County to apply for USDA grant and keep fairgrounds building work in-house after receiving $1.015 million allocation

Thurston County staff told commissioners on March 10 that the county received a $1.015 million community project allocation for a new pole barn at the fairgrounds and must still submit formal grant paperwork to receive the funds.

Staff explained they initially considered hiring outside consultants for architectural and construction management services but determined central services can perform much of that work in-house. That approach would allow grant funds to be used to cover county staff time working on the project, staff said, and will reduce external consultant costs.

Staff briefed the board that two resolutions will be needed: one authorizing the county to apply for the allocated USDA Rural Development funding, and a second authorizing the fair and event center manager to serve as the county's authorized representative for grant administration. Staff also said the central services department has preexisting architectural and engineering contracts that meet federal requirements for consultant selection.

Commissioners praised the approach and noted staff will report back with project scope and timeline. The board did not take formal action at the work session; staff will return with the grant application and required resolutions.