Commissioners keep county contribution at $5,000 but allow nonprofit to buy fuel through county system

A nonprofit representative asked the Gibson County commissioners May 6 for an increased county contribution for its 2027 operating budget. Beth Browning, speaking on behalf of Becky, said the organization has operated in Gibson County since 2007 and requested an additional $26,000 for 2027, noting that “the more the County supports us, the more money that comes back into the County from the state.”

Commissioners discussed ways to lower the nonprofit’s operating costs, including allowing the group to purchase fuel through the county highway department’s bulk bid program. A commissioner outlined the operational details: password‑protected access, Monday–Thursday fueling hours, and mileage/gallon logging that would allow the highway department to bill the nonprofit. The board set an effective start date of June 1 to allow staff time to set up the system.

After discussing fuel access, a motion was made to maintain the county’s current $5,000 contribution for now while the nonprofit explores fuel savings; the motion passed by voice vote. Commissioners said the organization could return later if additional support is needed.

Why it matters: The decision combines a stable short‑term funding commitment with a practical cost‑saving measure intended to stretch limited county dollars while the nonprofit seeks additional support from neighboring municipalities and the health department.

Next steps: County staff will work with the nonprofit and highway department staff to implement password access to the metering system and finalize billing procedures by the June 1 start date.