The Will County Ad Hoc Ordinance Review Committee made significant strides in updating its governance structure during a meeting on February 12, 2025. A key focus was the overhaul of outdated language in the county's ordinances, particularly regarding committee responsibilities and settlement authority.

Committee members discussed the removal of antiquated provisions that previously required the county board to set individual salaries for elected officials, a practice that has long been deemed unnecessary. This change reflects a shift towards empowering elected officials to manage their own offices, aligning with modern governance practices.

Another major point of discussion was the clarification of committee responsibilities. The committee's revisions included a new requirement for annual reports from the Will County Mental Health Board, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in county operations. Additionally, the restructuring of committees was addressed, with the elimination of several that are no longer active, streamlining the governance process.

A contentious topic arose regarding settlement authority. The committee debated whether the county board should retain approval power for settlements exceeding $100,000. While some members argued that this should be an executive function, the board ultimately decided to keep the approval requirement in place, reflecting a desire for oversight in significant financial decisions.

The meeting also touched on parliamentary procedures, with members expressing concerns about the wording of rules that dictate how discussions are conducted. A unanimous vote was taken to remove the word "only" from a statement regarding speaking privileges during meetings, aiming to enhance member participation and ensure that all voices can be heard.

As the committee moves forward, these changes are expected to foster a more efficient and responsive governance structure in Will County, aligning with contemporary practices and enhancing public trust in local government. The next steps will involve finalizing these revisions and ensuring that they are effectively communicated to all stakeholders.