Project #: C34401

Description: Renovate the Israel Road Building and find a location for a Vehicle Impound Lot/Evidence Storage.  

The scope of work involves, but is not limited to, renovating the Israel Rd Building and finding a location for the Sheriff’s vehicle impound/evidence storage. The remodel will provide a high-secure evidence storage, large training room, interview rooms, offices, and a work-out area with locker rooms. The project also includes the installation of a fence around the secure parking area and an emergency generator. The vehicle impound lot will include warehouse storage and a secure fenced area for impounded vehicles and vehicles needed for evidence.  

Project timeline:

• Construction Start - October 2025
• Construction End - April 2026

Total Approved Budget: $20,000,000

• Fund Source: Bond (Public Safety Sales Tax)

Project #: C33902

Description: The scope of work involves upgrading the outdated security video system by replacing it with a modern equivalent.

Project timeline:

• Construction Start - February 2025
• Construction End - March 2026

Total Approved Budget: $2,238,471

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: C34101

Description: Remodel and expand the current space of the Auditors Ballot Processing Center. 

The scope of work involves, but is not limited to, the renovation and expansion of the existing Thurston County Auditors Election Division including substantial security enhancements. The remodel will make use of the entire building and include the addition of approximately 16,000 SQ. feet of space, designed to create a more ergonomic and efficient work environment for staff.

Emergency Generator: Provide a new and larger generator to serve the Auditor’s operations.

Security Fence: The project is to add approximately 1,000 linear feet of high security fencing and two automatic security gates around the perimeter of the Mottman site.

Project timeline:

• Construction Start - January 2025
• Construction End - December 2025

Total Approved Budget: $10,223,731 

• Fund Source: Bond (Public Safety Sales Tax)

Project #: C32503

Description: The scope of work involves, but is not limited to, prepping, priming and painting the skybridge assemblies to eliminate evidence of oxidation and remove remedial staining where possible; and repair structural steel that has been compromised.

Project timeline:

• Construction Start - October 2025
• Construction End - Estimated December 2025

Total Approved Budget: $423,578

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: C33901

Description: Replacement of the security system console due to the failure of the existing system. 

The scope of work involves, but is not limited to, the replacement of the failing (Programmable Logic Controller) PLC system, the outdated intercom system, and fully converting the existing hybrid security video system to a full (Internet Protocol) IP-based system to ensure the site is more secure and safe for staff, visitors, and detainees. 

Project Timeline:

• Construction Start - February 2025
• Construction End - February 2026

Total Approved Budget: $1,671,000

• Fund Source: Bond (Public Safety Sales Tax)

Project #: C33501

Description: This project will ensure the flooring conditions located at the Coroner’s Office are suitable for continued use and daily operations. 

The scope of work involves, but is not limited to, the removal of existing broadloom carpet and installation of new carpet tile throughout designated back-office areas.

Project timeline:

• Design - 2025
• Construction - 2026

Total Approved Budget: $100,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: C30012

Description: Improve and standardize critical security infrastructure throughout County facilities for workplace and public safety. 

Project Scope:  Conduct the planning, design, installation, and configuration of standardized security systems and supporting infrastructure for County Buildings. Conduct a needs assessment and develop a plan for proposed improvements. Determine sequence and timeline for improvements.  

Phase 1 was completed in 2024 which includes Building 5, Coroner’s Office, and the Emergency Services Center. Phase 2 will include the Tilley Campus, Public Health & Social Services buildings and the Fairgrounds. Project components may, but are not limited to: door access control/card key systems - duress alarms & mass notification systems - security camera systems - intrusion detection systems - minor structural modifications to enhance physical security. 

Project timeline:

• Design - 2025
• Construction Start - 2026

Total Approved Budget: $1,020,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Description: This project is to add solar panels and associated electrical conversion equipment at various County Buildings. The Solar Energy Program is supported by the Climate Action Community and the Board of County Commissioners.  

Open Projects:

Public Health and Social Services - C33602: The scope of work involves, but is not limited to, installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) at the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) building. 

Project timeline:

• Design - 2025
• Construction - 2026

Total Approved Budget: $1,700,000

• Fund Source: Grant

Project #: 25610

Description: The Building Condition Assessment completed by MENG analysis identified structure, equipment and systems that have exceeded their lifespan. They require major repair or replacement. This project will include but not limited to HVAC, Fire System, Electrical, Structural improvements along with reconfiguration of any county building as needed to meet the counties future needs. 

Project Scope: This project is needed to allow safe and continuous occupancy of the site, along with meeting the space needs of county departments. It also will assure that current safety rules and standards are met along with providing systems that allow for the buildings to continue to be occupied. 

Project timeline:

• Design - 2025
• Construction Start - TBD

Total Approved Budget: $50,000,000

• Fund Source: Bond & Real Estate Excise Tax

Project #: TBD

Description: This project will include renovating the current layout of the Coroner’s Office to provide better utilization of the available space including expansion for new staff.  Expanded services require the reconfiguration of space to accommodate new staff and operations.  

Project timeline:

• Design - 2026
• Construction - 2027

Projected Budget: $700,000

• Fund Source: Grant

Project #: 25585

Description: This project would replace the roof at the facility housing TCOMM-911 and Medic One.

Project timeline:

• Design - 2027
• Construction - 2028

Projected Budget: $550,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: TBD

Description: This project will include renovating the current layout of the TCOMM area to provide better utilization of the available space including expansion for new staff.  Expanded services require the reconfiguration of space to accommodate new staff and operations. 

Project timeline:

• Design -  2026
• Construction -  2027

Projected Budget: $550,000

• Fund Source: TCOMM

Project #: TBD

Description: This project would expand the current usable space for facilities and other County agencies including renovation at the complex to provide required space needs.

Project timeline:

• Design - 2026
• Construction Start - TBD

Projected Budget: $100,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: TBD

Description: This project will remodel the Family and Juvenile Justice Center primarily for Superior Court.  The Clerk, Prosecuting attorney, and Public Defense who are needing reconfigurations of space to better fit their needs. Changes in operations will require evaluation of existing spaces to ensure the space available for emerging program needs. 

Project timeline:

• Design - 2026
• Construction - TBD

Projected Budget: $2,050,000

• Fund Source: Trial Court Improvement Fund (TCIF)

Project #: 25999

Description: Plan and conduct miscellaneous facilities maintenance and repair projects in response to emergent life safety and operational needs or regulatory obligations. Upgrade or replace systems, structures, and equipment as the need arises to maintain current levels of use. The 2024 Building Condition Assessment completed by Alpha Facilities Solutions identified numerous systems, structures, and equipment at County facilities that have exceeded their useful life and will require repair and/or replacement due to debilitated condition. 

Project timeline:

• Design - 2026
• Construction  - TBD

Projected Budget: $1,600,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: 40035

Description:  Public Health and Social Services anticipates the need for additional staff to meet the demands for services as the County population continues to grow. This project is to renovate space to add more workstations.  

Project timeline:

• Design - 2026
• Construction -  2026

Projected Budget: $100,000

• Fund Source: PHSS

Project #: P10401

Description: The Washington State Legislature enacted the Clean Buildings Act, requiring owners of building larger than 20,000 square feet to meet energy efficiency performance standards.  Building over 90,000 SF are required to comply by June 2027 and those over 50,000 SF and under 90,000 SF must comply by June 2028.

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2026
• Design / Construction -  2027 - 2028

Projected Budget: $2,000,000

• Fund Source: Grant

The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners approved a major step forward by entering into a purchase and sale agreement for multiple buildings on a seven-acre site in downtown Olympia. The county plans to turn the site—near Plum Street and 8th Ave SE—into a regional center for justice and public services—improving access in a centralized, accessible location designed to meet the region’s growing needs. The four well-maintained buildings offer plenty of parking for visitors and staff, convenient access to Interstate 5, improved connections to public transit, and room for future growth. 

Next Steps: A Request for Qualifications for professional consulting services related to the design, space planning, and adaptive reuse of the Thurston County Regional Justice Center and associated campus will be posted by the County by April 9 in the Nisqually Valley News and the Daily Journal of Commerce.

Media Coverage

Thurston County gets half a million in state funds for Regional Justice Center project | Thurston Chronicle - April 1, 2026

What’s happening with downtown Olympia property - The Olympian (1/30/2026)

Thurston County moves forward with closing $34.9M real estate deal in Olympia - The Olympian (10/03/2025)

Thurston board OKs $34.9 million real-estate deal in downtown Olympia for county campus - The Olympian (8/1/2025)

County News Releases

March 31, 2026 - Partnerships Bring New State and Federal Funding Home to Thurston County | Thurston County

July 30, 2025 - The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners today approved a major step forward by entering into a purchase and sale agreement for multiple buildings on a seven-acre site in downtown Olympia, after years of assessing facility needs, listening to input from the community and employees, and exploring cost-effective options. This action starts the clock on a due diligence process before finalizing the sale, and honors community feedback to improve courthouse security and integrate county services.

The county plans to turn the site — near Plum Street and 8th Ave. SE — into a regional center for justice and public services — improving access in a centralized, accessible location designed to meet the region’s growing needs. The four well-maintained buildings offer plenty of parking for visitors and staff, convenient access to Interstate 5, improved connections to public transit, and room for future growth. 

“Today’s announcement marks a major milestone, but it’s just the beginning of a new chapter,” said Board of County Commissioners Chair Tye Menser. “This property gives us the space and flexibility to grow with our community. As we move forward, we’re committed to a thoughtful, transparent planning process that includes our residents, employees, and partners every step of the way.”  

The acquisition follows the Board’s January 2025 decision to scale renovation plans for the aging courthouse campus at 2000 Lakeridge Drive SE in Olympia as an interim, fiscally responsible approach to the security and service challenges experienced by the courts. 

At the same time, staff continued exploring long-term solutions to fully address the courts’ space and security needs. As part of this effort, the county issued a Request of Expression of Interest—a competitive process that invited proposals from property owners. Through this process, a motivated seller presented a downtown site that met the county’s specific criteria. Real estate investment experts were consulted to evaluate long-term costs, confirming that acting now provides substantial savings to taxpayers over time.

“Our existing courthouse campus was originally designed for a county population half our current size, with fewer services and a far simpler mandate. Times have changed,” said Commissioner Wayne Fournier. “Our population has grown, and county government now provides more support and programming to a much larger, more diverse community. We’re working hard to invest in a new facility that’s affordable to acquire, cost-effective to maintain, and accessible to all residents.” 

The $34.9 million purchase will allow for a phased move of law and justice services to downtown Olympia and the potential sale of the county’s courthouse campus properties. Additional plans would include moving County Administrative Services, currently being provided at the Atrium at 3000 Pacific Ave., to the new county-owned location to maximize service delivery for the community.

“Thurston County is an amazing community that continues to grow. The courts serve an important role here. The Superior Court judges are committed to partnering with the Board of County Commissioners to ensure that every person who comes through our doors—including jurors, litigants, community members, and staff — find a safe and accessible courthouse that can serve all the needs of our community,” said Presiding Judge John Skinder.

County officials plan to use remaining funds from a previous bond to make the purchase and expressed appreciation for the Board’s foresight, noting that this early investment has positioned the county to act on today’s opportunity.

“We are responsible for operating community and residential services for the sixth-largest county in the state, we understand the critical need for a cost-conscious, sustainable, and community-accessible site plan,” said Commissioner Rachel Grant. 

“Keeping old buildings that weren’t built for how we work today doesn’t make sense for taxpayers,” said Commissioner Carolina Mejia. “This is a chance to bring services together under one roof, make things easier for the public, and save money in the long run. It’s not just about having a new space, it’s about doing our jobs better and making government work for the people.”

As the county looks to centralize services at its new location, leaders are already turning their attention to next steps, including comprehensive space planning and community input processes to support continued transparency and to ensure the new space supports, court operations, public services, and the people visiting and working there. The process includes:

• additional due diligence on the property before closing
• engagement with internal departments, elected offices, and the judiciary
• public updates and input opportunities
• phased transition plans

“This campus approach is a people-first investment: it streamlines how residents access services, strengthens safety and ADA services, and preserves flexibility as we secure a new courthouse space,” said Commissioner Emily Clouse. “I look forward to hearing input from the community as we shape each step with our stakeholders in an open, collaborative process.” 

The opportunity to purchase downtown property and buildings will ultimately move the courts into a more secure, service-oriented location, and reduce a major lease cost for administrative services — ensuring that the justice system and county services operate in a manner that is accessible, efficient, and reflective of the values of all Thurston County residents.

“With clear direction from the Board and other elected officials, today’s announcement is just the beginning of a shared vision for Thurston County,” said County Manager Leonard Hernandez. “This property gives us the flexibility to responsibly grow with our community and honor the dedication of our justice partners and county staff.”

Voices from Across the County:

Thurston County Prosecutor Jon Tunheim: “The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is excited about this step forward toward bringing our team together in a safe and functional space to better serve our community. We will continue to collaborate with the Board and the other county offices and departments to make this vision a reality.” 

Director of Public Defense Patrick O'Connor: “Thurston County Public Defense continues to support the Board’s approach to addressing longstanding concerns about our courthouses. The scaled-back updates to the existing facilities allow us to continue to serve the community while this phased approach prepares us for a brighter future.”

District Court Executive Officer Frankie Peters: “The courthouse options provided present opportunity, offering solutions that will be able to more effectively meet the needs of our community members and those that provide support to everyone seeking these important county services. Workloads and service levels have continued to increase, and the existing, deteriorating structure does not support what our community deserves – an accessible, safe, and functional space that provides trust and confidence in the services delivered. District Court is looking forward to our ongoing partnership with the Board and the coordination of positive, responsible, and thoughtful options that respect and serve our community.”

Pretrial Services Director Carrie Hennen: “Pretrial Services is pleased to partner with the Board in this long-term plan for improving the courthouse for our community, law and justice partners, and staff.”

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FAQs:

Q: I have heard these buildings are as old as the 45-year-old buildings on Courthouse Hill.  Why does it make sense to buy buildings as old as the ones you are leaving?  

A: The downtown buildings we’ve identified were designed and constructed to a higher quality standard than the Courthouse Hill buildings, with more substantial floor loading capacity and LEED Interiors Certification (Buildings 1 and 2). Additionally, substantial upgrades and remodels have been completed over the years, and many of the floors are move-in ready.

Q: There is a map that shows this property and its buildings are in a liquefaction zone built on fill.  When the next big earthquake comes, what is preventing them from falling? 

A: Like many of the structures in downtown Olympia, these buildings were constructed on structural piles. 

Q: I heard Moxlie Creek flows underneath these buildings. Will it flood or erode the ground the buildings are on?  

A: The stream is fully contained in a large pipe that flows out to Puget Sound.

Q: I worked in these buildings 20 years ago - there was a problem with mold and rats in buildings 3 and 6. What has been done to address this problem?  

A: The roof and exterior of the buildings have been repaired and maintained to prevent leaks and eliminate mold. Facilities Management has conducted routine pest control, a typical practice in the downtown area. Additionally, many of the buildings have been remodeled for new tenants over the years. 

Q: Where is the County getting the money to buy and renovate these buildings, at the same time they’re discussing budget cuts? 

A: The County is using a bond that was initiated several years ago to address facility and space needs for the courts, law and justice, and general government functions. The bond can only be used for the purchase or renovation of property and must be used by October 2025 or incur arbitrage penalties. The County’s budget cuts are due to underperforming revenues and continued inflationary pressures on ongoing expenses, and this bond cannot be used to address the budgetary situation.

Q: There is never enough parking. How is this going to be addressed?  

A: As part of the County’s due diligence investigation of the property, we will be working with the seller and City of Olympia to create a Boundary Line Adjustment to ensure code compliant parking.

Q: Is $34.9 million a good price? 

A: An independent commercial real estate firm specializing in property investment completed a comprehensive analysis of each building and the associated property. Along with the County’s own review of the pricing, this external review of the purchase has proven that this is an exceptional deal for the County and taxpayers.  
 

Q: Did the county conduct a feasibility study for this project?

A: Yes. The county has been assessing the community’s expanding needs and exploring facilities and costs to provide right-sized solutions for many years, beginning in 2018.  This planning process - which included review and recommendations by independent real-estate experts - led to the decision to scale back a previous, more extensive renovation plan for the aging courthouse campus and to put out an expression of interest for additional locations.
 

Q: Was there a thorough due diligence conducted on the property?

A: Yes. The due diligence process included a thorough inspection and assessment of the buildings. It began in August 2025, is ongoing and will be completed before a final decision is made about the purchase. 
 

Q: How will the purchase and renovation be funded?

A: The $34.9 million purchase will be funded using remaining funds from a previous bond that is restricted for use on county facilities. The remaining money from the bond will be used to prepare the site for move-in. This funding approach will not impact the county's general fund.
 

Q: Has the community had an opportunity to weigh in on the process? Will opportunities for input continue?

A: Yes. Beginning in 2018 the community was engaged in a site selection process – the current location is directly across the street from the community’s preferred location. 

Past Conversations:

On June 17, the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted to suspend ongoing construction or renovation at the courthouse campus for 30 days and form a subcommittee to research options to address building and space needs. The scope of renovations planned for the site would not address the long-term needs of the county.

The subcommittee consists of Commissioners Wayne Fournier, Carolina Mejia, and Emily Clouse. Commissioner Fournier was selected as chair. The subcommittee will make recommendations to the full board after the 30-day research period. To date, no decisions have been made regarding site selection or constructing a new courthouse.

The subcommittee is holding weekly meetings to explore options for space and facility needs which may differ from the current project plan of renovating the Thurston County Courthouse Campus.

Previous Meetings:

Friday, June 28, 2024

Minutes

• Research and present information on potential methods of funding projects to provide more space and address physical issues at the current buildings.
• Research and present information on what it would take to keep the current courthouse campus buildings useable for the next several years as the county plans out a more long-term solution.

Friday, July 5, 2024

Minutes

• Facility needs - Despite several upgrades to the current courthouse facility over the years, there are significant mechanical and operational needs that must be addressed for the courthouse to continue operating. Significant architectural needs include roof replacement and outdated and poor performing HVAC systems, along with outdated technology.
• Options for consideration - The subcommittee heard potential hybrid options to consider for the courthouse project, including new construction, lease to own, or establishing a public private partnership.
• Related costs – The subcommittee was informed of potential costs associated with a new construction project. The cost projects only include the design and construction, assuming the construction occurs during 2028.  

Thursday, July 11, 2024 

Minutes

• District and Superior Court provided an update on their current space needs and addressed the amount of courtrooms needed to manage the increasing caseloads.  The courthouse has reached its capacity, and as the county has grown, those courts, offices and departments have outgrown the current space available. The courthouse was built in the 1970s, when Thurston County’s population was about half its current size. The campus is more than 15 years past its life expectancy.
• While the Chandler Court Courtroom has alleviated some case load needs, it is not enough to manage the needs of the courts. District Court expressed five courtrooms would enhance the court system’s ability to manage caseloads. 

Friday, July 26, 2024 – 3:00pm - CANCELLED

Friday, August 2, 2024 - 1:00pm 

Minutes

All meetings are open to the public and will be recorded by Zoom.  

For more information, including to request recordings of subcommittee meetings, please contact Amy Davis, Clerk of the Board, at amy.davis@co.thurston.wa.us.

Background:

Thurston County is growing, and with that growth comes a need for more capacity to continue to provide exceptional public service to the community. To support this, the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted 2-1 to move forward with a lease of The Atrium at 3000 Pacific Avenue in Olympia to house the county’s general government operations. The seven-year lease with the property owner will begin April 1, 2022. Once general government operations move to The Atrium, the county will make improvements to the buildings located at 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW in Olympia. 

The seven-year lease will cost $1.5 to $1.8 million, or $17.50 per square foot, and commits the county to seven years with an opportunity to extend the lease term by additional years. The current market value in Olympia for similar office buildings is between $24 and $27 per square foot. This savings will help the county save more than $4 million in taxpayer dollars per a seven-year term. The proposed moves are:

The Atrium (3000 Pacific Avenue, Olympia) General Government Building 

Assessor's Office

Auditor's Office

Board of County Commissioners (incl. Board Room)

Board of Equalization

Board of Health

Budget and Accounting Support Services (BASS)

Central Services Admin

Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED)

Geodata

Human Resources

Information Technology

Public Works Development Review

Public Health & Social Services Environmental Health Permit Review

Treasurer's Office

2000 Lakeridge Drive SW, Olympia (proposed):

Building 1:

Clerk’s Office

Pre-Trial Services

Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (Criminal and Civil Divisions)

Building 2:

Superior Court

Building 3:

District Court

Building 4:

Public Defense 

Buildings 5:

Sheriff’s Office

Buildings 6:

Resource HUB

Drug Court   

History:

The leasing of the Atrium is 'Plan B'. In 2018, Thurston County and The City of Olympia began collaborating on a project to build a new Thurston County Courthouse and Regional Administrative Building. Through a feasibility study, the BoCC narrowed down three of 12 sites for evaluation. These sites were the current Hilltop Campus, a undeveloped property on Harrison Street, and the City of Olympia's Leigh Crieghton Justice Center on Plum Street. The BoCC selected the Plum Street location in a 2-1 vote.

The proposal was intended to go forward to Thurston County citizens for approval as a ballot measure on Tuesday, April 28, 2020. If approved, the property tax on a $300,000 house would have been about $12 more per month; the cost to build the new facilities was estimated at $250 million. 

This cost would have been funded by an increase to the county’s 2021 regular property tax levy, to a total authorized rate of $1.56 per $1,000 valuation. The 2021 levy would have been used as the base for subsequent levy limitations for a total of 25 years. The increase exempted qualified seniors/disabled/veterans from the levy.

However, the BoCC voted unanimously to rescind the ballot measure on March 18, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, the BoCC directed the county manager to begin exploring other options to support space needs. In March 2021, the county manager presented the board with the proposal to increase office space with a leasing strategy and moving general government out of the Courthouse Complex.

Document Archive:

The Atrium Lease (PDF)

Ordinance Adopted February 4, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) 

Ordinance Adopted November 12, 2019

Courthouse Feasibility Study Final Report 2018_Update (Posted 10/21/2019)

Final PowerPoint (PDF)

Courthouse Feasibility Study Final Report 2018

Ordinance Adopted April 30, 2019

2016 Courthouse Conditions Study

Courthouse Renderings (Reflects what buildings may look like, not what they will actually look like)

Survey Final Results

Public Hearing April 24, 2019

Recording of January 15 Briefing

Recording of January 10 Briefing

Draft Site Options - January 10, 2019

Recording of December 13 Briefing

2015 Comprehensive Feasibility Plan on Current Courthouse Complex

Site Selection Criteria

Twelve Sites Reviewed

Harrison West Site - Images

Harrison West Site - Narrative

Hill Top Site - Images

Hill Top Site - Narrative

Plum Street Site - Images

Plum Street Site - Narrative

Recording of the October 16, 2018 session at the Olympia Center - Site Criteria

Recording of the November 6, 2018 session at the Lacey Community Center - Layout Options 

Contact Us

Susan Melnyk, Chief Communications Manager
(360) 867-2097

Project #: 25632

Description: This project is for the roof repair or replacement of buildings at the Courthouse campus, to includes buildings 1-7. The Courthouse Campus was built in 1978. Some of the roofs are past their useful life and need repairs and or replacement. 

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2027
• Design - 2027

Projected Budget: $4,000,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: TBD

Description: Enhance emergency evacuation and safety at the Fairground and develop Agricultural Center

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2026
• Design - TBD

Projected Budget: $1,015,000

• Fund Source: Grant

The Office of Housing and Homeless Prevention (OHHP) works to increase the availability of safe, accessible, and affordable housing in Thurston County. We work alongside local jurisdictions, state, and the federal government, to coordinate regionally and drive positive results.  

Affordable Housing Funding Sources:

HOME Investment Partnership

HOME is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Thurston County is a HOME Entitlement Community which ensures that the County receives an annual allocation of formula grant funding based on Congressional appropriations. Thurston County does not directly construct or own affordable housing but works in partnership with local nonprofit developers to fund a wide range of activities. 

Eligible activities include:

Building, buying, and/or rehabilitating affordable housing for rent.

Building homes for low-income households to purchase.

Down payment assistance to low-income households when purchasing a home.

Tenant-based rental assistance to low income households (Thurston County does not currently use HOME funds for this purpose)

HOME Funds can be spent anywhere in Thurston County, but must be used to benefit households that make less than 80% of area median income.

Local Home Fund

In 2022, the Board of County Commissioners passed an ordinance for a sales tax of 0.1 percent to housing and related services. The tax applies throughout Thurston County, except in the cities of Olympia and Tenino, which passed their own Home Fund tax. In 2022 Thurston County and the City of Olympia signed a Memorandum of Understanding to combine the County’s Home Fund revenue with a portion of City of Olympia’s Home Fund revenue, with the combined resources to be overseen the Regional Housing Council.

Individuals benefiting from the Home Fund must have income that is at or below 60% of Thurston County median income and come from one of the following groups: 

People with disabilities or behavioral health disabilities;

Veterans;

Senior citizens;

People who are homeless or at-risk of being homeless, including families with children;

Unaccompanied homeless youth or young adults;

Domestic violence survivors. 

Eligible uses (of which 60% must be used for the first three items listed below) of the Local Home Fund include:

Constructing or acquiring affordable housing;

Constructing and/or acquiring behavioral health related facilities, or acquiring land for these purposes; or

Funding the operations and maintenance costs of new units of affordable housing and facilities where housing-related programs are provided, or newly constructed evaluation and treatment centers; and

Operation, delivery, or evaluation of behavioral health treatment programs and services or housing-related services.

SHB 1406

In 2019, Thurston County Board of County Commissioners passed Ordinance No. 15822 and Resolution No. 15801 to impose the Affordable and Supportive Housing State Shared Tax authorized by Substitute House Bill (SHB) 1406 and Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 82.14.540.

The Cities of Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater and Yelm have also passed similar measures for their jurisdictions and have agreed to pool these funds under the Regional Housing Council. 

These funds must be used to benefit those below 60% area mean income. Eligible uses of the SHB 1406 funds include:

Rental assistance;

Acquiring, rehabilitating, or constructing affordable housing, which may include new units of affordable housing within an existing structure or facilities providing supportive housing services under RCW 71.24.385;

Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of new units of affordable or supportive housing.

Affordable Housing Program Document Recording Fees (SHB 2060)

The State Legislatures passed Substitute Housing Bill 2060, which is enacted by RCW 36.22.178 authorizes county to collect a fee on recorded documents to assist in the development and preservation of affordable low-income housing that address critical local housing needs.

These funds must be used to benefit those below 50% area mean income. Eligible uses of the SHB 2060 funds include:

Acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation of housing projects that are affordable;

Support for housing projects built with Housing Trust Fund that require a supplement to cover operating expenses;

Housing vouchers for non-homeless persons.

Community Development Block Grant

Thurston County has been designated an Urban County for the federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The County serves as the lead agency in this effort, which includes partnership with Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Rainier, Tenino and Bucoda. We receive federal funding to be used to serve low-income individuals and families in the county outside of the City of Olympia. CDBG can fund a variety of programs including affordable housing, public facilities, public services, and economic development activities. 

How does CDBG work in Thurston County? 

In the Urban County program, CDBG funds are made available on a rotating basis between the City of Lacey, City of Tumwater, and Thurston County, including Yelm, Rainier, Tenino, and Bucoda. The City of Olympia operates as a separate entitlement program for CDBG resources. Each year funding is provided for activities that serve one of the designated areas. 

Upcoming funding rotation: 

2023 – City of Lacy 

2024 – City of Tumwater 

2025 – South County 

Funding Eligibility: 

In order to be eligible for CDBG funding, a project must meet one of three National Objectives: 

Must benefit low- and moderate-income persons 

Must prevent or eliminate slums or blight, or 

Must address an existing and urgent community development need that poses a serious and immediate threat to health or welfare of the community 

CDBG Resources 

Housing & Urban Development CDBG Page

CDBG Reports and Data 

Consolidated Plan:

Every five years, as a condition of receiving federal block grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Thurston County and City of Olympia are required to prepare a “Consolidated Plan”. This plan provides an assessment of Thurston County community development needs and an analysis of the housing market for low-income households. It also presents the goals, strategies, and specific activities that are implemented annually in order to address those needs. The Consolidated Plan is the community’s choice, within HUD parameters, for how the grant funds will be used throughout Thurston County.

 
2023-2027 Consolidated Plan  

The County and City of Olympia have drafted a new Consolidated Plan, which covers the five-year period from 2023-2027. The plan has been submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is awaiting final approval as of July 12, 2023. The Plan’s appendices include the Thurston County and City of Olympia Public Participation Plan, Anti-Displacement and Anti-Relocation Policy, Monitoring Plan, and the Summary of Public Participation during the development process of the 2023 Annual Action Plan. The Thurston County 2023 Annual Action Plan is also included in the 2023-2027 Consolidated Plan.

Every five years, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires an assessment of fair housing. The 2023-2027 Fair Housing Assessment is prepared by the City of Olympia, Housing Authority of Thurston County, and Thurston County Department of Public Health and Social Services. This assessment will be used to inform spending of federal funds, create goals and strategies to advance fair housing in Thurston County, as well as inform other program areas and policies.

Thurston-Olympia Consolidated Plan 2023-2027

Appendices: Thurston-Olympia Consolidated Plan 2023-2027

Thurston County Program Year 2023 Annual Action Plan

Fair Housing Assessment 2023-2027

Contact Us  

For more information about the 2023-2027 Consolidated Plan efforts contact:

Tom Webster at thomas.webster@co.thurston.wa.us,  (360) 867-2531

HOME/CDBG Plans and Reports:

HOME-ARP Allocation Plan

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has approved Office of Housing and Homelessness Prevention's HOME-ARP Allocation Plan. The County has received an allocation of $3,053,476 from the American Rescue Plan (ARP), which was allocated under the federal HOME Investment Partnership Program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The HOME-ARP program is intended to serve individuals facing homelessness and housing insecurity.
HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment
Thurston County HOME-ARP Allocation Plan

Contact Us  

Tom Webster at thomas.webster@co.thurston.wa.us,  (360) 867-2531

Consolidated Plan

Thurston-Olympia Consolidated Plan 2023-2027

Consolidated Plan Needs Assessment and Market Analysis 2023-2027

2018 - 2022 Consolidated Plan  

Annual Action Plans

2023 Annual Action Plan

2022 Annual Action Plan

2021 Annual Action Plan

2020 Annual Action Plan

2019 Annual Action Plan

2018 Annual Action Plan

Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Reports (CAPERs)

PY 2022 

PY 2020 

PY 2019

PY 2018

Contact the Office of Housing and Homeless Prevention division at 360-867-2500 if you have additional questions.

Project #: 25622

Description: This project is for the cleaning, repair, painting, or replacement of the public-facing portions of the mansard roofs on the Courthouse campus to protect against rust and safety risks. 

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2027
• Design - 2027

Projected Budget: $1,000,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: 25628

Description: This project will include painting and other exterior improvements to the Family and Juvenile Justice Center for tenants who occupy the building. The current paint on the detention portion of the site has begun to peel. It has reached the life expectancy of the material.  

Project timeline:

• Design - 2027
• Construction Start - TBD

Projected Budget: $400,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: 25613

Description: This project will replace the existing incoming sewer line, with a new line to the current facility. The existing sewer line is partially collapsed. 

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2029
• Design - TBD

Projected Budget: $150,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)

Project #: 25FLX

Description: The Thurston County Corrections Facility (TCCF) was initially planned and designed to be built in phases as detention capacity needs increased over time. This project will address current and future capacity needs for adult detention space.

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2029
• Design - TBD

Projected Budget: $24,675,000

• Fund Source: Bond

Project #: 25560

Description: This project will make building infrastructure improvements at the Thurston County Fairgrounds and Events Center.  Some Fairgrounds and Events Center buildings, structures, and amenities are aging and/or limited in their usability. The County and Fair Boards intend to make capital improvements which may include an Agri Plex that will enhance the ability of the site to host more events and increase overall revenue. 

Project timeline:

• Planning - 2028
• Design - 2029

Projected Budget: $10,500,000

• Fund Source: Grant

Project #: TBD

Description: Install vehicle charging stations at County Buildings

Locations: All County Buildings

Project timeline:

• Planning - TBD
• Design - TBD

Projected Budget: TBD

• Fund Source: Grant/CSRF (Central Service Building Reserve)

Project #: TBD

Description: Provide a second voting center in the Lacey area to replace the space currently utilized at the Timberland Regional Library.

Project timeline:

• Planning -  2028
• Design -  2029

Projected Budget: $800,000

• Fund Source: Grant

Description: This project represents the purchase of property in Thurston County. This allows for the future expansion of current county departments as needed for courts or other departments.

Project timeline: 

• Planning -  2030
• Purchase -  TBD

Projected Budget: $TBD

• Fund Source: Bond & REET (Real Estate Excise Tax)

Project #: C31501

Description: This project will include repairing the dry fire sprinkler system at Building 2. The piping is deteriorating resulting in excessive air leakage.

Project timeline:

• Design - 2025
• Construction - 2025

Total Approved Budget: $300,000

• Fund Source: Central Service Building Reserve (CSRF)