Will County Board Passes Resolution Supporting Agriculture While Debating Ceremonial Actions

The Will County Board passed Resolution 24-315 Thursday recognizing agriculture’s economic importance to the county, though the action sparked debate about how to handle ceremonial measures.

The resolution noted Will County’s 780 farms generate $234.7 million in annual sales, with the county ranking sixth statewide in honey production and eighth in Christmas tree sales. Board Chair Judy Ogalla read the full resolution aloud, citing the need to recognize agriculture’s broader impact beyond empty fields.

However, Board Member Micah Freeman objected to the oral reading. “When we read a resolution aloud in our board meeting, in my opinion it has now become a proclamation which we have voted against,” Freeman said, voting no on the measure.

The resolution passed 17-3, with supporters arguing it provided important context about agriculture’s role in Will County’s economy and character. The document noted 93% of Illinois farms are family-owned and emphasized farmers’ environmental stewardship through improved soil and water management practices.