The Orting City Council on Sept. 10 authorized the mayor to execute a contract with McLeod Record to design a realignment and safety enhancements for the Foothills Trail, approving a not-to-exceed contract amount of $225,801 and confirming the city’s match funding.

Deputy Mayor Koenig briefed the council, saying the project is fully funded for design through a competitive 2024 Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) grant; the city will provide a local match (about $32,000) and use REET funds for its share. Staff said the consultant scope and cost were reduced from earlier estimates and that the city submitted paperwork to reauthorize and obligate grant funds to ensure design proceeds in time for potential construction obligations.

Deputy Mayor Koenig said community input opportunities will be part of the design phase and noted that completing the design does not commit the city to construction until the council evaluates next steps. Councilmember Sprowell asked about differences between fiscal-note and contract figures; staff explained the disparity results from the city match and staff time lines in the fiscal note. Councilmember Moore said he opposed the motion, arguing the city has many parks and that neighborhood parks should receive more funding; Deputy Mayor Koenig and other members said this project implements the master plan and uses grant funds that were available now.

The council approved the authorization to execute the design contract by roll-call vote of 5-2. Councilmember Moore and Councilmember Gunther voted no; the motion passed with councilmembers Hogan, Tracy, Sprowell, Holland and Deputy Mayor Koenig voting yes. Council approved the design-phase authorization only; design completion will be followed by council review before any construction commitment.