Commissioners keep 2026 lane‑mile target, authorize temporary overspend to cover shortfall

Public Works Director Dusty Whited reported that the county’s 2026 road maintenance program — designed to maintain a 7‑year surface treatment rotation covering roughly 1/7 of paved lane miles annually — came in approximately $84,000 over the $2.1 million budget. Whited said the shortfall largely resulted from wider roads and higher-than-expected unit costs for treatments on longer or wider sections.

To avoid falling behind on the recommended lane‑mile treatment schedule, Whited offered two options: remove roughly three miles of micro‑seal work (saving about $89,000) or temporarily use $150,000 from the Special Projects Local Bridge line item to make up the deficit. The Board preferred preserving the lane‑mile target and authorized staff to overspend the proper fund and open the budget to cover costs.

Additionally, commissioners approved the prior approval for 200 tons of mag chloride ($29,536) for dust control and authorized the county's 2026 oil bid from Idaho Asphalt Supply (contract terms recorded). Commissioner Jensen moved and Commissioner Jackson seconded the motion to proceed as recommended; the motions carried unanimously.

What happens next: Road & Bridge will proceed with the planned maintenance schedule, adjust contract orders as necessary, and record the budget amendment to reflect the approved overspend.