Board approves applications for justice-reinvestment and septic-repair grants for Project HOME

The Klamath County Board of Commissioners on March 11 approved two grant applications from the Community Corrections department: one to apply for a Justice Reinvestment Program (JRP) grant for the 2025–27 biennium and another to seek drinking-source protection funds to repair septic infrastructure at Project HOME, a county-owned motel used for transitional housing.

Community Corrections Director Erin Hartman told the board that the JRP application window is open and that the program requires no local match. The board moved, seconded and approved county staff to submit the application.

Project HOME septic work: Hartman said a 2005 source-water assessment for the motel/property identified risks to the drinking water supply from the on-site well and septic system, and noted about 49 other wells and septic systems in the general area. She told the board a state drinking-source protection grant is available with potential awards of up to $50,000 to address minimum requirements; staff requested permission to apply. The board approved the application by voice vote and chair indicated the motion passed.

Why it matters: The septic-repair grant would fund upgrades to aging septic infrastructure at a county-owned property that provides housing services. The JRP grant application seeks program resources for corrections-related services during the next biennium; staff said the JRP award requires no local match. Both motions were voice votes with all members signifying "aye."