Bourbonnais diner faces health department scrutiny after customer finds bug in meal

The Kankakee County Board meeting on December 10, 2024, featured a range of public comments addressing local health and governance concerns. The session highlighted issues related to food safety, economic oversight, and community infrastructure.

One of the most notable discussions came from Dondy Marco, who raised a serious health concern regarding a meal she had at Casa Apuco, a local Mexican restaurant. Marco reported finding a bug in her food, which she claimed was misidentified by the restaurant staff as a bay leaf. She urged the board to ensure that the health department addresses potential oversights in restaurant inspections to maintain food safety standards.

Bob Foresight from Manteno criticized the Economic Alliance Board, questioning its transparency and the effectiveness of its leadership. He expressed concerns about public participation in meetings and alleged that the board's operations benefit a select few at the expense of taxpayers. Foresight called for a reevaluation of funding for the board, suggesting that it lacks accountability and does not represent the interests of the broader community.

Terry Kins also contributed to the discussion, warning about potential political conflicts involving local leaders and their dealings with external entities. He emphasized the importance of scrutinizing financial commitments to ensure they do not harm local residents.

Joseph Maikos, an 83-year-old resident, voiced his worries about a new pole barn being constructed near his home. He expressed concerns about potential drainage issues that could affect his septic system, highlighting the need for careful consideration of local construction projects and their environmental impact.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for greater transparency and accountability in local governance, particularly regarding health and safety regulations, economic development, and infrastructure projects. The board's next steps will likely involve addressing these public concerns and ensuring that local policies reflect the needs and safety of Kankakee County residents.