East Central Reporter

Shelby County, Illinois, recently convened an emergency meeting to elect a new County Board Chairman and Vice Chairman. During the meeting's public comment session, board member Jeremy Williams addressed a complaint against him alleging a violation of the Federal Hatch Act. The U.S. Office of Special Counsel’s Hatch Act Unit communicated about this allegation, but it was ultimately deemed unfounded.

Williams shared his perspective in the first video of the meeting, while newly elected County Board Chairman Sonny Ross made comments in the second video. Ross highlighted concerning behaviors within Shelby County's political environment, including reported death threats against board members. He suggested that if such threats have occurred, they should be investigated by law enforcement.

There have been efforts to undermine board members professionally by contacting their employers with fabricated allegations. Additionally, there was an attempt to organize a boycott against the current Chairman’s business in Charleston—an action considered a Class 3 felony under Illinois law.

The unfounded accusation of federal crime against Williams reflects some individuals' willingness to create discord within Shelby County. Despite these challenges, Williams remains confident due to his prior understanding of the Hatch Act before taking office as a board member.