County approves small‑works contracts to repair sidewalks damaged by city trees; funds drawn from building fund

Walla Walla County commissioners on May 19 authorized Facilities Maintenance to use Small Works procurement procedures to repair sidewalks the county manages that were raised or damaged by adjacent city trees.

The board approved Proposal 2025‑05‑19 (Maintenance‑1) as amended to cover Projects B and C — work described by Facilities as sidewalk repairs on Fifth Street and Fourth Street in front of the sheriff’s office — and instructed that the work be paid from the Walla Walla County current‑expense building fund. Commissioner Clayton moved the amended proposal; the motion passed 2–0.

Why it matters: commissioners said the sidewalks present a pedestrian‑safety and ADA access concern and should not wait for a city grant cycle. County staff noted the city had discussed applying for a Federal Lands Access Program grant and could submit a cost‑share request to the county, but grant timing would likely push repairs into 2026.

Cost and scope: in discussion commissioners referenced approximate cost estimates given by Facilities: Project A (courthouse entry work) was about $18,500; Projects B and C (sidewalk work) were discussed in the $12,000–$12,700 range. Commissioners elected to postpone Project A pending a later discussion of courthouse access and to proceed with Projects B and C now.

Process: the motion authorized the Facilities manager to follow the Small Works procedures specified in the agenda (referred to in the staff packet as “Resolution 20 four‑one 146, Small Works procedures”) and execute contracts with a selected contractor for the sidewalk work. The board directed funding to come from the building fund instead of current‑expense operating accounts.

Ending: County staff will proceed with Small Works procurement and return to the board if additional decisions or funding approvals are required.