The McLean County Justice Committee approved an ordinance to increase the fee charged to outside counties and municipalities for use of McLean County morgue facilities from $275 to $300, and also approved a resolution authorizing intergovernmental agreements for use of those facilities.

"We're just raising our fees," McLean County Coroner Dr. Yoder told the committee, noting the county performs about "40% of the state's autopsies" and that the fee increase is intended to be equitable among counties. "We're staying competitive," Yoder said, and described the change as fiscally responsible.

On a separate item, Yoder presented an intergovernmental agreement that would require users of McLean County morgue facilities to hold the county harmless for liabilities arising from use of the facilities. "We're doing goodwill," Yoder said, adding the agreement is intended to keep McLean County fiscally and legally safe when other jurisdictions use its facilities.

Both measures were moved by Member Reeves; the ordinance vote was seconded by Member Burn and approved by voice vote. The resolution authorizing the coroner to enter into use agreements was moved by Reeves, seconded by Burn, and approved by voice vote.