Board refers exceptions to funding cap back to policy committee with direction

Board members debated whether to allow exceptions to the existing $5,000,000 cap for committed private‑partner projects and ultimately moved to send the matter back to the policy committee for a clearer set of criteria.

A board member framed the problem as recurring: several communities have sought awards above the current capital cap, and staff proposed a process for the executive committee to consider exceptions only after applicants document attempts to secure other funding. One commissioner asked what evidence would satisfy the board; a member suggested bank or municipal letter showing other financing was unavailable.

A motion "to refer this back to the policy committee to bring back in November with additional criteria for clarity and a cap" was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote. Staff was asked to prepare draft criteria that include documentation standards, cost‑overrun guidance and limits on advertising exceptions publicly.