Sedro-Woolley approves cemetery grant, paving contract and senior-center ILA amendment

The Sedro-Woolley City Council took three formal actions at its May 13 meeting relevant to capital work and service continuity.

Northern State Historic Cemetery grant
Public Works Director Bill Bullock described a Department of Commerce capital grant intended for refurbishment of the Northern State Historic Cemetery, including $25,000 for architecture and engineering (including archaeological review) and about $144,750 estimated for construction. Bullock cautioned that the engineers estimate for construction currently exceeds the available construction allocation and staff would return with options if bids exceed funding. On a motion by Council member Henderson, seconded by Council member Peterson, the council authorized Mayor Joellen Kestie to execute the Department of Commerce grant agreement in the amount of $169,750.

2026 paving and pedestrian improvements contract
Staff recommended awarding the 2026 paving and pedestrian improvements contract (2026-PW-16) to Trico Companies LLC of Burlington, Washington. Trico submitted the low bid of $317,153, roughly 30% below the engineers estimate; staff described multiple competitive bids and recommended awarding the contract. Council approved the award by voice vote.

Skagit County senior center interlocal amendment
City Administrator Charlie presented an amendment (ILA 2024-177 amendment 1 version 2) that continues the countys operation of the senior center for the remainder of the year while reducing county billing for the second half of the year as nutrition services transition to a new provider. The council authorized the mayor or designee to execute the interlocal agreement amendment by voice vote.

Next steps
Staff said they will advertise the cemetery project for bids; if bids exceed available grant funding staff will return with options to stage work or provide funding alternatives. For the paving contract, staff will proceed with project scheduling and construction procurement. The senior-center arrangement continues this year under the amended interlocal agreement while staff and partners work on next-year funding and provider arrangements.