Finance committee approves $4.91 million bonding resolution, carryover and policy drafting; receives treasurer report

The Vernon County Finance Committee on March 17 approved several fiscal actions and heard routine department reports before adjourning.

On a voice vote with all members present voting in favor, the committee approved an initial bonding resolution authorizing the issuance of $4,910,000 in General Obligation Notes and forwarded the measure to the full county board with a recommendation for approval. The motion to approve the bonding resolution was made by Supervisor John Pedretti and seconded by Supervisor Martha Olson.

The committee also approved a request from the Highway Department to carry over $55,730 in unspent 2025 capital funds into 2026. That motion (to amend the 2026 budget to allow the carry-over and forward the resolution to the full board with recommendation) was made by Supervisor Charlie Jacobson and seconded by Supervisor Martha Olson; the voice vote carried unanimously.

Recognizing logistical issues with delayed equipment deliveries, the committee directed staff to draft a capital purchase policy to address carryover and procurement timing. That motion was made by Supervisor John Pedretti and seconded by Supervisor Charlie Jacobson and passed on a voice vote.

The committee approved the meeting minutes from Feb. 17 (motion by Supervisor Pedretti, seconded by Supervisor Beitlich) and reviewed vouchers, placing them on file.

Treasurer Karen Delap presented an unaudited Treasurer's report showing total cash on hand of $29,965,477.20 as of Feb. 28, receipts of $6,712,980.53, total delinquent property taxes of $1,019,637.10, and sales tax receipts of $241,423.23. Finance Director Anne Lockyer also presented unaudited year-to-date financials and noted the department is on track to close and begin the audit on April 20.

The committee adjourned at 4:41 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for April 16 at 9:30 a.m. in the Vernon County Board Room.