County officials are in a quandary on how to solve an $800 problem. On Feb. 18, District Attorney Nathasha Irving reported on how a returned online restitution payment has left a hole in her department's budget. 

Last year, the county received an $800 credit card restitution payment. The district attorney's office sent payment to the victim. Lincoln County had never had a problem with the online payment system until last year, according to Irving.

She told commissioners the offender borrowed a Lewiston man's credit card with a promise to pay him back. After a month passed, the Lewiston man contacted his credit card company to reclaim the payment, and the state's online payment vendor returned the fund.

This has left the district attorney's office seeking a resolution to make taxpayers whole by regaining the $800. Irving told commissioners the offender's attorney offered to pay the $800. Irving also offered to pay the lost funds herself. 

After a 45-minute discussion, commissioners asked the district attorney's office to submit a recommentdation at their next meeting in two weeks.

In other action, Communications Director Tara Doe sought authorization to hire Victoria Williams, Arlie Frahmann and Sarah MacLennon as emergency communication officers. Commissioners unanimously approved all three.

Commissioners approved $14,400 for the county Emergency Management Agency's rental storage unit. Since 2022, the agency has  kept its large scale equipment at Just Right Storage in Damariscotta. "They've held their rate for us, and are really good to work with," said County EMA director Emily Huber.

Commissoners entered an executive session to discuss a legal matter. County Administrator Carrie Kipfer reported commissioners took no action following the session.

Commissioners meet next at 9 a.m. Tuesday, March 4 in the courthouse.