New funds from American Rescue Plan to provide two installments of $240,000

POMEROY–The Garfield County board of commissioners (BOCC) approved the physical transfer of Equipment Rental and Revolving funds, decided to advertise for 4H Coordinator, and discussed new American Rescue Plan funds at their meeting on October 3.

The transfer of funds from ERR Transportation to ERR General, which was prepared for with the passing of a supplemental budget last week, was passed by resolution. The total amount transferred is $43,190.07. The ERR Transportation fund will be closed down.

Additional funds from the American Rescue Plan from the Department of Treasury through the Payment in Lieu of Taxes system will provide Garfield County with $243,777.61 this year, with a matching additional amount next year. The funds will go directly in the current expense fund and have very little restriction on their use.

The commissioners approved to advertise for the position of 4-H coordinator soon to be opened by Sherree Ledgerwood's retirement. The application period will be open until October 21, or until the position is filled. The BOCC also announced that Ron Weeks will serve as interim Public Works department head until the position of County Engineer is filled.

The commissioners also discussed possible future changes to the insurance rates. Garfield County is one year in to the two-year rate lock provided by Washington Rural Counties Insurance Program, so their rates will not increase during the 2022 or 2023 fiscal year, but dramatic increases may be expected for the 2024 year. Commissioner Justin Dixon also announced that WRCIP has changed its name to Washington Counties Risk Group.

In further business, the commissioners met with representatives of the Trial Court Security Task Force, a group that is creating a budget ask to propose to the Washington State Legislature concerning funding for security measures in courtrooms. The proposal is for an ongoing, cost sharing program that would enable smaller courts to have access to security measures including equipment, additional personnel, and capital expenses. The task force is seeking support from governmental entities to show the Legislature community interest.

The BOCC is also discussing an end date or financial cutoff for the fairgrounds sprinkler project, which has gone $50,000 over budget. Further decision is waiting on a report on progress and a possible stopping place from County Road Crew Chief Rod Norland.