The Washington County Board met last night and they renewed John Felchlia as the Ambulance Administrator, as he had his contract renewed with a 3 percent salary increase.  The University of Illinois Extension Office made a short presentation of packets with the services and other information on the Extension to the Board members.  Of note is that this is the Extension’s 100^th anniversary in Illinois.  The Board also approved some budgets and levies, such as for both the Community Mental Health and U of I Extension.  They also approved the contract of Rick Greten as the EMA Coordinator – Zoning Administrator – Safety Officer with a 5 percent increase in salary.  It is budgeted as 50 percent EMA, 35 percent for Zoning and 15 percent for safety with half of the EMA money coming from the state.  They then approved $450 for membership with the National Association of Counties, which lobbies for counties and provides other services.  A resolution – proclamation to support Kaskaskia College in their quest to build a new extension in Nashville was approved.  They are not able to provide monetary help, but can give the school a good word for the project.  Board member Alan Hohlt talked about insurance premiums.  It will cost the county $109,976 for next year for liability property and vehicle, up 4 percent.  The work comp insurance went up 30 percent to $283,750. A large reason for this increase is the increase in claims of over $1 million dollars in the past 5 years.  The premiums won’t decrease until there is a steady decrease in claims over time.  The new Justice Center will need an x-ray scanner and the Board approved one from Rapid Scan System for $16,547, which includes a warranty and training.  The money will come out of the court fund.  The Board did not need to seek bids, as this was under the $30,000 limit.  The Planning Commission discussed the need for a comprehensive plan study to be done.  There hasn’t been one in approximately 15 years, so it is overdue.  It is a 12 to 18 month process, but it will be used for zoning purposes, which can affect the county’s ability to get grants and economic growth incentives.  The Board approved this with the cost of $18,000 being paid out as $4,500 this year, $9,000 next year and $4,500 the following year.  Finally, the Board addressed the Washington County Budget and Levy, a process that began at the end of August.  It was lower than last year, but there is less to pay for the new Justice Center in the upcoming budget year.  Gary Malawy of Krehbiel & Associates was present to answer any questions, but there weren’t many and the budget and levy was approved.  The next meeting will be on Tuesday, December 10^th at 3 PM.