A $15 an hour mandate was handed down from the State of Illinois earlier this year and DeWitt County leaders are looking to get ahead and stay ahead, of the requirement.

DeWitt County Board Chair David Newberg credits his finance committee chairperson and Board Vice-Chair Camille Redman for being proactive in looking at taking the lead to get out in front of the minimum wage hike.

According to Newberg, the increased wages are going to be almost an across the board impact. He explains as they move lower-level earners up, they will move those making more up as well.

Newberg says the mandate is going to make budgeting a little tougher but indicates they will make it work. He also points out they are renegotiating their union contracts this year.