Daviess County adopts resolution enabling build‑operate‑transfer option for major projects

Daviess County commissioners on a 2‑0 voice vote approved a resolution that adds build‑operate‑transfer (BOT) procurement as an optional tool for county projects, after the sheriff asked the board to begin the bid process for urgent jail plumbing and boiler replacements.

The sheriff told the commission that the jail’s plumbing has been problematic since installation and that the boiler is about 24–25 years old and likely needs replacement. A county representative explained the resolution would adopt Indiana Code language to allow alternatives to traditional design‑bid‑build contracting and provide flexibility such as guaranteed maximum price arrangements. The sheriff sought the authority to proceed quickly on repairs for the security center and other jail systems.

Commissioner Cook moved to adopt the resolution; the motion was seconded and the board approved it by voice vote (2‑0). The resolution was presented as countywide authority: if adopted, BOT would be available as a procurement option for future county projects but does not compel the county to use it.

County officials framed the change as a procedural tool to allow different contracting approaches for large or time‑sensitive projects; no specific vendor was awarded in the meeting and no procurement contract was executed. The board did not take additional formal action on individual jail projects at the meeting. The sheriff said insurance adjusters and repair work were already being coordinated after recent storm damage to the facility; commissioners noted insurance and immediate repairs are underway.

Next steps: with the resolution in place, staff may bring procurement documents or solicitations back to the board for approval before the county commits to specific contractors or prices.