The LaSalle County Board Monday approved using almost $2.7 million in federal pandemic relief money on county projects. They include computer replacement, park improvements, body cameras for sheriff’s deputies, election equipment, and digital filing for the courts. Another $1.3 million is tabled.
A majority of board members is hesitant to spend money on the county nursing home until the board decides whether the county stays in the nursing home business. Fewer residents these days means less revenue. Board Chairman Don Jensen thinks it will take a long time to get the resident numbers up enough to cover the $3 million yearly operating deficit, and he blames the pandemic.
County Board member Mike Kasap thinks it’s time for the county to close the home. To emphasize how serious he thinks things are, he says he’s nearly a Marxist who wants lots of social spending but feels it won’t do any good at the nursing home.
The spending approved today adds to $3.3 million approved in April for a boiler, window replacement, restroom improvements, and HVAC work at the Etna Rd. courthouse.