Commission authorizes engineering work and bids for Boyes road shop using LATCF funds

The commission authorized Stally Engineering to proceed with planning and bid‑document preparation for a new heated county road shop on the Boyes property, using LATCF (Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund) sources as the likely funding route.

Engineering staff presented a conceptual cost estimate for a steel building (roughly 40 by 56 or 40 by 60 feet, 16‑foot sidewalls) with a 6‑inch concrete slab and heated interior. The estimate compiled local vendor quotes and a construction‑budget template; raw construction quotes for the metal shell (with insulation) were discussed in the $60,000–$66,000 range, with slab, electrical service, site prep, mobilization, permitting and contingencies bringing a recommended planning budget to roughly $215,000. Staff emphasized the building would be a simple heated storage/shop with two large overhead doors on a gable end, a man door, floor drain and basic lighting; finish work would be minimal.

Commissioners asked about code, bonding and procurement requirements for public projects, and staff noted public bidders would be required to provide bonds and insurance per Montana public works requirements; the project team noted a modest line item for bonding and general‑liability coverage in the planning budget. Commissioners also discussed siting, drainage, disposal of runoff and ensuring the selected manufacturer could meet Buy America/Build America requirements tied to LATCF funds.

The commission voted to authorize Stally Engineering to finalize the scope and prepare bid documents, then return with a firm bid package and schedule for competitive public bidding. Commissioners also requested photo documentation of the site, verification of utility easements and range of concrete delivery costs so the final bid package reflects local logistics.

Ending: Stally Engineering will prepare formal bid documents and a refined cost estimate; commissioners scheduled an update for the board’s next regular meeting and directed staff to verify site details, utility services and LATCF administrative requirements before advertising the project.