Adair County supervisors debate redirecting LOST revenue to General Fund ahead of November ballot

Supervisor Hoadley on June 24 urged the board to consider asking voters in November to allow LOST revenues to be deposited to the General Fund instead of being restricted to bridges. She said declining fund balances and uncertainty about the state’s 2% revenue cap make additional flexibility prudent so the county could address general operating needs while still directing funds back to roads and equipment when needed.

Supervisors discussed trade‑offs. Supervisor Wedemeyer cautioned that redirecting LOST could create long‑term dependence and reduce funding for bridges and secondary roads; Supervisor Walker and others noted LOST historically supported road and bridge projects. Supervisor Baier asked about legal limitations and how directing LOST into the General Fund could affect future equipment purchases and operations.

Hoadley moved to ask the county attorney to draft ballot language for November; the motion failed for lack of a second. The board nonetheless agreed, without a formal motion, to have the county attorney review legal restrictions, allowable uses of General Fund‑deposited LOST revenue, potential ballot language and any required sunset provisions or safeguards, and return with guidance before the board decides whether to proceed.

Board members also discussed possible sunset provisions, equipment replacement planning and maintaining staffing levels as part of the broader fiscal conversation. No ballot question was placed or scheduled at this meeting.