Elizabeth Johnston

A delay last year in finishing the external audit for McLean County government put grants at risk and further heightened periodic and recurring tensions. McLean County Board Chair Elizabeth Johnston said in a WGLT interview she thinks this year will go much better.

The McLean County Board on Thursday approved a Memorandum of Understanding [MOU] and a statement of work related to the mental health and public safety fund audit.

McLean County Board Chair Elizabeth Johnston said there's significant movement on mental health program spending in the county. That comes from sales tax money shared with the county by Bloomington and Normal.

Some McLean County Board members are criticizing Health Department inspectors over how they address the presence of beverages containing CBD or THC additives. The situation has already caused on again, off again enforcement on hemp-derived drinks.

McLean County Board chair Elizabeth Johnston said the priorities in next year’s $144.5 million budget approved this week remain similar to the current year spending plan.

The McLean County Board unanimously approved all five items related to the 2026 budget at its meeting on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025.

Another approved use of money is to replace an aging electronic record management system that integrates information for the courts, law enforcement, and other McLean County stakeholders. There has been a lot of unhappiness about that project too.

A budget of almost $144.5 million for the 2026 fiscal year was presented to the McLean County Board on Thursday.

Bloomington Mayor Dan Brady is trying to reassure citizens concerned about potential changes in zoning.

The Town of Normal is ratcheting up its rhetoric on the shared sales tax agreement the town and City of Bloomington have with McLean County government. And the county is pushing back hard.