Stark County commissioners approved three equipment and facility purchases Oct. 9: a $34,600 proprietary software and control‑card update for the Dickinson County Shop heating system, a $45,717 exterior‑wall replacement for the Belfield shop and a $14,000 enclosed cab for a grounds lawn tractor used for sweeping sidewalks and winter work.

Road Superintendent Todd Miller told commissioners the Dickinson heating control system dates to the shop’s construction in 2007 and that vendor‑supplied software is no longer supported; he said replacement of control boards and updated software was necessary to keep the shop operational. Miller described the vendor as proprietary and said the county has limited options. The board approved the $34,600 expenditure and directed staff to charge it to the road or IT budget as appropriate.

Facilities grounds employee Wayne (last name on file) requested a cab for a small lawn tractor used year‑round for mowing, sweeping sidewalks and winter cleanup. He said, “It’s $14,000,” and commissioners approved the purchase pending a budget adjustment to cover the difference from the buildings, grounds and equipment line; the purchase will be matched to the county’s general‑fund accounts and processed by county staff.

Finally, the Belfield shop exterior work—replacement of three outer walls—received approval to move forward with the vendor quote of $45,717, paid from capital improvements. Commissioners noted the interior had been insulated and fences requested by a landowner would be scheduled for spring once the grass establishes.

Staff will proceed with vendor scheduling and processing of purchase orders as authorized by roll‑call votes during the meeting.