County board hears report from Pork Producers

The Henry County Board heard a presentation about the pork industry at its meeting this week. Brent Scholl of the Illinois Pork Producers said in the late 1970s and early 1980s, pork lost out to chicken because it contained too much fat. Since then, hogs have been moved to indoor facilities, and with better nutrition,, improved genetics and environmentally-controlled facilities, consumers now have a lean and heart-friendly product.

Scholl also noted that the United States is fourth in pork production, with Henry County fourth in the state.
In other business:

- Chris Metz was appointed to the Cambridge Fire Protection District, Michael Werkheiser was reappointed to the Galva Community Fire Protection District, and Kent Youngstrom was reappointed to the Bishop Hill Community Fire Protection District.
- The board learned that the Illinois Department of Public Aid is five months behind in payment and owes Hillcrest Home $692,266.38.
- Phase I of the wind farm is 100 percent complete, and Phase II is 65 percent complete, the board learned.
- The Transportation Committee discussed changing the name of County Highway 7 to Michael W. Leif Road, but the motion failed. The county engineer plans to develop an honorary road name sign policy.
- It was reported that a the tuckpointing project and roof repair projects at the courthouse are complete, and within the budget and contingency amounts.
- The appointment of election judges for the Democratic party was approved, 22-0. The Republicans submitted their list late, and it will be held over to the August meeting.
- The board approved the Starcom agreement from the Emergency Management Agency for two radios by a vote of 22-0. The radios were donated by a local agency, and will cost the county $10 each per month. The agreement allows the county to receive FEMA funds.

Source: StarCourier.com