Schools, city, library, townships share auditor's surplus

By CANDY BROOKS

ThisWeek Staff Writer

Published: August 7, 2008
Edition: Worthington
Section: News
Page: 01A



The surplus county funds being distributed to the Worthington schools, city government and library do not equate to a windfall. But more money is always good news. "It was a nice gesture on their part," Worthington finance director Steve Gandee said of $8,337.46 the city will receive from a surplus being distributed by Franklin County Auditor Joe Testa.

In all, the auditor's office will refund $5.8-million to school districts, municipalities, townships, libraries and agencies.

It will come from a fund that county auditors are required to collect to pay for appraisals and related expenses.

Appraisals are done, and the surplus is what is left. This is the eighth time in 16 years that Testa has returned surpluses.

Refunds are based on the amount the district, city or agency paid into the fund.

The Worthington City Schools will receive $289,649; the Worthington Libraries, $20,814; Perry Township, $7,531; Sharon Township, $4,181; Village of Riverlea, $373.

Approximately $6,000 of the city's share will go into the general fund, with the rest split between the police pension fund and the general bond retirement fund.

"It will help offset some of our additional fuel costs that are coming out of our general fund," Gandee said.

School officials have no plans to spend the district's share immediately.

"Given the fact that our reappraisal is expected to be zero, it will help the cash balance for a little longer," said district spokesperson Vicki Gnezda.

Library spokesperson Lisa Fuller said the library board will probably decide how to spend the refund when it meets in September.

"It's great news," she said.

cbrooks@thisweeknews.com




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