Commissioners approve Grow DuBois County agreement but ask for clearer reporting on projects

Commissioners reviewed the county’s multi-year relationship with DuBois Strong and its arm Grow DuBois County, then voted to sign the 2026 fee-for-service agreement while asking for improved reporting and scrutiny of projects.

A Grow DuBois representative described two active projects—an incremental code/zoning reform to promote infill housing and a talent-attraction and retention effort—and said Grow DuBois County holds approximately $130,701.80 in its account. Of that balance, about $90,000 is allocated to the two projects, leaving roughly $40,000 unallocated.

Commissioner discussion focused on whether the county is receiving sufficient value for the annual payment (noted in the record as approximately $59,000 a year for DuBois Strong and roughly $40,000 historically for the Grow DuBois arm). One commissioner recommended keeping funding for this year while conducting a closer review with the county council before the next budget cycle. Another asked for better communication about where money is being spent so commissioners can judge project value.

The board voted to approve the Grow DuBois County 2026 fee-for-service agreement but directed staff to increase transparency, provide clearer accounting of projects funded by those dollars, and review appropriations ahead of the 2027 budget process.