Commission discusses using 1% provider funds to cover coroner utilities while based in Search and Rescue building

The Weston County Commission discussed paying utilities for the coroner's office space in a building provided by the county's Search and Rescue organization using provider-service 1% funds.

Commissioners said the coroner previously paid rent as part of a provider-service arrangement and that continuing to fund utilities would allow the coroner to remain in the Search and Rescue facility. One commissioner suggested creating a separate provider-service agreement line for utilities so future changes could be handled transparently.

"If we're paying rent and the rent was going to the worst, those utilities, then we're doing the same thing. Only for being more open about it," a county official said during discussion of whether the county should pay the full building utilities or a portion equivalent to the prior arrangement.

Staff said the provider-service payments are made quarterly and that a voucher would still be required. Commissioners agreed they need to see the written agreement with Search and Rescue showing that the coroner is allowed to use the space. Several commissioners indicated they preferred using provider-service funds (roughly $3,000 per year was cited as an example) instead of creating a sublease arrangement, which could raise legal issues if the county does not own the building.

The commission directed staff to obtain a copy of the agreement with Search and Rescue, clarify whether the county will pay a portion or all utilities, and draft any needed provider-service documentation. Commissioners said they want an arrangement that is transparent about what 1% money covers and avoids an improper subleasing setup if the county does not own the property.