Governor announces Hawkins project grant

Gov. Chris Gregoire Tuesday announced Whitman County had been awarded funding that was dedicated to the county by state law. The county was one of seven entities that were all but guaranteed funding from an earmark in a bill that authorized funding for communities to spur private construction projects.

Whitman County will use the funds to pay off bonds for road and water system construction at a stripmall proposed to be built by Boise-based Hawkins Companies.

“Well, we’ve heard that before and missed out, but it’s nice to hear,” said County Commissioner Greg Partch, weary of the news because the county has missed out on funding for the project before.

Over the past year, state officials twice awarded the county the funds before they later revoked them.

The county has pledged $9.1 million to help Hawkins build the shopping center at the Idaho state line.

County officials last month completed an application for the dedicated funds.

The county will wait until construction begins before actually issuing the bonds.

Hawkins spokesman Jeff DeVoe said earlier this summer the company was having trouble lining up commercial tenants, and the project would likely have to wait for the economy to rebound.