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Agape seeks $1.9 million health center, asks county to join grant effort
Summary
Agape told the Washington County commissioners it plans a $1.9 million health center at 115 Adams Street, has raised $1.2 million, and is seeking USDA funds and a possible local match of $20,000–$25,000; the board asked staff to return with the item in April.
Dr. Michael McDuffie told the Washington County Board of Commissioners that Agape plans a new Health Center at 115 Adams Street, directly across from the county administration office, and estimated construction costs at $1.9 million. He said Agape has raised $1.2 million, has received eight bids so far and expects bids to close on March 17, and that the organization hopes to award the bid in the final week of March and begin construction within about 60 days with an eight‑month build schedule.
The proposal calls for medical and dental services and an on‑site pharmacy and, according to Dr. McDuffie, the project is expected to create about 32 full‑time jobs. He said Agape is pursuing a USDA Rural Economic Development Build and Reuse grant and other small grants (he mentioned a possible $4,000–$5,000 award) and that, if the USDA funding is secured, Agape would need a local government partner to apply with them and would likely request a local match in the $20,000–$25,000 range. County Manager/County Attorney Curtis Potter told the board he had met with Dr. McDuffie and that he supports the project.
The board did not take action on the request at the meeting. Chair D. Cole Phelps asked staff to place the item back on the April agenda so commissioners can consider a formal request and any local match the project would require.
Why it matters: Agape’s proposal would add primary care capacity and pharmacy services in downtown Plymouth, bring a multi‑site employer to Washington County and leverage state and federal grant funding. The project’s viability hinges on final bids, the USDA application process and whether local governments agree to be a grant applicant or provide matching funds.
Next steps: Agape’s bid period closes March 17 and the board asked for the matter to be presented at its April meeting for further consideration and any requested local action.
