County looks into digitizing records

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By Steven Spencer

The Calhoun County Commissioners discussed the possibility of scanning and digitizing some county documents, making them more easily accessible online, at the July 18 commissioners meeting.
Although a grant was recently denied to help with funding for the perseveration of historical documents, an evaluation of the county archives was performed and more ways of preservation are being looked at.
It was stated during the meeting that the Illinois State Archives offer services to preserve vital records and the commissioner’s books, but the documents would have to be transported to Springfield in order to be converted. However, the books generally aren’t allowed to leave the courthouse.
During the discussion the board also heard a presentation about digital preservation from ArcaSearch which would use a mobile facility to digitize documents at the Calhoun County Courthouse.
Through ArcaSearch, the commissioners’ books and records wouldn’t need to be transported to Springfield. They could be taken out of the courthouse to be digitized then brought back so that they’re still available during regular business hours.
The item was tabled for later discussion, but once preservation begins it would start with documents that are commonly requested in the county clerk’s office.
Energy ordinances were also brought up during the meeting after the county was approached about a battery farm.
Although the property where the battery farm is being proposed is currently zoned for agriculture, States Attorney Lucas Fanning suggested looking further into some of the ordinances and making them “bullet proof” in case the issue comes up again in the future.
In other business the board also discussed the progress being made on the county website, Affordable Care Act compliance, a letter regarding boat ramps being sent to the IDNR and updates on the ambulance yard.