County to record $8M Park Ranch grant in special revenue fund; board discusses use of $250,000 closing payment

County staff confirmed the Park Ranch acquisition will be recorded in a special revenue fund that will show roughly $8 million in state grant revenues and a corresponding appropriation for parcel purchase.

At closing, staff explained the $250,000 payment associated with Park Ranch may be used by the county either as general-fund replacement for lost property tax revenue or reserved in a Park Ranch account for ongoing maintenance, grazing leases and potential small capital improvements. Sam Booth said staff will propose the appropriate accounting and return with a recommendation once funds are received and the committee established to guide Park Ranch stewardship.

The board discussed possible uses and the need to form the Park Ranch committee to provide public input on long‑term management options.