The Josephine County Board of Commissioners has approved an emergency funding measure to address critical repairs to a building formerly occupied by the 4H/Extension Service District. The decision, outlined in an order issued on October 30, 2024, seeks to ensure the building’s safety and usability for future public purposes.
The building, previously leased by the 4H/Extension Service District, was vacated earlier this year. During inspections, county officials identified significant structural issues, including the need for a new roof and other emergency repairs. These repairs are deemed essential to maintain the building and prepare it for future community use.
Although the County has a Building Reserve Fund designated for maintenance and repairs, budgetary rules prevent those funds from being accessed directly for this purpose. This posed a challenge, as the repairs are both urgent and costly, requiring immediate attention.
To address the issue, the Board of Commissioners approved a plan to loan up to $370,000 from the County’s General Fund to finance the repairs. The loan will cover all necessary expenses to ensure the building’s structural integrity and safety.
The 4H/Extension Service District is expected to repay the full loan amount in the fiscal year 2025-2026. The repayment will come from funds the district appropriates during its next budget cycle. This plan ensures that the costs are ultimately borne by the district, not the County’s General Fund.
The funding approach appears to align with Oregon state laws and local government finance regulations. Specifically, loan from General Fund, governments are generally allowed to transfer funds between accounts if there is proper documentation and a clear repayment plan. This measure outlines the repayment timeline and stipulates fiscal accountability.
Acknowledging that the Building Reserve Fund cannot be accessed for repairs demonstrates adherence to budgetary restrictions. Utilizing a General Fund loan is a permissible workaround under these circumstances.
By requiring the 4H/Extension Service District to budget for and repay the loan, the County ensures that financial responsibility remains with the district while maintaining transparency in its decision-making.
This decision reflects the County’s commitment to maintaining public assets and addressing urgent infrastructure needs despite financial hurdles. It also highlights the importance of fiscal planning and legal compliance in local governance.
Work on the building is expected to begin promptly to prevent further damage and ensure public safety. The 4H/Extension Service District will include the loan repayment in its upcoming budget for fiscal year 2025-2026.
For residents concerned about public funds or the process, the County encourages inquiries and provides access to public records to ensure transparency in the decision.
