Morgan County Approves Home Repair Funding, Vehicle, and Appointments

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners convened on October 6, recording a full attendance with each commissioner answering "present". The board moved through a standard agenda that included unanimous approvals of the agenda, prior minutes, payment of bills, payroll authorization, a vehicle purchase for Animal Control, and two appointments to local boards. Clerk Sills recorded votes on measures as "aye" for each commissioner.

The most significant policy development for residents is the county s participation in the Illinois Housing Development Authority Home Repair and Accessibility Program, HRAP. Commissioner Woods reported that Morgan County has received IHDA funding to assist low and very low income homeowners with essential repairs and accessibility improvements. The county has launched an initial HRAP landing page at https://hrap.tecsinc.com and plans to circulate information that applications will open soon. Contractors are being recruited for projects such as roofing, siding, ramps and other general improvements, with individual contractor awards of up to $50,000 over a six month window. For homeowners who struggle with repair costs, the program could expand safe housing options and limit displacement risks. For local contractors, the program represents a short term source of work subject to county and state procurement rules.

Fiscal oversight featured in the meeting included approval of bills totaling $57,725.09 and formal authorization of verifiable payroll with signing on October 9 and distribution on October 15. Those routine approvals keep county operations funded and on schedule, while underscoring the recurring role board votes play in local fiscal stewardship.

The board also approved the purchase of a replacement vehicle for Animal Control, moving from a 2012 model to a 2024 model. Commissioner Wood reported that he obtained four bids, with the high bid at $35,367.70 and the low at $28,623.00, and said the selected truck will include a warranty. The move reflects investment in public safety and animal welfare operations, and may reduce maintenance expenditures tied to aging fleet vehicles.

Two governance appointments completed the docket. The board reappointed Mary English to the Housing Authority Board and passed a resolution appointing James A. Harris as a commissioner for the Willow Creek Drainage District. These placements maintain continuity in boards that manage housing assistance and local drainage oversight, with implications for program administration and flood mitigation planning.

Chairman Wankel noted community events including a courthouse display and reminded residents the courthouse will be closed on Monday for Columbus Day. The meeting adjourned after a unanimous vote.

Residents seeking to benefit from or participate in the HRAP program should monitor the county s press release and the HRAP landing page for application and contractor recruitment details. As the county deploys state funds and makes appointments affecting housing and drainage, continued transparency in contractor selection, budgetary impact and board oversight will matter to taxpayers and program beneficiaries alike.