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Auditor urges movers for steep-ramp election logistics; board rejects private contractor
Summary
County Auditor Michelle Skaff asked the board to hire a moving company to transport 30 heavy election carts because of a steep service ramp and liability concerns; after debate and a written public comment urging staff use, the board voted 4–0 not to approve the contract.
Michelle Skaff, the county auditor and custodian of elections equipment, asked the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors to hire Action Moving to transport approximately 30 election carts and accessories ahead of an upcoming election, citing elevator repairs and a steep delivery ramp.
“The biggest concern for me is that when we’re delivering this equipment, it’s right before the election. The equipment is crucial to the election,” Skaff said, describing carts that weigh about 300 pounds and measure roughly 54 by 27 by 50 inches. She told the board the ramp’s slope measures about 22% over portions and noted OSHA’s general duty clause in arguing for “feasible abatement” by hiring professionals; she presented a quote for $840 covering the proposed trips.
Board members and building services staff (Kenny) debated whether county employees could safely perform the work. Kenny said his team has moved heavy items previously and that staff could be assigned, though schedules and specific person assignments could vary. A written comment from Dan Wright was read into the record urging the board to reject the private contractor and “ask building services to assist in the moving and loading of the election equipment,” saying he did not see a safety risk that warranted contracting an outside mover.
After extended discussion addressing liability, staff availability and public perception around third-party handling of election equipment, Supervisor Dave Carper moved not to approve hiring Action Moving; the motion carried 4–0. The board instructed staff to coordinate internally and indicated they could revisit the decision if scheduling or safety circumstances changed.
The county’s auditor said she will continue planning for secure delivery and requested assurances the equipment would be handled safely in the month leading to the election. The board did not authorize contracting with Action Moving at this meeting.
