The county commission voted Aug. 26 to approve a contract for an architectural feasibility study for the county courthouse, not to exceed $30,000, and to send the signed agreement to the consultant so work can begin.

County staff said the firm Artex submitted a proposal and apologized for a delay; staff circulated the proposal to the county's project reviewers. Staff reported two requested changes had been negotiated into the contract: any litigation venue language was edited to specify local venues (Bismarck or Fargo were suggested in edits) rather than the firm's prior standard language, and overtime would be billed only with client approval.

Motion and vote: A commissioner moved to approve the contract and another commissioner seconded; the chair called for the question. Commissioners responded in the affirmative on a voice vote and the motion carried. Staff said they will sign and send the agreement so consultants can schedule work.

Context and next steps: Staff said approving the study quickly will let the consultant begin assessments while weather remains favorable and that an early start could include limited outside work. The study is intended to provide a starting point for scope, cost and scheduling decisions later in the courthouse project process.

Ending: With the motion carried, staff were authorized to sign the contract and begin the feasibility work.