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Commission approves new 6-pass township blading contracts and a tiered rate plan
Summary
Following staff recommendations that current rates subsidize equipment use, the commission voted to offer six-pass contracts to townships for 2026 and to phase in higher hourly rates for additional work, directing staff to revise contract language.
The Ramsey County Commission approved a restructuring of township blading contracts for 2026, offering a six-pass contract and charging extra bladings by the hour under a tiered rate plan intended to reduce county subsidy.
Why it matters: Jason (county road/presenting staff) said the county is losing money on some contracted work and cited a state equipment lease comparison. “Every time we turn the key on, every hour the machine's running, we're losing over $30 an hour as a county,” Jason said, explaining why moving to a six-pass base contract plus hourly billing for extras would limit costs and improve scheduling.
Details and compliance: Staff proposed a phased approach so townships would not face a sudden jump to the state lease rate; commissioners asked for clarity on calculations and compliance with state statute. Daniel (staff) said he would make contract language edits to clarify terms and return a finalized contract for distribution to townships.
Outcome and implementation: Commissioners voted in favor of posting the new 2026 contracts with the proposed $150-per-hour starting tier and six contracted bladings; Daniel will edit contract language and staff will notify townships. Commissioners said extra work would remain available by request and as time allows.
