SANDPOINT — Although snow has yet hit the ground, several county departments are preparing for the cold season ahead.  

Director of Public Works Teddi Lupton requested approval of a winter maintenance contract by Lippert Excavation and Pipeline for the Bonner County Juvenile Detention Center for the 2025-’26 winter season.  

The contract outlines the services of sanding, de-ice application, shoveling and snow removal, in addition to the rates for snow removal equipment per hour with a quarter-hour minimum — snow pickup with plow, $140 per hour; grader rental, $170 per hour; backhoe rental, $150 per hour; skidsteer rental, $140 per hour; loader rental, $160 per hour; dump truck rental, $170 per hour; sidewalks, $130 per hour. Each service includes snow blower, shoveling and de-ice application.  

The proposal for winter maintenance at the juvenile detention center was approved unanimously in a 2-0 vote, with Commissioner Brian Domke absent.  

Also approved was the Airports Department purchase of a $7,000 plow truck from Independent Highway District. The truck, according to airports manager Dave Schuck, is similar to one purchased from the district two years prior.  

According to a memorandum submitted by the department, the plow truck will allow for greater flexibility and backup capacity for airport operations.