Commission removes proposed contract termination from agenda after legal concerns and public comment

The Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Commission voted to remove from the evening agenda a proposed termination of a long-term cleaning services contract after commissioners raised legal and process concerns and members of the public urged the county to keep the incumbent.

The item concerned an early termination of a contract held for many years by an individual identified in meeting materials as Mr. Gunderson. Commissioner Hart moved to remove the item "on advice of the county attorney," a motion Commissioner Bodette seconded and the commission approved.

Commissioners said they had not seen clear documentation that the contractor had been given notice or an opportunity to respond. Commissioner Bodette said the contract had been renewed for roughly 30 years without written complaints and warned that abrupt termination “opens us up to tremendous liability.” County Attorney Smith said the charter gives the CEO authority to enter and administer contracts and that termination questions warranted further review; the attorney requested access to the letter referenced by commissioners so legal advice could be properly formed.

Several members of the public spoke during the item. Bobby Frank, who identified himself as a longtime local resident, said the contractor was surprised to learn his contract might be ended and urged the commission to retain him. A county staff speaker described operational concerns about daytime custodial coverage and said some positions may need to be restructured to meet public-service needs.

By removing the item from the agenda, commissioners said they intended to allow time for a full legal review and additional documentation before any formal action. The motion removed the termination from consideration; it did not make a final determination on the contract itself.