Quincy Reporter

Adams County Board Legislative & Judicial Committee met July 15.

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Members Present: Robert Reich, Jon McCoy, Mark Dietrich, Jeremy Farlow, John Gunther Members Absent: None

Others in Attendance: Ryan A. Niekamp, Anthony Foster, Erin Wilson-Laegler, John Citro, Lori Geschwandner

The Legislative and Judicial Committee of the Adams County Board met on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 6:00PM in the County Board Room.

Chairman Robert Reich opened the meeting and noted there were no speakers or public comments for the evening.

Under Old Business, there was no election-related action to consider.

The committee engaged in a substantive discussion regarding Adams County Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) siting. The County Engineer has been in discussions with companies involved in battery energy storage who expressed willingness to train local fire departments and provide necessary safety equipment. Safety concerns highlighted included the dangers of lithium ion battery fires—referencing Tesla battery incidents—the unknown effects of lightning strikes, and the hazards posed to both professional and volunteer fire departments. Environmental and aesthetic considerations were also mentioned, along with the potential benefits of battery fields for power grid reliability and backup energy for large facilities. At present, no local permitting mechanism exists, and the county awaits guidance or legislative action from the state. The committee emphasized the importance of developing restrictions and an ordinance framework once authority is granted.

Under New Business, the committee reviewed potential changes to the County Code regarding video gaming. The proposal discussed involved adding a $100 annual tax per gaming machine for both the operator and the company owning the machines, to be linked to liquor license renewals beginning in July 2026. The goal is to prepare the ordinance in the coming months, ensuring adequate public notice well before implementation. Committee members noted the city already levies higher amounts and anticipated minimal opposition to the proposed tax.

for Lakeview Weddings on July 26, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM at 2439 N. 1800th Ave., Camp The committee then considered Event Liquor Licenses. Two one-day permits were approved: one Point, IL; and one for the Coatsburg Lions Club’s Honey Creek Deer Classic on October 25, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 11:59 PM at 1804 E. 1650th Street, Paloma, IL. Due to recent changes in licensing effective July 1, 2025, and delays in updating the application form online, both organizations were unaware of the $75 fee, which was subsequently waived for these events. Going forward, the fee will be enforced.

During this discussion, County Clerk Ryan Niekamp suggested the committee consider amending the ordinance to reduce fees for non-profits, religious organizations, and veterans groups to $25, recognizing that such events often serve as fundraisers. The committee agreed to revisit the matter, directing that the potential amendment be placed on the August agenda.

No resolutions, appointments, or pyrotechnic/firework display permits were presented. No additional items were raised by officeholders. The meeting adjourned with confirmation that the next meeting will be held on August 12, 2025.

https://www.adamscountyil.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/11371