The Board of Commissioners on Oct. 28 approved amendment No. 1 to the county’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) agreement for the White Horse Park project. The amendment updates the grant paperwork to reflect a substantially reduced project estimate: from an earlier $2.4 million figure to just under $700,000, while the LWCF contribution percentages remain the same, staff said.

Director Martin, the county recreation director, told the board the project was redesigned to be more manageable and cost efficient after community feedback. Martin said the department met with a vocal group opposed to earlier changes and revised plans; the group is “thrilled by the changes” and offered volunteer help for plantings after construction.

The county’s legal department reviewed the amended agreement, and the board granted signing authority to execute the amendment. A motion to approve the LWCF amendment and authorize signatures passed unanimously, 3-0.

Why it matters: the change reduces the county’s immediate capital obligation while keeping the grant’s cost-share intact. The revised plan reflects local stakeholder input and is intended to be more affordable and feasible.

What comes next: staff said the county is in the development phase and will continue project planning and outreach; the recreation director will proceed with executing the amended grant documents as approved.