The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 20, 2025, highlighted a significant funding opportunity aimed at enhancing DUI enforcement in the county. The Thurston County Sheriff's Office announced it has secured a $50,000 grant specifically for overtime funding to conduct DUI emphasis patrols from now until fall.

Sheriff Sanders explained that this funding will allow for increased patrols on Friday and Saturday nights, and potentially Sundays, in various areas across the county. The initiative aims to reduce DUI-related incidents and fatalities, with a focus on ensuring safer roads for all residents.

The funding is designated solely for the Sheriff's Office, allowing DUI-certified deputies to conduct these patrols. Sheriff Sanders noted that the grant provides a substantial amount of overtime, which will help alleviate the workload on deputies, as processing a DUI can take considerable time away from regular duties.

During the discussion, it was clarified that the overtime pay for deputies involved in this initiative would be at a rate of time and a half, rather than double time. While the exact number of hours funded by the grant was not determined, preliminary calculations suggested it could amount to approximately 625 hours of additional patrol time.

This initiative represents a proactive step by Thurston County to address DUI offenses and enhance public safety, with the Sheriff's Office poised to implement these measures in the coming months. The board's support for this funding reflects a commitment to reducing traffic-related incidents and improving community safety.