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Board reaffirms $675,000 surtax commitment to Fort Walton Beach for Around-the-Mound design after grant denial
Summary
Commissioners agreed to remove the trip-grant contingency from an interlocal agreement with the city of Fort Walton Beach and reaffirmed the county—s commitment of $675,000 (25% local share) toward the Around-the-Mound project design, authorizing the chairman to sign the amendment; the action keeps the county partner
The Okaloosa County Board of Commissioners on July 1 voted to amend an interlocal agreement with the city of Fort Walton Beach, removing language that tied the county—s commitment to a TRIP grant award and reaffirming the county’s $675,000 contribution for design work on the Around-the-Mound project.
Background: The interlocal agreement approved in January had tied the county’s contribution to a 50% local match contingent on the city receiving a Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP) grant. Fort Walton Beach did not receive the TRIP grant; the city manager asked the county for a meeting to discuss next steps. Commissioners said they wanted to remain a partner on the project and avoid abruptly withdrawing county support.
What the board voted: Commissioner Goodwin moved to walk the item onto the agenda; following discussion, Goodwin moved to remove the TRIP contingent language and reaffirm the prior dollar commitment of $675,000 in surtax funding (25% of the estimated $2.7 million design cost). Commissioner Pollard seconded and the motion passed unanimously. County staff said a meeting with the city manager was scheduled for the next day; the board also authorized the chairman to sign the amendment removing the contingency.
Why it matters: Commissioners described the timing as important given nearby bridge and Highway 98 realignment efforts, and said the Around-the-Mound project has been discussed for many years. Maintaining the county contribution signals continued intergovernmental partnership for traffic and pedestrian improvements in the area.
