MACOMB — The McDonough County Board's law and legal committee voted Monday to recommend adoption of a county ordinance establishing a cannabis retailer's occupation tax.

The county would receive 3.75 percent of receipts from any sales in the unincorporated area, and three percent of receipts from sales in municipalities.Committee members were reminded that there is no tax on medical marijuana.

Dave Schaab, municipal marketing director for Waste Management reported that 3,333 tons of refuse was deposited in the Envirofil landfill in February. He said half the material came from McDonough County and almost 25 percent came from Schuyler County.

The committee received a written report from Tri-County Coordinator Tim Lobdell that 5,405 pounds of paint, 43,785 pounds of electronics, and 657 pounds of household waste were recycled in McDonough, Warren, and Mercer counties in February. He said the amount of paint increased by 24 percent from one year ago and the amount of electronics increased by 27 percent.

Veterans Assistance Superintendent Ric Smart sent in a report indicating that $1,459 was spent to assist six veterans in February, and that 12 van trips were taken to Iowa City to enable 24 veterans to complete appointments at the VA hospital there.

Chief Deputy Adam Cremer reported that the average county jail population in February was 33. He said parts have been received for sliding cell locks and that installation could take place within the month.

During the public comment portion of the committee meeting, Heather McMeekan of Democratic Women of McDonough County asked for an investigation into alleged "inappropriate behavior" on the part of Sheriff Nick Petitgout. She said she had obtained a recording of the sheriff''s conduct.

"We have multiple allegations, including abuse of a journalist and violation of the First Amendment," McMeekan said. She said the material, along with witness affidavits, was shared with the Illinois Attorney General's Office.

McMeekan said the state office told her it had no authority in the case and that material should be referred to the county. She said the material has also been given to the Peoria chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, and that ACLU investigators will be in Macomb this week.

"I am extremely outraged at what I heard," McMeekan said of the recordings, "and I believe the charges have merit."

County Board Chairman Scott Schwerer concluded the meeting by asking for nominations to fill two seats on the board of the Housing Authority of McDonough County.

Reach Patrick Stout by email at pstout@mcdonoughvoice.com with comments or questions on this story.