'Secret Millionaire' donates over $300k to Oakridge

OAKRIDGE, Ore. -- A documentary film crew had cameras rolling in Oakridge last October. Residents knew an anonymous donor was giving away money, but they signed a contract that stated the donor's identity would remain a secret. Otherwise, the money would be forfeited.

Now, the mystery has been revealed. 

The city is featured in an upcoming episode of 'Secret Millionaire' - a television show about millionaires who disguise themselves as 'Average Joe' and go into struggling communities to find the hometown heroes.

At the end of the 'Secret Millionaire' episodes, the mysterious donor will reveal their true identity and donate their own money to people in the community.   

Mayor Don Hampton says he still cannot reveal who the anonymous donor is, but that donor will be giving back to the community in a few ways. "One of their decisions was that they'd like to give every citizen of Oakridge one hundred dollars," said Hampton.

City Manager Bob DeLong says the anonymous donor gave another $50,000 for a fourth firefighter paramedic position. 

"Thank you. Thank you. Oakridge needs it," said resident Lynn Roach.

The city's been struggling with budget issues for months. But this donated money makes things more complicated, according to Oakridge forensic accountant Tiffany Couch who resigned on Monday. Couch was brought in six months ago to help Oakridge get their financials in order. 

A form went out to residents so they could fill it out, provide proof of residency, and get their money.
Couch says the donated money isn't properly documented by the city, and that letter was premature.

Couch says in a letter of resignation: "I cannot continue to retain a client who would undertake such a significant issue not only without anything in writing, but in addition, without legal advice."     

According to Mayor Hampton, the episode is set to air later this summer.