Lincoln County approves Debris Tech LLC contract capped at $80,000 to manage flood cleanup

Lincoln County commissioners voted on Dec. 31 to enter into a contract with Debris Tech LLC to manage and oversee flood debris cleanup, amending the motion to cap the county's exposure at $80,000.

The contract had been presented previously and, according to the chair, was reviewed by the county attorney with no legal concerns before the meeting. A commissioner moved to "enter into the contract with Debris Tech," and another commissioner seconded the motion.

County staff described Debris Tech LLC as a manager/contractor that will arrange and supervise cleanup work rather than bring its own heavy equipment for every project. "They're not going to bring in equipment. They're not going to do these projects themselves. They're going to contract and manage these projects," a county staff member said, noting the company had been recommended by other Montana counties.

During discussion, commissioners emphasized the need to monitor non-labor project costs per Exhibit B of the contract, ensure documentation for FEMA reimbursement and prioritize use of local contractors where possible. The board discussed the county's claims process and agreed claims for contracted projects should be routed through the usual county claims review, with staff (including Wendy) involved in approvals.

To remain within procurement thresholds, commissioners amended the motion to place a cap of $80,000 on the contract. The board discussed the contract term (ending in February 2026) and noted that if project spending exceeded procurement limits or the $80,000 cap, the county would need to go to formal procurement.

With the cap added, the chair called for the vote; the board signaled approval and directed county staff to have the $80,000 cap documented in a contract amendment and return a signed copy for the record.

What it means: the county has contractual authority to begin managed debris cleanup under the capped contract, but staff will need to track expenses, file FEMA claims properly and oversee contractor selection to favor local capacity where feasible. Commissioners stressed continued oversight and documentation to satisfy reimbursement rules.