County Board Tables Action on Medical Freedom Resolution

Effingham County Board Vice-Chairman Dave Campbell

Effingham County Board members Monday tabled action for a month on a non-binding measure first called the My Body, My Choice resolution.

The measure was authored by Board Vice-Chairman Dave Campbell. Campbell said the resolution encourages residents to "use common sense" when dealing with illness. He said that includes staying home if you're sick, wearing your mask if you're concerned about transmitting illness to others, but not to require people to get vaccinations.

Board member Norbert Soltwedel suggested further review of the item since in an attempt to oppose state mandates, they might instead impose a county mandate. Board members Elizabeth Huston and Rob Arnold also asked members to gauge the thoughts of their constituents on the issue before they vote.

It was also agreed to change the name of the resolution to the Medical Freedom Resolution, rather than the My Body, My Choice Resolution since that is a phrase used by pro-choice supporters, whereas most of the board members are pro-life. 

The Board amended their bylaws to require just five of nine members, rather than six, to constitute a quorum for meetings of the full Board or their committees. 

The Board also named Ron Will to the Ambulance Oversight Committee, Joe C. Niemerg, Troy Traub, Dennis Niemerg, and Steve Borries as drainage district trustees, to close two-county parking lots on Friday, September 17 for the Corvette Welcomefest, and to divide the first-floor conference room in the County Office Building to a workstation and interview room, County Clerk Kerry Hirtzel opposed the plan as it will affect how election practices will be conducted in the building. The Board also contracted with Localgov to locate locations being made available for short-term rental and lodging. It was also agreed to extend the Ag Area in Bishop Township until 2026.