MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Reno County Commission has approved a total of $291,966 in bids for four county projects, including repairs to the courthouse dome, replacement of the courthouse fire panel, the purchase of three new pursuit vehicles, and furniture for the new law enforcement training center.
Facilities Director Kyle Stewart told commissioners that significant leaks have developed in the courthouse dome and exterior walls, leading to water damage in fifth-floor offices, including the District Attorney’s office. He said mortar pieces have broken away, leaving gaps up to three-quarters of an inch wide.
Stewart said temporary fixes by county maintenance staff have helped, but permanent repairs are needed. The county received limited interest from contractors, and the commission unanimously approved a $69,200 bid from Mid-Continental Restoration of Fort Scott to complete the work.
The commission also approved a $45,130 bid from Firetronics, a Hutchinson-based company, to replace the courthouse’s outdated fire alarm panel, which has caused repeated false alarms.
In other business, commissioners approved the purchase of three new pursuit vehicles for the Reno County Sheriff’s Office. County Automotive Director Ron Brubaker recommended accepting the slightly higher bid from Miday Motors due to fleet compatibility and service advantages. Commissioner Randy Parks voted against the motion, expressing concern about choosing higher bids too often.
Finally, the commission approved a $41,815 bid from Office Plus of Kansas for furniture for the new law enforcement training facility. Sheriff Darrian Campbell said the original furniture quote was $56,000 but the office was able to reduce costs by reusing items from other county buildings.