Funding the 'Chiller'

It is one thing to have a fund of “free” money and a list of projects to spend it on. It is another to have that list and be uncertain what the funds can be used for.

Cheyenne County is among the local entities to receive American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) funds. The challenge is finding a framework of how the funds can be used, by what date, and what kind of accountability.

The Cheyenne County Commissioners are considering allocating some of the funds for a heating and air conditioning upgrade at the courthouse office building. In the July 18 meeting, the commissioners again discussed options with the funds.

“We have to use the money by 2024,” said County Clerk Beth Fiegenschuh.

Audit of the fund is still an unknown.

Commissioner Randy Miller motioned to investigate a company that can do the chiller work, and use of the ARP funds. The motion was passed unanimously.

Prior to the discussion, Beth Ferrell, legal counsel for the National Association of Counties (NACO) met with the commissioners. In her presentation, she said NACO is a new office complex in Western Nebraska, likely in Ogallala. The building would be about 6,600 square feet.

The commissioners also approved a new member to the Visitors Committee. Tara Fischer was nominated by the board in the June meeting. Tourism Director Kendra Mitchell also presented two funding projects: Lodgepole's “Old Settlers Days” requested $4,310 for their Sept. 2-5 event, and Potter Days request for $3,000 were both approved.

The commissioners also reviewed and approved a Special Designated Liquor License to Bob Woodis. Woodis said the license is for a wedding reception to be held at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds. He is doing business as “Old Pals LLC.”

The commissioners also approved renewal of a contract with Stacey Vach as conflict attorney.

A conflict attorney is when the public defender has a conflict with an appointed defendant. County Attorney Paul Schaub noted no change in the cost of the contract.

The commissioners also met at the Board of Equalization for nine valuation protests.