Public Works Director Daryl Johnson told the Board of County Commissioners on July 28 that the county’s new search-and-rescue building has its shell completed but lacks funds for interior finishing. Construction achieved a weatherproof shell; this round of funding did not cover an interior concrete floor or interior fit-out.

Johnson presented two immediate options: pour a full concrete floor for the entire building at roughly $100,000 or pour only the equipment-storage and office slab for an estimated $75,000, leaving the remainder as compacted base. He estimated full office build-out, including plumbing and framing, could cost $400,000–$600,000.

Teton West, which constructed the shell and stubbed plumbing, is available to continue; commissioners discussed whether to ask Teton West to perform the additional work now or advertise a competitive bid. Several commissioners preferred competitive bidding for the interior build-out to seek better pricing; Johnson said he can solicit bids and return with cost comparisons. Johnson also said impact fees (sheriff’s impact fees) could be used if the board opens the budget to move funds.

Commissioner notes: Commissioners also said the Teton Recreation District (TRD) has expressed interest in contributing toward interior office space in exchange for meeting space in the building. Commissioners asked Johnson to return with cost estimates and options for bidding versus continuing with Teton West.

Why it matters: the facility will serve county search-and-rescue operations and house sheriff equipment; choosing between immediate single-source continuation and a competitive bid affects both cost and schedule. If the county elects a single-source continuation it could save schedule time; a competitive process might reduce cost.

Ending: Johnson will prepare bid specifications, cost comparisons and a budget path (including use of impact fees) for the board’s next meeting so the commissioners can decide whether to authorize additional work now or delay until next budget actions.