A resolution drafted to oppose the expansion project for Lake Storey could be approved by Knox County Board members at Wednesday’s meeting.
Last month, the board directed State’s Attorney Jeremy Karlin to draft the resolution for them to consider approving at their May meeting.
From that meeting, several board members spoke in support of area farmers who asked for assistance in opposing the City of Galesburg’s project. Freshmen board member Darla Krejci agreed with their request.
“It’s our duty to speak for the landowners who have no voice in the city. And, they have come forward to us and spoken and we need to take that voice to the city. So, I’m in favor of a statement stating a disapproval of moving forward on this project.”
The City last year began a feasibility study into the lake’s expansion from more than 144 acres to about 572, taking over rural farmland northwest of the city.
The project would require the annexation of large amounts of Henderson Township. That would take away a significant amount of the tax base from Knox County.
“I’m part of the KCAP (Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development) Board. [The KCAP Board] — we all support any and all economic development within the county,” said Board Chairman Jared Hawkinson. “But, I would not be able to support this just because of how it was handled, the effects it has, and the bottom dollar is the bottom dollar for my portion of the county.”
Hawkinson equated the loss in revenue to jobs being cut within the county.
The item has been controversial since its introduction and a phase two study has been tabled for the last five months as a result.
The county board will also consider room rate increases at the Knox County Nursing Home
The Knox County Board meets Wednesday at 6:00 pm at Galesburg City Hall and on Zoom.
