County asks applicant to present request for school inclusive-playground grant

Commissioners reviewed an economic development grant application from a nonprofit seeking $44,000 to complete an inclusive playground at Redmond Elementary (applicant listed as Redwood Play for All in the packet) and asked the group to present details in person.

Staff told the board the project has secured most funding but seeks a $44,000 gap fill; the applicant’s justification was that equipment will be purchased locally and local contractors used. Commissioners questioned whether the project met the county’s economic development criteria and whether the county’s lottery-derived economic-development funds should be applied; staff noted county economic-development funds have previously supported local projects, including schools, and that $462,000 remained in the fund for the fiscal year.

The board directed staff to invite the applicant to schedule a presentation so commissioners can hear further justification and ask follow-up questions. No grant award was made at the meeting.