Albemarle supervisors reallocate unused septic-to-sewer funds to housing and eviction-prevention programs

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors voted Sept. 18 to reprogram most of an unspent $500,000 set aside for a septic-to-sewer conversion program, adopting staff—s plan to reserve $150,000 for three higher-risk conversions and redirect the remainder to housing-navigation services, emergency rental and security-deposit assistance and a homelessness contingency.

Chief Human Services Officer Kaki Dimock, who presented the update, said the original $1,000,000 appropriation (ARPA-related) produced five completed conversions and only limited additional interest. "We're before you today to request guidance about the best and highest use for the remaining $500,000," Dimock told the board. She said contractors found the average conversion closer to $45,000—well above initial estimates—and that of six recently interested households only three met multiple eligibility criteria.

Finance staff warned the change is an accounting reallocation rather than a new appropriation. "This funding will be carried forward as part of the county's reappropriation process," said Andy Bowman. Board members debated whether to hold the money for further outreach or move it now to urgent housing needs; Supervisor Mike Pruitt pressed the urgency of immediate housing assistance, saying tenants facing redevelopment-driven displacement need security-deposit help now.

The motion, which described the "proposed redistribution of those previously appropriated funds as recommended by staff," passed on a roll-call vote with all supervisors recorded in favor. The board directed staff to re-advertise and re-outreach for additional septic-to-sewer applicants before the next budget cycle and to provide more detail on administrative costs associated with proposed programs.