East Central Reporter

The Shelby County Board has scheduled an emergency meeting for April 22, 2024, at 7 p.m. The main topic of discussion will be the courthouse windows. Recent social media posts have criticized the county board for delays in replacing these windows. However, the board emphasizes that its role is limited to approving funds for maintenance and repairs.

The meeting agenda includes three items:

A. Declare funds for the Sheriff to use for windows in the Courthouse

B. Declare scope of project – Replace all windows in the Courthouse

C. Establish the Sheriff as point of contact and responsible for window project (55 ILCS 5/3-6017)

Recent high winds caused some courthouse windows to blow outward, sending glass onto the sidewalk, including one from the State’s Attorney’s office. This prompted action due to potential liability concerns. The Sheriff had contracted with an architect eight months ago, but little progress was made on replacing the windows.

To address this issue, the State’s Attorney terminated the contract with the architect, allowing the Sheriff to explore other options to replace the windows and mitigate liability risks.

Questions have arisen regarding why these agenda items are necessary since funds were already allocated in the budget for capital projects like window replacement. Additionally, under existing law, there is no need to formally establish the Sheriff as responsible for courthouse maintenance since they are already designated as custodian.

"Sec. 3-6017. Sheriff custodian of courthouse and jail. He or she shall have custody and care of the courthouse and jail of his or her county, except as is otherwise provided." (Source: P.A. 86-962.)