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Committee approves resolution asking state to raise matching percentage for downstate operating assistance
Summary
Effingham County committee voted to approve a resolution urging state lawmakers and lobbyists to increase the allowable match rate on downstate operating assistance from 65% to 75% to help the county draw more transportation funds.
Effingham County board committee members approved a resolution asking state representatives and lobbyists to seek an increase in the percentage of downstate operating assistance that the county’s transportation agency may claim.
The resolution would request that the state raise the matchable percentage from 65% to 75%. Committee member Norbert (county board member) explained that the current 65% figure leaves rural counties unable to draw the full pool of available funds because they lack sufficient local match from contracts and service agreements.
Norbert recommended approval and said he had consulted with regional lobbyists and the Illinois County Coalition of Commissioners (referenced in discussion as “UCCI” in the transcript) who indicated the change is a common problem among counties and could be made a lobbying priority. Committee member Jeremy (county board member) seconded the proposal and noted neighboring counties may be asked to pass similar resolutions.
Committee member Dave (county board member) asked whether 75% was the highest reasonable request; Norbert and others said 75% was considered attainable based on prior lobbying efforts and Farm Bureau feedback indicating higher increases had been turned down previously. The committee voted to adopt the resolution.
