Commissioners approve funding transfer for Aragon's water system expansion project

The Morrow County Board of Commissioners meeting on August 6, 2025, focused on a significant request regarding a Phase 2 grant aimed at expanding municipal water systems in the region. The discussion centered on the city of Aragon's water supply challenges and the potential for a technical correction to the grant that would allow funds to be redirected to support their needs.

Commissioners reviewed the ongoing issues faced by Aragon, particularly concerning their water pumping capabilities. The city has the right to pump a substantial amount of water but struggles with the current well's design, which limits output. To address this, Aragon is considering the installation of a new well to enhance access to clean drinking water, which would benefit both the city and surrounding unincorporated areas.

The board discussed two options for managing the grant: designating Aragon as a subrecipient, which would require oversight and auditing, or making a technical correction to allow the funds to go directly to the city. The latter option was favored for its simplicity and efficiency, as it would relieve the county of administrative burdens while ensuring that the project remains aligned with its original purpose.

Support for this approach was echoed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Senator Merkley's office, both of which expressed their backing for the technical correction. The next step involves the board signing a letter to formally request this change, paving the way for a potential intergovernmental agreement with Aragon to facilitate the connection to the new water system once established.

Commissioners acknowledged the importance of this partnership, emphasizing that it would not only assist Aragon but also enhance water infrastructure in the region, ultimately benefiting local residents. The board's support for the technical correction is seen as a crucial step in addressing the water supply issues and fostering collaboration between Morrow County and the city of Aragon.