Red Willow County Commissioners Approve Health Contract, Reject Gravel Bids, and Review Budget Requests

McCook, Neb. — The Red Willow County Board of Commissioners tackled a packed agenda Monday morning, covering everything from school nursing contracts and gravel bids to budget requests from community partners.

Consent Agenda Approved

The meeting began with standard business, including the approval of past meeting minutes, payroll claims, surplus items, and a resolution (No. 1561) related to a Tyler Technologies agreement. The board also approved a roadway occupancy agreement with CenturyLink.

Gravel Bids Rejected — Again

McCook Concrete submitted the lone bid for gravel at $9.50 per ton for 40,000 tons. While the commissioners praised the price and product quality, they unanimously voted to reject the bid — a now-standard practice. Commissioner Randy Dean explained that accepting a single-source bid would lock the county into that supplier and limit their flexibility, especially if that supplier runs short.

“We’ve done this before,” said Dean. “Rejecting all bids keeps us from being stuck if gravel isn’t available later.”

Despite the rejection, the board thanked McCook Concrete for their effort and noted improvements in local gravel availability.

Health Department Contract with Southwest Schools Approved

The board approved a new contract allowing the Red Willow County Health Department to provide school nursing services at Southwest Public Schools. Public Health Director Brandi reported that a registered nurse has already been hired at $29/hour, with the school reimbursing the county $38/hour plus mileage — making the program revenue-neutral.

Commissioners praised the contract’s financial responsibility and community benefit. Dean did caution against expanding the program to other schools at this time, citing concerns over long-term department growth and taxpayer impact.

Monthly Reports Shared

Reports from the Clerk, District Court Clerk, and Sheriff’s Office were presented. The Sheriff’s budget is expected later this week.

Support for Invasive Weed Management

John Rundel of Southwest Weed Management addressed the board to request:

• A letter of support for a new grant application

• A $500 donation to help with costs not reimbursed by the state

He also shared that the organization had secured a $33,000 Department of Agriculture grant to target invasive Phragmites in Red Willow, Dundy, and Hitchcock counties — at no cost to landowners or the county.

The board unanimously approved both the donation and letter of support.

Domestic Abuse/Sexual Assault Services Funding Approved

Donna Goad with DASS addressed the board to request continued funding at last year’s level of $10,601. Goad shared that the organization has faced multiple state and federal funding cuts but is doing all it can to stretch resources.

She outlined how funds were used last year:

• 33% for emergency shelter

• 32% for housing/utilities assistance

• 27% for legal services (e.g., protection orders)

• 8% for educational materials

The board voted to continue funding at the requested level.

Budget Season Underway

The commissioners spent the remainder of the morning reviewing department budgets, including a discussion about the Health Department’s potential need for a county vehicle. Public health staff currently use personal vehicles to transport vaccines and serve residents — a growing liability concern.

Budget workshops and property valuation protest hearings continued into the afternoon.