Jamin Anliker presented two bids received to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday August 22. The county keeps pipe on hand for a variety of uses. Anliker reported that the last purchase in February brought a price of a dime a foot less than the $17.65 now, but much less than the price a year ago of $23.60. The supervisors approved the purchase from Metal Culverts, Inc.
The board also passed the resolution to close 380th Street between Sorrel Ave and Starling Ave for bridge replacement.
Sheriff Bruce Devereaux came to the board meeting to discuss vehicle purchases. Two vehicles were budgeted for purchase in the 2022-23 budget but did not arrive in the budget year. That expenditure carried over to the current budget year. The current budget year also plans for the purchase of 2 more vehicles. He had a total of $240,000 for vehicles for the two years.
Dan Friedrichsen read a letter he received from Delbert Longley, Chief Jail Inspector. The O’Brien County Jail was inspected on August 17. In part the letter gave high praises to the facility and the staff for its maintenance and functionality. Longley recounted that the jail was clean and well-maintained; that the training, prisoner, policy, procedure and other records were complete and readily available.
Devereaux explained that 2 vehicles were available for this year. He was asking approval to close the purchase and install all necessary equipment. The purchase of all 4 vehicles, 3 Tahoes and 1 Durango with the installations was approved. The Tahoes cost $123,246.00. A bid from Drenkow for a 2024 Dodge Durango at a price of $43,432.00. This is an unmarked vehicle with some other add-ons. The total amount of budget amendment necessary to fulfill all the necessary spending is approximately $5000. The net cost of the vehicles will be less due to sale and trade-in for the 4 outgoing vehicles. The board also approved the purchase of a transport van for the jail from ARPA funds in the $80,000 cost range.
After lengthy discussion over several open sessions the board approved signing two contracts with Sioux Rivers Mental Health Region, 1 for administrative staff and one for service coordinators. These contracts allow employees from other counties with duties to the region on behalf of certain counties to utilize county property to do their work for the respective county. The contracts are perpetual.