LaSalle County committee approves bills, reviews auditors' quarterly report and discusses ARPA funds for nursing home

The LaSalle County Finance & TIF Committee approved payment of bills and auditors' invoices and heard an update from the county auditor on Dec. 9.

Chair Tina Bush called for a motion to approve the bills; the motion (moved by Gary Small and seconded by Tom Templeton) carried by voice vote. Later the committee approved payment of the auditors' bills (motion by Tom, second by Areta) and scheduled the outside auditors to receive requested information by Dec. 19, with fieldwork expected in January or early February.

Stephanie, the county auditor, distributed the quarterly report and a fund status sheet and explained timing effects tied to the county fiscal year, which begins in July. She noted that some fund balances (one cited at about $64,000) reflect timing and year-end postings that will be updated with the FY '26 close.

Members discussed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds connected to the county nursing home. A committee member said the balance is “roughly around $94,000” and the group debated whether the remaining funds can be used for equipment, furnishings or must be limited to lost-revenue items such as salaries. Staff said they would review documentation and determine whether the county should reclaim the funds or allow the nursing home to use them for eligible expenses.

The meeting closed after brief updates on Fund 28 and one outstanding I‑Fiber payment; the committee adjourned on a voice vote.

Next steps: staff will assemble requested audit materials for outside auditors by Dec. 19 and review ARPA documentation to confirm permitted uses.