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Bell County approves $800,000 perimeter-fencing project for county jail using ARPA funds
Summary
Commissioners approved a motion Dec. 16 to purchase perimeter fencing for the Bell County jail, obligating ARPA funds; the fencing alone was estimated near $400,000 with electrical and gating pushing the total toward $800,000.
Bell County Commissioners Court approved the purchase of perimeter fencing for the county jail on Dec. 16, directing staff to obligate ARPA funds and proceed with contracting.
Commissioner Schneider moved to approve the project; Commissioner Woodson seconded. Commissioners and staff described the fencing scope: the fencing material itself was estimated "a little over $400,000," while electrical work, gates and communications equipment could raise the total to close to $800,000. County representatives said the available ARPA balance was roughly $300,000–$400,000 and that a purchase order must be issued the week of the meeting to obligate funds.
County staff said some additional funding sources may be available, including sheriff's office funds and allowances for change orders depending on final bids. Commissioners agreed the purchase order would likely require a subsequent contract change order to finalize the full scope and cost once bids and electrical/communications pricing are confirmed.
The motion to authorize the purchase carried 4'to—1. Officials did not provide a final contract award amount at the meeting; commissioners said they will bring back any necessary budget amendments or change orders as the procurement is finalized.
