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Commissioners pause decision on Forest Service billing rate for deputies
Summary
Discussion over a Forest Service billing rate listed as $56 an hour versus the county’s $75 standard led commissioners to pause item 26 for two weeks so staff can seek Forest Service approval to reflect the county’s current rate; the motion to continue passed unanimously in the recorded voice vote.
Utah County commissioners agreed to continue regular agenda item 26 for two weeks after discussing how the county bills the U.S. Forest Service for deputy and lieutenant services.
Commissioner Lee raised concerns that the agenda lists a $56 figure while the county’s adopted hourly billing rate is $75. He asked whether mileage and other drive‑time costs were accounted for (SEG 462–480). County staff explained that the Forest Service requires a set numeric rate on their paperwork but that the county historically bills the Forest Service for "true actual cost," which includes pay, overtime, benefits and vehicle costs, rather than a flat $56 hourly fee (SEG 481–498). Staff said they would check with the Forest Service and try to get approval to update the posted number to the county’s $75 rate.
Commissioner Lee moved to continue item 26 for two weeks to allow staff to pursue a change with the Forest Service and to ensure consistency with other intergovernmental agreements; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.
What’s next: County staff will contact the Forest Service to request approval to update the rate language and return to the commission with revised contract language or a recommendation at the next meeting.
