Submitted by San Juan County.

## Public Facilities Funding Assistance Program

Starting this week, applications are officially open for the **Public Facilities Funding Assistance Program (PFFAP)**. Funded by the collected sales and use tax, this vital program enables local entities to apply for financial assistance aimed at financing public facilities that serve significant economic development purposes.

### What is PFFAP?

San Juan County actively collects a portion of sales and use tax specifically designated for the PFFAP program. The core mission of this program is to provide funding options that facilitate the creation, attraction, expansion, and retention of businesses within the county. Additionally, it aims to create family-wage job opportunities and enhance the availability of affordable workforce housing infrastructure or facilities. By financing such initiatives, the program plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable economic growth within the community.

#### Past Projects Funded by PFFAP

The PFFAP has a proven track record of success, having funded various projects that align with its goals. Past initiatives include crucial Economic Development Council projects such as business support initiatives, equity programs, accessibility upgrades to the main entrance of the Orcas Center, and significant renovations to the Jim Crook building located at the County Fairgrounds. Each of these projects reflects the program’s commitment to enhancing public facilities that drive economic prosperity.

In a recent meeting held on September 10, the County Council conducted a public hearing where they adopted an ordinance extending the sales and use tax dedicated to public facilities, ensuring its availability until the year 2054.

Council Member **Cindy Wolf** articulated the benefits of the PFFAP: “It’s clear to me what the benefits are of the PFFAP for the community and the many good supports this money has provided for the County and for economic development. In my eyes, there’s a lot of value in moving forward and ensuring the retention of this tax.”

### How to Apply for Funding

Applications for the PFFAP funding are open from May 1 through June 2. Interested parties can find comprehensive application materials available here: [San Juan County PFFAP Program Applications](https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/1099/PFFAP-Program-Applications).

#### Key Dates in the Application Process:

– **Applications Open:** May 1 – June 2
– **Preliminary Review Period:** June 2 – June 30
– **Presentations and Council Review:** July 1 – July 31
– **Notification of Award:** September

The County collaborates closely with the Town of Friday Harbor and local Ports to ensure that all expenditures align with the funding requirements set forth in the application materials.

### Contact Information

For further inquiries, interested applicants can reach out to **Aiden Haines**, the administrative coordinator, via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or by phone at **360-370-7473**.

### How AI legalese decoder Can Help

Navigating the specifics of funding application processes can often be complex and filled with legal jargon. This is where the **AI legalese decoder** can significantly expedite and simplify your experience. By breaking down complicated legal language into plain English, this tool allows applicants to better understand the application requirements, funding conditions, and eligibility criteria. The AI legalese decoder enhances accessibility for all potential applicants, ensuring that every interested party can effectively navigate the application process without confusion, thereby maximizing the potential benefits of the PFFAP for the community.