Board approves $50,000 emergency award to Mason County for Stretch Island Bridge repair

Program staff described an inspection that found a structurally deficient timber pile cap on the Stretch Island Bridge, the only ingress and egress for a small island and its residents. Staff said the repair is relatively inexpensive and Mason County requested $50,000; under program rules the board offered an 85% loan and 15% grant based on the county's distressed status. Member Clary moved the award and the motion passed.

During discussion Member Clary and others noted the administration cost of small loans and suggested future policy discussions about minimum loan sizes and administrative burdens. Staff said it met emergency funding criteria and that contracting and loan terms would follow standard underwriting processes.