Cole County Commission approves multiple contracts and purchases; inmate medical services contract approved amid conflicting figures

The Cole County Commission on June 10 approved several contracts, purchases and awards covering facility repairs, equipment, inmate medical services and a federal/state grant. Most items were approved by voice vote.

Contracts and purchases approved

- United Mechanical Services: Commission approved signing a cooperative-contract purchase for a supplemental furnace at the Pringer Family Center for a reported total of $26,640. The county noted the funding comes from a grant awarded to that program and that the work is considered necessary until a new facility is obtained.

- Marco Technologies copier for the Brainer Center: Staff reported a state-contract purchase price of $9,189.32; the commission approved the purchase using grant funds to replace an aged copier. Staff said there is no maintenance charge but a per-copy fee of $0.0065 for black-and-white copies over a 60-month period.

- Rooftop-stair project for the sheriff’s department: Two bids were received; the project was budgeted at $65,000 but both bids exceeded that amount. The commission approved awarding the rooftop-stair contract to Industrial Enterprises at a base price of $82,210, with commissioners conditioning approval on the…