Board authorizes Line and Grade contract to run future‑land‑use scenarios; vote 4–1 after process debate

County staff explained a reduced, more narrowly scoped contract with Line and Grade to perform scenario analysis that would forecast development, infrastructure demands, and fiscal impacts under three alternative growth scenarios. Mike Callahan (Line and Grade) described a data‑driven tool that can be used by staff and the board to manipulate inputs (growth rates, mixes of land uses) and estimate impacts on schools, water/sewer demand, traffic and revenue.

Board discussion focused on process and timing. Vice Chair Kinney reiterated his opposition to restarting consultant work after the board had previously voted down a larger contract; he argued the next board should decide major plan updates. Other board members said the scenario tool would fill identified analytic gaps in staff capacity and help the county respond to development pressures and the board's strategic priorities. The motion to authorize the county administrator to execute the Line and Grade contract passed 4–1, with Kinney voting no.