AI Policy Discussion Urged: Chair Jackie Triner called for the county to develop a comprehensive policy on the use of Artificial Intelligence. Citing a recent conference, Triner noted the potential benefits for efficiency, like processing invoices, but also the risks of unregulated use by employees. Currently, only the Emergency Management department has a formal AI policy. The suggestion aims to spark a county-wide discussion on establishing clear guidelines.

Nursing Home Ordinance Updated: The committee approved several minor updates to the ordinance governing the county-owned nursing home. Changes include allowing the facility’s medical director to serve on a “full-time or part-time basis” and standardizing all references to the facility as the “County Nursing Home” to provide future flexibility should its name change again from Sunny Hill Nursing Home.

Anti-Harassment Policy Strengthened: An update to the county’s general anti-harassment policy was approved to ensure employees have clear information on how to file complaints. The change adds language detailing the process for contacting the Illinois Department of Human Rights, mirroring a provision already present in the county’s separate sexual harassment policy to ensure consistency.

Lobbyist Rules Chapter Approved: The committee gave its unanimous approval to Chapter 42, which outlines the county’s rules for lobbyist registration. The chapter, which largely follows existing state statutes requiring such an ordinance, was passed without changes and now moves to the Executive Committee for further review before going to the full County Board.