Commission approves bids for trap rock and SUVs for sheriff's department

The Franklin County Commission meeting held on April 1, 2025, addressed several key agenda items, including bids for materials and vehicles, as well as the distribution of opioid settlement funds.

The meeting commenced with a discussion regarding a bid from New Frontier Materials LLC for trap rock, essential for chip seal projects. The bid was set at $19.50 per ton, with a delivered cost of $45.50 per ton. Jim, a representative, confirmed that this material is sourced from a specific quarry in Iron Mountain and noted that the bid was within the budget. Following this, a motion was made and seconded to approve the bid, which passed unanimously.

Next on the agenda was a bid from Don Brown Chevrolet for SUVs intended for the sheriff's department, priced at $44,535 each. Ken, a commission member, explained that this open-ended bid would allow for the delivery of vehicles throughout the year, primarily for pursuit and service use. Angela confirmed that the purchase was budgeted, and a motion to approve the bid was made and seconded, receiving unanimous approval.

The final significant item discussed was the approval and authorization for the distribution of Franklin County opioid settlement funds. Jenny Armbruster from PreventED presented on behalf of the opioid settlement committee, highlighting the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies to address the opioid crisis through prevention and recovery initiatives. The committee aims to continue its work into 2025, with a budget already approved by the commissioners. A motion to approve the distribution of $102,276 was made, with confirmation that the funds were budgeted. The motion passed without opposition.

In summary, the meeting effectively addressed critical bids for materials and vehicles, as well as the ongoing commitment to combat the opioid crisis through coordinated community efforts. The commission's decisions reflect a proactive approach to managing resources and addressing public health challenges in Franklin County.