Commission holds detailed work session on fourth‑quarter sales tax, possible UTA interlocal and road funding tradeoffs

At a work session the board heard an extended presentation on options for adopting a fourth‑quarter sales tax (and a potential fifth twentieth) to raise funds for transportation. Andrew Jackson (Mountainland Association of Governments) and Matt Dugdale presented estimates showing a countywide fourth‑quarter could generate roughly $22.2 million, with statutory options splitting UTA, cities/towns and county shares under several formulas.

A draft interlocal agreement discussed would direct UTA’s 40% portion primarily to cover BRT bond and operating costs and to reimburse past operations and design expenses (including a $2.8 million design payment from 2014), thereby freeing up third‑quarter funds for local road projects. Financial advisers and county staff said using the fourth‑quarter in this way could accelerate debt reduction and create a net present‑value benefit to the county, but commissioners raised concerns about long‑term control, whether the interlocal is UTA‑slanted, and whether the board should instead seek voter approval.

Commissioners asked for clarity about the $2.8 million design reimbursement, how early fourth‑quarter adoption affects revenue timing (a potential 3‑month lag), and what governance or contractual controls could ensure local oversight of UTA’s use of funds. Several mayors and residents urged a countywide vote; commissioners emphasized they would pursue contract language adjustments and additional public outreach before any final action.

The session closed with direction to refine the interlocal draft, include the missing design reimbursement language, and continue public engagement with mayors and MAG before deciding whether to adopt countywide.