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Public works details surtax-funded projects, asks commissioners to plan renewal and West 98 collector outreach
Summary
Public works presented a $161 million departmental budget with about $100 million tied to the local-option surtax, reviewed completed and upcoming projects (dirt-road stabilization, Crestview bypass, Bridge to Bridle multiuse path) and urged planning for surtax renewal and upcoming West 98 collector public meeting July 31.
Scott Bitterman, interim director of public works, told commissioners the department’s proposed fiscal 2026 budget is roughly $161 million, with almost $100 million driven by voter-approved local-option surtax projects that have funded roads, stormwater and public-safety infrastructure.
Bitterman reviewed completed surtax work — including 130 miles of dirt-road stabilization (31 miles surfaced with asphalt), improvements to Highway 2 and public-safety communications and training facilities — and highlighted projects in construction or design such as the Southwest Crestview Bypass, College Boulevard/Forest Road multiuse path and the Bridge To Bridle multiuse path nearing completion. He said surtax proceeds have been leveraged to secure roughly $257 million in total project value by adding grant and matching funds.
Bitterman said the voters’ 10‑year surtax (approved in 2018) has already exceeded original revenue forecasts and is projected to collect about $22 million in FY26; he urged early planning for surtax renewal because many projects are still underway and design-phase work will continue. He also reminded the board of a public meeting on the West 98 collector (July 31, 5:30 p.m.) and explained the county’s role in federal grant administration for some city projects that cannot directly accept federal local-agency program funds.
Why it matters: surtax-supported projects fund road, stormwater and safety projects that have direct effects on traffic, drainage and development. Planning for renewal of the surtax and continued grant matching will determine whether the county can continue the current project pipeline.
Discussion vs. action: commissioners commended progress and asked staff to continue outreach; no formal vote on surtax renewal or project financing occurred at the workshop.
Ending: staff will continue design work, pursue grants and hold the West 98 collector public meeting; commissioners were encouraged to examine corridor progress in person.
