Following public comment, Sherman County commissioners voted to keep the 4‑H building’s daily rental rate at $50 for now and to increase the damage deposit to $150.

William, who spoke during the public‑comment portion of the meeting and oversees or cares for the facility, asked commissioners to raise rental fees and damage deposits to encourage better care of the building and to reflect recent upgrades (new lighting, internet, cameras and a new sound system). He compared local facility rates and argued the county’s fee was low relative to other community venues; he described the time it takes to clean and prepare the building and the need to recoup labor and supply costs.

Commissioners discussed alternatives, including incrementally increasing fees, raising only the deposit, or hiring contractors to perform cleaning and maintenance. One commissioner proposed leaving the rent at $50 per day and raising the damage deposit to $250, but the final motion approved by the board was to keep the $50 daily rent and raise the damage deposit to $150. The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.

Commissioners said they will revisit the policy if higher deposit amounts do not produce the desired results.

Ending: The policy change takes effect immediately for new rentals; staff will notify event organizers and update facility rental materials.