Special to the Independent

IVANHOE — Several departments in Lincoln County will soon have more space for vehicles and equipment.

The Lincoln County Board cleared the way this week for construction of a new cold storage facility measuring 64 feet by 48 feet. It will be located next to the county highway shop on the west side of Ivanhoe.

The board reviewed two estimates from local lumber yards. It approved the lowest total of $89,508, and authorized County Environmental Administrator Dustin Hauschild to arrange for construction.

Commissioners briefly discussed waiting for two weeks until all five board members could vote for approval. Hauschild recommended that the board proceed this week because of fluctuations in the prices of building materials.

“The market has started to go crazy again,” Hauschild said. “Estimates are usually only good for seven days because of the volatility. I told them I’d get back to them this week.”

The new facility will be used by the environmental department, the highway department, and the emergency management department.

Commissioner Steve Hauswedell asked if the building should possibly be larger to accomodate an ambulance unit. Emergency Management Director Amber Scholten replied that it would be possible to expand in the future if there’s a need.

In earlier 2021 meetings, board members evaluated the need for cold storage. Questions came up as to whether it could be possible to sell off unneeded equipment and get by without a new building.

Commissioner Dean Nielsen said Tuesday that he’s satisfied about the need for a building with the planned dimensions.

“I’m willing to go along with it,” Nielsen said. “There’s a need. We’re not just paying to build a shed for surplus equipment. I still think we should consider possibilities for selling some of our equipment off if it’s not getting used.”