Shelby County Board Hears About Cattle Concerns

Shelby County board members Wednesday heard concerns over a cattle feed lot in Big Spring Township.

The feed now accommodates 2,800 head of cattle, but there are reports that 1,200 head more will be fed at the lot. Some residents of Prairie Township, which maintains some of the roads used to transport the cattle to the feed lot, voiced concerns over insects and the smells generated by traffic to and from the feed lot and that more cattle will mean more problems.

The Board indicated that they have no control over the feed lot. Those concerned have also spoke with state officials about the issue.

Board members also discussed the need for a new roof on the Courthouse in Shelbyville. The Board agreed to move ahead with plans for the project as designed by architects Utz and Associates of Effingham.

The roof is more than 20 years old and some leaks have developed in the Courthouse.

A problem is that a funding mechanism is yet to be identified. The Board is looking at a Rural Development loan through USDA, bonds, or a local bank loan.

Also Wednesday, the Shelby Board awarded a bid to Howell Paving for road oil for this summer's road maintenance work, and reappointed Richard "Ike" Downs to the Sheriff's Merit Commission. It was also agreed to put a parcel obtained by the County due to non-payment of property taxes back on the tax rolls.