County adds $100,000 to grandstand project

Whitman County commissioners Monday approved an extension of .09 funds to the Palouse Empire Fair, a total of $100,000 for additional over-excavation work at the fairgrounds on the new grandstand project.

Workers have determined that a more extensive foundation is needed than expected, with deeper and wider footing for the new grandstand’s 53 piers. The change came after the initial $1.4 million estimate for the grandstand was made without soil test results available.

“It’s not a surprise,” said Bill Tensfeld, fair director. “We figured it was a good possibility while we hoped for the best.”

The contractor’s estimate for the added work is $68,000. Extra money was obtained in case it is necessary.

Any leftover money will be put back into the .09 fund.

The money does not affect the annual .09 grants given by the county for economic development in county towns and cities.

This comes from .09 funds that have been saved in the event the county had to provide funds for the now abandoned Hawkins project on the state line.

“We’re fairly confident it’s not going to happen,” said Commissioner Dean Kinzer. “We’re starting to direct these funds to other county needs.”