Transit director says state grant could cover 80% of many operating costs; county would budget for remaining 20%

Keontae DeJarnett, representing the county transit department, told the Chilton County Commission that the department will file a state grant application that includes multiple 80/20 funding splits for eligible items.

"A lot of the things are 80 20 splits, and I'll be glad to explain which ones are and which one aren't," DeJarnett said, adding that the state and federal sources would cover up to 80% of some costs while the county would be responsible for approximately 20% of those accounts. He noted the county will need to include those potential matches when preparing its budget and that the grant application is required annually.

Commissioners praised the transit staff for their management. The chair said he was "quite impressed" with the numbers DeJarnett provided and that some line items will look large on paper but are offset by state reimbursements. DeJarnett cautioned that some operating costs the county previously did not carry (for example, utilities after the department's move) will now be reflected in the local budget because the state will not cover those ongoing expenses once locations change.

DeJarnett described operational details that affect budget planning, including which costs the state is willing to absorb and the need to track funds that must be renewed each year. He offered to meet individually with commissioners to explain specific account line items and which grants require local matches.

The commission had no objections to continuing with the application process; the transit liaison and staff will proceed and provide additional details as budgets are prepared. The commission offered public praise for the transit department's collaboration and fiscal stewardship.

The commission did not take a formal vote during the work session; staff will return with final grant materials and line-item guidance for inclusion in the next budget cycle.