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County proposes restoring regional rail authority levy to $400,000 to prepare for potential acquisitions
Summary
Staff recommended returning the regional rail authority levy from $200,000 back to $400,000 to build a fund for potential rail or trail acquisitions (Montgomery–New Prague/Pacific, Dan Patch); commissioners queried matching and grant eligibility and asked staff to follow up with regional partners.
Danny briefed the board on a proposal to restore the regional rail authority levy from $200,000 to $400,000. The funds would build capacity to respond to possible acquisitions or preservation opportunities on lines such as Montgomery–New Prague/Pacific and Dan Patch, and to support trail connections similar to the county's prior purchase of the Indian Junction Trail.
Commissioners asked whether acquisition costs would be matchable with state or federal grants or whether capital-match rules differ for land versus construction. Staff said those are open questions and suggested the county coordinate with regional partners to clarify eligible match sources. Danny noted that the proposed levy increase would be part of the general levy picture and that accumulating the funds would allow the county to pursue grant matches if opportunities arise.
Members also discussed the cost scale for potential projects and emphasized that the regional rail authority levy would be one tool among others. Staff will follow up with regional partners to clarify matching rules and return with updated guidance for the board to consider during the budget process.
