Commissioners table $22,281 increase request for bridge-inspection contract

Parke County commissioners reviewed a requested contract increase for BS Engineering that would add $22,281, raising the contract total to $616,757 for bridge inspections. Commissioners expressed concern about the justification for the increase and asked to review the original contract and any escalation clauses. "I don't see a reason to give somebody $22,000," one commissioner said, and the board voted to table the request until BS Engineering can appear and explain the change.

The board directed staff to request an explanation from BS Engineering and to return the item for a future meeting with supporting contract documentation. No formal payment or amendment was approved at the meeting.