County officials discuss funding for Rotary Park and infrastructure amid budget concerns

Cowlitz County Commissioners convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting local infrastructure and community projects. A significant focus of the meeting was the potential funding for the Scott Hill Park project in Woodland, which has garnered considerable interest from the community.

Commissioners highlighted the importance of completing the first phase of the park, which would allow residents to enjoy the facility and potentially attract further investment. The discussion centered around utilizing existing rural development funds to support this initiative, although concerns were raised about maintaining a financial buffer for future needs. One commissioner emphasized the need to balance funding for the park with ongoing commitments to other local parks, particularly as they await a matching grant from the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).

Another critical topic was the county's status regarding rural sales tax collection. Recent population projections indicate that Cowlitz County may no longer qualify as a rural area, which could affect the approximately $2 million in annual revenue generated from this tax. Commissioners expressed urgency in obtaining clarification from state officials about the future of these funds, as they are vital for ongoing infrastructure projects. The uncertainty surrounding this revenue stream has prompted calls for careful financial planning before committing additional reserves.

In addition to these discussions, the meeting included a review of a contract amendment with the Washington State Department of Corrections. This amendment will increase the daily rate paid to the county for housing probation violators, reflecting a standard price adjustment that will benefit the county's budget.

As the commissioners continue to navigate these pressing issues, their decisions will have lasting implications for Cowlitz County's infrastructure and community development efforts. The next steps involve further research and communication with state officials to ensure the county's financial stability and support for local projects.