Effingham County Board urges higher state transit match, approves courthouse flooring, ARPA tweak and $1,000 grant-writing allocation

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ill. — The Effingham County Board on Jan. 21 adopted a resolution urging the State of Illinois to increase the share of operating costs covered by the Downstate Operating Assistance Program (DOAP) from 65% to 75%, saying higher support would let the county expand rural transit service. The board also approved a capital project to replace flooring on the second and third floors of the county building, adjusted an ARPA allocation for four‑way stop signs, and authorized up to $1,000 to pay for grant‑writing assistance for a county revolving loan fund application.

The DOAP resolution was introduced and explained on the floor by Effingham County Board member Norbert Saltweedle, who told the board the county is “leaving approximately $113,000 every year on the table” because current match rules and procurement requirements make it difficult for a single‑county provider to capture all available state funds. "These rides are essential to attend dialysis, shopping needs, and court appointments," Saltweedle said, arguing that a 75% state share would let the county deny fewer ride requests.

Board members approved the resolution by voice vote; Saltweedle made the motion and Doug McCain seconded it. The board indicated the resolution will be sent to Effingham…