By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County is formally requesting Aaron Schock help cover the county’s special election to fill the congressional seat he has vacated.

Noting that Schock’s congressional campaign committee had $3.3 million on hand when he resigned over spending irregularities in March, the County Board has approved sending a letter to the Republican Schock to pay its projected $200,000 cost.

County Board member Mark Johnson said Schock owes it to the taxpayers.

“In light of the choices he made and the consequences it has on local government, there should be a cost pay to that and (he should) be held responsible for those choices,” Johnson said.

Board member George Gordon, D-Normal, suggested if Schock had resigned for health reasons, there would be fewer people calling for Shock to pay.

“I’m not comfortable with the precedent,” Gordon said. “I think part of this is a reflection of some feelings running toward former-Representative Shock, wherever he may be. I understand he might be hard to find at times.”

Schock hasn’t made any public appearances since leaving office.

County administrator Bill Wasson said the county has already sent a letter to Schock requesting reimbursement and hasn’t received a response. Marshall and Tazewell counties have also tried to bill the former congressman.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].