The Marshall County Council made some funding arrangements Monday for the county’s Community Crossings projects, but lowered the cushion for potential cost overruns in the process. The state Community Crossings program provides a 50-50 match for road projects. Back in August, Marshall County was awarded a $1 million grant, the maximum available through the program.
To cover the local share, the county’s using money obtained from a special distribution of Local Option Income Tax funds received from the state. But in order to use that money, it had to be appropriated for that purpose by the County Council. However, the request brought before the council Monday called for the appropriation of another $114,000 beyond the $1 million needed for the local match. That drew concern from some council members, who suggested those funds could be used for projects next year.
County Commission President Kevin Overmyer explained that the extra money would cover potential cost overruns, should the need arise. If not, he said that money could be placed in the Rainy Day Fund for use next year.
In the end, the council voted four-to-two to approve the appropriation but lower the amount to a total of $1 million. In order to receive the actual grant money, council members also voted to establish a Community Crossings Grant Fund, as required by the State Board of Accounts. It was noted that many of Marshall County’s Community Crossings projects have already been completed.
