Hardin County Circuit Court has been awarded a technology grant totaling $119,414.35 from the Technology Modernization Funding Program offered by the
Illinois Supreme Court and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts. Hardin County Resident Judge Tara Wallace and Circuit Clerk Nancy Pennell sought the funding made available to county courts throughout Illinois by securing bids for technology and equipment upgrades and drafting the grant proposal.
Second Circuit Chief Judge Melissa Morgan stressed the importance of this award stating, “With the changing times, it is vital to stay abreast of new technology, especially advances that allow individuals to have access to services without having to personally appear in the courthouse. I am grateful to the Supreme Court and the Administrative Office for allowing the Second Circuit the opportunity to make these upgrades to our Courts and I am pleased that I was able to assist Hardin County in this process.”
The installation of new cabling and electrical wiring to enhance and sustain internet connections, as well as computers and other equipment for the courtroom and self-represented litigant computer station are just some of the enhancements made possible by the grant. The Circuit Clerk ‘s office will also benefit from a new server, software updates, computers, and printer.
Judge Wallace commented, “This funding will take the financial burden off of the constituents of Hardin County in providing the much-needed technological upgrades. The services and equipment purchased through this grant will not only increase access to the court system but will allow the court system to handle remote proceedings. I am thankful to the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts and the Chief Judge's Office for the opportunity to secure this funding for Hardin County.”
Circuit Clerk Pennell also added, “I am very excited about the upgrades to our office and the court. They are much needed and something that would not be possible for our small county to obtain without this grant. We appreciate it so much!”
