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Council puts RCO-funded pump-track project on hold amid uncertain local match commitments
Summary
Sunnyside staff recommended declining the Recreation and Conservation Office grant because the required local match of roughly $550,600 lacks committed funding; council directed staff to pause the project and revisit when local capacity improves.
City staff and members of the public discussed a proposed pump-track — a multi-use paved track for bicycles and skate-style activity — funded by a Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) grant application. The council directed staff to pause pursuit of the project at this time, citing unclear match commitments and other budget priorities.
Interim Public Works Director (Cus/"Cuss") and staff reported an RCO application that lists matching partners totaling about $550,600 but contains no signed commitment letters. The packet listed Daybreak Rotary at $150,000, a local equipment dealership at $30,000, a local construction business at $190,000, an in-kind contribution from an individual (Jason Gibbons) at $70,000, and other smaller amounts. Staff said the application requires certification of the applicant match by May 1 and that the city must have cash on hand to certify the match.
Councilors expressed support for the idea as an amenity for youth and economic development but also concern about timing given Sunnyside's existing capital needs. "It's kind of the wrong time," the city manager said, and staff recommended notifying the RCO this week that the city is not in a position to accept the project. Council members also noted the pool, parks and other capital priorities and the need to preserve general-fund capacity for street repairs; several members said the city has a higher immediate priority on the community center, parks maintenance and keeping existing facilities open.
Councilor Hart asked whether proponents could reapply; staff said the city and volunteer proponents could reapply in a future cycle. Councilors also recommended that, if the project returns later, the city ensure any application lists an official city employee as the applicant contact rather than a private individual. The council did not vote on a resolution but directed staff to pause the RCO application and come back when local matching funds and priorities are clearer.
