As part of the Board adopted 2020 budget, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in being transitioned out of the Health District to another provider designated by the Department of Health. Staff was notified in March that Sea Mar Community Health Centers will be the new WIC provider in Snohomish County.

In support of the transition, Sea Mar has requested to lease space within the Rucker Building to assume WIC operations beginning July 1, 2020, while their facilities are being completed. Staff is working to complete the lease agreement process by June 1 to facilitate a smooth transition. Sea Mar expects to be ready to fully transition into their facilities by January 1, 2021.

The Rucker Building task force has directed that planned work to monetize the Rucker Building continue to proceed. Staff is currently preparing a request for qualifications (RFQ) to identify a contractor/builder to redesign the first floor of the Rucker Building.

Staff worked with Weed, Graafstra and Associates to develop the draft short-term lease agreement with Sea Mar (Exhibit A). This agreement is not expected to create any delays with the redesign work planned for the Rucker Building.

Consistent with the Charter of the Snohomish Health District (1959; 1997) and Resolution 19-20 and the revised Division of Responsibilities (10/8/19), the Board of Health approves expenditures associated with building purchase, construction, renovation, and leasing.

MOVE TO authorize the Administrative Officer to enter into a short-term lease agreement with Sea Mar Community Health Centers.