OAKESDALE – Today, the Port of Whitman County was awarded a $75,000 grant from the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) for its Oakesdale Mill project. The grant will fund a feasibility study to assess the suitability of the historic Oakesdale Flour Mill for development and explore potential future uses for the space.

“This CERB grant brings us one step closer to preserving the Oakesdale Mill and creating economic opportunities from this historical community asset,” said Port Commission President Tom Kammerzell. "We are grateful to the people of Oakesdale for their overwhelming support of the project and to the CERB Board for their investment in the Oakesdale Mill’s future.”

The Oakesdale Mill is a 134-year-old historic flour mill located in the town of Oakesdale and is the last of 19 original mills in Whitman County. With the support of the Oakesdale community, Innovia Foundation purchased the mill in early 2024 with the intent of preserving it as part of the history and culture of the town and region. 

Earlier this year, Innovia reached out to the Port of Whitman County to discuss transferring ownership of the mill to the Port to support future economic development initiatives. Innovia and the Port signed a Memorandum of Understanding on September 5 to start the transfer.

“Innovia Foundation is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Port, the community of Oakesdale and generous donors to make this vital project a reality,” said Innovia Foundation CEO Shelly O’Quinn. “The renovation will create economic opportunity for Oakesdale and all of Whitman County.” 

Funding from CERB will help the Port further assess the building and property and the next steps to transform it into an economic driver for the community, including identifying potential funding sources. Future uses may include value-added agriculture, retail services, an event venue, and co-working spaces. 

The anticipated benefits of this project include increased job opportunities within Oakesdale, support for the local economy and tourism, and preservation of this historic landmark. With the community’s support, the Port is committed to helping ensure the long-term viability of the mill.

The feasibility study is expected to be completed in 2025. The Port anticipates it will be several years before the site is fully developed. In the meantime, the Port will continue to seek funding support from multiple sources to make this project a success for the community and region.

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About the Port of Whitman County

The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities. 

About Innovia Foundation

As the community foundation for Eastern Washington and North Idaho, Innovia partners with people who want to improve their communities and make the world better. We work together to identify and respond to our region’s greatest opportunities, help those in need, and leave a lasting impact. Our mission is to ignite generosity that transforms lives and communities. Each year, Innovia Foundation invests $10 million into our communities through grants and scholarships.