Scott County Commissioners voted unanimously for transfer station scales
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In an effort to improve cost accuracy at the county's transfer station, commissioners have unanimously approved the purchase of a new scale system. During a recent meeting, commissioners agreed to request money from multiple funds, ensuring the $62,299 (lowest estimate received) scale and additional installation costs are covered.
The board also discussed the importance of future-proofing the investment by opting for a scale that can accommodate semi-trucks. The additional capability will cost $6,000 more, a cost commissioners deemed worthwhile for potential future needs, such as farmers using the scales.
Financing the project was another key point of discussion. Commissioners are requesting county council to allocate up to $40,000 from the opioid unrestricted funds, up to $30,000 from the timber fund, and up to $20,000 from the venture trucking fund. By structuring the funding this way, commissioners ensure flexibility while preventing the depletion of any single fund.
To secure pricing and begin fabrication, commissioners also approved a promise to commit letter, allowing the vendor to start production without requiring an immediate payment. The scales will undergo engineering work for the foundation and site preparation while manufacturing is underway. President Randy Julian said, “this scale is critical in making sure we accurately track waste disposal costs and maintain financial responsibility.”
The scale will allow the county to charge for waste disposal by exact weight rather than relying on estimated bulk pricing. The funding requests now head to the county council for consideration.
In addition to the scales, a scale house could be needed to improve workflow and provide shelter for personnel overseeing waste measurements. The proposal was for an 8-foot by 10-foot metal building priced at $6,468. The structure would include a door, windows, gutters, spray foam insulation, finished interior, and electric. A mini-split system was also an option but Julian suggested a heater and window air-conditioning unit as a cost saving measure.
The scale house proposal was tabled as commissioners agreed the matter did not need to be finalized immediately.
