Commission approves Rogue Ridge operator hire and purchase of two sheriff vehicles

At their year-end meeting, St. Francois County commissioners approved two personnel- and fleet-related actions: the awarding of a Road & Bridge operator position for Rogue Ridge to Ethan Ross and authorization to order two sheriff vehicles budgeted for 2026.

On personnel, the commission approved the posted operator position and named Ethan Ross as the awardee. The hire includes a 30-day trial or competency period; if he does not meet competency expectations he may return to his former position.

On fleet procurement, a commissioner asked permission to order two sheriff vehicles budgeted in 2026, citing a county fleet with many high-mileage vehicles and several in need of major repairs (for example, units needing engine or transmission work). The speaker said the purchases would use a state contract. During the discussion a per-unit price near $46,009–$46,070 was cited in the record, but the transcript is unclear on exact cents; the county did not provide a definitive final invoice or exact unit figure at the meeting.

Both measures were moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Next steps: the operator will enter a 30-day competency period; staff will submit purchase forms for the sheriff vehicles through the state contract procedure.