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Sparrow County, Illinois
Serving Our Community Since 1873
Official Website of Sparrow County • Sandy Bluff, Illinois

Government


Sparrow County Government

Sparrow County’s government is small, steady, and practical — built around the people who keep the roads clear, the lights on, and the county running. Most offices are housed in the Sandy Bluff Courthouse, with a few departments operating out of satellite buildings across the county.

Below is the current roster of county leadership and department heads.


County Board of Commissioners

Mike Caroll – Road & Infrastructure Commissioner
Oversees county roads, snow removal, bridge maintenance, and seasonal infrastructure projects. Known for his hands‑on approach and steady presence during winter storms.

Janet Rourke – Finance & Budget Commissioner
Manages county budgeting, annual audits, and allocation of funds to townships and departments.

Thomas “Tom” Ellman – Public Services Commissioner
Supervises waste management, utilities coordination, and county facilities.

Rita Mendoza – Community & Rural Affairs Commissioner
Liaison to small towns across Sparrow County, focusing on rural needs, local events, and community programs.


County Executive Offices

Harold Benton
County Administrator – Coordinates inter‑department operations and oversees day‑to‑day county administration.

Emily Hart
County Clerk: Handles records, permits, meeting minutes, and public notices.

Lyle Patterson
Treasurer: Oversees county revenue, tax collection, and financial reporting.

Marcy Doyle
Assessor: Manages property assessments and land‑use records.


Public Safety & Emergency Services

Daniel “Dan” Kessler
Sheriff: Leads county law enforcement and coordinates with town police departments.

Olivia Crane
Fire & Rescue Chief: Oversees countywide fire response, rescue operations, and emergency preparedness.

Pauline Vick
Emergency Management Director: Coordinates storm response, disaster planning, and county alerts.


Public Works & Infrastructure

Mike Caroll
Road Supervisor: Directs plow operations, road maintenance, and seasonal repair schedules.

Greg Hanlon
Water & Utilities Supervisor: Oversees water systems, pump stations, and utility coordination.

Sharon Pike
Facilities Manager: Maintains county buildings, grounds, and public spaces.


Community Services

Hannah Lister
Parks & Recreation Director: Manages county parks, trails, and seasonal programs.

June Merriweather
Library Director: Oversees the Sandy Bluff Library and its outreach programs.

Dr. Samuel Redd
Health Department Director: Leads public health initiatives, clinics, and county wellness programs.