County officials address $1.4M in unpaid claims and bridge funding issues

The Owen County Commissioners meeting on April 3, 2025, focused on financial discrepancies and the management of unpaid claims, raising concerns about the county's budgeting practices. The discussion highlighted a significant issue: $1.4 million in unpaid claims, which has sparked debate among commissioners regarding the county's financial health and transparency.

During the meeting, a commissioner acknowledged an error in reporting that included claims from 2025 in the 2024 totals, which may have affected public perception. This correction was noted as necessary for both online and print communications. The commissioner expressed gratitude to the auditor's office for their assistance in clarifying the financial situation.

A key point of discussion was the cumulative bridge fund, which relies on property taxes and has been a source of unpaid claims. The commissioner detailed that out of 27 claims listed, a substantial portion was tied to bridge work, with many invoices dated from 2025. The practice of delaying payments until property tax settlements are received was defended as a long-standing approach approved by previous commissioners.

Concerns were raised about the legality and transparency of this practice, with commissioners emphasizing the need for clear communication with the public regarding financial obligations. The discussion also touched on the importance of maintaining good relationships with contractors, as delays in payments could jeopardize future projects.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the discrepancies in the budget, particularly regarding the missing funds from the 2024 budget that should have been allocated to cover these claims. Commissioners expressed a desire to ensure that all financial dealings are transparent and that the public is kept informed about the county's fiscal responsibilities. The next steps involve a thorough review of past financial records to uncover the reasons behind the current budgetary issues.