Highway director seeks software evaluation, reports full staffing and flags blading contract overhaul

The highway director updated the Ramsey County commission on several operational matters and sought direction on planned contract work.

The board approved payment of a KLJ Engineering invoice for $7,031.59 for construction on 89th Avenue NE in South Minnewauquin; the director said the county will submit the invoice to the North Dakota Department of Transportation for 100% reimbursement.

The director reported both highway positions are now filled and one new hire is enrolled in CDL training. He said the department is evaluating an iWORK system for inventory, maintenance and budgeting and will visit neighboring counties using the system before making any purchase decision.

On winter preparation, the director said snow maps and FEMA-related township work are nearly complete. He raised concerns about current blading contracts—some townships were serviced up to 24 times in one summer—and suggested portfolio holders review and propose changes to the blading contracting approach to emphasize quality over frequent passes. Commissioners agreed portfolio holders should meet with the director and bring recommendations to the full board before contracts are finalized.

The commission asked county staff to follow up on a reported fence too close to the road so operators can assess right-of-way safety and blading visibility.