Grant County commissioners voted to award a series of ditch-brushing and dredging contracts to local contractor Extreme after reviewing a set of widely varying bids.

The board discussed competing quotes for work on Monroe, the Taylor Branch and Baron Creek during the meeting. Speaker 2 introduced the bids and Speaker 1 noted a large spread in prices, with some quotes for identical reaches ranging from about $8,000 to more than $34,000 depending on scope. "There's a heck of a difference," Speaker 2 said while reviewing bid totals. Speaker 1 added that low bidders may not have prior ditch-excavation experience and recommended monitoring the first jobs closely.

Why it matters: Ditch brushing and dredging affect drainage and flood risk for rural roads and properties; the projects discussed span multiple reaches and the board referenced available balances in ditch-maintenance funds. Commissioners emphasized the need for clear, line-item scopes and pictures of planned work before crews begin.

What the board decided: After comparing bids for the Taylor Branch and adjoining Monroe reaches — Extreme ($17,005.44), Johns (~$24,000), CF (~$40,001.30) and Bailey (~$44,009.23) — Speaker 1 moved to award the work to Extreme, and Speaker 3 seconded. The board approved the award by voice vote. Speaker 1 asked staff to verify that the contractors’ letters and the Taylor Branch scope aligned before work starts.

The board also approved a smaller Monroe-area job to Tom Stevenson to "give him a try," with members saying they would monitor that contractor’s first assignments.

Details and safeguards: Commissioners asked that contractors provide clear breakdowns of brush-versus-dredge work and, where appropriate, photographs showing the work they will perform. The board noted that some quotes did not itemize brush removal separately, which partly explained price differences. Members also expressed a preference for keeping work local where possible.

What’s next: Staff will notify the selected contractors and confirm the written scopes and any required photo documentation. Several commissioners asked to be informed when crews mobilize so the board can monitor early work and withhold payment until the work meets the specified standards.