County reviews options for completing Jackson‑Fraser project amid grant timing concerns

Benton County parks staff told commissioners the Jackson‑Fraser habitat restoration project remains under active discussion with the state and that the county is reviewing how much of the existing grant can still be used before returning remaining funds.

Staff reported the current state grant (referred to in the meeting as a GRAMA/grant) is being administratively extended in pieces and that county staff are in discussions with the state to determine how much work can still be completed under the award. The state recommended the county reapply and expect to score highly on future grant cycles but advised turning back unused funds if the project cannot be advanced soon. "They're recommending you rank number 1 before. You'll do you're way further along. You'll rank number 1 again, but reapply," staff said.

Staff said eligible remaining work could include final design, sign design and construction documents to make the project more competitive for the next grant round. Staff also reported recent unsolicited donations to a dedicated fund managed by the Alliance for Recreation and Natural Areas and that several donations exceed $10,000; staff said these donations could help bridge funding gaps but that the alliance requires bandwidth to run a broader fundraising campaign.

County staff emphasized a cautious approach: where grant reimbursements cover archaeology and other required consultant work, the county intends to capture reimbursable expenses while determining whether to retain or return unused grant funds and reapply for a larger award. No final funding decision was taken at the meeting; staff will continue discussions with State Oregon Parks and prepare for reapplication when appropriate.