Commission authorizes RFP for grant writer and transfers $50,000 for county water testing

The Fayette County Commission on Feb. 6 authorized a request for proposals (RFP) for a grant-writing contractor to help the county pursue funding for priority projects and voted to transfer $50,000 to the Health Department for water testing.

RFP for grant writer: County staff said the contractor would target projects that county staff have had difficulty funding, including a shooting range for deputies, further development of the fire training center, critical infrastructure north of the bridge, upgrades to the county pool or splash pad, and a new animal shelter outside flood zones. The commission moved and seconded to advertise for a grant-writer contractor; the motion passed by voice vote. Staff will coordinate a position description and selection criteria.

Health Department water testing: County staff said approximately $130,000 remained in a funding account discussed earlier; the commission approved transferring $50,000 of that balance to the Health Department to support water testing, including testing the Valley and sewage-runoff areas. County officials said the Health Department will manage testing and that additional transfers could be considered if the funds are exhausted.

Why it matters: The RFP is intended to accelerate grant-seeking for capital projects and infrastructure; the health-department allocation funds water-quality testing for communities with potential contamination concerns.

Board action: The commission approved the RFP authorization and the $50,000 transfer by voice vote. Staff will draft the grant-writer position description and return with criteria; the $50,000 transfer is to be used for countywide water testing managed by the Health Department.

Ending: County staff said they will coordinate RFP language and follow up with Health Department officials on testing scope and reporting.