Jasper Board Discusses Housing of Inmates

Jasper County board members heard that jail inmates sentenced to prison may need to be housed in a neighboring county jail while their correctional officers complete training.

The Illinois Department of Corrections has stopped accepting prisoners, due to COVID-19 concerns over a lack of space. A lawsuit against the State brought by the Illinois Sheriff's Association over the issue is slated to go to trial today.

The five-week training for the correctional officers is to be offered in October and four correctional officers need to complete the training. The prison-bound inmates would need to be housed elsewhere for the duration of the training if the State still isn't accepting prisoners.

Board members also heard at this month's meeting from Melinda Barthelme of Saved by Grace about concerns over animal control in the county, and from Tyranne McDaniel with ARCH regarding preference for air medical service based on lift and flight times with updates each quarter.

The Board discussed the need for a new flyover of the County for assessment and GIS purposes in 2021. Funding is in the budget for the work and the project was approved for 2021 and 2024 at a cost of $206,000.

Board members appointed Dave Goss as trustee for the North Fork Conservancy District and Ronnie Diel to the Board of Review. The Board also appointed Austin Ferguson as Jasper County Animal Control Warden, and amended the county's liquor ordinance with a reduction of classes and the addition of a noise ordinance.