Assessor seeks $231,306 for new CAMA system; council discusses appropriation timing

A representative from the assessor’s office (referred to in the transcript as Mr. Gardner) asked the Vigo County council to approve a contract to begin a conversion to a new CAMA (computer‑assisted mass appraisal) system.

"I only need a total of $231,306," the assessor's representative said, adding that the conversion’s first payment "will not be paid until 01/01/2027" and that the county would sign the contract this year so conversion and training can begin. He said the new system’s maintenance cost would be lower than the current maintenance.

Council members asked about the legal mechanics of appropriating funds now for payments that start in 2027. Counsel Fjeldheim said he was not aware of a routine mechanism to appropriate the money this year for next year and recommended staff research exceptions. Several council members noted that the county could use a non‑reverting fund or encumber the money so it is available when payments begin, and suggested a motion that would set an expiration date (for example, Dec. 31 three years hence) while permitting the appropriation now.

No final appropriation was recorded in the transcript; council agreed to double‑check fund availability and return with a recommended motion at the next meeting.