The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners on July 31 approved a budget adjustment of $11,470,000 and authorized awarding ITB 033-25 to Graybock LLC for $9,063,000 to modify the county’s Central Campus location.

Administrators said the two items are paired: the budget adjustment provides interim funding for a planned renovation and the contract authorizes construction work consistent with the county’s financial model for the campus acquisition and redevelopment. John (county staff) said the project remains “pretty solid” and on plan but that the county is temporarily “cash poor” and may need to bridge receipts from planned property sales that will fund portions of the work.

Why it matters: The Central Campus project represents a material county capital investment in county facilities that administrators say is proceeding according to the financial model but requires careful cash management in the near term.

Key facts
- Budget adjustment: $11,470,000 to fund renovations and related work.
- Construction contract: ITB 033-25 awarded to Graybock LLC for $9,063,000 to perform modifications at the Hamilton County Central Campus.
- Fiscal note: County staff said proceeds from other property sales are expected to contribute to the project; staff may request short-term bridging cash if sales close later than planned.

Vote and outcome: Commissioners approved both the budget adjustment and contract award together. Vote recorded as unanimous approval (Commissioner Driehaus — yes; Commissioner Stephanie Summer O'Dumas — yes; Commissioner Alicia Reese — yes).

Discussion versus decision: The board approved the financial adjustment and contract award (formal actions). Staff committed to return to the board if bridging financing or further appropriations are required.

Clarifying details
- John (staff) said overall budget looks “fine for the project” but acknowledged timing of other funding sources requires monitoring and possible short-term bridging.
- Commissioner Summer O'Dumas thanked department staff for itemized renovation specifications that justified the budget request.

Next steps: Administration will monitor cash flows, pursue property-sale closings to fund the project, and return if an advance of cash or further budget action is necessary.