During the Union County Board meeting on May 9, 2025, a significant decision was made regarding the appointment of Chris Boyd as the director of the Union County Hospital District. The board unanimously approved the resolution, allowing Boyd to serve for the remainder of the term, which expires on June 30, 2025. This appointment is expected to enhance leadership within the hospital district, which plays a crucial role in providing healthcare services to the community.

In addition to the appointment, the board discussed requests from private entities seeking assistance from the highway department for projects at local cemeteries. These requests involved the use of county equipment and manpower for tasks such as installing culverts. However, the board was reminded that using taxpayer funds for private property work is not advisable. Concerns were raised about the potential for perceived favoritism, liability issues, and the existing backlog of work that the highway department faces.

The county's highway engineer, who was unable to attend the meeting, provided insights through a letter. She emphasized that fulfilling such requests could lead to complications, including liability for damages and the expectation of similar assistance from other residents in the future. The board acknowledged these concerns and decided not to pursue the requests further, focusing instead on the county's responsibilities and resources.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to responsible governance and the careful consideration of how taxpayer resources are utilized. As Union County continues to navigate community needs, the decisions made during this meeting will have lasting implications for local services and the management of public funds.