County approves extension and $35,494 task order for Enterprise East RIF project (Project Icebox)

Baker County commissioners approved a grant deadline extension for the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF) project known as Enterprise East Boulevard (associated with "Project Icebox") and authorized a related task order for engineering and permitting.

Sarah (county staff) told the commission the RIF-funded project would extend roadway, pavement, natural gas and utilities for roughly 2,300 feet and that the existing contract ends in December 2026. Because engineering and permitting will not allow construction to be completed by the current deadline, staff recommended and the commission approved extending the grant contract to December 2026; the extension does not change scope or contract terms.

Commissioners then considered a task order to Tarbox (engineer/consultant) for design and permitting work tied to the extension. Staff presented a task order of $35,494, grant-funded, and recommended approval. Commissioners asked about the project schedule and whether the task order timeline (staff estimated roughly 14 months for full design/permitting) synced with the extended grant deadline; staff said the schedule had been discussed with the state and the timeline is compatible.

Commissioners approved the grant extension and the Tarbox task order by voice votes. Staff said the task order is grant-funded and that Tarbox has been involved with the project since application.