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DJFS warns of SNAP funding risk, board approves Maximus pilot and Food Pantry MOU
Summary
DJFS Director Jean Demosky told commissioners the county faces an estimated $209,218 exposure in FY26 from federal SNAP match cuts and HB 434 changes; the board approved a Maximus contract pilot for contract administration and approved a revised Food Pantry MOU (monthly flat payment $482.97, 30-day termination clause).
Jean Demosky, director of the Athens County Department of Job & Family Services, gave weekly updates on Nov.-Dec. operations and contracts and warned the board of potential state and federal funding changes that could shift substantial administrative costs to the county.
Demosky reported November building utilization (371 visitors) across Nelsonville and the 510 location and listed community events hosted at county facilities. She told the board that proposed changes tied to HB 434 and a reduction in a federal SNAP administrative match starting Oct. 2026 could expose the county to approximately $209,218 in FY26; county leaders are preparing talking points for advocacy and said a legislative workgroup will review the issue next year.
On contracting, the board approved a pilot 4D contract administration agreement with Maximus for the Sheriff's contracts, with a cited price structure of $3,500 per contract setup plus $1,000 per quarter for invoicing (an illustrative annual cost of roughly $7,500 per contract). The board approved the purchase for the Sheriff's contract and will evaluate the pilot after one year.
The board declared 30 Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 devices surplus for redistribution to qualifying recipients (reentry clients, support programs), and approved related transfer procedures.
During executive session related to DJFS employment and union matters, the board took no action when it returned to open session. The board then approved a revised Food Pantry MOU that assigns the pantry responsibility for 3.47% of shared County Home building costs and sets a flat monthly payment of $482.97; the revised termination clause allows either party to end the agreement with 30 days' written notice. The MOU requires pantry staff and volunteers to sign confidentiality and key-card policies and holds the pantry responsible for repairs from Pantry-caused damage exceeding $5,000 (pantry will pay the agency deductible when applicable).
Demosky said the county received proceeds from the sale of a 15-passenger vehicle and plans to seek economical replacements, and that the county will pilot Maximus starting in January on the Sheriff's contract with later evaluation.
The board approved the Maximus services for the Sheriff's contract, declared the laptops surplus for redistribution, and authorized the director to sign the Food Pantry MOU with the revised termination clause.
