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Kootenai County approves $2.04 million Hart InterCivic voting system and shifts $36,710 in budget to cover price increases
Summary
The county board approved a sole‑source purchase of Hart InterCivic voting equipment for $2,037,651 and authorized using $36,710 in unspent B‑budget funds to cover increased costs; recurring contract fees of about $144,611 annually begin in year two.
Kootenai County commissioners authorized the purchase of a Vanguard master agreement and new voting equipment from Hart InterCivic on June 23, approving a total contract cost of $2,037,651, including estimated shipping and handling.
County elections director Asa Gray told the board the updated quote was approximately $36,710 higher than the amount budgeted after adding printer‑tray extenders and because market price increases have affected hardware manufacturers. Gray said most of the difference stems from general equipment cost increases, not the one small specification change.
Gray asked the board to allow use of unspent B‑budget funds—principally underspent election supplies and postage lines—to cover the $36,710 shortfall. The board approved a motion to transfer and utilize the B‑budget funds for the purchase.
County staff said Hart has worked with the county to hold the quote steady for the past several weeks and that if approved the vendor could deliver before the July 4 holiday, allowing training in July and implementation ahead of the November election. Staff noted recurring annual fees starting in year two of the contract are estimated at $144,611.
The board approved the Vanguard master agreement and purchase by voice vote. Commissioners also approved the budget transfer authorizing the one‑time increase in purchase costs.
