Walla Walla County commissioners on Tuesday discussed how to prioritize and spend a $1,990,000 state grant for courthouse rehabilitation and approved a facilities contract to install an automatic door operator in the District Court hallway.

Rob Grandstaff, facilities manager, told the board that the governor signed the budget and the county has been allocated $1,990,000 for courthouse work, with a required local match estimated at about $550,000 over the next two years. “I think that it's going to take most all of that money to do the work, to rehabilitate the exterior,” Grandstaff said, adding the grant could cover exterior masonry work and roof repairs identified as nearing the end of its lifespan.

Grandstaff asked for guidance on contracting approach and whether to continue under the existing ESCO/design‑build arrangement used for earlier work or to shift to traditional design‑bid‑build procurement. He proposed seeking a historic architect to prepare an RFQ and to help prioritize projects that meet the grant criteria. Commissioner Clayton and Commissioner Fulmer both urged finishing the current exterior rehabilitation and prioritizing roof and handrail work before spending significant funds on outside architectural consulting. Clayton said, “I don't agree with using it for architectural consultation ... I think that would eat up a lot of the money.” The board asked staff to return with more detailed options, a scope estimate and contracting recommendations; Grandstaff said he could provide that information in about three weeks.

Separately, the board approved using procedures outlined in Resolution 204‑1146 to authorize the facilities manager to contract for an automatic door operator in the District Court hallway to improve accessibility. Commissioner Clayton moved to approve the proposal and the motion passed by voice vote.

Commissioners said they expect staff to provide prioritized project options that align with grant criteria and the required match before the county finalizes contracting decisions.