In a recent Colfax County commission meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the county's financial management and the handling of a $3 million TIGER grant. Commissioners expressed frustration over a lack of timely communication about financial issues, particularly the status of the grant, which was not adequately addressed in previous budget discussions.

Commissioner Weir highlighted that the commission should have been informed about the financial situation weeks earlier, suggesting that critical information was concealed during prior presentations. This sentiment was echoed by other commissioners who criticized the previous financial management, asserting that the county's financial condition was not transparently communicated.

County Manager Gore provided insights into the findings from the 2023 audit, which revealed that Colfax County lacked the necessary staffing and cash flow to manage the large collaborative project associated with the TIGER grant. The audit identified chronic issues, including a failure to perform cash reconciliations, which left the county's financial status uncertain. Gore emphasized the importance of starting the budget process earlier to allow for thorough review and prevent future mismanagement.

The meeting also touched on the county assessor's concerns regarding the budget, particularly the need to ensure adequate funding for new appraisers. The assessor indicated that she might protest the budget if the necessary funds were not available, highlighting the statutory obligations surrounding budget approval.

Overall, the discussions underscored a pressing need for improved financial oversight and communication within Colfax County's government, as officials work to address the challenges posed by the TIGER grant and ensure fiscal responsibility moving forward.