Committee OKs contract for Crystal Lake public-health furnishings using ARPA and state grant funds

The McHenry County Public Health and Community Services Committee on Oct. 2 approved a resolution authorizing the county to enter into a contract with National Business Furniture to purchase furnishings for a Crystal Lake facility.

Staff told the committee the purchase is budgeted and will be paid from a combination of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and a 2024 Strengthening Illinois Public Health Administration (CIPA) grant that the state has already approved and prepaid. Staff said the funds are in hand and there is no county request for additional operating dollars; the committee approved the contract request.

Committee members asked how the reconfiguration and furnishings fit the project budget and whether wireless/Wi‑Fi costs could be covered; staff replied Wi‑Fi and similar equipment costs are included in the furniture, fixtures and equipment portion of the grant budget. Staff also noted the project reconfigured office space and animal-control areas to improve client flow and staff workspace.

A committee member asked about pets during construction; staff said the animal-control program will continue operating and the project schedule is being coordinated to avoid service disruption. Staff invited committee members to a facility walk‑through planned in November.

After discussion the committee voted by roll call in favor of the resolution authorizing the contract.