Commissioners split on Sandhills RC&D membership; motion to continue fails on tie

Lincoln County commissioners on Feb. 17 debated whether to continue the county’s membership in the Sandhills RC&D and ultimately failed to pass a motion to continue on a tie vote.

Commissioner Williams, who served as the county’s representative to the Sandhills RC&D, urged the board to remain a member, saying the annual dues are modest (about $50) and the organization supports projects — playgrounds, housing revitalization and regional events — that bring economic activity to Lincoln County. Williams offered to serve again on the RC&D committee to maintain a county presence.

Other commissioners pointed to ongoing quorum problems among Sandhills members, a lack of recent activity, and specific concerns about loan administration and enforcement by the non-profit’s board in neighboring counties. Chair noted that Keith County had already opted out and that the county’s historical participation and unpaid administrative follow-up were factors in the discussion.

The board moved to consider continuing membership. On roll call the motion resulted in a tie; because the county had already paid the dues earlier in the claims process, membership status remains unchanged for the moment. Several commissioners asked staff to follow up with additional information about the RC&D’s finances and contracts before taking any final step to withdraw.

Next steps: staff will gather financial and governance documents from the Sandhills RC&D and report back to commissioners so the board can consider any change in membership with full information.