County reports progress and cost tracking on Spruce boat ramp, dock-lease reviews and Prairie Creek changes; campgrounds to open May 2

County parks staff gave an extended update on harbor leases at Spruce, the new boat ramp construction, Prairie Creek work, and campground openings.

Harbor leases and dock registrations: Staff said they audited harbor leases at Spruce and found variances where a boat’s registration did not match the lease name. Tenants were given seven days to provide documentation; where registrations could not be validated, staff will follow the board’s prior direction to remove those lessees from the dock list and replace them from a mitigation list. County staff said they are waiting on the county attorney to approve the notification letters.

Boat ramp at Spruce: The contractor’s work is underway but staff reported an engineering correction: one tie-back and a piling extended into the ramp footprint. The county and contractor modified the tie-back with a metal plate and will cut an existing post below grade to preserve existing concrete; staff said the ramp remains on schedule for contract completion by May 15 and concrete pours could begin within days, weather permitting. Staff noted lead times for some materials (e.g., baskets) are delayed due to supply backlogs.

Prairie Creek changes and budget: The Prairie Creek project will include added step access and adjustment of rock weirs to better channel flow; staff indicated a change order will be filed with the city and said the Prairie Creek modifications may be neutral or slightly reduce cost compared to the original design. Parks staff said the county will need a budget amendment or change order on the ramp project and is pursuing grants and fundraising to cover the costs; one figure mentioned in the discussion for a portion of ramp costs was roughly $13,000, and staff said they expect to use available grant reimbursements and fundraising proceeds.

Campgrounds and events: Staff reported campgrounds will open May 2 (gates, water and electric) and that Spruce will follow a similar date. To support access projects, the parks office is organizing a month-long fishing tournament in May as a fundraiser where participants submit photos through an app to earn prizes.

Why it matters: The ramp and Prairie Creek projects involve county capital spending, grant management and potential budget amendments; changes affect public access and the timing of recreational facilities opening for the season.

Attribution: This summary is based on the parks presentation and board discussion during the April 22 Jackson County Board of Supervisors meeting. Direct quotes are attributed to the county parks presenter (identified in the transcript as Shannon).