Elkhart County Commissioners Approve White Pine Services Contract for Courthouse Cleaning

During the recent Elkhart County meeting, commissioners approved a significant independent contractor agreement with White Pine Homes LLC, which will provide cleaning services for the new courthouse. This decision follows a thorough request for proposals (RFP) process, ensuring that the county secured a reliable service provider.

The agreement, which has been reviewed by legal counsel, is a standard contract used by Elkhart County for such services. The monthly fee for the cleaning services is set at $20,857.77, with additional costs for extra services like deep cleaning or window washing clearly outlined in the contract. The anticipated start date for these services is September 22, 2025.

Commissioners also discussed a task order related to the independent contractor agreement, detailing the specific cleaning services to be provided. The county's buildings and grounds department has ensured that tasks manageable by in-house staff will be handled internally, while those requiring external assistance will be covered by White Pine Services.

In addition to the cleaning contract, a motion was made regarding operational hours for a facility, with some concerns raised about noise levels in the neighborhood during holiday weekends. While a preference for a 10 PM closing time was expressed, the motion ultimately passed with a vote of 2 to 1.

These decisions reflect the county's commitment to maintaining a clean and functional courthouse while also addressing community concerns about local disturbances. As Elkhart County moves forward, these agreements will play a crucial role in ensuring that public facilities meet the needs of residents effectively.