Jefferson County to fill road-department vacancy after officials warn of matching-fund risk

Jefferson County supervisors voted March 30 to allow the posting of a vacant secondary-roads position after a detailed briefing on how vacancies could affect the county's required 20% local match for certain road funds.

Supervisor Paula Smith said the county receives an 80% share of some road funding sources and must maintain a 20% local match. Using the board's hypothetical numbers, she said, “If we use $5,000,000, then we put in 20% or 1000000 dollars. If it's $4,000,000, then we put in 20% of that or 800,000.” Smith said cutting positions without careful calculation can push the county below that match threshold and result in proportionate reductions in outside funding.

Roads staff described ongoing maintenance and a nearby bridge project: crews have been coring and patching on Pleasant Plain and Nutmeg, hauling contract rock from Gardner, and preparing approaches for beams scheduled to be set when weather permits. Officials said they expect most approach work and asphalt approaches to be completed ahead of a summer opening if weather cooperates.

Board members debated the budget effects of replacing departing employees versus leaving positions vacant. After the discussion the board moved and approved a motion to let the county post the most recent vacancy in the road department so the position can be filled.

Supervisors also discussed related operational problems, including a soft spot near the Porter shop caused by pond overflow and the need for ditching or installing tile to move water out of the subgrade before paving.