NRPC ratifies FY25 audit, updates reserve policy and moves regional plan toward public hearing

The Northwest Regional Planning Commission voted to ratify its fiscal year 2025 audit, approved limited changes to its reserve fund policy and was advised of the schedule to warn a final public hearing on the regional plan ahead of a March adoption vote.

Kirk Wake, reporting for the finance committee, summarized the audit packet and credited staff for a successful review with no negative findings. He said a single audit was required because the commission expended more than $750,000 in federal funds and that the audit confirms a strong financial position, citing a net position of about $1,300,000. The board moved and approved the audit by voice vote.

In a separate action, the board approved clarifying changes to the reserve fund policy recommended by the finance committee. The update clarifies that the long‑term reserve goal — maintaining three months of operating costs — may be met using both assigned and unassigned fund balances; Catherine Dimitrick said the only other change was to increase the building reserve by $10,000 to reflect current set‑asides. The motion to adopt the fund balance update passed on a voice vote.

Why it matters: The audit ratification and reserve policy clarifications affect the commission’s fiscal management and capacity to support projects and loans (including Brownfields loans) and provide transparency to member towns about financial stewardship.

Regional plan timeline: Catherine Dimitrick explained the Land Use Review Board’s preliminary comments have been incorporated into a new final draft. The board was given until Feb. 6 to submit any final comments so NRPC staff can warn a public hearing in mid‑February; a final board adoption vote is scheduled for the March meeting. Catherine said staff will meet with the Land Use Review Board chair to clarify several opaque comments and will follow up with towns to ensure their concerns are addressed before the hearing.

Other business: Committee reports included project review updates (telecom towers and installations), Brownfields loan restructuring and project funding considerations. The meeting adjourned by motion.

Ending: The board adopted the audit and fund policy changes and set a clear, near‑term process for the public hearing and adoption of the regional plan.