referendum funds be used for their operations? Will any of the VAC’s future operating costs be funded by the county’s general fund? The most discouraging item is that Mr. Walberg does not wish to seek answers to any of these questions. These are not mute questions-- the VAC has raised these and other questions —to some degree the questions concern state law and court decisions--the county has thus far sought little legal advice on these matters.

3. County Board granted authority to the Human Service Subcommittee to solicit proposals for architectural services for the design of the animal services building. It is yet to be determined if the new building will be bid or lease/purchase.

4. County authorized annual job evaluations of Building & Zoning Enforcement, Geographic Information Systems and Animal Service Departments. See the flowchart: http://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/files/9EC7VG712E26/$file/Employee%20Evaluation%20Flowchart_201312121359.pdf This action was largely initiated by Bill P. During budget hearings Ms. Tobin, Assistant Administrator, was granted a substantial merit raise. Questions by Bill substantiated that only Admin Department personnel were actually evaluated. Performance of other members of the staff had not been reviewed in years and effectively they were not considered for such a merit raise. Hopefully all personnel will now have annual evaluation. Job performance reviews are vital to managing personnel.

5. For a complete agenda go to: http://www.boonecountyil.org/sites/default/files/CBAgenda%2012-18-2013.pdf or Board Doc’s: http://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/Public

Major Actions Anticipated for County Board in January 2014.

1. The Wind Turbine Ordinance regarding Setbacks will hopefully be voted at the January 15, 2014 county board meeting. This will be coming to the county board directly from the recently completed hearings at the Zoning Board of Appeals.

2. Building & Zoning Subcommittee (Wednesday, January 8, 2014, 6:oo PM) will tentatively spend their one hour scheduled meeting on zoning enforcement.

3. Human Services Subcommittee (Thursday, January 2, 2013, 6:ooPM, see: http://www.boonecountyil.org/sites/default/files/Health%20Agenda%20Jan.%202,%202014.pdf ) deals again with several controversial issues: Water sampling at Plote gravel pit, setting up interviews for architects for new animal services building, a complaint regarding Heath Code enforcement.

Tollway Overpass Bridges reopening dates—as of 12-4-2013

 

Click on the photocopy to enlarge also available at:  http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/12/tollway-overpass-bridges-reopening.html

Above email is from:  https://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/files/9EC93W74D539/$file/Tollway%20Bridge%20Openings%20Dec.%202013_201312121414.pdf

Boone County Board may vote no confidence in Chairman Bob Walberg - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL

 

BELVIDERE — The Boone County Board may deliver a vote of no confidence in Chairman Bob Walberg at its board meeting Wednesday night, according to an email received by the Register Star on Thursday.

Some members have voiced concerns over Walberg’s appointment process, committee assignments and overall leadership style in the past year.

The vote is more symbolic than binding. Boone County State’s Attorney Michelle Courier said it has no legal effect.

Walberg, who has chaired the board for six years, said he tries to place people where they will be the most beneficial to the County Board.

“Many years ago I learned the strengths we feel we have are not (always) what others see in us,” he said.

Jennifer Wheeler: 815-987-1354; jwheeler@rrstar.com; @jenmwheeler

Boone County Board may vote no confidence in Chairman Bob Walberg - News - Rockford Register Star - Rockford, IL

Employment/Appointment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

 

One or both of these position should be filled at the County Board meeting on December 18, 2013.

Current Appointment Openings:

The following are volunteer Boards of the County that have vacancies: 

Interested parties are asked to send a letter and resume expressing your interest and qualifications to Boone County Board Chairman Bob Walberg, 1212 Logan Ave., Suite 102, Belvidere, IL 61008.  Please respond by November 22, 2013 to assure being considered.

Commissioner of the Housing Authority

1 vacancy for a 5-year term that will expire January, 2019

Boone County Board of Review

1 vacancy for a term that will expire June 1, 2015
(Note: Per statute, this person must be of the Democratic Party. If selected, Board members must attain the credentials established by the Illinois Property Tax Code within (1) year of taking office.

Interested parties are asked to send a letter and resume expressing your interest and qualifications to Boone County Board Chairman Bob Walberg, 1212 Logan Ave., Suite 102, Belvidere, IL 61008.  Please respond by November 22, 2013 to assure being considered.

Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Zoning Board of Appeals expected to finally make recommendation on the Wind Ordinance Set Back

This board will meet on Tuesday December 17, 2013.  Its agenda is available at:  http://www.boonecountyil.org/sites/default/files/zba%20dvc%2017,%202013.pdf  Another case which was tabled last month will be discussed and probably decided at the meeting.

Should the Wind Ordinance recommendation be made by the ZBA, the Boone County Board would have 30 days to make its determination. Both the December 18, 2013 and the January 2014 board meeting would meet that window. The county’s Planning & Zoning subcommittee will not vote on the recommendation.  BILL P

Report on the RMDT bus service to and from Rockford & Belvidere

Several months ago I promised the City-County Coordinating subcommittee of the Boone County Board/City of Belvidere that I would spend some time, ride the bus and report to them.  Here is my report. 

 

Bill Pysson’s experience regarding RMDT bus service on Monday December 9, 2013

There were 2 other passengers on the 9:10 AM bus from Keen Center to Rockford East Transit Center. Both passengers were picked up somewhere else in Belvidere. The two other passengers took the East State bus; I transferred to the Cherry Valley bus. Both transfer buses were waiting for us. I did some shopping at the mall and then returned via the 10:30 AM Cherry Valley bus. I waited until 11:20 when the Belvidere bus came. (Belvidere service & Cherry Valley Mall service are hourly; East State service is ever twenty minutes) There were two other passengers on my bus returning to Belvidere from Rockford. One passenger off near the Belvidere Post Office. One passenger off at Kmart. One on nearly Manley’s. Two on at State & Lincoln. One on at State & Hurlbut. One on at Aldi’s. One off at Shopco. I disembarked at Keen Center and the four remaining passengers went on to the Rockford East Transit Center.

COSTS: $1.50 +.25 FOR Cherry Valley Bus—Both FREE for Senior Citizens (Requires RMTD ID $5.00)

TO Rockford –2 both already on bus TO Belvidere---2: Off near Post Office & Off at Kmart

Pick-ups in Belvidere—5; 1 got off in Belvidere 4 went on to Rockford

Comments from a passenger: She rides the bus fairly regularly to work in Rockford. The last bus (4:20 PM) has the greatest number of passengers.

Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Tuesday 11-26-2013

 

Bill attended the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting last night. See agenda at: http://www.boonecountyil.org/sites/default/files/ZBA%20NOV%2026,%202013.pdf

New business was handled first. The Belvidere Township Park District Case# 15-2013 drew much attention and concern. The neighboring industrial site (in the City of Belvidere) just received city approval of a clean room for 3D printing (plastic parts manufacture) and contends their operation will be aversely affective by the dust and possible contamination from fuel station and mulch storage proposed by the park district. After much discussion the applicant and its neighbor agreed to arrange a meeting and see if some compromise can be worked out. The case will be on the December 17, 2013 ZBA agenda.

Setback for Wind Ordinance: The questioning of the staff summary finally ended at 9:50PM and next month the ZBA will begin its deliberations and hopefully reach its decision and vote. It appears that this contentious issue will finally reach the county board in January 2014.

Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

 

Current Job Openings : 

Office Assistant Position

The Boone County Health Department has a full-time opening (37.5 hrs/week) for an office assistant position.  Must be detail oriented and have good communication, organization, filing, and word processing computer skills.  Previous office experience is necessary (Bilingual/Spanish is a plus but not required.).

Applications for employment (www.boonehealth.org) must be completed and submitted to Boone County Health Department, 1204 Logan Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008; or emailed to info@boonehealth.org; or faxed to 815-544-2050, Attn: Chris.  (Resume may accompany the application.

Boone County Administration Office

Program Compliance Oversight Monitor (PCOM)

The Boone County Administration Office is currently

hiring a part-time PCOM.  This person
will be responsible for the oversight and administration
of the Section 5311 and Downstate Operating Assistance
Programs provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation
for public transportation in Boone County. 
This person must work well independently and
have the ability to assemble and analyze data.
Grant writing and grant monitoring experience is helpful.

Applicants must be well organized and have strong communication

skills.  Computer knowledge is a must.

Associates or Bachelors degree preferred but could be
substituted with experience.

The starting wage for this position is $14.00+ per hour DOQ.
Applications are available at the Boone County Administration Office,

1212 Logan Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008

or see below.

Please submit applications to:

Boone County Administration Office

1212 Logan Avenue Suite 102

Belvidere, IL 61008

Applications must be received by November 22, 2013.

EOE

Download the employment application here by going to the actual website (CLICK on the link below) and click on the “download the employment application here”--

Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Major Actions at November County Board Meeting

The agenda for the November 20, 2013 County Board Meeting and Budget Hearing are available at: http://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/Public

As Bill sees it the major issues decided are as follows:

1. Re-vote of the Josipovic Special Use request for parking of semi-cab and truck near Candlewick. See the proposed zoning ordinance:: https://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/files/9DGMGC579751/$file/ORD%2013-25%20Special%20Use%20for%20Parking%20Semi-Trailer_201311150853.pdf See newspaper coverage of the issue at: Truck parking issue returns to county board by clicking on the following: http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-belvidere-daily-republican-featured_19.html Bill voted “NO” on this re-vote and the zoning request did not pass.

2. Discuss and vote on spending $40,000 for a consultant to negotiate prisoner fees with U.S. Marshall Office. For the newspaper account go to County seeks more money for housing federal prisoners at: http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-belvidere-daily-republican-featured.html Bill felt that insufficient research and reference checking was done on the Summerill firm and questioned the large sum being expended. Bill moved to send the issue back to subcommittee to review the firm’s references. This motion was denied 2-10. The board approved the contract but amended the contact so it would not be effective until 12-4-2013 and is now subject to review of references etc. by the county staff. Bill was the lone vote in opposition to the contract.

3. FY 2014 budget approved. There was some interesting discussion on several items. . Bill voted “no” for the budget itself. Several board members spoke of “unfair” raises to non-union personnel . Bill agreed with their statements. In addition Bill spoke out that the budget is concealing expenses that are anticipated and will occur. More specifically, the board will purchase more than two squad cars for the Sheriff’s Department even though only two are budgeted. These additional cars should be budgeted . The vote was 8-4 for the budget. For the newspaper account go to: http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131120/NEWS/131129916/0/SEARCH or http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/11/boone-county-leaders-pass-balanced.html

4. Action on Tollway exit at Irene Road. (Northwest ramp) Bill voted “YES”. The vote was 10-2 in favor. See for the story: http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131121/NEWS/131129829/0/SEARCH or http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/11/boone-leaders-approve-land-purchase-for.html

5. The Tootsie Roll crisis has been solved. See earlier the story, Committee recommends another change to food code, [Belvidere Daily Republican] at: http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-belvidere-daily-republican-featured.html Boone County Health Code was amended no health permit will be required to distribute or sell factory wrapped food products. The exact wording of the ordinance mirrors the wording of Winnebago County’s ordinance. Board member, Ron Wait, was instrumental in getting this issue resolved in a reasonable manner—no fee—no permit from the Health Department..This revised ordinance passed by voice vote.

6.  Take as look at what happened at Tuesday’s 11-26-2013 Zoning Board of Appeals. See above posting or click on the following:  http://boonecountywatch.blogspot.com/2013/11/zoning-board-of-appeals-meeting-tuesday.html

Bill’s Reimbursement Claim for November 2013

 

8.39% increase in Boone County Taxes?

How is this possible?  Where are the increases?

 

See the statement from the county’s website/Board Doc’s as shown below[https://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/files/9DLTUC790A23/$file/Truth%20in%20Taxation%20Hearing_201311191557.pdf]  explains it quite well.

Only 1.7% is an increase in the current tax revenue over last year’s, 3% is because of the Veterans Assistance Commission  referendum and 3.6% is for additional property on the the tax rolls.

Your personal increase in tax for the county should reflect the 1.7% PTELL increase and the 3% VAC.  The additional 3.6% increase in property will not effect you unless your property was not on the tax rolls in prior years.

 

Current Appointments available across Boone County government

 

 

Issues around the county and the Boone County Board

 

Click on the title to view the post.

Two opposing campaigns lobbying regarding the Boone County Wind Ordinance

The Sierra Club is soliciting emails by sending an email to local members, requesting they click and send a prepared email to the county bo...

County grants Plote renewal but no extended hours

The above is taken from the October 25, 2013 Boone County Journal which is available free of cost at merchants across the count..

 

Truck parking issue returning to county board Nov. 20==Click on the following:Nov. 20—click on the following:  http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-belvidere-daily-republican-featured_30.html

Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Employment Opportunities

Home › Employment & Appointments

Boone County government offers a wide and diverse number of direct services to its residents, including law enforcement, correction and detention of law violators, support for the criminal justice system, direct health care, maintenance of essential records, highway maintenance, property assessments, courtroom operations, building and planning services, tax collection for other local governments, and election administration among others. From these many services come many opportunities for employment.

For applications and openings for the Sheriff's Department please visit the Public Safety Building at 615 N. Main Street, Belvidere, IL 61008

Current Job Openings : 

Boone County Public Defender's Office

Part-time Administrative Assistant

The Boone County Public Defender's Office is currently

hiring a part-time Administrative Assistant.  This person
will be responsible for filing, answering phones,
greeting clients, and any other office assistance
that may be needed. 

Applicants must be well organized and have strong communication

skills.  Computer knowledge is a must.

The starting wage for this position is $11.50 per hour

and a maximum of 19 hours per week.
Applications are available at the Boone County Administration Office,

1212 Logan Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008

or online at www.boonecountyil.org

Please submit applications to:

Boone County Public Defender's Office

Attention:  Susan Cooper
130 South State St. Suite 311

Belvidere, IL 61008

Applications must be received by November 1, 2013.

EOE

Click on the following to reach the actual website for on-line application:  Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Bill’s Reimbursement Claim for October 2013

 

 

Media Coverage of major items for this month’s Boone County Board meeting

The following newspaper accounts may help provide background to the issues that will be discussed at the regular Boone County Board meeting scheduled for October 17, 2013.

Special Use for truck storage and use near Candlewick Subdivision may get re-voted:

http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/truck-parking-special-use-may-return-to-county-board/ Previous rejection of the application is available at: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/county-overwhelmingly-rejects-truck-parking-in-a-1-zoning/

Polte’s gravel pit renewal of special use permit and request for extended hours.

Go to Boone County Journal, October 4, 2013.. See article on “Dissolution of the Heath Department” go to the page 2 of this article regarding testing of Polte water test wells. http://www.boonecountyjournal.com/news/2013/Boone-County-News-10-04-13.pdf#page=1 also available at: http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/10/bcj-articles-on-health-dept-plote.html

Health Department issue on permit requirements to give away candy on hold until November.

SEE: http://www.rrstar.com/news/x1843602862/Boone-Countys-75-permit-for-candy-giveaway-on-table#ixzz2gvJcoaG1

Health Department Criticized for large salary increases

See any of the following:  http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/ward-chides-health-board-for-granting-hefty-pay-increases/ or http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/health-board-confirms-salary-increases-for-employees/ or http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/10/boone-county-journal-health-dept.html or http://www.rrstar.com/article/20131010/NEWS/131019945#ixzz2hNl6qYGh

Vote on increase in dog registration fees.  The increase to go into trust fund for construction of a new facility. Vote requested now so fee can become effective January 1, 2014.

SEE how the board vote upon the concept of a new facility:  http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/county-to-explore-constructing-new-animal-control-building/ and article on general conditions at animal services building: http://www.rrstar.com/news/jenniferwheeler/x882688141/Northwest-Pallet-Supply-giving-up-Boone-County-for-Rockford

Informational item regarding court settlement of the mulch pile fire: http://www.boarddocs.com/il/boone/Board.nsf/files/9CCTAM75E35E/$file/Northwest%20Pallet%20decision_201310101357.pdf

Articles about Boone County Board meeting of September 18, 2013

The board voted 11-0 Wednesday to “investigate” building a new space for the Boone County Animal Services and Adoption Center. The vote doesn’t guarantee officials will approve future plans, but leaders said they were in favor of moving to a new spot.

The current building has been plagued with several issues that make it almost inoperable, including a cracked kennel floor and mice infestation. The chain-link fence that separates dog areas allows diseases, including kennel cough, to be spread among pets quickly….

 

In other news, Boone County Veterans Assistance Commission President Greg Kelm wants to know which officials are willing to commit political suicide by not supporting the county’s 3,400 former soldiers.
Read more: http://www.rrstar.com/news/x1843591140/Boone-officials-seek-design-revenue-streams-for-new-animal-building#ixzz2fLEPNKAK

 

Boone officials seek design, revenue streams for new animal building - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Bill’s Reimbursement Claim for September 2013

Come tonight 9-11-2013 and “voice” your opinion regarding a full interchange on Irene Road

The meeting was set up especially for Flora Township officials and residents but all are invited.—Bill Pysson

Here is the invitation from Kenny Freeman, Flora Township Trustee and District #3, Boone County Board member.

Kenny Freeman

Kenny Freeman updated his status: "Just a reminder for anyone wishing to attend the Boone County/Belvidere City Coordinating committee at 6:30 pm at the Administration Building on Logan Avenue. All Flora Township residents that would like to learn more about the Irene Road interchange. I hope to see you there."

Petitions for March Primary available in Boone County - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Yes, Bill will be running for re-election.

BELVIDERE — Petitions for the March 18, 2014 primary can be picked up in the Boone County Clerk’s office at the Boone County Administration Building, 1212 Logan Ave., Suite 103.

The offices up for nomination are the Boone County sheriff, the Boone County treasurer, the Boone County clerk and recorder, and county board members for Districts 1, 2 and 3. The first day to file is Nov. 25; the last will be Dec. 2.

Petitions for March Primary available in Boone County - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Good News for Timberlane:: Bridge Bidding to begin

Illinois Department of Transportation has approved the letting of bids for the Orth Road Bridge.  See photocopy below.

The bridge will be bid in November.  Construction could begin in April 2014 with possible opening of new bridge in July 2014.

The bridge replacements across the Tollway have begun

Nearly half of the bridges are being replaced; all at once.  Mill Road, Irene Road, Stone Quarry, and Genoa Roads—all have detours.

Important stories which affect county government

 

Mayor Chamberlain lends support to improve Boone County Animal Services.  See: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/mayor-says-join-the-pack/ and Boone County Watchdog:  http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/08/mayor-says-join-pack-belvidere-daily.html

Members of County Board want Health Department ordinance changed.  See:  http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/tootsie-roll-tangle-still-spinning/ and Boone County Watchdog: http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/08/tootsie-roll-tangle-still-spinning.html and the earlier story regarding the county fair:  http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/board-member-calls-departments-actions-ridiculous/

Johnson Road Tollway bridge to be rebuilt.  See:http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/illinois-tollway-agrees-to-spare-johnson-road-bridge-over-i-90/ and Boone County Watchdog:  http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/08/illinois-tollway-agrees-to-spare.html

Preliminary County budget has large deficit  See:http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/boone-county-preliminary-budget-outlook-324000-deficit/ and Boone County Watchdog:  http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/08/boone-county-preliminary-budget-outlook.html

Hearing at ZBA concerning wind turbines were postponed this month due to Polte’s special use request for their gravel operation.  However opponents of wind energy in Boone County were spreading word of the Lee County lawsuit.   SEE: http://www.saukvalley.com/2013/08/15/residents-sue-over-wind-farm-in-lee-county/a2mqrc3/

Actions at Zoning Board of Appeals:  Polte Quarry case to take another month, Wind Turbines postpone until October or later.  SEE:  http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/quarry-permit-and-protocol-at-focus-of-debate/

Additional stories should follow as monthly subcommittee meetings have just begun.—Bill P

Veterans Assistance Commission requests additional $25,000

The Veterans Assistance Commission of Boone County requested a second $25,000 advance from the Boone County Board at tonight’s Admin Subcommittee

It submitted the accounting of the first $25,000 shown below.  The entire Boone County Board must approve the next payment at the board meeting on August 21, 2013.

Several items were explained at the Admin subcommittee meeting. 

• The “Cash, Expense” was a one time cash withdrawal to pay purchases of office items at Office Depot and Best Buy.  These institutions refused payment by check/debit because the account was too new for bank verification.
• “VAC Operational Expenses” ($486.58) were actually payments to pay indigent veterans’ rent and utility bills.
• The second $25,000 advance is anticipated to cover operations until November 30, 2013.
• Since opening in July, 25-30 clients have been seen.

Veterans Assistance Commission of Boone County is located at 175 Cadillac Court, Suite C, Belvidere, Il 61008. Phone 815 544 6464

 

Although, there maybe some questions this request should be approved unanimously. In April voters approved a .03 real estate tax for this commission.  The money is an advance against the commission’s 2014 levy.  The 2014 levy for the commission is anticipated to be approximately $280,000.  Several additional advances may be requested before tax receipts are available in June 2014.—Bill P

 

Click on the photocopy to enlarge:

Bill’s Reimbursement Claim for August 2013

Volunteer Opportunities in Government | Boone County, Illinois

 

Current Appointment Openings:

The following are volunteer Boards of the County that have vacancies:

Interested parties are asked to send a letter and resume expressing your interest and qualifications to Boone County Board Chairman Bob Walberg, 1212 Logan Ave., Suite 102, Belvidere, IL 61008.  Please respond by September 9, 2013 to assure being considered.

Belvidere Cemetery Association

1 vacancies for a term that will expire May 3, 2018

County Historical Museum District Board of Trustees

1 vacancies for a year term that will expire June 30, 2017

Interested parties are asked to send a letter and resume expressing your interest and qualifications to Boone County Board Chairman Bob Walberg, 1212 Logan Ave., Suite 102, Belvidere, IL 61008.  Please respond by Sept 9, 2013 to assure being considered.

Click on the following for proper links:  Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

 

Boone County government offers a wide and diverse number of direct services to its residents, including law enforcement, correction and detention of law violators, support for the criminal justice system, direct health care, maintenance of essential records, highway maintenance, property assessments, courtroom operations, building and planning services, tax collection for other local governments, and election administration among others. From these many services come many opportunities for employment.

Current Job Openings : 

Boone County Administration Office
Office Manager

The Boone County Administration Office is currently hiring a
full-time Office Manager. This person will be responsible
for preparing agendas and packet information for county board
meetings as well as transcribing minutes from the meetings.
This person will also be responsible for accounts payable,
maintaining office records, organizing office operations, and
any other duties assigned by the County Administrator.
Applicants must be people-oriented and have strong communication skills.
Computer knowledge is a must.
The starting wage for this position is $12.00-$15.00 per hour D.O.Q
Excellent benefits including health, dental, and retirement.
Applications are available at the Boone County Administration Office
1212 Logan Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008
or click on the application link below.
Please submit applications to:
Boone County Administration Office
1212 Logan Avenue Suite 102
Belvidere, IL 61008
Applications must be received by August 30, 2013
EOE

In Person Counselor & Community Educator

The Boone County Health Department is seeking qualified candidates to apply for our In Person Counselor Program in collaboration with the Illinois Association of Public Health Administrators / Illinois Public Health Association.  This position will promote and protect health and prevent disease for the residents of Boone County by conducting informational and educational programs in Boone County to promote enrollment in health insurance and assisting eligible individuals and small employers with enrollment in qualified health plans, Medicaid, and All Kids through the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace.  This is a full-time position.  The initial contract will expire no later than June 30, 2014 and may be terminated for other reasons prior to that date.  This position requires at least an associate's degree in business, finance, health, public health or human services and at least three years of experience in an eligibility determination and benefits enrollment, health promotion, community health education, public health or human services program.  This position requires the ability to communicate fluently in spoken and written English and Spanish.    Excellent working environment and great benefit package.  Please click here to view the full job description.  Send resume to Amanda Mehl, Boone County Health Department, 1204 Logan Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008 or submit electronically to info@boonehealth.org.  EOE

Public Health Nurse

The Boone County Health Department is currently hiring a full-time Public Health Nurse to serve as a Maternal Child Health Case Manager in our Family Case Management and WIC Programs.  Must possess a strong desire to work with children and families.  Other duties include but are not limited to providing nursing care during our Immunization, Seasonal Flu, and School Physical clinics.  Bilingual in English/Spanish encouraged to apply.  Must be a registered nurse licensed to practice in Illinois.  Excellent working environment and great benefit package.  Paid holidays, weekends, and most evenings off.  Please click here to view the full job description.  Send resume to Amanda Mehl, Boone County Health Department, 1204 Logan Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008 or submit electronically to info@boonehealth.org    EOE

Links are available by clicking on the following:  Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Veterans Assistance Commission requests additional $25,000

The Veterans Assistance Commission of Boone County requested a second $25,000 advance from the Boone County Board at tonight’s Admin Subcommittee

It submitted the accounting of the first $25,000 shown below.  The entire Boone County Board must approve the next payment at the board meeting on August 21, 2013.

Several items were explained at tonight’s meeting. 

• The “Cash, Expense” was a one time cash withdrawal to pay purchases of office items at Office Depot and Best Buy.  These institutions refused payment by check/debit because the account was too new for bank verification.
• “VAC Operational Expenses” ($486.58) were actually payments to pay indigent veterans’ rent and utility bills.
• The second $25,000 advance is anticipated to cover operations until November 30, 2013.
• Since opening in July, 25-30 clients have been seen.

Veterans Assistance Commission of Boone County is located at 175 Cadillac Court, Suite C, Belvidere, Il 61008.

 

Click on the photocopy to enlarge: 

Hearings for Boone County’s FY 2014 Proposed budget

All meetings scheduled for conference room at Administrative Center

Attention Fair Goers: Stop by the Democratic Tent and fill out a survey on Boone County politics

 

The survey consists of ten questions regarding your school district and local political issues.

The  Boone County Journal has tentatively agreed to publish the results the week after the fair.  Only surveys completed at the tent will be counted.

 The ten questions are shown below.

Questionnaire for the 2013 Boone County Fair

1. How well does your school district prepare students for college and the work place? 

• A. Does both jobs very well
• B. Prepares students for college but not work place
• C. Prepares students well for the work place but not for college.
• D. Does not prepare students well for either college or work place
• E. Does an excellent job only in some area such as____________________

Please supply your public school district number.  ____________________   (District 100--Belvidere; District 200-- North Boone; District 205--Rockford;  Others-- please supply name or number) 

2.  If you were going to convince someone to move to Boone County, which of the following reasons would you use?

Please number the reasons in order of importance  1-9 using a “0” for reasons you would not use.

• A. ______________Good Quality School System
• B. ______________Rural Environment
• C. ______________Low Taxes
• D. ______________Proximity to Chicago and collar counties
• E. ______________Inexpensive Housing
• F. ______________Job prospects in Boone-Winnebago Co
• G. ______________Recreational Opportunities
• H. ______________Friendly accepting neighborhoods
• I. __________   ___The County Fair and other local events

--CIRCLE YOUR ANSWER or Fill in Blank--

3. Do you think that the current county open burning ordinances are strict enough? Yes or No?  Don’t have an opinion.

4.  Does Boone County need a soup kitchen for the homeless?   Yes or No?  Don’t have an opinion.

If yes, in what community should it be located?   __________________

5. There currently is a county wide Public Safety Sales Tax of ½ cent. It is schedule to stop in 2018.  In the past several years this sales taxes paid not only for principle and interest on the Public Safety Building but for salaries and Jail expenses.

A. Do you favor a continuation of this tax after the building is paid off in 2018?  Yes or No? No Opinion

B. Would you support a referendum authorizing continuing this tax after 2018?  Yes or No? No Opinion

6. Under proper regulation would you be in favor of wind energy projects in Boone County? Yes or No? No Opinion.

7. The Federal and State government should subsidize low cost pre-school learning programs.  Agree or Disagree?  No opinion.

8.  Ida Public Library is the only public library in the county.  Most county residents outside of Belvidere must pay a fee to have a library card.  Would you support a tax referendum to extend “feeless” library service to the rest of the county?      Yes or No?  No opinion.  I am a City of Belvidere resident. Yes or No?

9.   Most Boone County Sheriff’s deputies are provided a squad car to take home during their off time shift.  Do you agree with this policy?  Yes or No?  If you believe the policy should be modified in some way, how?

10.  What do you believe is the most important issue facing Boone County? 

Boone County Fair Starts Tuesday August 6

Click on the photocopies to enlarge: 

For more information go to:  http://www.boonecountyfair.com/home.htm

Belvidere Daily Republican has an excellent summary of the ZBA meeting (7-23-2013) on wind turbines

 

Please read the entire article, however the section on wind developer, Mainstream, was the real highlight of the meeting.  Part of Bob Balgemann’s article is below:

 

Mainstream is proposing a setback of 3.1 times the tip height of the tower, now estimated at 529 feet, from the property line, with a possible waiver to 1,200 feet.

A non-participating property would have a setback of 1.1 times the tip height of the tower, with a waiver possible to 1.1 times the blade length.

The setback would be 1.1 times the tip height from roads and utilities, including pipelines, measured from the utility, not the easement.

Restricted landing areas would have a 3,000-foot setback from the end of the runway, with Poplar Grove Airport having a five-mile buffer. There would be a 1½-mile setback from all municipalities, including nearby Sharon, Wis.

--Written by Bob Balgemann

 

Click on the following to read all of the story:  Hearings on wind farm rules likely to run through autumn | Belvidere Daily Republican

 

Here is actual Mainstream summary slide presented at the meeting: 

 

Click on the photocopy to enlarge:  

Former Board Member, Mike Schultz criticizes Bill Pysson’s action on appointments.

For the benefit of all the public I am publishing Mr. Schultz’ email to the members of Boone County Board. 

I believe that Mr. Schultz’ statements incorrectly reflect some of my statements.  Mr. Walberg has a very inconsistent record regarding posting of vacancies, procedures for applicants applying and submission of applications to the county board.

Yes, a minority of the board is complaining. But the sentiment that things are not being done in a reasonable manner is held by much of the public. 

It is up to Mr. Walberg to come up with a reasonable procedure. 

In the case of the District #3 Board position--Submitting a  press release on the 25th of June which cannot be published until Friday, the 28th, requiring that applications be received at the Administrative Office by Sunday, June 30, appears impossible. County offices are closed during the weekend.  Neither the press release nor the vacancy notice for the position was posted on the website. 

Things need to be done in a more professional manner.

BILL PYSSON

Thursday, July 18, 2013 2:26 PM

Dear Members of the County Board:

No longer being a county board member, I was not part of the appointment process that named my replacement to the Boone County Board. That being said, I did follow the appointment process through our local media. I was disappointed to read the recent negative and accusatory comments directed at Chairman Walberg as they related to filing the seat I vacated.

The majority of the criticism I read was voiced by Mr. Bill Pysson. Mr. Pysson criticized the appointment, in part, on the basis the appointee, Mr. Chris Berner, submitted an application prior to the date of my formal resignation. Mr. Pysson went on to infer Mr. Berner was an “insider” (whatever that means). These statements by Mr. Pysson are not support by fact. The timing of my resignation was no secret. I sent each of you and our administrative staff notice in early May of my pending resignation. The Belvidere Daily Republican ran an article quoting my notice on May 8^th (an article Mr. Pysson is aware of, as it is posted to his internet blog). Using Mr. Pysson definition of an insider, does he mean every reader and subscriber of the BDR is an “insider”?  If there was additional context to the quotes made by Mr. Pysson that I missed, I stand ready to eat crow (in a non-literal sense).  But, I do not see how, knowing my pending resignation was public record, Mr. Pysson can infer Mr. Berner is an "insider" for submitting a letter of interest prior to my formal resignation.

During my time on the board, the Chairman was criticized by a minority of the board on his appointment procedure. This minority, from my recall, requested that appointments be vetted through interviews by the Administrative Committee. Despite following this procedure, Chairman Walberg is still being criticized for, as Mr. Pysson put it, following “any policy he wishes.” This statement begs the question, exactly what procedure/policy do you feel the Chairman should be following? I have little doubt Chairman Walberg would have been criticized no matter what procedure he followed. For putting Chairman Walberg in a no-win position, I must apologize.

I do not mean this to be a personal attack on Mr. Pysson. That being said, there is no excuse for twisting facts to support what I believe amounts to a witch hunt against the Chairman. Being critical of other board members is vital so that board members hold each other accountable. But, criticism must be based on fact and must be warranted.  From where I sit, I do not see this criticism as being warranted against the Chairman.

I thank each of you for your continued service to Boone County, and I congratulate and wish Mr. Berner much success in serving District 3.

Very Truly Yours,

Mike Schultz (resident of District 2)

 

For newspaper coverage of the appointment controversy the following newspaper articles are available:

• http://www.rrstar.com/news/x853691088/Wanted-More-transparency-on-Boone-County-board-appointments#ixzz2ZOvLumOB parts also available at:   http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/07/wanted-more-transparency-on-boone.html
• http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/07/boone-county-journal-editorial-on.html 
• http://boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/07/boone-inconsistent-appointment-process.html

ZBA: Wind Turbine Setback hearings continue however the Plote Case for extended hours maybe the most contentious case.

 

7-24-2013  The Plote and other zoning hearings were postponed to next month because the hearing notices were not published in a timely manner.  Instead testimony and cross examination regarding the wind turbine ordinance encompassed the entire meeting.

See the Belvidere Daily Republican’s coverage at:  http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/hearings-on-wind-farm-rules-likely-to-run-through-autumn/

 

 

This Tuesday, July 23, 2013 Zoning Board of Appeals will work on three new cases. And if there is time, continue the hearings on the wind turbine setback ordinance.

The neighboring Carr Subdivision may have objectors to extending the hours especially if additional blasting is involved.

July 17, 2013 Board Meeting

 

A very long discussion, debate and heated words about appointments. 

The process more than the actual candidates was the major concern. There appears to be no consistence in Mr. Walberg’s process. The public at times is given no public notice of openings.  He expects his “boys on the board” to rubber stamp all appointments. Often there is no letter of application or resume. If there is such documentation, Mr. Walberg does not always wish the documents be available to the public. He does not wish all the applicants to be known. Interviews sometimes occur but board members may or may not be made aware of the interview.

Mrs. Ward ask for reconsideration of the appointments from last June’s board meeting when members were not even given the appointments in advance. Her motion to reconsider was defeated. Bill voted to reconsider.   Last month Bill opposed the appointments because of the lack of notification before the meeting by Chairman Walberg.

Here is coverage of the vote to reconsider:http://www.boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/07/boone-inconsistent-appointment-process.html

There was page one coverage of the July appointments in Thursday’s Rockford Register Star.  The on-line version is quite different but sheds additional light on the issues.  See:  http://www.rrstar.com/news/yourtown/boone/x853691088/Wanted-More-transparency-on-Boone-County-board-appointments

Former Board Member, Mike Shultz, believes that Bill was leading a “witch hunt” against Mr. Walberg.  See his email at:  http://www.boonecountywatchdog.blogspot.com/2013/07/former-board-member-mike-schultz.html

SOME OF THE OTHER BUSINESS OF THE MEETING

Approval was granted to pay addition costs for the abandoned landfill, request City of Belvidere waive some costs for connecting water and sue to Maple Crest nursing home and request bids (for the 2015 farm year) for the 66 acre farmland owned by the county.  Read more about these issues by clicking on the following: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/news/long-closed-belvidere-landfill-continues-to-be-costly-2/

Belvidere Daily Republican/Boone County Journal coverage of Bill’s FOIA procedure question.

Look at 2nd portion of article:

The board member said July 3 that he didn’t think his constituent’s FOIA request was handled in a business-like manner.

While a county employee by law doesn’t have to be an appointed FOIA officer to respond to a request, he said more workers will be taking the one-hour training class. “This is what I was asking for and I believe it will be done,” he said.

Click on the following for more details:  Spring Township faces maintenance costs to save Johnson Road Bridge | Belvidere Daily Republican

Click on the photocopy to enlarge: 

 

The above article is available on-line at:  http://www.boonecountyjournal.com/news/2013/Boone-County-News-07-12-13.pdf#page=1

Has Chairman Walberg handled the appointment of a 3rd District Board Member in a reasonable manner?

HERE ARE SOME OF THE POSSIBLE ISSUES

Mr. Walberg says he sent out a press release regarding the opening on District #3 Board seat

But where is the press release—it was not put on the website.

Click on the photocopy to enlarge:

Take a look for yourself:  http://www.boonecountyil.org/pressreleases

When requested Mr. Walberg did supply the press release.  It was dated Wednesday, June 26, 2013.

Was there really enough time for one to reply based upon the Press Release?  The deadline was Sunday, June 30—is that even possible?  The Administrative Office are not open during the weekend. There was a matter of hours to apply.

The only apparent publication of the news release was in the Boone County Journal. It appeared in the June 28, 2013 Journal which did not hit news stands until late morning or PM on Friday. It is on the back page (page #16) under News Briefs

Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

 

Current Job Openings : 

Public Health Nurse

The Boone County Health Department is currently hiring a full-time Public Health Nurse to serve as a Maternal Child Health Case Manager in our Family Case Management and WIC Programs.  Must possess a strong desire to work with children and families.  Other duties include but are not limited to providing nursing care during our Immunization, Seasonal Flu, and School Physical clinics.  Bilingual in English/Spanish encouraged to apply.  Must be a registered nurse licensed to practice in Illinois.  Excellent working environment and great benefit package.  Paid holidays, weekends, and most evenings off.  Send resume to Amanda Mehl, Boone County Health Department, 1204 Logan Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008 or submit electronically to info@boonehealth.org    EOE

The above is from:  Employment Opportunities | Boone County, Illinois

Food Distribution Event July 22, 2013

UPDATE: Bill Pysson questions FOIA Procedures for Boone County

UPDATE:  Besides Mr. Terrinoini there are now four others administration personnel fully trained as FOIA officers.  The training took less than an hour.  The States Attorney is supplying  sample letters which could be used to transmit FOIA information or denial to requesters.

 

The following email was sent to Sub Committee Chairmen last Thursday.  The item is on the agenda for Monday’s Admin & Legislative Subcommittee which meets Monday, July 1, 2013 at 6:00PM,

 From: Bill Pysson
Sent: Thursday, June 27, 2013 12:16 PM
To: Karl Johnson; Ken Terrinoni; Denny Ellingson
Cc: Bob Walberg; Michelle Courier; ,
Subject: FOIA compliance by

Recent communications with the Building Department and the County Administrator have shocked me. Please review the documents which I have attached.

A denial of a Freedom of Information Request was sent to my constituent without informing him of his appeal rights by an employee (using the employee’s signature) and the employee is not trained in FOIA requirements.  I don’t understand how this is possible.

Additionally I received a statement from Mr. Terrinoni that according to the States Attorney that it is “not a violation to have a non FOIA trained personnel respond”.  I find that statement to be inconceivable and incompatible with the required training which board members and FOIA officers are required to complete by the Attorney General.

I request that the PZB Subcommittee, Administrative Subcommittee and/or other appropriate officials comply with the following requests:

1. Who is the FOIA officer for inquiries to the Building Department and Zoning Compliance Office? Are all the individuals named on the county’s website (http://www.boonecountyil.org/page/foia) fully FOIA trained?  (Quite naturally this request is not for any county department administered by an elected official.)

2. Provide an administrative review (by an employee who is fully FOIA trained as a FOIA officer) of all FOIA request which were answered by personnel not FOIA trained. Upon review provide whatever remedial action that is required. I request that a summary of the findings be submitted in writing to the county board.

3. Have our States Attorney provide (preferably in writing) a statement regarding county board members’ responsibilities in insuring that county departments (not supervised by an elected official) are complying with FOIA requirements. And possibly explain, Mr. Terrinoni’s email statement about when there is and when there is not a violation of the Freedom of Information Act.

I thank everyone in advance for their prompt response to these requests. 

Based upon previous requests, I am sending a copy of my request to the States Attorney but understand that I cannot expect a reply unless a subcommittee chairman or department head requests her opinion.  I trust that the information supplied warrants her assistance. 

BILL PYSSON

Boone County Board

The County Administrator has sent this response, dated June 28 but sent (by email) July 1. 

Click on the photocopy to enlarge: .

The following is taken from the Boone County website:  http://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/government/FAQ_FOIA_Public.pdf

Click on the photocopy to enlarge: 

 

Here is the page on the Boone County Website which indicates FOIA Officers.(http://www.boonecountyil.org/page/foia)

Click on the photocopy to enlarge: 

Note that Roger Tresemer is listed as a FOIA Officer. According to Mr. Terrinoni’s memo above, Mr. Tresemer is not FOIA trained. 

Mr. Tresemer recently completed FOIA training.