A significant cost difference between competing bids for a major District 3 road project dominated discussion during Monday morning’s regular meeting of the Okmulgee County Board of Commissioners, as officials carefully reviewed contractor experience and pricing before taking action.

The item arose during the opening and possible award of Bid No. 9 for a road project in District 3, where commissioners were presented with multiple proposals that varied widely in cost. One bid, submitted by Promoted Construction, totaled $94,100, while another from TC Dirt Works came in substantially higher at $443,100, prompting discussion regarding scope, completeness, and prior work experience.

Commissioners discussed whether all bid elements were included and referenced previous work completed by the contractors before moving forward. After deliberation, action was taken in accordance with the agenda item listed for possible award of the bid.

— Routine business, financial items approved Following the call to order, invocation, and pledge of allegiance, commissioners approved the minutes from the Dec. 8 meeting without objection. There was no public input during the public comment portion of the agenda.

The board then approved a series of routine items, including:

• Officers’ reports

• Blanket purchase orders, which included expenditures across multiple districts

• Employee forms

• Utility permits

• Private property agreements Commissioners approved a resolution for the Fair Board election, establishing the filing period from Jan. 12-16, with an election date of Feb. 7, should an election be necessary.

Two lease-purchase agreements for the Beggs Rural Fire Department were reviewed and approved following brief discussion. Commissioners noted that the agreements had previously been reviewed and addressed questions raised earlier in the process.

Commissioners also approved a purchase agreement for District 1 with YellowHouse Machinery, which officials explained was intended to lock in pricing before scheduled manufacturer price increases taking effect in January. The agreement establishes pricing now, with payment to follow later under the approved terms.

The board opened Bid No. 8 for road materials, covering a sixmonth period. Commissioners indicated bids would be reviewed and placed on a spreadsheet for evaluation prior to awarding the contract.

During the Emergency Management report, officials stated the department handled seven development inquiries across all three districts, issued two floodplain violations that have since been resolved, and addressed one employee injury that is currently being processed. Emergency management staff also attended multiple community parades and a city council meeting during the past week.

Commissioners voted to enter Executive Session to discuss confidential matters related to the purchase or appraisal of real property, as authorized under Oklahoma law.