The Knox County Board approved a temporary $500,000 funding transfer to support the Mary Davis Home and accepted a petition to reduce the speed limit on Lake Storey Road during its monthly meeting Jan. 28.

The resolution allows the county treasurer to move money to the county-run juvenile detention facility while the county awaits delayed state reimbursements. Board Chairman Jared Hawkinson said the transfer is intended to keep the facility financially solvent through the end of the fiscal year, similar to actions taken in 2025.

During the discussion, board member Cheryl Nache asked what would happen if the state failed to reimburse the county. Hawkinson responded that Illinois is legally obligated by statute to provide the funding.

Petition for Lake Storey Road safety

During public comment, Janine Glass asked the board to lower speed limits on South Lake Storey Road following a fatal crash that killed her sister in November 2025.

Glass described the roadway as winding and heavily used by residents, campers exiting Allison Campground, and students traveling to Carl Sandburg College. She suggested reducing the speed limit to 35 mph from Henderson Street to the campground and 25 mph on curves, arguing that current limits encourage dangerous speeds.

Glass presented a petition with more than 40 signatures from nearby neighborhoods, urging the county to act before more accidents occur.

Personnel changes and financial actions

The board also approved the removal of Knox County Housing Authority board members Dena St. George and Joey Range, citing authority under existing bylaws. In a separate vote, the board appointed Geoffrey W. Hurd to the Williamsfield Fire Protection District board.

Board members approved several routine financial measures, including the abatement of general obligation bond taxes for multiple bond series. Board member Samuel Cohen said these actions would reduce the tax burden.

Infrastructure approvals included landfill oversight expenses, authorization to bid for a new scale house roof, and demolition bidding for Main Street redevelopment. The board approved $743,396.78 in performance-based construction payments for ongoing work at the Mary Davis Home and Knox County Nursing Home.

Health and human services update

Health and Human Services Committee Chair Joshua Kramer reported continued progress on nursing home construction, including the installation of solar fields. One wing remains closed during renovations. Kramer noted the nursing home census is approximately 107 residents, consistent with recent averages.

The next regular Knox County Board meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 25 at Galesburg City Hall.