La Salle County plans to use federal COVID-19 relief funds for capital improvements including new HVAC, boiler and remodeled restrooms — at least for now.

Monday, the La Salle County Board adopted resolutions to proceed with capital improvements using virus relief monies. The county is not locked into the projects and could switch gears if it doesn’t get competitive bids.

Among the resolutions adopted were architectural/engineering services for: replacing 11 air-handling units and the boiler, remodeling restrooms and replacing insulated glass.

Board Chairman Don Jensen assured the board Monday’s vote was only to get the ball rolling. The board will vote later after learning whether the funding was awarded.

“The contract will come back before the full board,” Jensen said.

Separately, the County Board postponed action on a resolution urging Springfield to repeal a 2021 criminal justice package that was widely condemned by local police.

Board Member Brian Dose (D-Ottawa) said he was in favor of urging Springfield to go back to the drawing board — “This was a really junky bill” — but said the legislation contained worthwhile provisions such as whistleblower protection.

“There are certain things in this bill that are actually OK,” Dose said, adding later, “I really think we should ask them to fix the bill and keep the stuff that actually works.”

“Let’s get rid of the bad, keep what’s good,” said Randy Freeman (R-Lostant).

Their sentiment prevailed. The board agreed to rescind the resolution and send it committee for the county to discuss further.

In other matters, the board:

• Recognized this month’s Student Excellence award winner Elizabeth Schillinger, of Mendota High School, a member of National Honor Society
• Adopted a resolution supporting legislation (Senate Bill 2298) that would amend the Tax Increment Allocation Act
• Reconvenes at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 14