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Victim-witness advocate warns of potential shortfall as $197,000 grant primarily covers salaries
Summary
The county’s victim‑witness advocate reviewed a two‑year grant (~$196,734) that appears to pay mainly wages and fringe; she said travel and program expenses may not be reimbursed and estimated the program could be $10,000–$20,000 short annually without county support or an amendment.
The victim-witness advocate briefed Lincoln County commissioners on a two‑year grant award she said totals about $196,734 and is structured primarily to cover salary and fringe benefits. She told commissioners that under the current award language the grant would not reimburse many program expenses such as travel and supplies, which could leave the program short between $10,000 and $20,000 per year unless the county covers those costs or the state approves an amendment.
During a line‑by‑line review, participants noted that the county attorney’s office budget and the advocate’s budget had some items pre-populated and that items such as the law library and jury/witness fees appear on multiple pages. Commissioners asked finance staff (Wendy) to verify which costs are charged to the advocate’s fund versus the county attorney’s general budget, and to confirm whether any fines-and-fees revenue or existing county funds can be allocated to cover gaps.
The advocate described practical uses for program funds—transportation for victims to medical exams and forensic interviews, supplies for clients and limited equipment—and said that many expenses historically were paid from other county funds or ad hoc sources. Commissioners and staff discussed obtaining an official award letter from the state, the need to confirm whether certain line items can be reclaimed from court fine distributions, and the options for a county amendment or internal reallocation to prevent service disruptions.
What happens next: staff will consult with county finance and the state grant contact to reconcile pre-populated budget lines, confirm allowable expenses, and report back on whether a county contribution or amendment is required to avoid a program shortfall.
