https://www.facebook.com/104532192473645/

Lawrence County, IL News, Lawrenceville, IL (2025)

12/09/2025

SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SET FOR DECEMBER 11

The Lawrence County CUSD #20 Board of Education has announced a special meeting to be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Lawrenceville High School Library, according to the official agenda.

The meeting will begin with roll call, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the agenda before opening the floor to recognition and comments from employees and the general public.

Executive Session Focused on Personnel Matters

The board plans to enter executive session to discuss three personnel-related items:

● Personnel discussion
● Personnel salary adjustments
● Personnel stipends

These items indicate the board will be reviewing staffing needs and compensation as part of its closed-session business.

Action Items Expected After Closed Session

Following executive session, the board will return to open session to consider three action items:

● Employment of personnel
● Salary adjustments
● Approval of stipends

These votes could result in new hires, pay changes, or supplemental compensation for staff.

The meeting will conclude with comments from board members before adjournment.

12/09/2025

CITY OF LAWRENCEVILLE RECEIVES SECOND IEPA VIOLATION NOTICE THIS YEAR FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

For the second time in 2025, the City of Lawrenceville, IL has been formally served with a Violation Notice from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) concerning conditions at the city’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). The latest notice, dated November 26, 2025, outlines a wide range of new violations observed during multiple inspections in September, October, and November.

This marks the second enforcement action this year by the Illinois EPA related to the plant and its operations. A previous Violation Notice issued on August 13, 2025 resulted in the City entering into a Compliance Commitment Agreement (CCA)—a formal, legally binding plan requiring the City to correct deficiencies and complete specific tasks extending into mid-2026. The new November notice is separate from that earlier enforcement action.

The WWTP is operated by the city under certified operator Aaron Tipsword, who is referenced in inspection reports through his role as operator; the violations themselves are attributed to the facility—not an individual—per IEPA procedure. However, many residents have voiced concerns that long-standing operational issues at the plant reflect shortcomings in leadership under Tipsword.

NEW VIOLATIONS DOCUMENTED BY IEPA

According to the November 26 notice, IEPA inspectors documented significant operational and environmental issues, including:

● Nonfunctional or inoperable treatment equipment
● Significant vegetation and even trees growing inside treatment structures
● Trash and debris in clarifiers and on plant grounds
● Gray, cloudy, and odorous effluent being discharged to the Embarras River
● Multiple instances of “offensive discharges” over the course of several inspections
● Laboratory deficiencies involving expired chemicals, uncalibrated equipment, and incomplete monitoring records
● A lapse in the facility’s required NPDES permit, resulting in unpermitted discharge after September 30, 2025

The IEPA concluded that the nature and scope of these issues create potential risks for the environment and public waterways, and violate several provisions of state and federal environmental law.

A NEW LAYER OF SERIOUSNESS FOR THE CITY

This second Violation Notice comes at a time when the City is already bound by the earlier CCA, which requires:

● Infrastructure repairs
● Updated operational plans
● Improved reporting and monitoring
● Toxicity testing
● A final compliance certification by June 30, 2026

Although the CCA addresses the violations identified in the August notice, the new November violations are not covered by that agreement. The City must now formally respond to this new notice within 45 days.

The situation is serious for several reasons:

1. Multiple violations within the same year signal systemic issues

Two separate enforcement actions within a few months strongly indicate that the problems at the facility are not isolated or short-term.

2. The City is still legally obligated to complete the earlier CCA

Any failure to follow the CCA’s terms could expose the City to:

● Additional penalties
● Referral to the Illinois Attorney General’s Office for enforcement
● A mandatory civil penalty of $2,000 per violation of the CCA terms

3. Unpermitted discharges pose environmental and financial risks

If violations persist, the City could face mounting compliance costs, legal exposure, and increased scrutiny from regulators.

4. Residents may ultimately bear the impact

Prolonged noncompliance can lead to:

● Higher taxpayer cost for repairs and mandated upgrades
● Potential environmental consequences for local waterways
● Long-term infrastructure obligations that extend far beyond the current fiscal year

None of these outcomes are guaranteed, but they are realistic risks when multiple IEPA violations remain unresolved.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The City must now:

● Submit a written response to the November Violation Notice within 45 days
● Potentially enter into a second Compliance Commitment Agreement
● Work concurrently on both sets of corrective actions from the August and November enforcement processes

Failure to respond to the new notice could result in immediate escalation by the IEPA.

BOTTOM LINE

Lawrenceville’s Wastewater Treatment Plant is now under two separate IEPA enforcement actions in a single year—som**hing that underscores the seriousness of the situation for both the city government and its residents. While the City has already committed to resolving earlier issues through the CCA, the new violations will require additional action and oversight.

This latest notice highlights the ongoing challenges at the WWTP and the importance of thorough, timely corrective measures to protect the environment, safeguard public interests, and avoid further regulatory consequences.

12/09/2025

FAKE $100 BILLS TURNING UP ACROSS SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS; OFFICIALS URGE CAUTION

Law enforcement agencies throughout southeastern Illinois are cautioning local businesses after a series of bogus $100 bills have begun circulating in the region.

The counterfeit notes are not sophisticated reproductions. Each one is stamped with the phrase “For Motion Picture Purposes Only,” making them identifiable to anyone who takes a moment to examine them. Still, investigators say rushed or distracted employees during the holiday retail rush may unintentionally accept them.

Reports of the fraudulent bills have emerged in areas surrounding Lawrence County including Fairfield, Carmi, Mt. Carmel, and Olney, prompting authorities to increase awareness and notify federal partners.

Businesses, cashiers, and staff are encouraged to scrutinize all high-denomination currency, particularly as stores experience heavier foot traffic in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Any questionable bills should be turned over to law enforcement without delay.

Authorities emphasize that sustained awareness from local merchants will help prevent financial losses and assist the ongoing investigation.

12/09/2025

FARM BUREAU RECEIVES AWARD FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE TRAINING PROGRAM

The Lawrence County Farm Bureau has been recognized for its leadership and collaboration in strengthening rural emergency preparedness.

The organization—along with the Richland County Farm Bureau—was honored with the Multi-County New Horizon Award during the 2025 Illinois Agricultural Association Annual Meeting in Chicago.

Representatives from both counties were acknowledged for developing the Anhydrous Ammonia Emergency Response Preparedness Program, an initiative designed to equip local emergency personnel with the knowledge and training necessary to safely handle incidents involving anhydrous ammonia, a hazardous substance widely used in agriculture.

The program provided first responders with hands-on instruction, safety procedures, and scenario-based guidance to improve response times and reduce risks associated with accidental releases.

Congratulations to the Lawrence County Farm Bureau on receiving this important statewide recognition.

12/09/2025

LAWRENCE COUNTY M**H DEALER SENTENCED TO MORE THAN 15 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON

A Lawrenceville man has been sentenced to over 15 years in federal prison after admitting to distributing m**hamphetamine in Lawrence County.

Jeffrey S. Metz Sr., 49, pleaded guilty to four counts of m**h distribution and was sentenced on November 6 to 188 months’ imprisonment. After serving his prison term, Metz will remain under federal supervision for four additional years.

“Trafficking drugs in any county of southern Illinois will earn dealers a federal prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.

According to federal court records, Metz acknowledged distributing more than 25 grams of m**hamphetamine in Lawrence County during October and November of 2024.

“The Illinois State Police is committed to stopping illegal drug trafficking and keeping dangerous drugs from flooding and hurting our communities,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “ISP is targeting drug traffickers and will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to put them behind bars.”

The investigation involved the Southeastern Illinois Drug Task Force of the Illinois State Police, the Lawrence County Illinois Sheriff's Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration - DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Sanders prosecuted the case.

A DIFFERENT PATH: METZ’S SON FINDS REDEMPTION THROUGH FAITH AND LOCAL MINISTRY

While Metz Sr. begins his federal sentence, his son—also named Jeffery Metz, 28, of Lawrenceville—has taken a dramatically different direction after facing his own addiction-related challenges earlier in life.

Jeffery and his wife, Sage Metz, both openly credit their transformation to their Christian faith. According to the couple, their turning point came when they fully committed to a relationship with Christ and became deeply involved in the life of their church. They say that faith not only pulled them out of addiction but reshaped the entire course of their lives.

Today, Jeffery and Sage serve in ministry under Pastor Scott Polk—Jeffery’s stepfather—at Covenant of Grace Church of God (COG²) on the Lawrenceville square. Their faith is not limited to Sunday services; it influences their decisions, their marriage, and their daily interactions with others. Church members describe them as living examples of the redemptive change they now help others pursue.

Recently, their ministry expanded with the opening of the Rooted In Grace Recovery And Discipleship, located at 712 11th Street in Lawrenceville. The center aims to provide a structured, Christ-centered path to recovery for men and women struggling with addiction. Jeffery and Sage play an active role in shaping the program—mentoring participants, offering encouragement, and sharing their testimony to demonstrate that long-term transformation is possible.

The program’s mission statement reflects that vision:

“Rooted In Grace Recovery And Discipleship plans to house 20 men & 12 women, to provide a safe, structured, Christ-centered environment for individuals seeking freedom from addiction and restoration through the power of Jesus Christ… We believe lasting recovery is only possible through a relationship with Jesus, personal accountability, and a commitment to a life of integrity and discipline. Rooted in Grace is the future vessel in which God will restore many lives!”

Center organizers say the long-term goal is not simply sobriety, but true restoration—spiritually, emotionally, and personally.

12/09/2025

ILLINOIS SHERIFFS CALL FOR URGENT REVISIONS TO SAFE-T ACT AS PUBLIC SAFETY CONCERNS GROW

Sheriffs from across Illinois are voicing renewed concern about the SAFE-T Act, urging state leaders to implement significant revisions following a series of incidents that have intensified scrutiny of the law’s impact on public safety.

The Illinois Sheriffs Association (ISA) welcomed Governor J.B. Pritzker’s recent willingness to revisit the law, noting that after nearly two years of implementation, serious gaps have emerged—particularly in how pretrial release decisions are made and how repeat offenders are handled.

SHERIFFS SAY CURRENT SYSTEM LIMITS JUDGES AND RELEASES TOO MANY OFFENDERS

According to several sheriff’s offices, the SAFE-T Act has created situations where individuals with violent histories or multiple prior arrests remain eligible for release because judges are restrained by a narrow list of detainable offenses.

Sheriffs argue that the law, as written, often prevents courts from detaining offenders who clearly pose a risk to the community. Many note that before cash bail was eliminated, judges had greater ability to weigh each case individually.

Across the state, law enforcement officials report an increase in situations where repeat offenders cycle quickly in and out of the system, complicating efforts to protect victims and neighborhoods.

COUNTIES STRUGGLE WITH FUNDING GAPS AND MOUNTING COSTS

Another major concern involves unfunded mandates. The elimination of cash bail erased a revenue stream that supported many county-level justice operations. Sheriffs say counties were left to absorb additional costs without adequate replacement funding—stretching already thin budgets, particularly in rural areas.

CRITICS POINT TO HIGH-PROFILE INCIDENTS AS WARNING SIGNS

Recent high-profile crimes involving individuals released under the new pretrial rules have fueled calls for reform. While supporters of the SAFE-T Act argue these incidents do not reflect broader trends, sheriffs say they underscore structural flaws that must be fixed before more harm is done.

PROPOSED CHANGES FOCUS ON JUDICIAL DISCRETION AND TRANSPARENCY

Among the revisions sheriffs and prosecutors are urging lawmakers to consider:

● Restoring broader judicial discretion so judges—not statutes—determine when detention is necessary
● Expanding the list of detainable offenses to include more violent, repeat, and risk-related crimes
● Fixing financial shortfalls created by the end of cash bail
● Improving transparency in pretrial decisions and sentencing, which critics say is lacking under the current system

Law enforcement leaders emphasize that the goal is not to discard reforms entirely but to ensure they do not compromise the safety of the communities they serve.

GROWING MOMENTUM FOR CHANGE

The combination of rising concerns, budget impacts, and high-profile cases has led many lawmakers—Democrats and Republicans—to acknowledge that the SAFE-T Act may require additional adjustments.

For many sheriffs, the path forward is simple: acknowledge what is not working and allow courts the flexibility needed to keep dangerous individuals from returning to the streets before trial.

WHAT’S AT STAKE FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

In rural counties like Lawrence and those surrounding it, where law enforcement staffing is limited and response times can be lengthy, the effects of these policies are felt even more sharply. Sheriffs say that without meaningful revisions, communities risk being left without the tools necessary to address serious and repeat crime.

Lawrence County, IL News will continue to follow legislative discussions and the impact of SAFE-T Act policies on southern Illinois communities.

12/09/2025

LAWRENCE COUNTY BOARD TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING ON ENERGY TRANSITION GRANT

The Lawrence County Board has announced that it will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, December 9 at 4:00 p.m. The hearing will take place in the county board meeting room at the Lawrence County Courthouse, 1100 State Street, Lawrenceville.

County officials say the purpose of the hearing is to publicly announce the county’s receipt of an Energy Transition Grant, a state-funded program designed to support communities navigating economic and infrastructure changes tied to the energy sector.

Additional details—including the specific amount awarded to Lawrence County and potential uses for the funds—are expected to be discussed at the hearing. Members of the public will also have the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments regarding the grant and its intended impact on the county.

Lawrence County, IL News will provide updates following the hearing as new information becomes available.

12/05/2025

FOLLOW-UP REPORT: NEW DETAILS EMERGE AFTER SPECIAL MEETING ON ANIMAL CONTROL ALLEGATIONS

A special meeting of the Lawrence County Board’s Building & Grounds Committee held this week continues to spark intense public interest as additional details, statements, and eyewitness accounts shed more light on the allegations surrounding the Lawrence County Animal Shelter and its supervisor, Animal Control Officer (ACO) Maggie Carter.

The meeting took place on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 5 p.m. at the Lawrence County Courthouse and drew a strong public turnout—som**hing committee chairman Tom Robinson later said the committee was “very happy” to see. Seven residents delivered testimony, with many alleging negligence, improper procedures, poor shelter conditions, and retaliation within the department. Others spoke in support of Carter. After nearly an hour of closed-door executive session, the committee announced only one personnel action: the reinstatement of former employee Megan Seitzinger, who had previously been terminated.

What has since come to light, however, paints a more complicated picture of department operations, accountability, and compliance with directives issued by county officials.

PUBLIC TESTIMONY EXPANDS: FROM SHELTER CONDITIONS TO ILLEGAL SURGERY CLAIMS

Former volunteer Angie Tracy, who said she felt appointed as spokesperson for the group opposing Carter, spoke for more than 30 minutes. Tracy described what she viewed as “a lot of negligence” inside the shelter and among some employees.

Another speaker, Alaina Hatfield, president of Claws & Paws, told the committee she learned Carter had been performing illegal cat neuter surgeries. Hatfield said when she confronted Carter, Carter replied, “well not many people know so I won’t get caught.” Hatfield stated she reported the matter to the Indiana State Board, and afterward experienced what she characterized as retaliation that prevented her rescue from pulling animals from the Lawrence County Shelter.

Several residents urged the committee to remove Carter from her position, while others defended her work. Robinson said at the time that the committee would “address all those [concerns] with our county officer.”

THE CELL PHONE INCIDENT: DIRECTIVE IGNORED, PUBLIC GASPS

One of the most striking moments of the December 3 meeting revolved around a county-issued cellphone used for Animal Control operations.

According to multiple eyewitnesses—including Lawrenceville Alderman Dwayne Volkman, who attended the meeting—Chairman Robinson stated that the committee had ordered Carter on November 12 to carry the phone on her person at all times.

When Robinson asked Carter during the public meeting where the phone was, she could not produce it.
Instead, a woman who works under Carter in some capacity raised her hand and reported that she had the phone. It was stated that:

● She lives in Bone Gap, Illinois, not Lawrence County
● She had taken the phone with her on vacation to Tennessee
● She had been keeping the phone because, she said, “Maggie isn’t comfortable talking to people.”

The room reacted with audible disbelief. Witnesses say comments like “that’s her job” spread through the crowd. Several residents said they frequently call Animal Control and receive no answer.

Volkman told Lawrence County, IL News he found it “concerning that Maggie blatantly disobeyed the board’s previous direction.” A board member instructed the woman to hand the phone back to Carter immediately and reiterated that no one else was to possess it.

QUESTIONS RAISED ABOUT USE OF COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL TRUCK

Concerns were also raised at the meeting about the use of the county-owned Animal Control truck. Dwayne Volkman stated that reports had surfaced of the truck being operated by unauthorized individuals and allegedly used for personal errands. In one instance, a witness reported seeing the truck stopped at a business that sells alcohol, where the individual driving the county vehicle purchased liquor. Board member Robinson indicated this occurred while the person was traveling between locations “presumably on county business,” but Volkman objected, saying the truck should have been returned to the shelter and any personal purchases made on personal time in a personal vehicle. Board member Jordan Feutz also reported that the truck had recently sustained cosmetic damage, yet no one could identify who was driving it when the damage occurred—raising further concerns about supervision, accountability, and chain-of-custody for county property.

ANGIE TRACY: CALLING FOR TERMINATION, INVESTIGATION, AND TRANSPARENCY

In her remarks following Wednesday’s meeting, Tracy said Carter’s failure to carry the county phone—even three full weeks after being instructed to do so—reinforced her belief that structural changes were necessary.

She said it felt “unjust” that Carter offered no response to the public during the meeting despite the breadth of concerns raised. Tracy requested:

● Termination of Maggie Carter
● A full investigation and audit of all shelter-allocated funds
● Implementation of new procedures, including defined hours and updated training requirements
● That all findings be made public

Tracy also submitted an alternative candidate for ACO, should the board decide to terminate Carter.

Tracy provided a packet of documentation to the committee—material that several board members, including Jordan Feutz, now say they are reviewing thoroughly.

Tracy advocated for the reinstatement of her sister, Megan Seitzinger. The committee granted that request after executive session. Tracy said she hopes Carter will be “just and fair” toward Megan and “do right by the animals,” given what she believes was retaliation in Megan’s initial termination.

Tracy is scheduled to appear at the next committee meeting on December 10 at 10:30 a.m. and again at the full county board meeting on December 17 at 4 p.m. She plans to ask for updates on her recommendations. According to Tracy, the board has set a February deadline for determining how it will proceed.

BOARD MEMBER STATEMENTS: TRANSPARENCY, LIMITATIONS, AND OPEN QUESTIONS

Jordan Feutz

Board member Jordan Feutz released a detailed statement emphasizing:
● He asked for the meeting to be held after working hours specifically to maximize public access
● He will not discuss executive session matters, citing legal requirements
● He intends to fully examine every allegation, including documentation submitted by Tracy
● He respects the media’s role but felt one media outlet’s report emphasized alleged activity occurring in Indiana rather than Lawrence County (possible illegal surgeries allegedly performed by Carter)
● He invites anyone with factual, evidence-supported information to contact him directly

Tom Robinson

Committee chair Tom Robinson issued a brief public comment:

“The Building & Grounds committee was very happy with the turnout at the ‘special meeting’. We had already started to address the concerns raised that evening and will continue that process.”

Jim Brewer

Board member Jim Brewer declined further comment:
“Not at this time as it is an ongoing issue. Thank you.”

ATTEMPTS TO REACH MAGGIE CARTER FOR COMMENT

Lawrence County, IL News reached out directly to ACO Maggie Carter via Facebook Messenger.
Messenger confirms the message was read, but she has not responded.

WHAT COMES NEXT

With witness testimony, board statements, the reinstatement of a former employee, and new operational concerns—including the ignored cellphone directive—Wednesday’s meeting has not settled the matter.

Instead, it has set the stage for:

● Continued investigation
● A February decision timeline
● Further public comment on December 10 and December 17

Lawrence County, IL News will continue following developments as this story evolves.

12/05/2025

RMTD ANNOUNCES DECEMBER OUTING TO EFFINGHAM

Rides Mass Transit District (RMTD) is inviting Lawrence and Richland County residents to join them for their upcoming December Outing scheduled for Saturday, December 13th.

The trip will take riders to Effingham, beginning with lunch at Golden Corral Buffet & Grill, followed by visits to Hobby Lobby, Kohl's, Bath & Body Works, and the Goodwill store.

RMTD notes that the deadline to call in and reserve a spot is Monday, December 8th.

Departure times are as follows:
● Lawrenceville: 8:00 a.m.
● Olney Senior Center: 8:30 a.m.

Seniors who show their RMTD ID may ride at no charge. Anyone needing to schedule a ride or obtain more information can contact RMTD at 1-866-384-0503.

RMTD encourages community members to come along for a day of food, shopping, and socializing.

12/05/2025

RED HILL FFA LAUNCHES “PHIPPS PHAMOUS RIBS” FUNDRAISER FOR JAN. 16

The Red Hill FFA is kicking off a tasty fundraiser this winter with the return of Phipps Phamous Ribs, a popular community favorite. The fundraiser will support Red Hill FFA activities and student programs.

Pickup will be held at Red Hill High School on January 16, with only 150 slabs of ribs available. Because quantities are limited, organizers are encouraging the public to place orders early.

To reserve ribs, community members may contact:
● Avery Kocher – 618-912-2519
● Lilah Johnson – 812-881-7143

Ribs are priced at $25 per slab, with all proceeds going directly to support Red Hill FFA.

The organization expressed appreciation to the community for its ongoing support of local agricultural education.

Lawrence County, IL News will highlight additional school and community fundraisers as they are announced.

12/05/2025

CHILLI SUPPER OFFERING FREE MEALS FOR THOSE IN NEED

A free community chilli supper is being organized for anyone in need of a hot meal, with pickup available at Chauncey Crossroads as well as designated locations in Bridgeport, Sumner, and Lawrenceville.

The meal is open to all, with no cost required. A free-will donation option is available for those who wish to contribute.

Organizers ask that anyone needing meals contact Lou Tewell at 618-562-1440 by call or text and include the number of meals needed. The RSVP deadline is December 9, 2025 to help ensure enough food is prepared.

This outreach effort aims to support local residents facing hardship or simply needing a warm meal during the winter season.

12/05/2025

NEW GAS MONITORS AWARDED TO CHRISTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

The Christy Fire Protection District is receiving an important equipment upgrade thanks to a statewide program aimed at strengthening local emergency response. The department has been selected to receive four new gas monitors, tools that firefighters rely on when assessing hazardous or potentially dangerous environments.

Christy is one of two area departments receiving monitors, with the Claremont-Bonpas Fire Protection District in Richland County also included in this round of awards.

The equipment comes through a partnership between the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System–Illinois (MABAS) and the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office, which jointly fund and distribute gas-monitoring devices to fire districts across the state. The program provides smaller and rural departments with updated technology that may otherwise fall outside local budgets.

MABAS-Illinois, headquartered in Wheeling, plays a major role in statewide emergency coordination. Beyond equipment distribution, the organization assists fire departments with mutual aid planning, large-incident response strategies, and resource sharing. It works closely with both the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)’s EMA Division and the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association to support fire service agencies throughout Illinois.

For the Christy Fire Protection District, the new monitors will enhance on-scene safety and improve their ability to respond to gas leaks, structure fires, and other hazardous incidents.

Lawrence County, IL News will continue to highlight improvements in local emergency services as updates become available.

Lawrence County, IL News

12/09/2025

12/09/2025

12/09/2025

12/09/2025

12/09/2025

12/09/2025

12/09/2025

12/05/2025

12/05/2025

12/05/2025

12/05/2025

12/05/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category