PASCO, WA – Franklin County Commissioners announced their intention to not renew the county’s human services contract with Benton County, effective September 30, 2025.
The decision follows Benton County’s proposal of a new agreement with financial terms deemed unsustainable by Franklin County as outlined by a letter by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners.
Franklin County Board of Commissioners Chairman Clint Didier expressed disappointment over the outcome. “The financial demands from Benton County were simply unreasonable,” Didier said.
He noted that declining sales tax revenue made it impossible to meet the proposed terms without significant cuts.
The proposed agreement from Benton County demanded additional funding from Franklin County, including a 20% increase for a homelessness grant, according to the letter. Franklin County argued this exceeded state statutes and would have required diverting funds from essential services including road maintenance.
Franklin County’s decision means some services will be transferred to the Department of Commerce. The county also said it’s secured funding to support veterans services independently.
Benton County addressed Franklin County’s decision not to renew their interlocal contract for Human Services, stating that their proposal was not an ultimatum but aimed to equitably share liabilities for services such as behavioral health, developmental disabilities and homelessness support.
Benton County highlighted that Franklin County’s choice impacts services funded by local taxes, such as homeless housing assistance and veterans support, which will cease for Franklin County residents. Benton County stated, “It is unreasonable for Benton County taxpayers alone to bear the entire financial and legal responsibility while Franklin County assumes none with the same benefits.”
Claims of increased charges were refuted by Benton County, clarifying in a counter response that no new fees were proposed. The only cost increase involves a second Veteran’s Service Officer, a position both counties approved in 2024, said Benton County.
“Besides the additional VSO, the updated agreement only increases Franklin County’s expenditures by the 2.5% increase on the usual $5,000 monthly fee,” the letter stated.
Benton County offered to extend the agreement until June 30, 2026, to maintain essential services while Franklin County transitions to manage their own programs, Benton County said in its response.
Both counties said they’re working towards a reasonable transition plan.
Original letter from Benton County to Franklin County:
Franklin County response to original letter:
Benton County response to Franklin County Response:
