A proposal to surplus a large bank of rolling high‑density shelving drew extended discussion July 28 as commissioners weighed disposal sale against the cost and downstream effects of removal. County maintenance staff asked whether to surplus the heavy mobile shelving units that had been used for paper record storage; public‑records digitization has reduced the need for on-site shelving.
Key concerns: Commissioners and staff agreed the shelving themselves would likely have low resale value because they require specific floor loading and dimensions; the principal cost will be dismantling, removal and preparing the floor for office use (flooring, possible joist reinforcement, carpeting or cubicles, and doors). Commissioners were concerned the sheriff might later request office build‑out (walls or cubicles) and asked for a ballpark estimate for removal versus dismantling and storage to preserve reinstallation capability.
Board action: Rather than approve immediate surplus and auction, the commissioners directed staff to obtain cost estimates for 1) dismantling and removing the shelving for recycling or sale (lowest cost), 2) removing them carefully and storing/maintaining components for potential reassembly (higher cost), and 3) estimated cost to finish the vacated room for sheriff office use (carpeting, walls or cubicles, doors). Commissioners agreed to table the surplus action pending those estimates.
Why it matters: The decision affects county space planning and short‑term capital outlays. Commissioners noted county funds are constrained and wanted to avoid a scenario where proceeds from a sale are offset by higher removal/renovation costs.
Next steps: Staff will consult with the sheriff about desired future room configuration, collect demolition and carpeting/fixture cost estimates, and return to the board with comparative numbers to decide on disposition and timing.