Commissioners approve $292,956 interim funding for Johnston Community College public safety training positions

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners on March 12 approved a one‑time appropriation of $292,956 to fund three public‑safety training positions at Johnston Community College (JCC) while the college awaits state reimbursement tied to enrollment funding.

Dr. Lindquist, president of Johnston Community College, told the board the college’s funding is constrained by the state’s enrollment‑based funding model, which delays the college’s share of tuition and continuing education revenue. “We’re funded in the community college system in a very interesting manner… we’re not going to be seeing that money for a very long time,” Lindquist told commissioners.

Commissioners discussed the funding risk if state support does not materialize. One commissioner asked what would happen if the state funding did not come through; Lindquist said that would present a “massive challenge” and that sustaining the positions would require further decisions by the college and county.

A commissioner moved to approve the interim funding. The motion received a second, and the board voted in favor. Commissioners praised the college’s leadership and said the additional positions were warranted by the demonstrated success and demand for the training programs.

The vote was taken by voice and no roll‑call tally was recorded in the meeting minutes. The board’s approval authorizes the county to provide the interim funds; Lindquist said JCC expects to be able to continue the positions when state funds arrive, possibly in July of next year, but acknowledged uncertainty if the state budget changes.