Some McLean County Board members have been asking how much of a distraction Chairman Matt Sorenson's legal troubles will be for board business? But, State's Attorney Jason Chambers says there is no way to resolve it if that does become an issue.
Chambers says the board cannot compel Sorensen to quit or give up his leadership position because the county board has no recall ability for a chair by statute or by board rules. He says even if the board changes the rules, state law still applies. Chambers says there is a mechanism to fill a vacancy if someone cannot serve, or if there is a conviction.
Chambers says members choose County Board Chairs only after elections and new members are sworn in to reconstitute the board.
There has been no allegation that the allegations against Sorensen have anything to do with his leadership of the McLean County Board. County board members have so far said they believe Sorensen's felony wire fraud indictment will likely be a distraction, but that it will be his call whether to step down.
Sorensen, so far has not responded to requests for comment. He will be arraigned in federal court in Chicago Monday.
